Pneumatic Vacuum Elevators

Pneumatic Vacuum Elevators LLC is the designer and manufacturer of the vacuum elevator. PVE currently manufactures three versions of its air driven residential elevators, ranging from single to a three-passenger, wheelchair-accessible home elevator. All of PVE's vacuum home lift systems are capable of up to a 35 foot (10,5m) vertical rise over as many as four stops. The unique design of the vacuum residential elevator is a perfect choice for any retro-fit or new construction project and will enhance the value of one's home without the consuming footprint of a traditional home elevator. Rather than using cables or pistons, the unique residential elevator is powered by one of the most abundant resources in the world… AIR!

• No pit excavation, hoist way, or machine room needed
• Installation within one to two days
• Ideal for new and existing homes due to the minimal space required to accommodate the elevator
• Absolute safety in case of a power failure since the moving car automatically descends to the lowest level and the electro-mechanical door will open to let the passenger out
• Cost-effective approach for elevator installation
• Self-supporting structure (the elevator can rest on any existing ground floor)
• Eco-Friendly Elevator: No energy used during descent: gravity is used instead
• Fully transparent and panoramic view without cables or pistons that block vision
• Electric circuits within the cabin are 24 volts, eliminating the risk of shock
• Minimal maintenance: no lubrication required for the elevator. Only scheduled service call is roughly every five years or 15,000 lifts for replacement of main seal
• Starting and stopping operations are extremely smooth

The Vacuum Elevator combines a smooth vertical cylinder with a coaxial car that moves up and down through air suction. The principle operation of the elevator is based on the ascending push generated by the difference between the atmospheric pressure on the top of the car and the atmospheric pressure under the car. The depression (vacuum) required to lift the car is achieved by turbines operating as exhaust fans which are located at the top of the elevator.

• The piston gear surrounded by a sliding air tight seal allows an almost frictionless movement and hoists the car due to the pneumatic depression generated on the upper part
• A valve regulating inflow of air controls the pneumatic depression, enables descent and controls the speed of the car
• The lower part of the shaft is open to ensure free entrance of air at atmospheric pressure
• At each floor or level, perimeter seals on the door are self-sealing due to the action of the atmospheric pressure
• The car has locking devices to stop at the upper and lower limits of travel
• A safe braking device (chute) activates in case of free fall