Architectural, environmental and budgetary constraints are all factors to consider when choosing the type of lift. It is necessary to take into account the constructive elements of the building to be equipped, the safety criteria and the overall energy balance.

Step 1 - Define the type of use

It can be a creation in an existing building or a new elevator installed to the advancement in a new construction. The constraints and expectations are different, and can have a significant impact on the choice of device type.

The type of operation of the building (tertiary or residential) will also influence the choice.

Step 2 - Define device technology

The hydraulic units have a cabin propelled directly or by suspension suspended by the piston of a cylinder, supplied with oil under pressure from an oleoelectric power station. These devices are particularly well related to heavy loads, so mainly to hoists.

The electric traction lifts (the most numerous), comprise a motor driving a pulley which leads by adhesion a sheet of cables or belts to which are suspended the cabin and its counterweight. Depending on the speed and load, a machine room may be necessary.

Step 3 - Define Load and Speed

The load can be defined by a physical need: the device must be able to lift x tons. Or by a minimum area available in the cabin: cabin for transporting 8 people for example.

The choice of travel speed will directly affect destination arrival times and waiting times.

A traffic analysis defines the load / speed pair to ensure the best possible transport quality for each type of use.

Step 4 - Choose the cabin trim

The choice of a type of dressing is governed by considerations of strength and aesthetics. The cabins can be glazed when the elevator moves in a glazed duct. More generally, they can be covered by solid panels made of wood or laminated panels for the residential and commercial sectors, sometimes in metal panels on public transport or in industry.

Step 5 - Select options and accessories

Each supplier offers a wide range of options and accessories that will either improve performance, improve aesthetics or ride comfort.

Some of the options offered may have a strong influence on energy consumption Many manufacturers now offer less consumer-friendly models that are more environmentally friendly. Some devices may be equipped with energy recovery systems possibly coupled with renewable storage and / or production devices to make these devices both self-sufficient and insensitive to power outages.