03-06-1 pg154-165 2/11/09 10:14 AM Page 154

EDUCATIONAL FOCUS: TESTING EQUIPMENT

ELEVATOR PERFORMANCE METER VS.

RIDE ANALYSIS TOOLS
Qualitative elevator performance analysis is becoming person was required to coordinate the activity of the other two
increasingly important. Until now, elevator performance and supervise the test. The last and most commonly employed
analysis has been exclusively method was simply to guess. All three methods are potentially
within the domain of expen- inaccurate, hazardous and no longer necessary: As a safe,
sive ride analysis systems. accurate and cost-effective alternative to these methods,
These fall into two different Maxton Manufacturing has introduced the SafeTach
categories, portable and fixed Elevator Performance Meter (EPM). SafeTach measures
systems. Each has advan- 7in. x 7in. and weighs 1.2lbs. This inexpensive and easy-
tages and drawbacks. Fixed to-use device is self-contained and portable. The elevator does
systems are limited in their not need to be removed from
usefulness to a single eleva- service and only one person is
tor and require costly down required to make an elevator
time for installation or re- performance measurement.
SafeTach Elevator Performance meter, moval. Because they are This analysis tool requires no
shown with optional remote control,
dedicated to a single eleva- external inputs. An elevator
can be used inside its protective case.
tor, they are considered cost performance measurement is
effective only for the high-dollar installations. Portable done by simply placing Safe-
systems have the advantage of being useful for testing Tach on the elevator floor. When
multiple elevators, but they can also be expensive and prompted, the operator places an
difficult to operate. As a result, they have limited useful- elevator call. As the elevator starts
ness in the field. to move, SafeTach performs
Historically both of these systems required not only the Use SafeTach by placing flat on real-time analysis on the eleva-
elevator car door.
measurement tool itself but also a separate computer for ana- tor ride. The internal computer
lyzing the data. Once performance data was acquired, the analyzes the elevator’s ride and displays the perfor-
process of analyzing this raw data could easily consume mance information in an easy to comprehend format as
many valuable man hours. Because the cost of these ride the ride progresses.
analysis tools can range well into the thousands of dollars, The following elevator performance information is
most companies have had to make do with less desirable reported: high speed, high-speed time, leveling speed, level-
methods. But these alternate methods of elevator perfor- ing-speed time, start g (or
mance analysis are plagued with problems. They can be breakaway), acceleration
hazardous, subjective and inaccurate. Routinely, when con- g, deceleration g, stop g,
fronted with qualifying an elevator’s performance, the meas- peak jerk value, run time,
urements would invariably come down to a “seat-of-the-pants manual stopwatch time
feel.” With these alternate methods, speed was measured by and alerts for any reading
either using a handheld tachometer and stopwatch or by simply that falls outside of the rec-
eyeballing and guessing. Because rate values (g’s) and jerk
Testing Equipment

ommended range. It also

cannot be measured via a tachometer or stopwatch, they has a memory function for
were left as unknown values. And, in most cases, it takes comparing up to three dif-
more than one person to make these measurements. ferent runs.
One such method was to jam open the elevator doors. Typical SafeTach data screen
This performance meter
One person would operate the elevator in inspection mode makes ride analysis a quick and easy one-man job to per-
while using a watch to time the test. A second person form. The lack of ancillary equipment to analyze the data
would take a measurement against the elevator car with a greatly reduces the size and cost of this system. SafeTach
tachometer as it moved past. Another method was to place is supplied with a handsome padded case, adjustment
a person on top of the elevator car. This person would observe tool, instruction manual and batteries.
a tachometer and at the same time watch out for obstacles
as a run progressed. A second person would operate the Written by Bill Harmon and Maxton Manufacturing
elevator from inside the car or control room. Sometimes a third Technical Staff

