09 Building Vertical Transportation.pdf

Building Construction
Dr. Ignacio Javier PALMA CARAZO
Course: Building Construction
09 Vertical Transportation System
Instructor: Dr. Ignacio J. PALMA CARAZO, Arch. PhD (Hons)
Assit. Professor / Architecture / Dar Al Uloom University / KSA
2021/MMXXI
9. Vertical Transportation Systems
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0. Introduction
00 Introduction to the Course
01 Soils and their Investigation
02 Building Foundations
03 Structures (simplified)
04 Floors
05 Walls (façades)
06 Water & Humidity Exclusion
07 Openings: doors & windows
08 Glazing
09 Vertical Transportation Systems
10 Flooring
11 Wall Coating and Cladding
12 Ceiling
13 Roofs
Course Index
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Vertical Transportation Systems in Buildings:
- Stairs, Staircases and Stairways
- Ramps for Accessibilty
- Lifts or Elevator
- Escalators (automatic function staircases)
- Walkalators (automatic function ramps/moving walks/moving sidewalks)
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Stairs
Staircases
Stairways
9. Vertical Transportation Systems - Stairs
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Definition – What is a stair?
− A Stair is a system of steps which people and objects
may pass from one level of a building to another.
− A Stair is a number of at least 3 steps lading from one
level to another, in order to provide movement
between different levels in and attached to building
and for pedestrian walkways.
− A Stair is to be designed to span large vertical
distance by dividing it into smaller vertical distances,
called steps.
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STAIR: Only refered to a set of more than two steps
(trades and risers, or flights) between two levels,
without other components, only including intermediate
landings if they exist.
STAIRCASE: This term is applied to an interior stair,
including balustrades, landings and other components,
together with the part of the building, which encloses
it, although it is also commonly used in reference only
to the complete assembly of flights, landings and
balustrades in a single stair.
STAIRWAY: Used to define an outdoor/exterior
stair/staircases.
STEPS: It is a stair with one or two steps, both outside
or inside a building.
GRADIN, designed to seat, not to walk.
Therefore, we must differentiate the following concepts:
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Locations of Stairs/Staircases
− It should be so located as to provide easy
access to the occupants of a building
through all indoor spaces.
− It should be so located that it´s well
lighted and ventilated directly from the
exterior.
− It should be so located as to have
approaches convenient and spacious.
− In public building it should be located
near main entrance and in residential
building it should be placed centrally,
nearby main entrance.
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Requirements
To make Stairs usable without danger, they have to be designed and constructed carefully:
− The type of Stairs has to be chosen according design considerations.
− All measurements have to be calculated.
− If necessary, the tapering of the steps has to be designed
− Building codes and regulations must be followed.
− For the construction, suitable materials can be used (steel, concrete, timber, stone,
etc.), often different combined of those materials.
− The balustrade is part of the Stair, which is installed for the porpoise of safety of the
Stair. Beside that, balustrades may help to beautify the staircase.
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Technical Terms – Components or Parts of a Stair
The definitions of technical terms used in connection with the stairs are as follows:
STEP: is a short horizontal surface for the foot to ease ascent/descent from one level to another. It
consists of a horizontal element called TREAD and a vertical element called RISER.
The external junction of the TREAD and RISER, or the front edge of the TREAD (if projects beyond the face
of the RISER) is called NOSING.
Special names are given to steps according to their shape on plan drawing (see types of steps according
trades – Next slide).
Therefore:
RISER: It´s the vertical measurement of each stair.
Risers can either be enclosed or left open, as
in deck stairs or basement stairs. The board that
encloses the back of the step is also called a riser.
TREAD: It´s the horizontal section of each stair,
sometimes called the run. This´s the surface that
the user steps on.
NOSING: The section of the tread that overhangs
the riser below.
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Types of steps according Trades
- Flier step is an ordinary step of uniform width and rectangular shape.
- Bullnose step is generally provided at the bottom of the flight. It usually projects in front of
the newel post and it ends near the newel forming the quadrant of a circle.
- Round Ended step is similar to the bullnose step the only difference is it has semi-circular
end which project out of the stringer.
- Splayed step is also provided at the beginning of the flight with its end near the newel post
- Commode step is also provided at the beginning of the flight, it has curved tread and riser.
- Dancing or Balancing steps are those which do not radiate from a common center.
- Winders are tapering steps which radiates from a point (a common center) usually situated
at the center of newel. It is used to change the direction of a flight.
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GOING (or RUN) of a step is the horizontal distance between the NOSINGS or RISERS of 2
consecutive STEPS, and of a FLIGHT, the horizontal distance between the top and bottom
NOSINGS.
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LANDING: It´s a platform
between two FLIGHTS of stairs. It
is also the approach space at the
top and bottom of the stairs.
