The Levytator, the world’s first escalator capable of following freeform curves, could use half of the energy of conventional designs, according to a new research paper which was presented at the UK’s Symposium on Lift and Escalator Technologies. Unlike traditional escalators, where redundant steps move underneath those in use, the Levytator utilises a continuous loop of curved modules, which can follow any path upwards, flatten and straighten out, and descend once more, all with passengers on board.

While problems with the economy continue to make headline news, there are a number of areas within this industry which are still showing signs of major activity and one of the main ones is heating because this is increasingly being seen as a way to make savings. The main objective in designing a modern system focuses on reducing the cost of generating heat and ensuring safe and reliable operation.

KK100, the eighth tallest tower in the world and the tallest tower ever realised by a British architect is nearing completion in Shenzhen, China. At a height of 441.8 metres and 100 storeys, the new landmark tower, which has been designed by Farrells, will be one of the world’s tallest buildings. Farrells were commissioned to design the iconic tower after winning an international design competition in 2004.

Energy-efficient variable speed drives from Vacon are being extensively used in HVAC applications at the new Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology building currently being built on the Biomedical Campus in Cambridge UK. A total of 67 drives from the Vacon 100 HVAC range are being installed in the new laboratory building, which will house up to 440 scientists and offer 27,000sq m of fully air conditioned space on three main floors.

Lighting plays an important role in TV production and it has many functions, from simple illumination of actors through to creating atmosphere in line with the artistic requirements of the director. Many new generation crime dramas rely heavily on lighting to create a brooding atmosphere to complement the gritty subject matter.

Saint-Gobain PAM UK Ltd, part of Saint-Gobain, has been chosen to supply above ground drainage systems for one of London’s newest skyscrapers. Including its mast, the Heron Tower, on Bishopsgate Street in the City of London, measures 230 metres in height. It is one of a new generation of skyscrapers which are set to radically change London’s skyline over the next decade and which will include The Shard, the tallest building in the European Union.

Riegens Illusion luminaires have been used for the interior illumination of The Catalyst, a modern, purpose built, fully serviced office space situated on the Heslington East Campus of York University. Constructed with strict environmental guidelines, the building has been awarded a BREEAM rating of ‘very good’.

Gregg Ringer from Mainline discusses the need to integrate new technologies that can help eradicate problems with poor cable management, leading to more work on future projects as a result.

Overloading one power outlet with several sockets and wires not only poses a fire risk, due to the potential for the outlet to overheat, but can also present a trip hazard if not properly managed. As such, electrical engineers must think carefully about new ways in which this issue can be avoided, benefiting the end user by helping to future proof the building in which work is being carried out.

Should all organisations, especially those that rely on public funding, be embracing energy transparency? Anders Norén, UK Managing Director of Priva Building Intelligence, weighs the case.

We’ve entered an era of widespread transparency when it comes to how companies do business. However, energy transparency, which makes public all of the data about energy consumption and carbon emissions, remains a new concept.