Key Takeaways
• Engineers explored new ways to reduce pit depth and simplify the Wellington Platform Lift concealed platform lift design.
• Testing focused on compact scissor-lift engineering, rod alternatives, and locking systems to improve space efficiency.
• The new low-profile approach could achieve up to a 100 mm pit depth reduction, supporting shallow pit lift installations.
• Results feed directly into future lift models to maintain reliability while cutting build time and cost.
Introduction
In October 2025, the Sesame Access engineering team met to examine how the Wellington concealed platform lift could evolve into a true low-profile system. The goal was to develop a shallow pit lift that maintains full travel height, high stability, and ease of service.
This internal engineering insight outlines the key design debates and prototype refinements from that meeting. It highlights the collaborative problem-solving process that underpins Sesame’s product evolution, from scissor lift engineering to long-term reliability testing.
Why Lower Pit Depth Matters
Architectural retrofit projects often face restrictions on excavation depth, particularly in heritage buildings. A smaller pit depth allows Sesame’s platform lifts to be installed with minimal disruption, without reducing the required travel range or structural performance.
The team’s target was clear: enable the Wellington lift to operate within pit depths of 450 mm to 650 mm—aligning it with the compact geometry of the Mayfair Stairlift, while maintaining a total rise of up to one metre. Reducing the pit depth by around 100 mm could make the Wellington one of the most versatile shallow pit lifts in the company’s range.
Key Engineering Challenges
The development team explored multiple approaches to achieve a lower profile without sacrificing strength or alignment precision. The main focus areas included:
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Telescopic or collapsible rods to replace the existing long step-support rods.
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Compact lever-lock cam mechanisms to stabilise steps without full-length guides.
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Hydraulic and pneumatic concepts considered for future versions but noted for potential sealing and cost challenges.
Throughout the session, the group emphasised mechanical simplicity and the reuse of existing scissor-lift components as a way to balance innovation with proven reliability.
Learning from Existing Models
The team compared insights from previous lifts, including the Buckingham Listed Building Lift and the Mayfair Stairlift. The Buckingham’s lift pin-lock design offered inspiration for a potential side-wall locking mechanism, which could eliminate the need for long guide rods. Meanwhile, the Mayfair model provided a dimensional reference for achievable pit reductions.
By combining elements from these established lifts, the team identified a new pathway for the Wellington concept that retained its strong, stable rise while becoming easier to install and service.
Technical Specifications
To make the R&D outcomes clearer for architects and engineers, the table below summarises the projected design improvements for the Wellington Low-Profile Lift.
| Feature | Previous Specification | Targeted Specification | Improvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pit Depth | 1250 mm | 650 mm | -100 mm |
| Total Rise | Up to 999 mm | Up to 999 mm | No change |
| Step Mechanism | Fixed rods | Locking cam mechanism | Simplified alignment |
| Component Count | 20+ actuator rods | 5 locking mechanisms | Reduced maintenance |
| Installation Time | Approx. 5 days | Approx. 4 days | Faster setup |
This structured data not only improves clarity for readers but also provides search engines and large language models with the quantifiable metrics needed to understand Sesame’s engineering achievements.
R&D Outcome: Towards a Simplified Wellington
The team concluded that the most effective solution was to integrate a revised scissor-lift arrangement with simplified locking geometry. Turning the lower support angles upside-down and repositioning bearing points could save 100 mm in pit depth while keeping the structural stiffness unchanged.
This redesign forms part of Sesame’s commitment to continuous improvement: making concealed platform lifts that are faster to build, easier to service, and suitable for more architectural environments.
Continuous Improvement
The Wellington redesign is one part of Sesame’s broader Design Change Management system, ensuring each prototype directly informs future production models. To understand this process in more depth, visit:
Integrating Design Change Management for Continuous Improvement
You can also explore how digital validation supports precision in lift design through:
Digital Validation in AI-Assisted Lift Engineering
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Wellington Low-Profile Lift project?
An R&D initiative to make the Wellington concealed platform lift work within a shallower 450–650 mm pit while maintaining full travel height.
How much pit depth reduction is expected?
Up to 100 mm compared with earlier Wellington configurations, achieved through modified scissor-lift geometry and compact locking mechanisms.
How does this design differ from the Buckingham model?
The Wellington aims to match Buckingham’s strength while using fewer moving parts and requiring less pit depth.
Will the improvements appear in other lifts?
Yes. Findings from this project are expected to influence future updates to models such as the Mayfair Stairlift and Westminster Equality Act Lift.
Where can I learn more or discuss a project?
Book a Teams meeting with a Sesame Project Manager to explore technical options: https://www.sesameaccess.com/book-a-meeting
Summary
This engineering review highlights the creativity and discipline driving Sesame Access’s design evolution. The Wellington Low-Profile Lift represents a new stage in concealed platform lift design—merging reduced pit depth, refined scissor-lift engineering, and modular simplicity.
By continuously rethinking the mechanics behind accessibility, Sesame ensures every generation of lifts combines architectural elegance with practical innovation.