There´re two types: floor-
landings (the star and the end of
stairs in both floors connected;
intermediate landings that
serves as a rest between
FLIGHTS, or to turn between
FLIGHTS).
FLIGHT: It´s a series of steps
between FLOORS and LANDINGS.
The PITCH, or SLOPE, of a
staircase is how steep it is,
specifically the angle from the
same point on one step to the
next one.
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The HEADROOM (CEILING HEIGHT) is
the vertical dimension from the stair
TREADS to the ceiling directly above.
It is measured from a sloping
imaginary line that connects all of the
stair NOSINGS.
STRINGER or STRING: It´s the entire
sawtooth-shaped member upon
which RISERS and TREAD rest. You will
need at least two per staircase. Some
utility stairways, such as basement
stairs or deck stairs (ladders), may not
use a sawtooth STRINGER design.
BALLUSTRADE: Provides protection
on the open side or sides of a stair; it
may be either solid or open. An open
BALLUSTRADE consists of vertical bars
called BALUSTERS supporting and
HANDRAILS.
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Types of steps – Riser/Stringer
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Classification of Staircase/Stairway
 Straight Staircase – Straight Flight Stair: one rectilinear design flight.
 Turning Staircase: more than one rectilinear design flights:
 Half Turn, Go-back or Round Trip Staircase (Dog-Legged & Open well/Newel Staircase)
 Quarter Staircase (“L” shape).
 Three Quarters Turn Staircase (“U” shape)
 Bifurcated or Split Staircase (“T” shape).
 Continuous Staircase: Curvilinear design flight.
 Curved Staircase
 Spiral Staircase (Spindle, Eye, etc.).
 Helical/Circular Staircase
 Ladder Stairs: high slope stairs.
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Straight Staircase – Straight Flight Stair:
one rectilinear design flight.
Straight stairs are stairs without any
changes in direction. They´re certainly
one of the most common types of
stairs found in both residential &
commercial properties.
On longer flights of stairs (more than
15 steps, taking into account right
step dimension), a landing is inserted
to break up the flight.
Straight stairs often have platforms
halfway up the run of the stairs.
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Classification of Staircase/Stairway – Straight Staircase
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Turning Staircase: more than one rectilinear
design flight.
There´re 4 types:
 Half Turn, Go-back or Round Trip Staircase
(Dog-Legged & Open well/Newel Staircase)
 Quarter Staircase (“L” shape).
 Three Quarters Turn Staircase (“U” shape)
 Bifurcated or Split Staircase (“T” shape).
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Turning Staircase – Half Turn, Go-back or Round-trip Staircase.
It consists of two straight
flights with 180º turn
between the two flights.
Between both flights
there´s a landing with
(open well/newel) or
without (dog-ledge) 0.15
to 1.00 meter gap/well.
This is the most
commonly type used to
give access from floor to
floor.
Dog-ledge Open well/newel
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Turning Staircase – Half Turn, Go-back or Round Trip Staircase.
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Turning Staircase – Quarter Staircase (“L” shape).
This stair is a variation of the straight stair with a bend in some portion of the stair.
This bend is usually achieved by adding a landing at the transition point. The bend is
often 90º, however, it does not have to be. The change of direction can be affected
by either introducing a landing or by providing winder steps.
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Turning Staircase – Quarter Staircase (“L” shape).
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Turning Staircase – Three Quarters Turn Staircase (“U” shape).
It consists in a stair turning through right angles (90º) between tree flights,
turning a total of 270º. In this case, mandatory an open well is formed. Changes
of direction can be affected by either introducing 2 landings or by providing
winder steps.
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Turning Staircase – Three Quarters Turn Staircase (“U” shape).
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Turning Staircase – Bifurcated or Split Staircase (“T” shape).
Split Stairs are also known
as bifurcated stairs typically
have a wide set of stairs
starting at the bottom that
ends at a landing partway
up the flight. The stairs split
at the landing into two
narrower sets of stairs
leading in opposite
directions.
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Classification of Staircase/Stairway – Turning: Bifurcated or Split Staircase
Advantages of Split Staircases:
• Split stairs allow one staircase to function as two, by leading up to different sections of the building
making each end of the upper level easily accessible.
• They add an impressive architectural design statement to the building.
• Typically used in large homes or commercial buildings as a Grand Entry, both indoor and outdoor.
Disadvantages of Split Staircases:
• They require a significant amount of space need to be considered in the design of the building.
• They are more expensive than most stairs.
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Continuous Staircase: Curvilinear design flight.
There´re 3 main types:
 Curved Staircase, with curved flights, commonly without
landings.
 Spiral Staircase: It consists of a central post supporting a
series of steps arranged in the form of a spiral. At the end of
steps continuous hand-rail is provided.
