The Dhaka Times Desk Escalators, invented in the 18th century, help people move from one floor to another. Currently, escalators are essential accessories in big markets and shopping malls. Escalators are necessary but not safe. If not careful, it can lead to accidents like explosion, fire, entrapment.
This innovative device was patented in 1892 for lifting loads and moving from one floor to another. The rotating roller chain is driven by an electric motor according to the laws of kinematics. As a result, the stairs can go up and down from one floor to another. A lot of time has passed but there is no innovation in the old design and working method. So when the escalator is in motion, clothes, luggage, or even the body can get stuck on the last step of the rising platform. Entrapment of particular body parts can cause serious accidents. As a result, the person may be seriously injured. Incidents of limb loss are also not rare.
Statistics show that escalator-related accidents are frequent. Searching the old events, it is known that the most terrible accident happened in 1987 through the escalator. That year the escalators of London Underground stations exploded. 31 people were killed. An investigation into the accident revealed that a small amount of paper and cloth for bandaging the wound was responsible for the sacrifice. Emergency stop button, debris collecting brush, water sprinkler etc. are added to avoid accidents later on. Still no major design changes were introduced.
It turns out that in the United States alone, nearly 12,000 people die each year in stair-related accidents. This shows how dangerous escalators can be.
According to David Chan of City University London, the traditional design of the escalator has not changed radically. Bringing good change systematically is difficult. Escalator market is controlled by four companies worldwide. As a result, it is difficult to do something new.
In 2011, Chan and mechanical engineer Jack Levy invented a new type of escalator system called the Levitator. Being its main advantage. Two separate escalators are not required for going up and down. Its main difference with conventional escalators is that in conventional ones the steps go in step by step. As a result sarees, clothes etc. can get inside. The steps of the levitator push upwards, before going in. That prevents anything from twisting or getting stuck.
As it turns out, elevators can be an excellent safe alternative to escalators. Bangladesh is building large buildings, shopping malls, markets, residential buildings at an increasing rate, safe escalators should be installed there. Everyone needs to be aware when going up and down using escalators. Special precautions should be taken in children.
References: Popsci
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