Modern Elevator Car Operating Panels: Aesthetics and Safety

First Impressions: The Power of the Operating Panel

The operating panel is the first and only point you interact with when you step into an elevator. That is why the car operating panel (COP) and the landing operating panels (LOP) are among the most important components shaping a building's prestige. In modern architecture, elevators are no longer just a means of transport but part of the interior design. In the solutions Liftland offers, we combine aesthetic design with the highest safety protocols.

Aesthetic Trends: Materials and Design Variety

Classic plastic buttons have been replaced by stainless steel, glass and touch surfaces. Grade 304 stainless steel in particular is the most popular material thanks to its durability and elegant look.

Black Mirror and Gold Options: Titanium-coated gold or black mirror stainless panels used in luxury residential and hotel projects blend with the car lighting to create a sense of depth.

Accessibility and Safety Standards (EN 81-70)

A modern operating panel must not only look good, it must be accessible to everyone. The EN 81-70 standard sets rules so that elevators can be used comfortably by people with disabilities. Key points include:

Braille: Raised numerals on the buttons for visually impaired users.
Voice Announcements: Audio systems that announce the current floor and direction of travel.
Contrasting Colours: Button surrounds that stand out from the background for people with low vision.

A Technological Revolution: Touch and Hygienic Solutions

Since the pandemic, "touchless" or "easy-to-clean" surfaces have come to the fore in shared areas such as elevator buttons. Touch glass operating panels minimise bacteria build-up thanks to their smooth surfaces and offer a long service life as they are unaffected by liquids. TFT displays also make it possible to show digital content such as news, weather or building announcements inside the car.

Important: Emergency buttons (alarm and intercom) must always be physically separated from the other buttons and marked in an eye-catching colour such as yellow.

Communication for Safety: Intercom Systems

Perhaps the most critical part of the operating panel is the "Alarm" button. If passengers are trapped, they must be able to communicate with the outside world without interruption. The integrated intercom systems in our modern panels provide two-way audio so that rescue teams can reach passengers instantly.

Easy Installation and Modernization

The operating panel designs offered by Liftland are built with technicians in mind as well as end users. Easy-to-install, plug-in connections compatible with serial communication (CAN bus) systems cut installation time by up to 50% and minimise the margin for error.

In short, a well-chosen car operating panel is your building's showcase. With solutions that meet aesthetic expectations and fully comply with international safety standards, we add value to your projects. Contact us for detailed information and our product options.