 Helical/Circular Staircase: Very similar than spiral, but with a
well in the central area. At the beginning and the end of
steps continuous hand-rails are provided.
Such stairs, both spiral and helical/circular, are provided where space
available for stairs is very much limited, or artistic/ornamental topics
are much important. Commonly, they´ve not intermediate landings.
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Continuous Staircase - Curved Staircase.
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Classification of Staircase/Stairway – Spiral and Helical/Circular Staircases
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Classification of Staircase/Stairway – Spiral Staircases
Central Post
Central Post
Central Post
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Classification of Staircase/Stairway –Helical/Circular Staircases
Central Well
Central Well
Central Well
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Classification of Staircase/Stairway – Helical/Circular Staircases
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Ladder Stairs – High slope stairs.
They can serve as a means of access. However,
building codes do not allow ladders to serve as a
primary means of access. We can design custom
ladders for applications such as libraries, lofts, roof
access, docks, etc.
Advantages of Ladders:
• Ladders are the most compact way to get from one floor to another.
• They are very cost-effective due to their simple design.
• They may have wheels or fold up to move them out of the way when not in use
• They can be used to access shelves that would be too high to reach normally.
Disadvantages of Ladders:
• Ladders are the most difficult to navigate than stairs, especially while descending.
• Ladders can not be used as a primary staircase.
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Classification of Staircase/Stairway - Ladders
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STEPLADDER: A short folding ladder with flat steps and a small platform
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Classification of Staircase/Stairway - Summary
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Dimension
Actually, local rules & codes determine any topic about stair dimensions,
both private (inside a family house, for example) and public.
Riser & Tread:
Responding to the movement of the human body, the sizes and relationships of
stair risers and treads are regulated to make vertical motion safe and easy. Steep
stairs make climbing more tiring and dangerous, while shallow stairs are awkward
and inefficient for our human stride. Buildings codes have been created to control
the minimum and maximum measurements of risers and treads.
As general rules of thumb for achieving comfortable relationships between riser
and tread dimensions, the following formulas can be used:
Tread (cm.) + 2 x Riser (cm.) = 61 to 63 cm. (for interior private stairs)
Tread (cm.) + 2 x Riser (cm.) = 62 to 65 cm. (for interior public stairs)
Tread (cm.) + 2 x Riser (cm.) = 64 to 66 cm. (for exterior public stairs)
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Dimension
Actually, local rules & codes determine any topic about stair dimensions, both private (inside a family house, for example) and public.
Riser Trade
PRIVATE SPACES PUBLIC SPACES EXTERIOR
10 cm. NR NR NR
11 cm. NR NR NR
12 cm. NR NR NR
13 cm. NR NR 38 to 40 cm.
14 cm. NR NR 36 to 38 cm.
15 cm. NR 32 to 35 cm. 34 to 36 cm.
16 cm. 29 to 31 cm. 30 to 33 cm. 32 to 34 cm.
17 cm. 27 to 29 cm. 28 to 31 cm. 30 to 32 cm.
18 cm. 25 to 27 cm. 26 to 29 cm. NR
19 cm. 23 to 25 cm. NR NR
Recommended Tread & Riser Dimension according expressions
NR: not recommended.
Riser & Tread: The reason these expressions
are useful is because a person of average
height walks between 63 and 64 cm. with
each step and climbing stairs should be
perceived as a natural displacement, which
does not force us to take giant or too short
steps. On curved staircases, when the steps
are wedge-shaped, the tread will be
measured on the central axis of the step.
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Dimension (this is only an example)
Actually, local rules & codes determine any topic about stair dimensions, both private (inside a family house, for example) and public.
Interior/Indoor Private Use
Trade ≥ 22 cm.
Riser ≤ 20 cm.
Stair width, between hang-rails. ≥ 80 cm.
Trade flight with open riser ≤ 2.5 cm.
Interior/Indoor Public Use
Trade ≥ 28 cm.
Riser 13 cm. ≤ R ≤ 18.5 cm.
Riser slope ≥ 60º
Step width between hang-rails (residential) ≥ 100 cm.
Step width between hang-rails (non-residential) ≥ 120 cm.
Landing width ≥ Step width
Hang-rails height 86 cm. ≤ H ≤ 110 cm.
Hang-rails height (kids) 65 cm. ≤ H ≤ 75 cm.
Hang-rails to wall ≥ 4 cm.
Distance between balusters ≤ 10 cm.
Trade nose 0.64 cm. ≤ N ≤ 1.9 cm.
Ceiling height/Head room H ≥ 205 cm.