154 Educational Focus Compilation

03-06-1 pg154-165 2/11/09 10:14 AM Page 155
EDUCATIONAL FOCUS: TESTING EQUIPMENT
THE CURRENT FEATURES OF ADIASYSTEM
FOR INSPECTING ELEVATORS
by Alfons Petry
In the year 1990, statutory inspections of elevators in
Germany underwent fundamental changes. The independent
third-party inspection company TÜV Süddeutschland
Engineering Services in Munich, at that time, developed
a method specifically for inspecting elevators, the so-called
ADIASYSTEM (advanced diagnosis system for elevators).
ADIASYSTEM is an expert system software program, installed
on a customary notebook PC and is used together with
particular electronic transducers at the standard interfaces
of the PC to work as an intelligent measuring tool. The
complete hardware is put together in an equipment kit
weighing about eight kilograms. The method is protected
through a couple of patents and registered designs.
How ADIASYSTEM works
At the beginning, the objective of ADIASYSTEM was to
provide a modern PC-driven alternative solution instead
of the periodic load testing of elevators required in Germany.
The regular inspection of the behavior and safety of an
elevator under overload is most important. Loading the
elevator car with up to 150% of its rated load on the one
hand is troublesome and costly, and on the other hand
delivers only simple yes-or-no statements. Instead of the
prescribed load tests, ADIASYSTEM goes ahead with precise
and quantitative measurement. The findings gained can be
easily compared with the required values specified in codes
and standards. System-inherent safety reserves that could
not be determined so far, now can be measured with
ADIASYSTEM and thus give additional important infor-
mation to the expert. The software converts the findings
into figures as well as in diagrams and stores all information
on the hard disk. The results of repeated measurements
can be easily compared with former ones.
The “classical” ADIASYSTEM test procedures conducted
with an empty elevator car instead of a load test mainly con-
sist of the verification of the correct setting of the progressive
safety gear (safety test), the measurement of the traction and
the re-levelling test of hydraulic elevators. These procedures
were already described in former publications in detail, so
here only the respective basic ideas will be repeated.
The safety gear test has to give evidence that the safeties
stop an elevator car with rated load within the permissible
range of deceleration. With the ADIASYSTEM method, a
data logger measures the actual deceleration of the empty
car, and the expert system calculates the deceleration for
the rated load condition. Only for that very condition the
codes and standards stipulate specific requirements. The
technical behavior of progressive safety gears makes sure
that the deceleration forces are largely independent from
load and speed. In this test the elevator is exposed to less
stress, due to the much less kinetic energy compared with
a full-load safety gear test.
As already mentioned, the ADIASYSTEM measurement
determines the deceleration of the empty car. However,
the experience shows that in many cases retardation values
are quite high if a safety gear is activated with an empty
car. If the elevator is carrying just one or only few pas-
sengers, this stop can become very dangerous. For the
time being no requirement for an emergency stop has been
specified in the codes. To improve the safety it would
make sense to limit the maximum retardation for the
Testing Equipment
Safety diagram
Educational Focus Compilation 155
03-06-1 pg154-165 2/11/09 10:14 AM Page 156
EDUCATIONAL FOCUS: TESTING EQUIPMENT
empty car too; the ADIASYSTEM has been recording that
aspect for many years.
The determination of the traction using the ADIASYSTEM
method consists of the measurement of whether the adhe-
sive friction between rope and traction sheave is sufficient
to prevent slippage. The relevant codes specify that no slip-
page must occur with 125% rated load in the car (European
Standard EN81; ASME A17), respectively 150% (in accor-
dance with TRA, the German Elevator Code). The conclusions
from a conventional load test are only the two alternative
statements “car remains stationary” or “car slips down.”
ADIASYSTEM however can measure the amount of load in
the car that would exceed the coefficient of friction between
ropes and traction sheave causing a dangerous condition.
Usually, insufficient traction is to be found only on a small
percentage of elevators; however, it is a quite serious violation.
As a matter of fact, current elevator drives are no longer
oversized as in the past, therefore a traction measurement
will become more important in the future.
Testing Equipment
Traction measurement
Traditionally with hydraulic elevators, the car is tested
in the landings whether the hydraulic system is capable to
re-level the car with its rated load. Again, ADIASYSTEM
produces that proof with an empty car, an advantage particu-
larly for heavy-duty freight elevators. An electronic gauge is
used to record the pressure-time-behavior of a cycle moving
down and up, and the expert system of the ADIASYSTEM
software calculates both the hydraulic losses and the effi-
ciency, and makes the statement whether the elevator is
capable to re-level with rated load.
156 Educational Focus Compilation
For more than 10 years, ADIASYSTEM is state-of-the-
art testing for elevators in Germany. The method can be
used on elevators of any design and manufacturer, as
well as for any speed and rated load. Particular accessory
parts are available for the latest machine-room-less (MRL)
elevators of different manufacturers.
In recent years, a fundamental re-design of the ADIASYS-
TEM software took place in order to catch up with the
new possibilities of today’s PCs. Real-time measurements
originally designed for a DOS environment had to be con-
verted to a WINDOWS solution, and a new microprocessor-
controlled adapter had to be developed for that purpose.
Thereby, all previous transducers can still be used under
WINDOWS, using RS232 or USB ports. In the near future,
transducers will be re-designed to meet the latest technology,
having a direct USB connection.
Diagram re-levelling test
Since the very beginning, new evaluation functions have
been supplemented to the ADIASYSTEM again and again.
While the original first features concentrated on safety
aspects of the elevator, additional diagnostic tools were
integrated into the software in the course of time, which did
not only cover the safety but also aspects such as quality,
availability, travel comfort, etc. These new software features
triggered new fields of application. So, ADIASYSTEM is no
longer just an inspection method applicable to statutory
periodic inspections of elevators. Today, it is also a very
powerful tool for any kind of measurement and documenta-
tion, for acceptance testing of new elevators or for any
type of approval of elevators and safety parts, for the ex-
aminations of escalators and moving walks as well as for
expert opinions on any installation of vertical transporta-
tion. The following examples are typical ADIASYSTEM
diagnostic tools.
The data logger that is used for the safety test can also
be used for the measurement of any accelerations or
deceleration in a range of +/-10g, using a 12-bit-full-scale
03-06-1 pg154-165 2/11/09 10:14 AM Page 157

