Touchless Lift Button (REF:C-0047)
E&M InnoPortal Trial Project Ref. No.:

Overview

The global Covid-19 pandemic has greatly increased public awareness of hygiene. Despite this increased awareness, research has shown a lack of awareness among individuals regarding the higher risk of viral contamination associated with pressing lift buttons when compared to contact with surfaces in restroom facilities.  This is attributed to the high frequency of usage of lift cars and people do not usually wash their hands right afterwards.

The aim of this project is to develop and apply non-contact lift button technology, such as holographic devices or other non-contact devices. This technology is ready for retrofit into a variety of elevators regardless of their brands and models. The goal is to reduce the risk of spreading viruses associated with direct contact with potentially contaminated lift surfaces.

Problem Addressed

This project aims to mitigate the risk of touching potentially contaminated surfaces in lift installations.
Innovation

This project utilises infrared sensors with multiple emitters and detectors to scan the entire detection zone within milliseconds.

The system emits multiple laser-fine infrared beams from the sideway. When a user presses a button, the finger moves and enters the detection zone of sensors, blocking one of the beams. This interruption reflects the ray back to the sensor, allowing it to determine the location of touch.

The infrared touch sensor can be widely used in almost all existing elevator control panels with various button layouts as it projects a sheet of light beams for precise finger detection. In other words, it can transform any flat surface into a virtual control panel.
Key Benefits
  • Minimises the spread of bacteria and viruses, hence, improving the hygiene in lift
  • Adapts to a wide range of elevator brands and models
Patent and Award

Patent by HKPC
Project Reference

Electrical and Mechanical Services Department Headquarters