Principles of Operation
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.
Principles of PVE Video
Components
EXTERIOR CYLINDER: The cylinder is a transparent self-supporting tube, built around a specially designed aluminum structure. The tube walls are made of curved polycarbonate sheets. The tube consists of modular sections, which easily can fit into one another. The roof of the tube, made of steel, ensures air tight closures with suction valves and inlets.
ELEVATOR CAR: The car runs inside the cylinder on rails/columns, which are part of the same self supporting structure of the cylinder. The walls of the car are made of transparent polycarbonate panels. The car is also equipped with an anchoring system that activates on reaching the indicated floor, provides precise but smooth stops, and locks the car mechanically.
SUCTION ASSEMBLY: or “Head Unit” is on the top of the tube/cylinder, where the turbines, the valves, and the controls are located. The control cabinet is a metal box housing with a PVE controller board and other electric devices. The head unit is built and placed on either the same tube that holds the car (standard), or separately (split unit) at distances of up to 30 linear feet (10m) from the lift. The frame of the suction assembly is made out of either fiber glass or steel depending upon the model.
TESTIMONIALS
I thoroughly enjoy riding in my PVE elevator as its extremely comfortable… I would unhesitatingly, recommend it to people who are confined to a wheelchair like myself, to me it’s that good and reliable!
Tamara Gordon
My house was built in 1925 and it was hard to get something to fit in with the décor of my home, but the PVE fit in perfectly. I am thrilled with the design, engineering, and reliability of the vacuum elevator.
Stan Barth
Highly recommend. Working with PVE was such an incredible experience! From our very first meeting they were so professional, time efficient & helpful. Couldn’t be happier. Our elevator is heaven sent. Thank you PVE & team.
Kim Klotz
Residential Elevator Manufacturers
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 50 foot (15m) vertical rise over as many as five stops. The unique design of the vacuum residential elevator is a perfect choice for any retrofit or new construction project and will enhance the value of one’s home without the consuming footprint of a traditional home elevator. The innovative home elevator does not require any pre-construction shaft, pit or machine room and can be installed in as little as two to three days. By using a vacuum pump to generate areas of higher and lower atmospheric pressure within the cylinder hoist way, the unit smoothly moves between floors while using much less energy than other home elevators.
Contact Us
Certifications & Associations
Certified By Liftinstituut
Partner of AIA
Member of NAEC
ASME Certificate of Conformance
Pneumatic Vacuum Elevators
Worldwide Headquarters
Address: 12602 Northwest 115th Avenue Miami, FL 33178
Phone: + 1(647) 576-2649
Email: support@vacuumelevators.com
Hours: Monday – Friday | 08:00AM EST – 05:00PM EST
