Hello everyone! Today, we’re going to learn about an important element of barrier-free(accessible) design: elevators. Specifically, we’ll explore a useful feature hidden in the destination buttons of the secondary control panel through a quiz format.
Q. What desirable feature should the destination buttons on an elevator’s secondary control panel have?
It is desirable for the destination buttons on an elevator’s secondary control panel to have a function that extends the door’s <〇〇> longer than usual when operated. What words should fill in the 〇〇?
Answer: open time
Explanation
It is desirable for the destination buttons on an elevator’s secondary control panel to have a function that extends the door’s open time longer than usual when operated. This feature is specifically designed to allow wheelchair users to enter and exit the elevator comfortably without feeling rushed.
In fact, the destination buttons on both the main and secondary control panels designed for wheelchair users are typically equipped with this door open time extension function as a standard feature. This not only benefits wheelchair users but also makes elevator use safer and more comfortable for elderly individuals and people carrying large items.
International Comparison
This standard is not unique to Japan. For instance, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines in the United States stipulate that elevator doors must remain open for a minimum of 20 seconds. In the European Union, the EN 81-70 standard requires elevator doors to stay open for at least 6 seconds.
Social Trends
In recent years, the importance of barrier-free(accessible) design has been increasing with the progression of aging societies. Elevator manufacturers are putting more effort into developing safer and more user-friendly products, incorporating various improvements such as voice guidance systems and larger floor indicators.
Moreover, with the advancement of IoT technology, systems that automatically adjust the door open time based on user characteristics by linking smartphones with elevators have emerged. This fusion of technological progress and barrier-free(accessible) design is contributing to the realization of more user-friendly social infrastructure for a wider range of people.
Barrier-free(accessible) design is not just for specific groups of people. As the concept of universal design that is easy for everyone to use spreads, society as a whole becomes more livable. The door open time extension feature in elevators is just one example of this. Please take notice of the barrier-free(accessible) designs around you in your daily life.
Note: Please refer to the websites of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (Japan) or relevant agencies in other countries for accurate information.
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