Maglev Elevators by 2008?

An anonymous reader writes "CNN is reporting that the first magnetic levitation elevators could hit the market as soon as 2008. The Toshiba Elevator and Building Systems Corporation has stated that the same technology used to develop high speed trains will soon be available in their elevators. From the article: 'The maglev elevators will be quieter and more comfortable and will travel 300 meters (984 feet) per minute -- not as fast as the company's conventional lifts that can move up to 1,010 meters (3,314 feet) a minute, Toshiba said.'"

Comments

Not safe for implantees

[BadAnalogyGuy]

A long time ago, I remember when eel-skin satchels were popular. They had little magnetic clasps. They also came with a warning to not expose your credit or ATM card to the clasp as they could be erased.

Those things only had to have the power to hold about 5 pounds of pressure. If an elevator needs to hold 1000 pounds of cargo (or approximately 3 Americans), will we need a separate dumbwaiter for our bags?

Re:Oh wowee

[scotch]

Ok, let's shelve the whole idea Until EvanEd gets a chance to review the design. Most likely, it is an expensive death trap with no chance of becoming the basis of future elevator technology. Thanks EvanEd, that one almost slipped by us!!!!