Elevator Physics Simulation
Visualizing power requirements in elevator systems
kg
500 kg
1800 kg
3000 kg
m/s
0.5 m/s
2 m/s
5 m/s
N
1000 N
4000 N
8000 N
Physics Analysis
Forces Acting on the Elevator
Ftotal = m × g + Ffriction
The motor must overcome both the gravitational force (weight of elevator + passengers) and the frictional force opposing the motion. At constant velocity, the net force is zero, so the motor force exactly balances these downward forces.
Power Calculation
P = F × v
Power is the rate of doing work. For linear motion at constant velocity, power equals force multiplied by velocity. This gives the minimum power the motor must deliver to maintain the elevator's motion against the opposing forces.
Simulation Results
Total Mass:
1800 kg
Velocity:
2 m/s
Frictional Force:
4000 N
Total Opposing Force:
22000 N
Required Power:
44000 W
Horsepower Equivalent:
59 hp
System Efficiency:
85% (?)
Typical elevator efficiency including motor, gearing, and other losses
