Vertical_Movement_Systems Flashcards
(26 cards)
What is the purpose of studying vertical movement during the planning phase?
To ensure adequate space, efficiency, and accessibility for vertical circulation elements like stairs, elevators, and escalators.
What is the code-compliant public stair dimension?
7-inch riser and 11-inch tread (7-11 stair).
What makes a stair an ‘egress stair’?
It’s part of the egress path with rated walls and specific code-compliant dimensions.
Why is stair width carefully regulated?
To ensure sufficient capacity and avoid tripping hazards due to overly wide stairs.
Why might a small building only have one elevator?
Cost and expected low elevator usage, mainly for accessibility or moving goods.
Why are two elevators preferred even in small buildings?
Redundancy—so one is operational when the other is under maintenance.
What factors influence the number of elevators needed?
Building height, number of people, elevator speed, and floor stops.
What is the structural planning consideration for elevator placement?
Elevator shafts often double as structural shear walls.
When are traction elevators typically used?
In tall buildings where speed and height are needed.
When are hydraulic elevators preferred?
In low-rise buildings (3–5 stories) due to lower cost and limited height range.
What is a pneumatic elevator and where is it used?
An air-pressure-based system used for very short residential lifts.
What is a LULA?
Limited Use/Limited Application elevator for accessibility in small-scale or infrequently used contexts.
What is a lift?
A basic accessibility device used for small elevation changes, often without a shaft.
Why do elevators need head space?
To house equipment and provide space in case of emergency maintenance.
Why is the elevator pit a planning concern?
It’s prone to water infiltration and must be protected with pumps.
Where is the machine room typically located for a hydraulic elevator?
Near the bottom floor close to the elevator.
Where is the machine room typically located for a traction elevator?
At the top of the shaft.
What are double-deck elevators?
Elevators with two cabs that stop at two floors at once to increase efficiency.
How do smart elevator controllers optimize usage?
They pre-position elevators based on peak usage times (e.g., rush hour).
Why use split lobbies and express elevators?
To reduce stops and increase elevator speed in high-rise buildings.
When are escalators preferred over elevators?
In public settings (e.g., subways or malls) for continuous open movement.
What is a key structural concern when designing for escalators?
They require significantly more depth than stairs due to internal machinery.
What type of traffic do escalators best support?
Continuous flow traffic, like people entering a train station.
Why are escalator widths limited?
To ensure users can hold handrails and avoid standing awkwardly in the middle.
