A research on comparison of elevator traffic analysis methods in educational buildings

Abstract

Purpose: Regarding elevator design in educational buildings; It is aimed to investigate the legal framework, to integrate dynamic simulation programs to design process, to compare traditional and dynamic simulation methods, to evaluate the adequacy of elevator features specified in the legislation and to determine the optimum scenarios according to the minimum requirements.Theory and Methods: Based on the findings of the literature review, which examines the issue of elevator traffic analysis together with the legislation and regulations, the carrying capacities of the elevators in the educational buildings designed by the Ministry of National Education (MNE) are tested. The stability of the system is tested by analyzing the conditions where only the disabled, disabled and building workers can be used together and all building users can use the elevators with the dynamic simulation method (with Elevate Software). The limits of the system are determined based on the waiting times during the peak usage periods. The findings of the study are evaluated according to the waiting times determined by CIBSE Guide D and the Chamber of Mechanical Engineers followed by the discussion of the outcomes.Results: The issue of elevator design has been overlooked in educational buildings, and a comprehensive elevator traffic analysis method has not been defined. For the effective use of all occupants, elevator design should be handled comprehensively with considering potentials of dynamic simulation method.Conclusion: According to the findings of the study, it is noted that the number and capacity of elevators in the legislation for educational buildings are determined only for minimum conditions and for disabled users. In addition, the legislation (considering calculation methodology) is not specific for educational buildings but related with buildings in general with public use. Considering the occupants, and their profiles of the educational buildings, a more comprehensive traffic analysis with the dynamic simulation method may enable the elevators to be designed and to be used more efficiently.