System converts elevator panels to contactless

An Indian company has developed a cheap and easy-to-install system that will allow users to avoid pushing elevator buttons

Spotted: As employees return to work after the pandemic, one of the first hurdles they face is transportation; calling a lift requires pushing the elevator buttons, which carry the risk of passing on the virus. Indian IoT company Techmax Solution has an answer to this conundrum – contactless elevator buttons.

Techmax has developed a touchless lift panel, the Sparshless, that can be retrofit to almost any elevator. To call the elevator, the rider simply places their hand below the unit. Once inside, they can choose a floor by pointing to the corresponding button on the Sparshless from a distance of around 15-20 mm. 

The system is compatible with all elevators and is both cheap and accurate. It comes with a 4, 8 or 14 button option, but these can also be combined. The Sparshless is installed next to the existing panel, which will make removing them easy, in the event of a vaccine being developed, and the old panel can still be used.

According to the company, “there are 3500 bacteria per square inch on lift buttons, and lift buttons have 17 times more bacteria than a toilet seat. Many people [currently use] sticks, vehicle keys, lighters, etc. [to push the buttons]. But now there is no need to use this stuff, because Sparshless is at your service.”

Since the start of the novel coronavirus pandemic, Springwise has seen a growth in innovations designed to improve contactless service. Ideas that we have recently covered include a contactless package-delivery system and a kit to help restaurants become contactless. 

Explore more: Computing & Tech Innovations | COVID-19 Innovations