EDUCATIONAL FOCUS: TESTING EQUIPMENT

resolution and with an option of different sampling rates. method like the ADIASYSTEM can help to identify a wide
The configuration of various parameters, necessary for range of non-conformities.
the respective measurement, including defined trigger
conditions, can be easily adapted via the software when
connected to the PC. As the data logger allows very high
sampling rates (up to 5,000Hz), this device can provide
the recording and evaluation of fast processes with high
precision. Typical applications include the recording of
emergency stops and ride comfort measurements.

Pressure-time diagram

ADIASYSTEM offers various graphic representations and

effective possibilities to evaluate a measurement especially
when made with the distance/speed gauge. After recording
the measurement, all distance, speed and acceleration
values are simultaneously available on the screen and
Ride comfort measurment
displayed as a function of time. In addition to the measuring
values, additional information can be recorded simulta-
Obtaining results from ADIASYSTEM’s different graphs
neously, such as electric trigger signals as well as manual
uses the same method. As soon as two movable cursors markings through keystrokes of the user. Herewith, costly
are set by the user, all relevant results of this measure- recordings of reactions on electric control impulses, such
ment are displayed in a status window. The representa- as delay or respond times, can be completed and analyzed
tion of any diagram can be adjusted in many ways to the in a simple manner. Speed Diagrams 1 and 2 show for
respective needs by scrolling, compressing and expand- example 1) how simple it is to check the tripping speed of
ing. Hence, ADIASYSTEM provides an excellent procedure an over-speed governor; and 2) how to evaluate a record-
to generate the documentation of any measurement made. ing for the time period between the last manual marking
The pressure-time diagram of a hydraulic elevator is and the first electric trigger signal.
another example that clarifies for often only the visuali-
zation of a diagram permits a conclusion or identifies a
faulty function of the elevator. The results of repeated
measurements prove the high reproducibility of the
method. So, any diagram corresponds to a fingerprint of Testing Equipment
the respective situation.
Any experienced user can immediately recognize the
unusual pressure peaks on the pressure-time diagram,
which are caused by a too narrow distance between both
guide rails. The expert user therefore can decide on suit-
able countermeasures. Without conducting a measure-
ment, such defects often remain undetected, leading to
higher wear and a failure sooner or later. It is obvious
that in this case the determined cause does not generate
an immediate safety risk. However, long term, this effect
will cause damage. An up-to-date, modern inspection Speed diagram 1

