Development of the D-type escalator in 1959
The D-type escalator was developed by greatly improving the previous L-type escalator. The chief improvement was the adoption of cleats rather than steps for the first time in Japan, combined with the introduction of yellow plastic molding onto the edge of the footplate where the passenger stands. This yellow plastic clearly marked the boundary of the step, prevented items from becoming trapped between steps, and greatly improved safety. In addition, a new design was implemented by adding wavy aluminum deck boards on both sides of the handrail.
Development of the moving walk in 1957
The first moving walk in Japan was developed using technology pioneered in escalators. A 10 meter long prototype was shown to the public at the Mitsubishi Electric factory in 1957.
**Company and building names used in this article are as recorded in the Japanese language publication ''Mitsubishi Electric Corporation History of 60 Years,'' and have been translated into English for ease of comprehension.