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Materials – Reinforced Concrete RCC
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Materials – Reinforced Concrete RCC
Steps (bricks or Blocks)
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Landing
Landing
Flight 1
Flight 2
Step
Materials – Reinforced Concrete RCC – Prefabricated/Pre-made
Springer
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Materials – Timber (structural wood) – Stair with trades embedded in stringers
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Materials – Timber (structural wood) – Stair with trades supported on stringers
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Materials – Metal (Steel and Aluminum)
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Materials – Metal (Iron)
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Materials – Stone
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Ramps
for
Accessibility
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9. Vertical Transportation Systems - Ramps
Definition – Ramps for Accessibility
A Ramp is a plane passageway connecting two different levels.
Ramps are sloped pathways used both inside and outside buildings used to provide access
between vertical levales.
Ramps are used to provide ways wherever stairs obstruct the free passage of pedestrians,
mainly wheelchair users and people with mobility problems, even to push a buggy, a trolley,
a bike, towing a luggage, etc.
Nevertheless ramps are comfortable and safe only if some simple but important rules
(building and urbanism codes) are met:
 The appropriate steepness (gradient or slope), length and width.
 The distance between landings.
 Likely users and the mode of assistance they´re likely to require.
 Placement of door handles and the swing direction of doors.
 Surface materials.
 Approach and access onto the ramp.
 The position of handrails and barriers.
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Types of Ramps for Accessibility – According the Location
There´re indoor and outdoor ramps. As far as the size and geometry are concerned,
the rules are usually the same. The only difference is the floor covering: outside the
water diversion, the problem of frost and snow are important safety aspects.
Types of Ramps for Accessibility – According the
configuration
According the configuration, Ramps can have one of the
following:
− Straight run, or Curved run, with or without
intermediate landings according the length.
− 90º turn.
− Switch back or 180º turn.
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Types of Ramps for Accessibility – According the configuration
Straight run
Length.90º turn
Switch back or 180º turn
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Types of Ramps for Accessibility – According the technology used to make them:
According the technology, ramps can be broadly classified into portable, semi-permanent and
permanent ramps:
Portable Ramps: They are lightweight and can be easily moved from one place to another. This durable
ramp is a safe and strong product for wheelchairs and scooters to easily access steps, vehicles and other
low to moderate raises.
There´re a lot of types of portable ramps: Folding Ramps; Suitcase Ramps; Telescoping Ramps and
Rollable Ramps.
Most of these types of ramps are not Rules-compliant so they should be used only for private uses.
Folding
Telescoping
Rollable
Suitcase
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According the technology, ramps can be broadly classified into portable, semi-permanent and
permanent ramps.
Semi-permanent Ramps: These ramps are durable enough to last for a long time, and can be moved
from one place to another if you want. You can use these ramps both indoors and outdoors. Examples
include shower ramps that facilitate access to walk-in showers and threshold ramps that enable you to
navigate small obstacles, typically less than 75 mm.
There´re different types of portable ramps: Threshold Ramps; or Lego-Style Threshold Ramps.
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According the technology, ramps can be broadly classified into portable, semi-permanent and permanent
ramps.
Permanent ramps: These are ramps that cannot be moved from their position. Or cannot be easily moved
(but it is possible).
There´re two main types: on-site (cannot be moved) and modular (can be moved).
Modular Ramps: This fixture is made out of ramp sections that are built off-site and then brought to
your home to be quickly assembled. Aluminum is one of the best materials to make modular ramps out
of, especially for outdoor use. This is because aluminum is cost-effective and it doesn't warp or
rust. However, other material as wood or steel could be used.
On-site Ramps: They're typically made out of concrete or wood, sometimes in steel. You can't adjust or
move this ramp after it's been set in place.
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Modular Ramps made with steel, aluminum and/or wood
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On-site Ramps made with building construction traditional materials, as concrete, RCC, steel, wood,
stone, etc.
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Dimension and Components
Width
The minimum width must be enough for a wheelchair. More space should be necessary if traffic
form opposite direction is expected.
The minimum width should be 92 cm. (USA) or 100 cm. (EU) measured between handrails.
However, it is recommended 120 cm. to allow an ambulant person and an independent
wheelchair user.
Type pf Ramp Width (cm.)
Ramps (minimum) ≥ 90-100 cm.
Ramps (recommended) ≥ 120 cm.
Actually, local rules & codes determine any topic about ramp dimensions.
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Gradient, Slope pr Steepness
The gradient, slope or steepness of a ramp is the angular relationship between its
Rise (vertical height) and its horizontal projection or length (Run), often expressed as
a ratio (Rise:Run) or as percentage (100 x Rise/Run %).
Ramps for Accessibility (an example)
Note: Cross/transversal slope never more than 2% (1:50).
Type Slope (Rise:Run) Run Maxium Rise
Smooth slope 6% (1:16) R ≥ 8 meters 62.50 cm.
Medium slope 8% (1:12) 8 < R ≤5 meters 83.00 cm.
Steep slope 10% (1:10) 5 < R ≤ 2 meters 50.00 cm.