Educational Focus Compilation 157

03-06-1 pg154-165 2/11/09 10:14 AM Page 158
EDUCATIONAL FOCUS: TESTING EQUIPMENT
Speed diagram 2
At present, ADIASYSTEM’s scope of application is sup-
plemented, and the hardware is complemented with two
newly developed transducers. The first new device is an
electronic load cell for safety relevant measurements on
power-operated doors in compliance with DIN EN12445.
The measuring range is up to 2,000N, and the features of
that device meet all specifications of this standard.
New door gauge
As this transducer has a dual purpose, the second
function can be used for measuring masses up to
4,000kg. It is a suitable tool (for example with the use of
a traction sheave clamp) to determine the masses of the
Testing Equipment
elevator car and the counterweight with high precision.
This feature will significantly improve the accuracy of the
already existing ADIASYSTEM feature “balance test.”
The second newly developed transducer can electronically
measure and record all essential physical characteristics of
elevator doors: the kinetic energy, the hitting speed and the
maximum and the permanent closing force. Both new trans-
ducers are to be connected to the same “intelligent” handle,
designed alternatively for both on-line- and off-line-measure-
ments. The handle contains its own microprocessor and
presents the results directly after the measurement on a built-
Petry
in display. All off-line values remain in non-volatile memory;
158 Educational Focus Compilation
they can be transmitted to the PC later, in order to draw up the
documentation, evaluate the diagrams or to file the records.
All intelligent transducers have their own electronic
memory chips to enable an automatic recognition of the
plugged sensor. The memory chip contains the transducer
serial number, date and results of the last calibration and
further information if necessary. As soon as the sensor is
connected up, the ADIASYSTEM software automatically
reads the information of the memory chip; the transducer
is identified and has to pass plausibility and validity tests.
In case the valid calibration date of the transducer has ex-
pired, the software will prevent further usage of this sensor.
This method guarantees that only calibrated transducers are
used for measuring. Thus, ADIASYSTEM has a system-inte-
grated control that verifies the status of all measuring devices,
a strict demand of any quality assurance system. All trans-
ducers have been designed for robust field operation. The en-
tire technique has proven itself through long-time use very
well. The precision of all transducers significantly exceeds the
specified requirements of the applicable codes and standards.
ADIASYSTEM
equipment
kit
For years, professional experts rely on the essential infor-
mation that they gain from using the ADIASYSTEM, becom-
ing an indispensable aspect of contemporary evaluation of
an elevator. In the future, the utilization of the results of the
modern measurements as a part of the inspection service will
become more important for owners and maintenance com-
panies, too. The TÜV Süddeutschland is planning to add
the essential ADIASYSTEM measuring results and dia-
grams to the test reports issued and to
give authorized users access to that kind
of information in the elevator certificate
database, which is already available and
accessible via the Internet.
Alfons Petry is the director of Innovative
Systems with the TÜV Süddeutschland
Engineering Services.
03-06-1 pg154-165 2/11/09 10:14 AM Page 159

EDUCATIONAL FOCUS: TESTING EQUIPMENT

TESTING EQUIPMENT
by Rainer Schmitt

The Lat Laser JZC is an in- ◆ Takes the place of the traditional plumb line procedure
spection device for the cor- ◆ Determination of the reference points in the shaft by
rect alignment of guide rails utilization of a laser system
and elevator doors. ◆ Measurement of the coplanar relationship of two
Examples of Application guide rails
Replacement of Traditional ◆ Readily recognizable laser beam
Plumb Line ◆ Fluid-based self-aligning system (patented)
The JZC laser instrument, ◆ The laser is in compliance with EN60825-1/A11:1996
together with its target dis- and EN61010-1/A2:1995 in terms of safety and reliability
play and reflector components, Content of Supply
replaces traditional plumb line Transport Case Contains
adjustments and the alignment ◆ JZC laser instrument
of guide rails using plumb lines. ◆ FJ11 target display
It belongs to the family of meas- ◆ Reflector
urement lasers and is utilized ◆ Safety line
where vertical and horizontal ◆ Set of batteries
reference values are required. ◆ Instruction handbook
Lat Laser JZC
This makes it possible to deter-
mine reference points for alignment of the guard rails as
well as the shaft doors. The JZC laser instrument is
equipped with a liquid-bearing self-alignment system. This
makes it possible to generate a laser beam aligned in
plumb fashion to a vertical object.
Measurement of the Deviation of Already-Installed
Guide Rails
With the aid of a target display and/or a reflector, vertical
and horizontal deviations can be measured with the utmost
precision. The testing of the quality of the installation can
be carried out immediately after rail placement and also
after a certain period of operation. The alignment of the JZC laser instrument FJ11 target display
guide rails can change as concrete loses volume and as
the result of building settling, reducing both travel comfort Laser Instrument JZC
and car operation safety. The erection of a reference line ◆ Accuracy: ±0.5%0 (±0.5mm/10m)
with steel wire is very difficult, but with the JZC laser instru- ◆ Wave-length/maximum output: 650nm/0.5mW
ment, the determination of the reference values is possible ◆ Class/norm: 2/EN60825-1
within a very short time. Document the installation quality ◆ Laser beam/radius of action: Ø 3mm/50m, Ø 5mm/70m Testing Equipment
in terms of DIN EN13015 as well. Possible measurement ◆ Time of self-leveling: 15s
accuracy deficiencies can be reduced by means of a self- ◆ Operating environment temperature: 5°C~35°C
testing of the measurement precision of the laser instrument. ◆ Humidity: <90%
The device corresponds to laser installations of Class 2 ◆ Power supply: 3VDC 2St/piece AA-(mignon)
and fulfills the European Standard EN60825. ◆ Weight (without batteries): 1.5kg
Features ◆ Device bag weight: 1.9kg
◆ Suitable for elevators in accordance with AR95/16/EG, ◆ Dimensions: 360(B)x330(T)x17(H)mm, 360(W)x330(D)x
MR98/37/EG, EN81 and TRA 17(H)mm
◆ Testing of installation quality with both new installa- Target Display FJ11
tions and modernization projects (cf. DIN EN13015) ◆ Wave-length/maximum output: 650nm/0.5mW
◆ Measuring device for checking vertical and horizontal ◆ Class/norm: 2/EN60825-1
position of guide rails and elevator doors ◆ Laser beam/radius of action: Ø 3mm/50m, Ø 5mm/70m

