Concept Design
The greatest inventions and tallest buildings started with an idea. At Dunbar and Boardman we understand the importance of having the right information at early stages of the design process.
We can work closely with your design team, architects and engineers to provide all the necessary technical information for vertical transportation equipment that ensures minimum
space take and maximum flexibility in the design process.
Our knowledge of the latest products and technology places us in a unique position to advise on current possibilities and in assisting you to bring your ideas to life.
1. Vertical Transportation (VT) Design Services
Vertical transportation systems include elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and dumbwaiters. Concept design services in this area ensure smooth internal mobility within a building, balancing capacity, speed, and energy efficiency. Key aspects include:
• Needs Analysis
Assessing building type, occupancy, and peak usage patterns to determine VT requirements.
• System Selection and Configuration
Recommending appropriate systems (e.g., traction or hydraulic elevators, high-speed elevators for tall buildings, escalators for transit hubs) based on building specifications and functionality.
• Traffic Analysis
Conducting simulations to optimize the number, size, and placement of elevators or escalators for efficient flow and minimal wait times.
• Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
Proposing eco-friendly solutions, such as regenerative drive systems or energy-efficient motors, to align with green building standards.
• Aesthetics and Integration
Ensuring that VT systems integrate seamlessly with the architectural and interior design of the building.
2. Façade Access Design Services
Façade access systems allow for safe, efficient, and effective maintenance of a building’s exterior, including cleaning, inspections, and repairs. These systems are especially critical for high-rise and complex-shaped buildings. Key services include:
• System Analysis and Recommendation
Evaluating building geometry and façade materials to select appropriate systems such as building maintenance units (BMUs), suspended platforms, or rope access methods.
• Access Strategy Development
Planning safe and efficient routes for façade maintenance, factoring in wind loads, safety standards, and operational constraints.
• Safety and Compliance
Ensuring all designs meet international and local safety regulations, including fall protection and emergency rescue protocols.
• Equipment Integration
Coordinating access system design with the overall building structure, ensuring minimal visual impact and ease of operation.
• Long-term Maintenance Planning
Providing strategies and guidelines for ongoing maintenance to ensure longevity and functionality of both the access system and the façade.
3. Coordination with Stakeholders
Both vertical transportation and façade access design require collaboration with architects, structural engineers, and MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) consultants to ensure a holistic and integrated approach.
4. Benefits of Professional Concept Design Services
• Enhanced safety for occupants and maintenance personnel
• Optimized efficiency and user experience
• Compliance with codes and standards
• Long-term cost savings through energy-efficient and durable designs
• Improved aesthetics and architectural harmony
These services are crucial for the success of modern architectural projects, especially in urban settings where buildings are taller, denser, and more complex. They combine technical expertise with innovative design to meet the unique demands of each project.
Schematic Design
Vertical transportation and façade access schematic design services involve specialized planning and design to ensure efficient, safe, and functional movement within buildings and facilitate maintenance of the building’s exterior. These services are integral during the early stages of a construction or renovation project to align with architectural, structural, and operational goals.
Vertical Transportation Design
Vertical transportation focuses on the movement of people and goods within a building, primarily through elevators, escalators, and stairways. The schematic design phase typically includes:
• System Planning:
Determining the optimal type and number of transportation systems based on building usage, occupancy, and height.
• Traffic Analysis:
Conducting studies to predict peak usage periods and ensure systems meet demand with minimal waiting times.
• Integration with Architecture:
Collaborating with architects to position vertical transportation systems to enhance usability and aesthetics.
• Equipment Specifications:
Providing preliminary specifications for elevators (e.g., capacity, speed, drive type) and escalators (e.g., angle, width).
• Code Compliance:
Ensuring systems adhere to local and international building codes, fire safety, and accessibility standards.
Façade Access Design
Façade access design services address the systems and equipment required for the safe cleaning, inspection, and maintenance of a building’s exterior. Key elements of schematic design include:
• Access Strategy: Developing strategies for reaching all façade surfaces, such as through permanent systems (building maintenance units, BMUs) or temporary systems (suspended platforms or scaffolding).
• Structural Integration: Designing anchorage points, tracks, or roof structures to support access equipment without compromising the façade’s integrity.
• Safety and Compliance: Ensuring designs meet safety regulations and standards for fall protection and worker safety.
• Coordination with Façade Design: Aligning access systems with architectural features, such as curtain walls, to minimize visual impact and maximize functionality.
• Equipment Layouts: Proposing initial layouts for critical components like davits, monorails, and tie-back anchors.
