Secure VT: Elevating Safety with Inovance’s Smart Access Control

This article was first published in the EWI Issue-4 2025 of Elevator World India Magazine

In today’s rapidly urbanising world, the real estate and infrastructure sectors are undergoing a digital transformation, driven by the need for greater safety, energy efficiency, and convenience. One of the critical aspects of this transformation is vertical transportation (VT), which includes elevators and escalators that must not only move people efficiently but also ensure secure access within commercial towers, residential complexes, and high-security zones. This is where Access Control Integration plays a pivotal role, and Inovance Technology, a leading global provider of industrial automation and elevator control systems, is at the forefront of delivering secure, intelligent VT solutions tailored for modern infrastructure.

Mr. Subramania Bharathiyar, Elevator Product Head, Inovance Technology India

Modern Elevator Control System

Elevator access control systems today support a variety of authentication methods. The most common is credential-based access, where users tap RFID cards or enter PIN codes to access designated floors. For environments requiring higher security, biometric options like fingerprint scanning or facial recognition offer enhanced protection. Meanwhile, mobile access solutions—using smartphones —are growing in popularity, offering touchless, app-based elevator calling and access that aligns with smart building trends.

A successful elevator access control system combines both hardware and software. Devices like card readers, biometric scanners, and keypads are installed at access points to authenticate users. The elevator access controller acts as the central unit, managing permissions and communicating with security systems. Inovance’s integrated controllers, such as the NICE1000+ Nxt Gen, NICE3000+, seamlessly connect with these systems, enabling or disabling floor buttons based on access rights. Using Inovance’s management software, building operators can centrally set user permissions and monitor access logs efficiently.

Flexible Access Control Models

Access can be configured in multiple ways to suit different building needs. Public elevators with private access floors allow open use with restricted access to sensitive levels. Private elevators can be set to allow full or selective access only to authorised users. For high-traffic environments, Destination Control Systems (DCS) optimise traffic flow by directing users to specific elevators based on their floor input, often integrated with access credentials for security.

Benefits of Smart Infrastructure

The integration of access control in VT systems brings several key benefits. It enhances security by preventing unauthorised access and maintaining audit trails. It improves people flow through intelligent dispatching, especially in large buildings. The systems are scalable and can grow with the building. Integration with CCTV, fire alarms, and visitor management systems creates a connected, responsive safety network. In emergencies, systems can switch to Fire Service Mode for unrestricted evacuation. Cloud-based management further allows remote monitoring and control, increasing operational efficiency. Importantly, these systems contribute to regulatory compliance and boost the long-term asset value of properties by attracting security-conscious tenants.

Inovance Elevator Controllers: Built for Secure Integration

Inovance's elevator solutions support advanced features such as Destination Control Systems (DCS), which streamline passenger flow in high-traffic buildings. These systems are integrated with biometric authentication, adding an extra layer of security and enabling identity-based access. Human interface devices, such as COPs and LOPs are equipped with biometric authentication to ensure that only authorised users can select or access specific floors. This makes Inovance's solutions ideal for residential, commercial, and high-security infrastructure.

Inovance Technology offers a compact and integrated range of elevator control solutions that seamlessly connect with access control systems and Building Management Systems (BMS). The portfolio includes NICE100+, NICE1000+, NICE3000+, and NICE1000+ Nxt Gen controllers, which combine drive and controller functions, support serial/parallel protocols, and enable programmable I/Os for floor-wise access—ideal for smart buildings. The NICE1000+ Nxt Gen stands out with RS485 RTU, CAN, and MODBUS connectivity, real-time monitoring, and IoT-based access management. Inovance also provides efficient, high-performance drives like ME320LN, MD500L, and WISE310, along with a dedicated Active Front End (AFE) for improved energy savings and power quality. Completing the solution, Inovance’s BST product line offers essential accessories including COPs, LOPs, buttons, doors, and harnesses, delivering a fully integrated and secure vertical transportation system.

Future of Secure VT

Access control integration is no longer a mere add-on—it is a critical component of smart building infrastructure. With its cutting-edge range of controllers, drives, and accessories, Inovance Technology is helping real estate and infrastructure stakeholders deliver safe, intelligent, and future-ready vertical mobility solutions.