Inline Gear Drive Elevator
A flexible, machine roomless drive system that scales from practical to premium
One Drive System, Three Levels of Design
The inline gear drive elevator is a modern, machine roomless home elevator system built for residential new construction and retrofit projects. The drive unit mounts directly inside the hoistway to reduce structural demands, simplify planning, and free up usable square footage.
At Area Access, we install inline gear drive elevators across three Symmetry cab designs, each sharing the same proven platform: the Symmetry Residential Elevator, the Symmetry Asterix, and the Symmetry Dream. The choice comes down to the finish level that fits your project.
Shared Performance Across All Three Cabs
- Up to 6 stops and 50 feet of travel
- 40 FPM speed with smooth, quiet operation
- Single-phase 208/230 VAC, 20 Amp power
- 6″ minimum pit depth (8″ preferred)
- ASME A17.1 Section 5.3 compliant
This makes the inline gear drive elevator one of the most versatile platforms available, whether the project calls for a clean, practical cab or a fully appointed luxury experience.
Why Architects and Builders Specify Inline Gear Drive
For professionals planning a home elevator installation, drive type is one of the first decisions that shapes the rest of the project. The inline gear drive platform simplifies coordination from the earliest design phases, and its fully enclosed mechanical system keeps all moving components housed safely within the unit, eliminating exposed equipment that could pose a risk to children, pets, or anyone in the home.
Start Planning Your Inline Gear Drive Installation
Our team helps architects, builders, and homeowners evaluate space requirements, compare cab options, and coordinate every detail from design through ongoing service.
A Machine Roomless Home Elevator Built Around Your Lifestyle
For homeowners, an inline gear drive elevator offers smooth, quiet, reliable performance without consuming extra space in your home. There’s no mechanical closet to plan around, no hydraulic fluid to maintain, and no bulky equipment taking up room on another floor.
Symmetry Residential Elevator
The foundational cab design offers a clean, customizable traditional shaft elevator with a 1,000 lb rated load. This model is a practical starting point for families focused on comfort and long-term accessibility.
Symmetry Asterix
The Asterix is a premium upgrade featuring signature LED halo lighting, COP controlled lighting, and high-end wood finishes in Maple, Cherry, Walnut, or White Oak. Designed to be a visual centerpiece, this model is not just a mobility tool.
Symmetry Dream
This top-tier luxury option offers 13 illuminated back wall panel designs, COP-controlled lighting, and premium wood species. Every Dream cab arrives with upgraded wood included as standard.
FAQs
What is an inline gear drive elevator?
An inline gear drive elevator uses a geared motor mounted inside the hoistway to move the cab. This machine roomless home elevator design eliminates the need for a separate mechanical space, making it a popular choice for both new builds and retrofits where square footage matters.
How is an inline gear drive different from a hydraulic home elevator?
A hydraulic system uses a pump and fluid-filled cylinder, typically requiring a dedicated machine room. An inline gear drive elevator operates on a compact electric motor inside the shaft, runs on single-phase power, and needs no hydraulic fluid, resulting in a cleaner, more space-saving home elevator installation.
Can I upgrade my cab design later if I choose the inline gear drive?
Because the Symmetry Residential, Asterix, and Dream all share the same inline gear drive platform, upgrading your cab finish doesn’t require changes to the shaft or drive system. Talk to our team during your evaluation to understand how each option fits your space and goals.
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