Real-time maintenance monitoring and appropriate comfort based on Internet of Things

Digital connectivity greatly improves and simplifies maintenance and management, says Schindler. To this end, the elevator and escalator manufacturer, operating in more than 100 countries, equips all new installations with Schindler Ahead. "Schindler Ahead is our digital portfolio for smart elevators and escalators. It analyzes cloud data for improved availability, transparency, comfort and ease of use," said Product & Marketing Manager Maarten Bijl and Portfolio & Sales Manager Raymond Henkes. 

Schindler Ahead uses the Internet of Things (IoT) to provide solutions that further complement the functions and requirements of the elevator or escalator. Through the Cube, a module at the top of the elevator shaft, the system is connected to the outside world 24/7. "The Cube is a 15-by-15-centimeter piece of hardware that works on the basis of an IP protocol, and can be installed at existing installations in addition to new construction facilities," says Henkes. "This not only controls the voice-listening facility; it also makes the elevator ready for further installation of additional services. Schindler Ahead provides the industry's first fully closed platform for real-time information flow. This form of maintenance monitoring improves diagnostics, service reliability and long-term plant performance. Our digital solutions can be seamlessly integrated into the existing infrastructure."

Real-time monitoring

Schindler Ahead helps identify irregularities before they affect system performance. Elevator performance is continuously tracked; everything becomes transparent, and viewable in real time for owners and operators via the ActionBoard web portal and the ActionBoard Mobile app. "Analysis of the elevator's real-time performance is an important step towards reduced downtime, shorter downtime and ultimately higher customer satisfaction. Where previously a fixed planning of maintenance intervals was required, with Schindler Ahead it is immediately visible whether elevator performance is still optimal. Based on precise diagnostics, failures can be minimized or even prevented. The maintenance engineer can see directly on his app whether the elevator requires maintenance. This significantly improves daily operation and communication between maintenance technicians, building managers and users. The manager no longer needs to contact us; we contact them when needed," said Bijl. "With Schindler Ahead, we are always there."

Optional options

For diverse customer groups, Schindler Ahead provides appropriate comfort. "Depending on location, number of passengers and traffic patterns, the level of care required for elevators varies. With Schindler Ahead, customers have a wide range of optional features to suit their daily needs." In addition to the mandatory talk-listen connection, the system provides cloud-based services. Such as - in addition to the maintenance monitoring mentioned above - the connection to public displays in the elevator environment. "For a shopping center, such a connection is interesting in the context of information provision, but also for VvEs, for example, when it comes to maintenance announcements. Now that Schindler Ahead is being integrated globally as standard in all our new installations, big data is also emerging that recognizes patterns in performance and behavior, allowing us to further improve Schindler Ahead services."

Founded in 1874, the Schindler Group is one of the world's leading suppliers of elevators, escalators and related services. "Schindler's innovative and environmentally friendly access and transportation systems provide solutions for the mobility of an urban society."