Escalifter

This inexpensive system, consisting of a small, electrically powered, hydraulic unit and an optional number of lifting steps, can be easily mounted in the home or small business to aid the elderly and infirm. Each lifting step is only one inch high but conceals two scissor-arm, hydraulic lifters that raise the step platform and a 200 kilo load to the next step level, or that lower the platform and load to its original position. Each step has, on its leading edge, a foot-activated button to signal descent and, on its inner edge, a button to signal ascent. The two or more lifting steps, interconnected by data cable and hydraulic hose, are quickly affixed to the steps of present stairs and are utilized as follows:

To ascend, you step onto the bottom lifting step affixed to the floor and press the ascend button. You are gently lifted to the height of the next step. You step onto the next lifting step and the former one, sensing your exit, lowers itself to its original position. You continue… press the button, ascend, step forward and repeat until you reach the top.

To descend, you step onto the highest step which has only a descend button that signals the next lifting step to raise its platform. You step onto this platform and press its descend button causing it to lower you, while signaling the next lower step to rise. You continue… press the button, descend, step forward and repeat until you reach the bottom.

When not button-activated, the Escalifter looks and functions like a normal flight of stairs for use by people without disabilities. The next generation model will incorporate a conveyor belt on each step platform to further ease stairway navigation.