Extra steep slope 12% (1:8) R < 2 meters 12.50 cm.
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Gradient, Slope pr Steepness
Ramps for Accessibility (an example)
Note: Cross/transversal slope never more than 2% (1:50).
Type Slope
(Rise:Run)
Run Maxium
Rise
Smooth slope 6% (1:16) R ≥ 8 meters 62.50 cm.
Medium slope 8% (1:12) 8 < R ≤5 meters 83.00 cm.
Steep slope 10% (1:10) 5 < R ≤ 2 meters 50.00 cm.
Extra steep slope 12% (1:8) R < 2 meters 12.50 cm.
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Length (Run)
The longer the ramp, the higher the risk that somebody is coming from the opposite direction.
Long ramps, without an intermediate landing could turn risky.
Longer ramps than 8 m. run are impossible according allowed gradients. Therefore, an
intermediate landing must be designed to avoid these lengths.
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RAMPS MUST BE NON-SLIP, HAVE A DOUBLE HANDRAIL AND AN EDGE PROTECTION
(BASEBOARD/RISER PLINTH) TO AVOID ACCIDENTS.
Surface:
Should be firm not slippery (rubber, non-slip finished, etc.), with tactile surface and
contrasting color upstairs and downstairs for person with a visual impairment.
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Edge protection:
For ramp with rise less than 0.15 meters no need to add handrails but Edge Protection should be
provided at 0.05 meters height from ramp level. It is recommended to design edge protection even when
handrails exist.
This protection could be a horizontal bar (such as a handrail or a ripe rail) in the bottom, or through a
solid balaustre.
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Handrails:
For ramp with raise than 0.15 meters, handrails should be provided:
− On both sides of the ramp. For ramps wider than 3.00 meters, an intermediate handrail
could be installed.
− At height of 0.80-1.00 meters from ramp level.
− Additional handrail at height 0.60 – 0.70 meters for children and wheelchair users.
− 35-50 mm. meters in width and 40 mm. away from the wall.
− Handrails must extend horizontally 0.30 meters minimum beyond the top and bottom of
stairs and ramps either returning to the wall or with a positive end that does not obstruct
the pathway (horizontal handrail extension).
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Placement of door handles and the swing direction of doors
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Summary
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Vehicles Traffic Ramps
- Vehicle traffic ramps will have a
maximum slope of 18% on straight
sections, and 14% on curved sections,
measured on the axis of the road.
- If ramps have more than 12% slope
(10% for curved), they need a transition
slope both in the beginning and in the
end. These transition ramps have at
least a 50% of the ramp slope. At least,
the length of the transition ramp must
be 3.00 meters, as any intermediate
landing designed in the vehicle traffic
ramp.
- The minimum free width of the traffic
ramps will be 3.00 m, and for more than
100 vehicles and single access it will be
5.00 m, increasing by 0.30 meters on
the outside of the turns, in all cases.
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Elevators – Lift
USA Commonwealth
9. Vertical Transportation Systems – Elevators/Lifts
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Definition
A Lift (Commonwealth English), also
called Elevator (USA English), is the most
commonly type of vertical transport
equipment that efficiently moves people
or goods between different floors
(stories, levels, decks, etc.) of a building,
vessel or other structure.
Generally powered by electricity motors
that either drive cables, hoist, or pump
hydraulic fluid to raise a cylindrical
piston like a jack (see types of elevators
according to Drive Systems).
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Terminology & Components
It depends on the type of elevator,
but anyone has the following basic
components:
− Car: it´s the carriage or container
that is fixated over a platform and
transports peoples, goods, etc.,
even vehicles.
− Hoist way: it´s the elevator shaft
− Machine system according to
Drive System.
− Control system.
− Safety system.
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Types of Elevators – Classification
The classification of the elevators
can be done following several
criteria.
Among them, the most important
are the following:
− According users.
− According the location.
− According opening types.
− According the position of the
door/doors.
− According how many
entrances.
− According to building height
− According to drive system
(the most important).
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According users:
− Passenger Elevators (residential, commercial, etc.), including Handicapped Elevators.
− Service Elevators used as a passenger (workers) and goods, meals, etc., transportation.
− Goods or Freight Elevators, similar than previous, but for high loads.
− Dumbwaiter Elevators: Small elevators destinated to transport meals, clothings, etc.
(restaurants, hotels and some luxury housings).
− Hospital Elevators, with capacity to transport and handle beds, stretchers and
wheelchair, including other passengers as well.
− Vehicles Elevators (parking)
− Industrial Elevators, design for specific tasks.
− Construction Site Elevators.
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According to Elevator Location:
− Outdoor / Exterior
− Indoor /Interior
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− Low-Rise Buildings (1 to 3 stories).
Hydraulic, Traction and Pneumatic
systems.
