Inclined & Horizontal Moving Walk Way Solutions

Inclined & Horizontal Moving Walk Way Solutions

A moving walk way, also called a moving walkway, moving sidewalk, or travelator, is a powered conveyor that moves people and light baggage along horizontal or inclined routes. These systems speed up pedestrian flow, reduce walking fatigue, and connect large spaces where repeated walking would be inefficient. They complement vertical transportation like elevators and escalators and are common in airports, malls, transit hubs, and large commercial buildings.

Where they’re used:
Moving walk ways are used in airports to connect gates and terminals, in shopping malls to link distant zones, in exhibition centers and transit stations to ease passenger flow, and in large campuses and commercial buildings to shorten travel time along long corridors. Short modules can be used in residential or mixed-use developments to assist mobility for residents and service staff.

Key benefits:

• Moves people efficiently across long concourses and reduces congestion.

• Lowers walking effort and improves passenger experience.

• Integrates with elevators, escalators, and ramps for seamless circulation.

• Energy-efficient operation when using VFDs and sleep modes.

• Scalable lengths and widths to match traffic volumes.

• Durable components designed for continuous operation.

Core features and specifications:

• Speed range: typically 0.5–0.75 m/s for horizontal units; inclined units run slightly slower for safety.

• Width options: from about 800 mm (narrow) up to 2,000 mm+ for dual-lane configurations.

• Length: modular segments allow runs of any required distance, from short connectors to long airport concourses.

• Drive system: AC motors with variable frequency drives (VFD) for smooth starts, efficient operation, and reduced energy draw.

• Decking and balustrades: anti-slip decking panels, glass or steel balustrades, and handrails engineered for continuous duty.

• Safety features: comb plates, emergency stop buttons, skirt brushes, handrail speed monitoring, anti-entrapment sensors, and clear signage.

• Energy consumption: optimized through efficient motors, VFDs, standby modes, and optional regenerative drives on inclined units.

• Load considerations: primarily for transporting people and light baggage; heavy goods should use freight elevators or dedicated conveyors.

Moving walk way components:
Typical components include the drive motor and gearbox, chain or belt drive, rollers and idlers, modular decking, handrail system, balustrades, comb plates, safety switches and sensors, control panel, and emergency stops. These elevator components are selected for durability and continuous duty. High-quality parts reduce downtime and lower total cost of ownership.

Design and integration:
A moving walk way must be designed with pedestrian flow studies, entry and exit clearances, intended speed, incline angle (if any), and integration with other vertical transportation systems. In commercial buildings and high rise complexes, connectors between horizontal and vertical transport must be planned to avoid bottlenecks. Coordination with architects and MEP engineers is essential to fit pit/drive spaces, ductwork, and structural supports.

Energy consumption and efficiency:
Energy use depends on speed, length, run-time, and traffic load. Modern travelators use VFDs that reduce power draw during low traffic and provide soft starts that extend component life. Standby modes and occupancy sensors further reduce energy consumption. On inclined models, some systems offer regenerative features that recover energy during braking.

Safety and accessibility:
Safety is a top priority. Standard measures include accessible emergency stops, comb plates at entries/exits, skirt protection to reduce entrapment risk, handrail speed monitoring, and periodic safety interlocks. For accessibility, ensure adequate width for mobility devices, gentle transitions, tactile indicators at entry and exit, and clear signage. Elevators remain the primary accessible vertical option; walkways should complement them.

Maintenance and lifecycle:
Routine maintenance tasks include handrail inspection and tensioning, chain or belt checks, lubrication of bearings and rollers, inspection/replacement of deck panels, control diagnostics, and testing of safety devices. A planned maintenance contract keeps systems reliable and reduces unscheduled downtime. Modular designs allow phased upgrades and part replacement, extending useful life.

Customization options:

• Width and lane configurations to match passenger volumes.

• Horizontal or inclined layout options; adjustable incline angles for mezzanines.

• Low-noise drives and quiet bearings for indoor or hospitality spaces.

• Energy-saving control logic and occupancy sensors.

• Choice of finishes: stainless steel, glass balustrades, powder-coated frames.

• Integration with wayfinding, digital signage, and emergency communication systems.

Who should choose a moving walk way:

• Airport planners and transit authorities improving gate-to-gate and platform transfers.

• Mall and large retail developers seeking improved shopper circulation.

• Owners of convention centers, stadiums, and exhibition halls with long pedestrian routes.

• Large commercial campuses and mixed-use developments aiming for efficient people movement.

• Residential developments or assisted-living sites where short horizontal aids improve mobility.

Layout Drawings & Parameters:

Q / A — common questions about the industry and moving walk ways

Q1 — What’s the difference between a moving walk way and an escalator?
A: A moving walk way is a flat or gently inclined conveyor that moves people horizontally; an escalator is a moving staircase that transports people vertically. Walkways connect distances; escalators change floors. Both should be integrated with elevators for full accessibility.

Q2 — Can a moving walk way carry luggage and trolleys?
A: Standard moving walkways handle light luggage and wheeled suitcases. For heavier carts or trolleys, check the manufacturer’s load rating. For regular freight or heavy loads, use freight elevators or dedicated conveyors.

Q3 — How energy-efficient are moving walkways?
A: Efficiency depends on motor types, VFD control, and traffic patterns. Modern systems with VFDs, standby modes, and occupancy sensors are significantly more energy-efficient than older designs.

Q4 — Are moving walk ways safe for children and mobility-impaired users?
A: Yes, if standard safety features are present and proper signage and transition details are provided. Mobility-impaired users often still rely on elevators, but properly designed walkways with adequate width and gentle transitions can assist many users.

Q5 — How long does installation take?
A: Installation time varies with length, site conditions, and integration complexity. Small modular runs may be installed in days to a few weeks; long concourses or inclined systems require more planning and longer installation windows.

Q6 — Do moving walkways require a lot of maintenance?
A: They require regular but routine maintenance: inspections, lubrication, component checks, and control tests. High-quality components and scheduled service make upkeep straightforward and predictable.