Educational Focus Compilation 159

03-06-1 pg154-165 2/11/09 10:14 AM Page 160

EDUCATIONAL FOCUS: TESTING EQUIPMENT

◆ Operating environment temperature: 5°C~35°C ◆ One mounting strap

◆ Humidity: <90% ◆ One plug-in power supply unit
◆ Power supply laser: 3VDC 2St./piece AA-(mignon) ◆ One floppy disc
◆ Digital display: 1.5VDC Knopfzelle/button cell ◆ One instruction manual
◆ Power consume: <0.2W
◆ Weight (without batteries): 0.9kg
Travel Data Sensor
Description
The Travel Data Sensor is an independent microprocessor- Normal travel path of a
frequency controlled lift
controlled measuring device with an integrated accelera-
tion sensor. The sensor measures the acceleration in a
vertical direction with a small side sensitivity. The integrated
module “LIFT Checker” in LIFTCALC® offers the possibility to
store and evaluate the measured deceleration values
(e.g., measurement of the travel quality during a floor-to-
floor trip).
Features Travel path of a frequency
◆ Proven documentation of the functionality and safety controlled lift with one
obstacle on the guide rails
of the lift installation in accordance with Lifts Directive
95/16/EG (fulfills GSA)
◆ Assessment of the travel quality of traction and hydraulic
system
◆ Troubleshooting in the system by vibration and oscil-
lation measurements
◆ Measurement and assessment of critical decelerating
values (activation of buffer, electrical emergency stop) Travel path of a frequency
◆ Complete documentation of an installation (product controlled lift with two
obstacles on the guide rails
liability)
◆ Data transmission from travel data sensor to PC via serial
interface; measurement listings can also be transmitted
to a central location by telemetry
◆ Safety gear check Evaluation of the Travel Comfort of a System
when lift is empty (Ad-
Lift travel comfort has so far been judged only individually.
justments checked in
With the newly developed Travel Data Sensor, the accelera-
accordance with TRA
tion and deceleration values can be directly recorded on
and EN)
the lift and displayed on the screen after being read out of
◆ Assessment of the
the sensor memory and can be stored on site. The diagram
acceleration and decel-
shows an example of the travel path of a frequency con-
eration diagrams using
trolled lift with and without obstacles on the guide rails.
LIFTCALC
Pressure Sensor
◆ Sampling frequency
Testing Equipment

Travel Data Sensor dimension (wxhxd): 95
x 160 x 45mm
Description
5,000Hz
◆ Acceleration range The measuring principle of the Pressure Sensor is based
±10g on a wire strain gauge, which enables the detection of the
◆ Shock resistant up hydraulic system pressure. The power supply of the pressure
to 1,000g sensor is achieved via the serial interface of a PC. The
◆ Simple operation measurement values are transmitted online to the PC and
◆ Weights are not re- can be displayed on the screen as well as being pictured
quired in the form of a pressure-time diagram. These can be stored.
Content of Supply Features
◆ One travel data sensor ◆ Proven documentation of the functionality and safety
◆ One connection cable of the lift installation in accordance with Lifts Directive
for PC 95/16/EG (fulfills GSA)

160 Educational Focus Compilation

03-06-1 pg154-165 2/11/09 10:14 AM Page 161

EDUCATIONAL FOCUS: TESTING EQUIPMENT

◆ Complete documentation of an installation (product

liability)
◆ System pressure check and analysis of possible pres-
sure drops (leakages)
◆ Examination of the behavior of the dynamic pressure in
the system
◆ Control system check (e.g., resonance, overshoot)
◆ Testing of the anti-creep device
◆ Adjustment of the pressure relief valve
◆ Evaluation of the pressure-time diagram through LIFTCALC
◆ Maximum measuring frequency 100Hz
◆ Standard measuring range 0. . . .100 bar

electric Connec-
connection tion to
for cable the valve
to PC block

ideal travel path Clamping of the piston at three

positions

◆ Easy to use
◆ Weights are not required
Content of Supply
◆ One pressure sensor
◆ One rapid action coupling to sensor connector
◆ One connecting cable for PC
◆ One floppy disc Testing Equipment
◆ One instruction manual
Assessment of the Pressure Behavior
of a Lift Installation
The representation of the pressure behavior of a hydraulic
system offers the user the possibility to determine abnor-
malities which appear in pressure-time diagrams through
sudden pressure drops or rises (e.g., pressure increase due
to piston clamping; pressure increases due to premature
responses of the pressure relief valve).