− Mid-Rise Buildings (4 to 11 stories).
Traction systems.
− High-Rise Building (12 to 20 stories).
Traction systems.
− Very High-Rise Building/Skycraper
(more than 20 stories). Different
sections of Traction elevators
According to Building Height
(except factories, storages, parking, building sites or similar):
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According Opening Types:
− Manual doors (non-automatic): they are operated by a user, even though some of them
do close automatically. There´re collapsible, swing, folding, etc., types.
− Automatic doors: Automatic doors are the standard type of doors found in modern days
elevators. Almost all the automatic doors are usually powered by a door operator installed
on the elevator car. There´re different types (see next slide).
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According Opening Types:
− Automatic doors: Automatic doors are the standard type of doors found in modern days
elevators. Almost all the automatic doors are usually powered by a door operator installed
on the elevator car. There´re different types:
− Single Opening: one sliding panel.
− Center Opening: 2 sliding panels
that meet in the middle.
− Sliding Telescopic doors: it is found
in locations with little room
because their mechanism for
opening the panels does not
require the door to slide all the
way through the wall. The doors
will open, retract one by one and
fit into the interior wall
space. There are different types
according how many speeds the
elevator has, and how panels run,
vertical or horizontally.
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Sliding Telescopic doors
According Opening Types – Automatic Doors:
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− Traction (pull) Elevators:
− Winding Drum, as the older type of elevator technology, deprecated since 1950´s.
− Geared, as the most commonly used in buildings until present day.
− Gearless, or Machine-Room-Less (MRL) Elevators, as a new and best technology.
− Hydraulic Elevators (push), commonly used for no more than 3 stories.
− Conventional Hydraulic Elevator (In-Ground)
− Hole-less Hydraulic Elevator.
− Roped Hydraulic Elevator: this type is a hybrid between traction and hydraulic.
− Climbing: A climbing elevator is a self-ascending elevator with its own propulsion through
an electric or a combustion engine.
− Pneumatic or Vacuum (Air Driven): Pneumatic elevator is a see-through, vacuum-operated
elevator.
− Scissor Elevators, used for construction sites, stores and workshop, and parking.
− Electromagnetic propulsion: Cable-free elevators using electromagnetic propulsion.
According to Drive System
(lift/elevate/raise mechanism):
There´re a lot of types, but only some of them are
important for us because they´re commonly used in
buildings:
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Traction (pull) Elevators:
Winding Drum
(used until 1950´s)
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Geared vs Gearless (Machine Room Less, MRL)
With traction system, the elevator
cab is raised and lowered by belts,
cords or steel ropes and a
counterweight on a pulley system.
This type is the most commonly
type of elevators, at least, until the
second half of the 20th Century,
when hydraulics began to be used
in low-rise buildings. Currently,
gearless traction systems (Machine
Room Less, MRL) are starting to be
used as a new and much better
technology.
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Geared vs Gearless (Machine Room Less, MRL)
Gearless MRL
technology has
virtually replaced
the traditional
geared machine
type traction
elevator that has
dominated the
mid/high-rise
buildings until to
the present day,
and has made
inroads into the
hydraulic market
for low-rise
buildings.
This is the future
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Hydraulic Elevators (push)
In contrast to
traction elevators,
hydraulic elevators
don’t use belts or
ropes. Instead, they
use an electronic
pump to push
hydraulic fluid (oil)
into a cylinder,
using pressure. This
pressure pushes a
piston and causes
the elevator to rise.
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There´re three types of Hydraulic Elevators:
− Conventional Hydraulic Elevator (In-Ground): This type has a cylinder that
extends into the ground the same height to which the Elevator is to be
lifted/elevated/raised. This type has not any wire or/and overhead machinery. A
machine room is required to house both the oil storage tank and the pump,
usually located in the lowest floor/story served.
− Hole-less Hydraulic Elevator: This type uses a telescoping pistons on one or
both sides of the cab to lift/elevate/raise it. The cylinder stands within the hoist-
way and does not require a drilled hole. As the conventional type, there´s no
wire or overhead machinery, but it needs a machine room downstairs.
− Roped Hydraulic Elevator: this type is similar to the traction one. The cab is
elevated by an attached rope that is pulled by pistons. Actually, it´s a hybrid
between traction and hydraulic technology.
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Pneumatic or Vacuum (Air Driven): Pneumatic
elevator is a see-through, vacuum-operated
elevator. Actually, it´s powered by air.
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Scissor Elevators
A Scissor Elevator is a useful piece of equipment to have on a
construction sites, stores, factories, car worshop and for vehicle´s
parking. They can lift up to 20 meters, commonly no more than 10
meters.
It´s machinery equipped
with a platform to
elevate workers or any
loads to high areas.
they´re are vary in size
and fuel type:
- Hydraulic.
- Diesel.
