The oldest skyscraper building with automation systems is generally considered to be the Empire State Building, which was completed in 1931 in New York City, USA. The building was the tallest in the world at the time of its completion, and included a number of advanced automation systems for the era, including an automated sprinkler system, an automated air-conditioning system, and an automated elevator system. The building also had a sophisticated electrical system that was capable of providing power to more than 40,000 light fixtures and other electrical equipment. The automation systems at the Empire State Building were considered to be highly advanced for their time, and helped to set a new standard for skyscraper design and construction around the world.
The automated sprinkler system at Empire State Building was designed and installed by the Grinnell Company, a company that specialized in fire protection and sprinkler systems at the time. The Grinnell Company was a major player in the fire protection industry during the early 20th century, and was responsible for designing and installing many of the early automated sprinkler systems in buildings around the world, including the Empire State Building. The automated sprinkler system at the Empire State Building was considered to be a major technological advance at the time, and helped to set new standards for fire safety in high-rise buildings. Today, Grinnell Company is part of the Tyco International group, which is now part of Johnson Controls.
The automated air-conditioning system at the Empire State Building was designed and installed by Carrier Corporation, a company that specializes in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. The Empire State Building was the first major project for Carrier’s new air-conditioning division, which was established in the early 1930s. The automated air-conditioning system at the Empire State Building was considered to be a major technological breakthrough at the time, and helped to set new standards for HVAC design and performance in high-rise buildings. The system used a combination of centrifugal chillers, air handlers, and ductwork to provide cooled air to the building’s interior spaces. Today, Carrier Corporation is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corporation (UTC), and continues to be a major player in the HVAC industry.
The automated elevator system at Empire State Building was designed and installed by the Otis Elevator Company, which is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of elevators, escalators, and moving walkways. The Otis Elevator Company was founded in the 19th century and has a long history of innovation in elevator technology, including the development of the first safety elevator in 1853. The automated elevator system at the Empire State Building was a major technological breakthrough at the time, and included a number of advanced features, such as automatic leveling, automatic call registration, and a self-regulating speed control system. The system also included a double-deck elevator design, which allowed for more efficient use of space in the building’s narrow elevator shafts. The Otis Elevator Company continues to be a major player in the elevator industry today, and has been involved in many other high-profile projects around the world.