Rainer Schmitt is the Marketing and Sales manager with Wittur

AG K + S. He has worked for Wittur Germany for the last 10 years.

Educational Focus Compilation 161

03-06-1 pg154-165 2/11/09 10:14 AM Page 162

EDUCATIONAL FOCUS: TESTING EQUIPMENT

ANALYSIS OF ELEVATOR
RIDE QUALITY, VIBRATION
by Gregory P. Lorsbach

Introduction International Services Building Elevator 23

Units: milli(g) File: 5TWG3E71.VE2 10:13:15: 04/03/97
The measurement of elevator ride quality (frequently called

Sound (dBA)
Run Sound: 61.5L Aleq: 57.8 Max Sound: 74.6
ride comfort) has become an important subject over the
past several years. It is now often part of specifications
for new and modernized elevator systems. It is also a Max Pk/Pk: 47.3 A95: 26.5 0-Pk: 33.1

competitive issue for elevator manufacturing, installation

and maintenance companies because it is a strong indi-
cator of the quality of design, installation and service of Max Pk/Pk: 29.0 A95: 15.9 0-Pk: 21.6

elevator systems. More than that, the analysis of vibration

and sound that has been collected for ride quality measure-
Max Pk/Pk: 54.3 A95: 32.2 0-Pk: 171.8
ments provides the ability to diagnose the function of elevator
and escalator system components.
How ride quality is measured strongly affects the re-
Seconds
sults of those measurements. Based on extensive work Figure 1
that was performed by companies from around the
world, a new international standard was developed for International Services Building Elevator 23
Sound (dBA)

Units: milli(g) File: 5TWG3E71.VE2 10:13:15: 04/03/97

the measurement of elevator ride quality. The new stan- Run Sound: 61.5L Aleq: 57.8 Max Sound: 74.6
dard is draft ISO 18738 Lifts (elevators) – Measurement
of Lift Ride Quality. ISO 18738 establishes the require-
ments, methodology and processing techniques that are Max Pk/Pk: 9.4 A95: 4.5 0-Pk: 6.9

required to standardize the measurement and evaluation

of elevator ride quality, and the performance characteristics
Max Pk/Pk: 9.8 A95: 6.1 0-Pk: 7.8
including acceleration, velocity and jerk. This standard does
not try to establish what is, or what is not, acceptable in
terms of ride quality. Practically, acceptability has to be Max Pk/Pk: 20.0 A95: 14.3 0-Pk: 34.3 Jerk Zone Max Pk/Pk: 36.3
considered a moving target. The technology and techniques
to provide “good” ride quality will change (hopefully improve)
over time. Utilizing the new standard offers the ability to
Seconds
evaluate and troubleshoot using vibration and sound to Figure 2
identify problem areas and improve ride quality. It is
important to remember that we are not simply evaluating representation of sound level and accelerometer outputs,
vibration and sound, but the vibration and sound that relates the elevator industry generally distinguishes between accel-
to ride quality (i.e., human response to that vibration eration and vibration based on the net motion of the car.
and sound). This means that we are evaluating vibration Figure 2 represents the data after it has been processed
Testing Equipment

that was collected in a specific way and analyzed using
specified techniques.
The Vibration Record
First Order Analysis – Troubleshooting
Data as collected by an instrument may, or may not, be
related to how people feel that vibration, depending on
how the data was processed. For example, Figure 1 displays
the vibration and sound level as collected by an EVA-625,
prior to processing for ride quality evaluation. Displayed
from top to bottom are: sound level, x-axis acceleration
(front to back), y-axis acceleration (side to side) and z-axis
acceleration time histories. Although this is a graphical
according to the new ISO standard and is used to evalu-
ate elevator ride quality. This allows the direct diagnosis
of problems that have a negative effect on ride quality.
The data that has been processed according to the stan-
dard is intended to give meaning, such that an increase
in the level of vibration, corresponds to an increase in the
perception of that vibration.
Although measurement and analysis provides a complete
standardized evaluation of performance characteristics of
an elevator system, for the purposes of this discussion a limited
analysis of the vibration at full speed will be made. Vibration
is characterized in terms of the maximum peak-to-peak