- Electric.
- Pneumatic.
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Scissor Elevators
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Electromagnetic Propulsion Elevator.
It´s a Cable-Free Elevators using Electromagnetic propulsion running
through both vertical and horizontal ways.
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Definition
Car - Cabin
Basically, Elevator car dimensions depend on the following topics:
− Maximum Load allowed, measured as number of persons or kilograms.
− If it is suitable for wheelchair users (accessibility) according to the local rules.
− The market, how offers their own products and standards.
This´s the carriage or cart that carries people,
goods, etc., between floors.
Basically, they can be 3 types in a standard
elevator system depending on the number of
entrances (see Types of Elevators according
number of openings).
A Car is defined according number of
passengers = rated load + 75, where 75 is the
average person´s weight in kilograms.
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Sizes & Dimensions
Car – Cabin (an example)
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Car – Cabin for Disabled/Handicapped (wheelchair users)
Note: Check local rules
General considerations – Design:
− Wide elevator cabs are preferable to long ones.
− The minimum internal elevator dimensions, allowing for one wheelchair passenger
alone, are 1,000 x 1,250 mm. However, check local rules to confirm dimensions.
− The door opening should not be less than 800 mm.
− The inside of the cabs should have a handrail on 3 sides mounted 0.80 to 0.85 meters
from the floor.
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Car – Cabin for Hospitals
(Min. to Max. Dimensions)
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Definition
Shaft – Hoist Way
Elevator in buildings are normally totally enclosed by a shaft
(typically square or rectangular) that will rise vertically through
the building and often finish above roof level. Elevator shafts will
also extend below ground if they must serve one or
more basement levels, or to house operating equipment.
Elevator shafts have several important functions:
− They provide elevator cars with clear, unimpeded travel
between floors.
− Most of the time, their fire-resisting construction is designed to
ensure that raise operation is not impaired by a fire breaking
out on any of the floors of a building. As such they become
protected shafts.
− They can provide a zone for locating the elevator mechanism,
although sometimes elevator machinery is located
in rooms located outside the shaft.
− They can form part of the structural core that stabilize buildings
(RCC structures, or Concrete block Load Bearing wall, for
example).
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Sizes & Dimensions
Shaft – Hoist Way (an example)
Actually, shaft dimensions depend car dimension, type of opening and type of
elevator according to drive system.
In any case, consult the technical information of the commercial brand that will
supply the elevator.
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Sizes & Dimensions
Shaft – Hoist Way for Freight/Goods Elevator
(Min. to Max. Dimensions)
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Dumbwaiter Elevator
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Grouping of Elevators
The Elevators should be positioned to minimize the walking distance between cars and hence
the time taken to load passengers which will then improve overall quality of service.
Besides, the front of each Elevator, as a self-lobby, there must be enough space to guarantee
the waiting of people or the transfer of goods without disturbing.
For Elevator group side by side positioning is the most efficient but also the option having the
Elevators positioned opposite one another is also an efficient arrangement. Any way, it
depends on the building design.
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Grouping of Elevators
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Constructive Detail
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Constructive Detail
(RCC pit)
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Construction Documents – Issue for Construction Drawing
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Bibliography 1/4
ARCHITIZER (2020), An Architect’s Guide To: Elevators and Escalators: Architizer Editors.
https://architizer.com/blog/product-guides/product-guide/elevators-escalators/
ARCHTOOLBOX (2021), Vertical Circulation. Elevator Types: Archtoolbox.com
https://www.archtoolbox.com/materials-systems/vertical-circulation/elevatortypes.html
BARNEY, Gina Carol (2004). Elevator Traffic Handbook: Theory and Practice: Taylor & Francis.
ISBN: 978-0415274760.
BLANC, Alan & BLANC Sylvia (2001), Stairs: Architectural Press (Elsevier). Reed Educational and
Professional Publishing Ltd.
https://doarch152spring2015.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/stairs-2nd-edition-bbs.pdf
CES (2017), Types of Elevators: Colorado Elevator Solutions (CES).
https://coloradoelevatorsolutions.com/types-of-elevators/
CULLMER, Harry R. (2012), Elevator Shaft Construction; Or, Practical Suggestions for the Installation of
Electric Elevators in Buildings: Hardpress Publishing. ISBN: 978-1407785622.
DAMDI (2019), Stairs for Public Space. London, GBR: Damdi Publishing Company & RIBA Books.
ISBN: 978-8968010910.
