Fundamental study on earthquake response of elevator ropes focusing on building conditions

Abstract

Elevators are essential for vertical movement in high-rise buildings. However, the rope may be stuck due to a resonance phenomenon that occurs when the natural periods of the rope and the building are close. To ensure the continuous operation of elevators during emergencies such as evacuation and medical transport, the seismic response of elevator ropes needs to be clarified. This study aims to evaluate the influence of building height and location on the seismic response of elevator ropes. Multi-degree-of-freedom models were used to perform a seismic response analysis of a building with various storeys. Seismic waves were taken from multiple locations to consider the difference in seismic wave characteristics. Vibration analysis of the rope was carried out using a finite difference method. The results showed that the rope response is large in high-rise buildings, with the shaking being amplified, especially when the seismic waves have long-period components. Furthermore, the rope resonance is affected by the mass of the elevator car and the length of the rope.