The Pneumatic Vacuum Elevator is a great cost-effective alternative to the conventional elevator. It creates a vacuum at the top of a polycarbonate tube, that acts as the shaft, and the resultant air pressure moves the elevator up. The Vacuum Elevator does not need hydraulics to run and can be retrofitted without requiring any special excavation. Despite being relatively slower than common elevators, it may be ideal for the elderly or disabled at home and for those looking to cut maintenance and power costs associated with a conventional elevator.

Vacuum Elevator

[via Inhabitat]