Deliverables
The deliverables from these services in the schematic design phase typically include:
• Conceptual layouts and diagrams.
• Preliminary system specifications and descriptions.
• Traffic and capacity analysis reports.
• 3D models or visualizations showing system integration.
• Budgetary cost estimates for proposed systems.
• Compliance documentation highlighting adherence to applicable codes and standards.
These services are vital for ensuring a building’s long-term usability, operational efficiency, and aesthetic value, making them a key component of modern building design.
Detail Design and Specifications
Vertical transportation refers to the systems and equipment that allow movement of people and goods between different levels of a building, such as elevators, escalators, and staircases. These systems are essential in high-rise structures, commercial complexes, and multi-level buildings. The detail design and specifications for vertical transportation focus on performance, safety, efficiency, and compliance with building codes.
1. Types of Vertical Transportation Systems
Elevators:
• Passenger Elevators: Designed to transport people; various capacities and speeds.
• Freight Elevators: Built to carry heavy goods and materials.
• Service Elevators: Dedicated for maintenance and operational staff.
• Specialty Elevators: Includes dumbwaiters, hospital bed elevators, etc.
Escalators:
• Continuous moving stairs used in commercial buildings, airports, and malls.
Moving Walkways:
• Flat conveyor-like systems for transporting people over short horizontal distances.
Staircases:
• Used as a backup or alternative to mechanical systems; crucial for emergency egress.
2. Detail Design Aspects
Capacity and Traffic Analysis:
• Based on building occupancy, peak usage, and waiting time standards.
• Typically measured in persons per hour or handling capacity.
Space Allocation:
• Designated shafts, machine rooms, and lobby space in architectural layouts.
Power and Drive Systems:
• Traction elevators: Gearless or geared systems with counterweights.
• Hydraulic elevators: Use a piston and fluid pressure for lifting.
Safety Systems:
• Emergency brakes, overload sensors, fire-rated shafts, and escape mechanisms.
Control Systems:
• AI-based systems for destination control, group coordination, and energy efficiency.
Materials and Finishes:
• Durable, fire-resistant, and aesthetic finishes for cabins, panels, and buttons.
Code Compliance:
• Adherence to local building codes (e.g., ASME A17.1, EN 81).
Facade Access: Detail Design and Specifications
Facade access systems allow maintenance, cleaning, and inspection of building exteriors. These systems are integral for high-rise and complex facades with challenging geometries.
1. Types of Facade Access Systems
Building Maintenance Units (BMUs):
Motorized gondolas or cradles on tracks or davits.
Rope Access Systems:
Harnesses and ropes used by professional climbers for cleaning or inspection.
Suspended Platforms:
Temporary systems for short-term work.
Aerial Work Platforms:
Mobile equipment such as boom lifts or scissor lifts.
Fixed Access Systems:
Permanently installed ladders, rails, or gantries.
2. Detail Design Aspects
System Selection:
Based on building height, facade geometry, and access frequency.
Structural Integration:
Designing tracks, anchor points, and support structures without compromising facade aesthetics.
Safety Standards:
Fall arrest systems, emergency controls, and operator training.
Load Capacity:
Platforms and cradles designed to carry equipment and personnel safely.
Ease of Operation:
Remote-controlled or automated systems for complex facades.
Weather Resistance:
Equipment and materials designed to withstand environmental exposure.
Energy Efficiency:
Use of lightweight, low-energy systems where feasible.
Code Compliance:
Conformance with international standards (e.g., EN 1808, OSHA).
3. Material Specifications
Framework:
High-strength steel or aluminum alloys.
Cables and Ropes:
Corrosion-resistant, high-tensile steel or synthetic fibers.
Finishes:
Powder-coated or anodized finishes to prevent wear.
Control Systems:
Advanced interfaces for safety monitoring and operational control.
Both vertical transportation and facade access systems are critical for building functionality, requiring precise engineering, user safety, and aesthetic integration.
BIM (LOD) Services
Building Information Modelling (BIM) provides a structured framework for integrating and managing data throughout a project’s lifecycle. During the vertical transportation (e.g., elevators, escalators) and façade access (e.g., cleaning systems, maintenance equipment) design stages, BIM’s Level of Development (LOD) plays a crucial role. Here’s an overview of the LOD stages (100/200/300) and their applications in these design areas:
LOD 100 (Conceptual Design Stage)
At this stage, the model contains basic geometric representations and high-level data to guide initial planning.