162 Educational Focus Compilation

03-06-1 pg154-165 2/11/09 10:14 AM Page 163

EDUCATIONAL FOCUS: TESTING EQUIPMENT

vibration, and the A95 (typical vibration) between the points International Services Building Elevator 23
Units: milli(g) File: 5TWG3E71.VE2 10:13:15: 04/03/97
that an elevator has traveled 0.5 meters (1.64 feet) from
its start position, through to the point at which an eleva-

Z Distance ft
tor has traveled to within 0.5 meters (1.64 feet) of its final
position. The units that are typically used in evaluating vi-
bration are milli(g)s. Bear in mind, that vibration is a re-
sult of the moving elements, as well as the control elements,
that make up an elevator system.
When attempting to evaluate the function of the compo-
nents of an elevator system, the first approach is to conduct
a first order analysis, based on a few simple questions:
a. Is the vibration acceptable?
b. Does the problematic vibration show up in the horizontal Seconds
axes or vertical axis? Figure 3
c. Is the vibration impulsive or continuous?
Acceptable Vibration International Services Building Elevator 23
Units: milli(g) File: 5TWG3E71.VE2 10:13:15: 04/03/97
As a worldwide supplier for ride quality instrumentation,
I am often asked what is considered “a good vibration

Z Distance ft
level”? This question is not easily answered. What is accept-
able from a vibration level standpoint is based on many
factors. A primary factor is a competitive issue with respect
to the expectations of the local market. Realistically, every
elevator company manufactures a system that causes a
box to move up and down in response to traffic require-
ments. Competitive pressures keep the cost for equivalent
functionality approximately the same. However, the motion
and sound that a rider perceives correlates with the percep-
tion of the quality of design, installation and maintenance. Seconds
It has been my experience that the maximum acceptable Figure 4

vibration level for new or modernized elevators is less

than 12 milli(g)s maximum peak to peak, and less than
half that for the A95 (typical) peak to peak. It is not un-
common (therefore, achievable) for the maximum peak-
to-peak vibration to be less than 10 milli(g)s and the A95
peak-to-peak vibration to be less than 5 milli(g)s for high-
speed elevators. Certainly, there is a relationship to cost.
I will often suggest that the user measure what they know
to be an elevator that they find to be acceptable. Using that
data, they can create internal benchmarks for acceptability.
Horizontal or Vertical
This is an important question since vibration sources
can be identified based on the axis that is being affected.
Knowing the axes affected allows the user to quickly elimi-
nate possible vibration sources. The potential horizontal
axis vibration sources are rail misalignment and/or roller
or slide guides. The vertical axis vibration sources are ropes,
sheave, machine, controller/drive or counterweight.
Impulsive or Continuous
As we inspect the unfiltered x-axis time history more
closely, with respect to distance traveled (Figure 3), it is
apparent that there are a series of “bumps.” Using the EVA
Elevator/Escalator Vibration Analysis Tools software, it is
determined that the bumps are separated by one rail
length (located at 40, 56, 72 and 88 feet from the point at
which the elevator started). This would lead to the conclu-
sion that there are misalignments at those points (one rail
length apart) causing excess vibration. However, this is the
vibration that is sensed by the EVA-625. When addressing
ride quality, it is desired to address the vibration that people
feel. Figure 4 shows the same record after filtering using
the filter specified in the ISO standard on Lift Ride Quality.
Clearly the signal is very different since the apparent bumps
Testing Equipment
are located at 56, 72 and 88 feet in the unfiltered data are
no longer readily apparent, while the bump located at 40
feet is clearly visible. This approach allows the maintenance
company to address the vibration that a rider would feel
and not waste time on vibration that people do not feel.
This is an example of impulsive motion. When dealing with
impulsive vibration in the horizontal axis, it is usually safe to
conclude that it is related to a specific location in the
hoistway. Fortunately, the use of the EVA software allows
the user to locate the “bumps” precisely in the hoistway.
When addressing continuous vibration, the question of
horizontal or vertical remains important. Continuous

Educational Focus Compilation 163

03-06-1 pg154-165 2/11/09 10:14 AM Page 164

EDUCATIONAL FOCUS: TESTING EQUIPMENT

horizontal vibration is either the result of something that af-

Hotel International Elevator 00001
fects the entire hoistway (e.g., rail misalignment) or the
source of vibration is travelling with elevator (e.g., rollers).
In the most general sense, horizontal vibration sources are
located within the hoistway or even on the car.

