Hitachi Ltd. of Japan started selling its VX Series of escalators on January 21, 2008, which features advanced functions designed for improved safety and energy savings so as to be better for both riders and the environment.
The standard model can operate in "eco-mode," reducing power consumption by about 13 percent by detecting the rider load based on information from the inverter controls. The escalator reduces its operational speed imperceptibly to riders. The new model also has a variety of new optional functions for energy saving not available in conventional models. These options include an automatic start system, which starts operation when a rider approaches the escalator, and a "crawl" mode that runs the escalator at a speed of ten meters per minute when there are no riders.
To prevent shoes and other items from getting caught between the escalator steps and skirt plates, skirt moldings and steps with raised-edge treads were introduced. Other improved safety features include a "gradual emergency slowdown" mode to avoid abrupt stops and prevent riders from falling down, and an "active multi-functional sensor" that detects when a rider leans over the handrail and makes a warning announcement.
The company considers escalators as essential equipment for modern urban life, and aims to continue developing safe and reliable escalators with less environmental impact.
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