For Vertical Transportation:
• Rough placement of elevator shafts, escalators, and staircases.
• Conceptual zones for vertical circulation with estimated dimensions.
• Preliminary alignment with building height and floor counts.
For Façade Access:
• Approximate positioning of façade access systems (e.g., gondolas, suspended platforms).
• Initial analysis of building height and access requirements.
• Broad identification of façade zones for cleaning and maintenance strategies.
Key Focus: Basic spatial requirements and conceptual feasibility studies.
LOD 200 (Schematic Design Stage)
Here, the model includes generalized geometry and approximate quantities. Key elements are defined with placeholders for more precise details later.
For Vertical Transportation:
• Preliminary layouts for shafts and equipment rooms with approximate sizes.
• Selection of potential elevator/escalator systems based on traffic analysis.
• Integration of basic structural and architectural constraints.
For Façade Access:
• Conceptual design of façade access equipment such as davit arms, track systems, or BMUs (Building Maintenance Units).
• Coordination of preliminary equipment zones with structural elements.
• Basic weight and load considerations for building integration.
Key Focus: Design coordination and basic system integration.
LOD 300 (Detailed Design Stage)
This stage involves a more detailed and accurate representation of elements, including dimensions, specifications, and connections.
For Vertical Transportation:
• Accurate placement and detailed modelling of elevator and escalator shafts, including pit and headroom dimensions.
• Specification of system types, load capacities, speed, and operational features.
• Coordination with structural, MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing), and architectural components.
For Façade Access:
• Fully detailed models of façade access systems, including motorized or manual equipment.
• Integration of tracks, anchors, or guide rails into the structural system.
• Analysis and detailing of safety mechanisms and maintenance protocols.
Key Focus: Constructability, compliance with building codes, and precise coordination with other disciplines.
Benefits of BIM in These Stages
1. Visualization: Enhanced 3D visualizations help stakeholders understand spatial and functional layouts.
2. Coordination: Early clash detection and resolution among structural, mechanical, and architectural systems.
3. Efficiency: Streamlined workflows for precise placement of components, reducing rework during construction.
4. Maintenance Planning: Early integration of façade and vertical access systems ensures long-term operability.
By progressing through LOD 100, 200, and 300, the vertical transportation and façade access designs become more refined, coordinated, and ready for construction and operational phases.
Tender Documents
Tender documents for vertical transportation and façade access systems are essential during the procurement and implementation phases of construction or refurbishment projects. These documents outline the technical, financial, and contractual requirements for potential contractors, ensuring compliance with design intent, safety standards, and operational needs. Below is a description of what such documents typically include at various design stages:
1. Purpose of Tender Documents
Tender documents provide a comprehensive basis for inviting contractors or suppliers to submit bids. For vertical transportation (e.g., elevators, escalators) and façade access systems (e.g., building maintenance units, cradle systems), they ensure clarity on project goals, specifications, and constraints.
2. Key Components of Tender Documents
a. Project Overview
• ntroduction: Overview of the project, objectives, and scope of work.
• Location and Context: Site location, building type, and operational requirements (e.g., high-rise, mixed-use, or industrial facility).
• Key Dates: Timeline for submission, installation, testing, and commissioning.
b. Technical Specifications
• Vertical Transportation Systems:
– Number and type of elevators, escalators, or lifts required.
– Performance standards (e.g., speed, capacity, energy efficiency, and traffic flow analysis).
– Design considerations (e.g., machine-room-less systems, noise reduction, aesthetics).
• Façade Access Systems:
– Description of façade maintenance needs (e.g., frequency, type of cleaning or inspection).
– Access systems (e.g., rope access, building maintenance units, monorails, or gantries).
– Structural integration and anchor points for safety.
– Compliance with safety standards such as OSHA, EN 1808, or local regulations.
c. Design Drawings and Documentation
• Conceptual drawings or schematic designs of the systems.
• Integration details with building structure and architectural features.
• Access zones for façade and traffic simulation for vertical transportation.
d. Performance Requirements
• Detailed performance criteria for system reliability, durability, and efficiency.
• Lifecycle cost analysis, including maintenance, repair, and replacement schedules.
• Certification requirements (e.g., ISO standards, green building certifications).
e. Compliance and Standards
• Reference to relevant codes and standards for safety, design, and installation (e.g., EN 81 for elevators, EN 1808 for suspended access equipment).
• Accessibility standards such as ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).
3. Stages of Design Integration
Conceptual Design Stage
• High-level system proposals.