1SO Z
Seconds Seconds
Figure 5 Figure 6

Some of the sources of continuous vertical vibration

Spectrum – Z Channel
are related to the ropes, sheave, machine, controller or Frequency (Hz)
counterweight. Referring to Figure 5, the vertical axis
continuous vibration is readily apparent (upper for refer-
ence to show the acceleration, lower is the ISO-filtered
data that is used for ride-quality measurements). It is
milli(g)

clear that there is a strong vertical vibration throughout

the record. However, the vibration level greatly increases
as the elevator travels from the bottom floor to the top floor.
Often to find the source of vibration, we use a powerful
analytical tool, the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT, vibration
Figure 7
versus frequency) to perform a second order analysis.
Second Order Analysis
When discussing continuous vibration, we are often Spectrum – Z Channel
referring to vibration resulting from rotating elements (a Frequency (Hz)

series of impulsive events can also be called continuous).

The driving elements of an elevator have a number of ro-
tating components, including the sheaves, motor and
gears within the gearbox. Problems in these areas can have
milli(g)

a significant effect on vertical vibration level and ride

quality. Each of those can be characterized by a rotational
frequency. The rotational frequency can easily be calculated
knowing the diameter of the element (direct measure-
ment) and the speed of the elevator (EVA-625 data analy- Figure 8
sis). As an example, assuming a 16-inch sheave diameter
Testing Equipment

(d) and 1,200fpm elevator (v), the rotational frequency (f)

is calculated such that: Spectrum – Z Channel
Diameter (d) = 16 inches (406.4 millimeters) Frequency (Hz)

Speed (v) = (1,200fpm)/(60 seconds/minute) = 20

feet/second (6.096 mps)
Roller Circumference C = πd = 3.14159 x (16 inches x
1 foot/12 inches) = 4.189 feet (1.277 meters)
milli(g)

Sheave Rotational Frequency = v/C = 20/4.189 = 4.77

rotations per second = 4.77 Hz (=4.75)˜
If the FFT (spectrum) of the vertical axis vibration signal
indicates that there is significant energy at about 4.75 hertz,
then we can correlate that with the sheave. It is also important Figure 9
to realize that this would be the fundamental frequency

164 Educational Focus Compilation

03-06-1 pg154-165 2/11/09 10:14 AM Page 165

EDUCATIONAL FOCUS: TESTING EQUIPMENT

Hotel International Elevator been no significant change in the frequency of vibration

as the elevator traveled from the bottom to the top of the
hoistway. Using this approach, the ropes and sheave can
be eliminated. The next step was to attach the EVA-625
accelerometer directly to the gearbox and make a measure-
ment while the elevator was moving. Analyzing the vibra-
tion signal (Figure 10), the spectrum (Figure 11) indicates
that the dominant frequency was about 27 Hertz or nearly
the same as that measured on the floor of the car. This allows
us to conclude that the source of the vibration, and poor
ride quality, was the machine (gear mesh frequency).
Conclusion
Seconds
It is important to remember that successful field personnel
Figure 10 within the elevator industry are necessarily clever and
analytical (problem solvers). Although, they may have not
been exposed to vibration analysis as part of their education
Spectrum – Y Channel
or experience, they can apply basic and powerful techniques
Frequency (Hz)
to analyze vibration and quickly evaluate the condition of
most elements of an elevator system. Further, it is a simple
matter to determine if repairs or changes that had been
made to an elevator had the desired effect of improving
milli(g)

ride quality.

Gregory P. Lorsbach is with Physical Measurement Technologies,

Inc. located in Marlborough, New Hampshire.

Figure 11

and that some higher order harmonics may also be present

(i.e., 9.5, 14.25, 19, etc. Hertz) as well. The same approach
can be applied to components such as the guide rollers.
Additionally, the motor/worm/ring gear rotational frequencies
may be identified in the vertical axis vibration signal.
A good example of using the FFT is demonstrated, again
referring to Figure 5 (500fpm, geared). It is obvious that the
vibration level increases as the car travels from bottom to
top. Figure 5, lower, indicates that the perception of that
vibration increases as well. The first thought while on site
was that the vertical vibration was related to the ropes.
Had this been the case, there would likely have been a
significant change in frequency, as analyzed through the Testing Equipment
FFT. If one imagines a guitar string with a constant tension,
as the string gets shorter, the frequency would increase.
To test this, the FFT was used to evaluate the frequency
content of the signal at different points during the trip
(Figure 6). The spectrum of the vertical axis (Figure 7),
just after the elevator reaches full speed, indicates that the
dominant frequency is about 26.5 Hertz. About halfway
through the trip, the dominant frequency is still about 26.5
Hertz (Figure 8), although the amplitude has increased by
about 150%. Just prior to deceleration, nearly at the top, the
dominant frequency remains at about 26.5 Hertz (Figure 9),
but the amplitude has tripled. This indicates that there has

Educational Focus Compilation 165