DHAMELIYA, Urmila et al. (2014), Lifts and Elevators (Transportation System in Buildings): Slideshare.
https://es.slideshare.net/MitaliGondaliya/lifts-46213003
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Bibliography 2/4
DHULE, Jitesh (2017), Staircase: Slideshare web.
https://es.slideshare.net/JiteshDhule/staircase-79932928
EL-KHAIR, Reem A. et al. (2008), Elevators and Escalators Design: Institute of Design Graphics Center Al-
Tawfiq Wali Allah.
https://es.scribd.com/document/333967039/Elevators-and-Escalators-Design-pdf
https://pdfcoffee.com/elevators-and-escalators-design-pdf-free.html
FORD, Mike (2006), “Machine-Room-Less (MRL) Elevators”, In: Building.com (20th March): Stamats
Communications, Inc.
https://www.buildings.com/articles/35686/machine-room-less-mrl-elevators
GOETZ, Alisa (2003), Up, Down, Across: Elevators, Escalators, and Moving Sidewalks: Merrell Publishers.
ISBN 978-1858942131.
KALEEM, Ahmad (2017), Lift/Elevator: Integral University Lucknow. Slideshare.
https://es.slideshare.net/KALEEMAHMAD24/liftelevator
KEUKA (2021), Type of Stairs. New York City (NY), USA: Keuka Studios, Inc.
https://www.keuka-studios.com/types-of-stairs-2/#8_Split_Staircase_Bifurcated
MALIHA, Azra, et al. (2017), Elevators. Dubai, UAE: Al Ghurair University. Slideshare.
https://www.slideshare.net/azramaliha22/elevator-system
Ignacio
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Bibliography 3/4
MANNES, Willibald (1979), TECHNIQUES OF STAIRCASE CONSTRUCTION Technical and Design
Instructions for Stairs Made of Wood, Steel, Concrete, and Natural Stone. New York, USA: Van Nostrand
Reinhold Company. ISBN: 978-1468466379.
https://www.academia.edu/31442442/TECHNIQUES_OF_STAIRCASE_CONSTRUCTION_Technical_and_De
sign_Instructions_for_Stairs_Made_of_Wood_Steel_Concrete_and_Natural_Stone
MASS (….), Introduction to Elevator Technology. Milford (MA), USA: Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
https://www.mass.gov/doc/elevator-101-introduction-to-elevator-technology/download
MATHER, Lindsey (2017), “8 Different Types of Stairs, Explained”, In: Architectural Digest (AD) Digital
Version, August 1st. New York City, USA: Condé Nast.
https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/types-of-stairs-explained
MAURER, Tracy (2017), Engineering Wonders: Elevators: Rourke Educational Media.
ISBN 978-1683424628
MITSUBISHI (2017), Passenger Elevators (Designed to European Standards). Tokyo, JAP: Mitsubishi
Electric Corporation.
https://pdf.archiexpo.com/pdf/mitsubishi-electric-elevator-escalator/design-guide/49677-202491.html
PARUL (….), STAIRS Design & Construction: Weebly.
https://piaresearch.weebly.com/uploads/3/8/5/5/38550975/stair-1.pdf
Ignacio
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Bibliography 4/4
PETER, Christian et al. (2018), Stairs: Detail Practice.
https://issuu.com/detail-magazine/docs/978-3-95553-397-7_bk_practice_stair
PVE (2021), A Guide for Choosing the Type of Elevator You Need. Miami (FL), USA: Pneumatic Vacuum Elevators
LLC. (PVE). https://www.vacuumelevators.com/a-guide-for-choosing-the-type-of-elevator-you-need/
RAHUL, Darshan, S. et al. (2014), Stairs: Slideshare web site.
https://es.slideshare.net/shehzadkhanmunshi/stairs-ppt-34235436?next_slideshow=1
SRF (2016), Recommended Parking Ramp Design Guidelines (Project No. Rochester J8618-J8622 Parking/TMA
Study). City of Rochester (MN), USA: DMC Transportation & Infrastructure Program City of Rochester. SRF
Consulting Group, Inc. https://www.rochestermn.gov/home/showpublisheddocument?id=18472
TETLOW, Karin (2007), New Elevator Technology: The Machine Room-Less Elevator: McGraw Hill Construction.
Continuing Education Center.
https://web.archive.org/web/20081211101435/http://continuingeducation.construction.com/article.php?L=14&C
=220
THE CONSTRUCTOR (2020), How are Ramps and How to Design Them?: The Constructor Web Site.
https://theconstructor.org/practical-guide/ramps-design/164670/
TUSQUETS, Blanca et al. (2013), Staircases: The Architecture of Ascent: Vendome Press. ISBN: 978-0865653092.
UN (2004), Accessibility for the Disabled - A Design Manual for a Barrier Free Environment (Architectural Design
Considerations): Ramps: United Nations Secretariat for the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
https://www.un.org/esa/socdev/enable/designm/AD2-01.htm
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‫ﺷﻛﺭﺍ‬, Gracias, Thanks,
Danke, Obrigado, Merci, 謝謝, Благодарю вас, eskerrik asko
Ignacio
Javier PALM
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