• Feasibility studies to determine the most suitable technology.
• Traffic studies for vertical transportation.
Schematic Design Stage
• Preliminary layout drawings.
• Detailed cost estimates and impact analysis.
• Coordination with other building systems.
Detailed Design Stage
• Finalized technical specifications and tender-ready drawings.
• Structural and MEP coordination for accurate installation.
• Risk assessment and safety protocol documentation.
4. Contractor Requirements
• Prequalification Criteria: Technical expertise, financial stability, and previous experience.
• Proposal Content: Methodology, timeline, technical submissions, and pricing.
• Quality Assurance: Evidence of compliance with standards, testing protocols, and warranties.
5. Commercial Terms
• Payment Terms: Milestone-based or lump-sum payments.
• Contract Type: Lump-sum, design-build, or turnkey contract.
• Penalties and Incentives: Provisions for delays or exceeding performance targets.
Tender documents for vertical transportation and façade access systems are critical for ensuring quality, safety, and alignment with the project’s operational needs. Well-prepared documents not only attract competent bidders but also minimize ambiguities, fostering a smooth procurement and implementation process.
Tender Analysis
The marketplace for lift and escalator equipment spans the globe and the range of products and individual component variations makes the evaluation and selection process challenging. Dunbar and Boardman can guide you throughout the tendering process.
Our impartial approach to the tendering and procurement process ensures that bids are evaluated not just on cost but on the grounds of technical compliance and suitability for each individual project. We can help you to understand the expected programme timescales for your project to allow a clear understanding of whether the tender proposals are realistic or reasonable.
Tender analysis is a critical step in the procurement process during the design and construction stages, particularly for specialized systems such as vertical transportation (elevators, escalators, and lifts) and façade access (building maintenance units, gondolas, and other façade access equipment). Below is a detailed description of its components and importance:
Purpose of Tender Analysis
1. Evaluation of Proposals: To assess submitted bids from contractors or suppliers against the project’s technical, commercial, and operational requirements.
2. Compliance Checking: Ensure bids comply with the specifications and standards outlined in the tender documents.
3. Cost Optimization: Identify the most cost-effective solutions without compromising quality or functionality.
4. Risk Mitigation: Detect and address potential risks, such as unproven technologies, insufficient capacity, or non-compliance with safety standards.
Steps in Tender Analysis
1. Initial Screening
• Verify the completeness of tender submissions.
• Check the adherence to pre-qualification criteria (e.g., experience, certifications).
2. Technical Evaluation
• Vertical Transportation:
– Assess equipment specifications (e.g., speed, capacity, energy efficiency, durability).
– Confirm alignment with traffic analysis studies for optimal passenger flow and waiting times.
– Evaluate proposed control systems, redundancy features, and integration with building systems.
• Façade Access:
– Examine design proposals for access equipment (e.g., building maintenance units, cradles, monorail systems).
– Ensure compliance with safety standards (e.g., EN 1808, OSHA guidelines).
– Check the feasibility of the system to access all façade areas effectively.
3. Commercial Evaluation
• Analyze pricing against the budget and market rates.
• Review warranties, after-sales service, and maintenance contracts.
• Assess the financial stability of bidders.
4. Safety and Compliance
• Verify adherence to local and international standards (e.g., EN, ISO, ANSI).
• Evaluate safety features, such as emergency protocols for lifts and fall-arrest systems for façade access.
5. Life Cycle Cost Analysis
• Consider capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX).
• Factor in energy consumption, maintenance costs, and projected lifespan of the systems.
6. Risk Assessment
• Identify potential technical or supply chain risks.
• Assess bidder track records and references.
7. Final Scoring and Recommendations
• Use weighted scoring matrices to rank bidders based on technical, commercial, and operational criteria.
• Prepare a recommendation report for decision-making by stakeholders.
Key Considerations
1. Customization: The tender process should accommodate specific project needs (e.g., high-rise buildings, unique façade designs).
2. Future-Proofing: Ensure the proposed systems can integrate with future technologies (e.g., IoT, predictive maintenance systems).
3. Coordination with Other Systems: Analyze how vertical transportation and façade access systems interact with the overall building design and services (e.g., HVAC, electrical systems).
4. Sustainability: Incorporate energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable solutions.
A thorough tender analysis ensures that the selected vertical transportation and façade access solutions are technically sound, cost-effective, compliant with safety and operational standards, and tailored to the project’s unique requirements. It minimizes risks and sets a strong foundation for successful project delivery.