Escalator

An **escalator** is a power-driven, continuously moving stairway designed to transport passengers up and down short vertical distances. Escalators are widely used around the world to move pedestrian traffic in areas where elevators would be impractical. The first building in the world to feature a modern-day escalator is Macy's Herald Square in New York City, built in 1902. Made of wood and iron, this escalator is still in use today. Modern escalators are typically inclined at 30° with a floor-to-floor rise of about 3.5 meters. They are electrically powered and operate through a chain and sprocket system. As the steps approach the landing, they pass through a comb plate. The steps are solid, one-piece units with comb-like protrusions on their leading and trailing edges that interlock with the comb plates at the top and bottom platforms. Each step is connected to a continuous metal chain and supported by two wheels at the front and back edges. For safety, escalator brushes, also known as skirt deflector brushes or safety brushes, are installed along the sides of the escalator to gently guide passengers away from the skirt panels and prevent accidents.