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raised and the station could be moved, driven by propellers, to a new location out of harm’s
way.

9a You are members of a space elevator research team designing a concept for offshore
base stations. In pairs, analyze the notes below, which were made during a briefing given
by your manager. Imagine you are giving a presentation. Begin by reading out the
abbreviated notes in full.

OFFSHORE BASE STATION - ANCHORING & PROPULSION ISSUES
Anchoring system
Wind loads on cable will be huge. What implications for anchoring system?
Base will need to be moved continually sometimes urgently What temp system could be used to
hold base in position?
Base in shallow water near coast, or deep water further offshore? Choice will have impact on
design of anchor system.

Propulsion system
Will weight of cable allow base to be moved by own propellers? Or more powerful system for
propulsion and control nec.? E.g. extern, power source?

9b In small groups, take turns to give a short talk using your notes to explain how the
systems work, in general terms. Imagine you are speaking to a small group of colleagues,
including your manager. Write two or three paragraphs to summarize your talk. These will
be included in your manager’s longer report on offshore base stations.

III Emphasizing technical advantages

10a In pairs, discuss the term technical advantage. Give some examples of technology you
are familiar with.

11a Read the first paragraph of some promotional literature from Otis, a leading elevator
company. What is the Gen2™ system?

At the heart of the Gen2™ elevator system is a flat belt (developed by and unique to Otis). It is
just 3mm thick. Yet it is stronger than conventional steel cables. It lasts up to three times longer.
And it has enabled Otis to completely re-invent the elevator. The flat, coated-steel belt totally
eliminates the metal-to-metal effect of conventional systems. Coupled with a smooth-surface
crowned machine sheave, the result is exceptionally quiet operation and superior ride comfort.
Furthermore, the flexible flat belt enables a more compact, energy- efficient machine, which can
be contained in the hoistway. This enhanced technology reduces building and system operating
costs, and frees up valuable space.

11b Match the words (1-6) from the text in Exercise 11a to the synonyms (a-f).

1 conventional a decreases
2 eliminates b better / the best
3 superior c improved
4 energy-efficient d standard, usual
5 enhanced e gets rid of
6 reduces f has low energy consumption

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