Modeling the energy consumption of a lift

Abstract

A semi-rigorous and generalized model has been developed to determine the electrical energy (Watt-hour) consumed by the motor of a typical lift in each step of an upward or a downward travel cycle. The model has been validated comparing its output with the actual readings taken from an energy meter (installed at the terminal of the motor) for several cycles of the traffic according to the existing route map for a real-life lift. The developed model can be used as a decision support tool by the energy managers of high rise buildings to revise the route map of a group of lifts time to time depending upon the needs. With the model they can simulate intended variations in the floor and traffic plans and compare their impacts upon the energy consumption. As an example the developed model has been demonstrated for the system of three lifts located in the 20 storied main building of BRAC University.