Internal elevator rigging

[Nick_Kieft]

Even though this year’s game is unlikely to include elevators, I’m curious about how teams are able to completely internally rig continuous elevators. I know how continuous rigging works in general, but I don’t understand how teams are able to contain all of their rigging withing their elevator frame/tubes. (For example, 1323’s 2019 elevator)

[JackTervay]

Good question! 1323’s elevator is a work of art. I too was curious, and after a couple hours, I was able to sketch a simplified version of their elevator rigging. Hope this helps.

1323 ran internal elevator for some of the following reasons:

1. The string/rigging isn’t hit during matches. For 1323 in particular, this is a soft spot. In 2018, their rigging was pulled out by an alliance member during Einstein. Hence why they did internal rigging in 2019!

2. Compact packaging. No rigging or pulleys in the way leaves a lot more space for pass-offs, game piece manipulation, etc.

I’ve put together a diagram of how 1323’s elevator was rigged this year:

In total, there are 4 string runs - 2 pull up, 2 pull to return runs.

Here are some images from this great behind the bumpers video:
In the below image you can see the pulleys that the string rides on.

Here you can see the return run string running to their respective tensioners.

Here you can see the top of the carriage run.

Here you can see that the string actually runs between stages through slots in the tubes.

Here is a better look at the tensioning system. They used .5" hex axles in 4 ratchet wrenches - one for each run.

Here is another similar thread if you’d like to look through that: 1323 Elevator.

Hopefully this helps - if you have any more questions, don’t be afraid to ask!

[Nick_Kieft]

Thanks, this helps a lot. I was under the impression that their rigging was contained completely within the tubing, but now I see the slots in the tubes to allow the elevator cables/rope to be passed through the various stages.