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Could we replace stairs with this Dutch invention?

Credits: Screenshot / Vimeo / rombout frieling lab

How can we avoid the bulky encumbrance of a stairs, or the enormous cost of installing a state-of-the-art elevator? A Dutch invention proposes a manual elevator, which takes up far less space and is much more affordable than other options. So what is the secret? The invention is based on an ingenious pulley system. 

Could stairs become a thing of the past with this new invention? This is exactly the goal of the Dutch designers and engineers in the ROMBOUT Frieling Lab in Eindhoven. The manual elevator is called Vertiwalk, and by definition, it doesn’t use any electricity. You simply need to use your arms to ascend to the next floor.

For sure, some people are bound to surmise that this invention will not work, because it would take too much strength -an even bigger ask at the end of a hard day’s work. However in reality, this is not the case at all! Quite simply because the pulley system installed in the lift requires only 10% of the effort required to climb a traditional stairs.

At a time when maximising space in urban areas is more relevant than ever, this alternative could well take off. In fact, the project team wanted to bring “new possibilities to urban architecture”. As well as the obvious space that is gained, the system appears highly economical, as it doesn’t require major installation works and doesn’t need electricity to run.

While the world’s largest buildings are fighting for the title of the fastest elevator in the world, others are focused instead on offering the possibility of elevator access to the widest number of people possible, rather than having to resort to stairs. What’s more, according to the researchers, it could help “the growing number of people who cannot take the stairs”.

As well as all that, the kids are bound to have fun with it!

Sources : Daily MailFuturismLe Figaro