The role of Equipment R&D at KONE

Our hardware and mechanical engineering professionals get to create and develop products that are used by millions of users daily, products that are widely recognized by their quality and innovation. The purpose of our hardware and mechanical engineering, or “Equipment R&D”, is to provide sustainable, innovative solutions to keep cities moving. In our concept development we develop innovative new concepts that ensure the best People Flow® experience. We have a pioneer mindset and we leverage on state-of-the-art technical competence to deliver quality and safety.

Equipment R&D is about developing KONE’s global product platform by creating innovative new equipment and continuously modernizing customer solutions.

We understand technology opportunities and take initiative; on both a global and European level KONE product strategy is formed in close cooperation with global and local business owners.

We work with customers and leading technology partners globally to co-create core technologies that can be utilized in all units and markets. We make architectural decisions and lead with system engineering to ensure that all components and solutions work seamlessly together.

Developing breakthrough technologies with expert professionals

We are constantly strengthening our position as the leader in innovation in our industry. At KONE, our track record in research and development means we hold more than 3,000 patents across all our businesses. KONE has been named as one of the world’s most innovative companies by Forbes on multiple occasions. Our Equipment R&D plays a central role in making this possible. KONE’s innovative solutions include breakthrough technologies such as the machine room-less elevator and a superlight hoisting rope, KONE UltraRope, that enables elevator travel of up to 1 kilometer.

KONE has seven global R&D centers around the world and two of these are dedicated to testing high-rise solutions. One of them is deep underground in an active limestone mine in Tytyri, in southern Finland. This research facility is where the world’s tallest elevators and next generation technologies are tested and pushed to the limit.

Strengthening the bond between hardware and software

Innovating future-proof solutions means changing the whole industry and shaping the future of People Flow experience. For example, our KONE DX Class elevators are the world’s first connected elevators that redefine the elevator experience with built-in connectivity to make elevator rides easier and more convenient.

To develop industry-changing solutions like KONE DX class, smooth collaboration between KONE people working in hardware and software is crucial. KONE has concentrated on strengthening this collaborative bond, and software development has taken on an increasingly important role in our core product innovation.

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