Mechanism Design

Industrial
Scissor Lift
CAD Model

SolidWorks Kinematic Analysis Structural Design Titanium / Aluminum Alloys Lead-Screw Mechanism

A fully parametric 3-stage scissor lift designed in SolidWorks, with 750 kg lift capacity, electric lead-screw propulsion, and a suite of integrated safety features.

Scissor Lift Extended View
750
kg lift capacity (1,650 lbs)
3.7m
Max platform height (12.2 ft)
3
Stage scissor mechanism
~45s
Full lift cycle time
Technical Specifications
General Design
Base Dimensions2m × 1.2m
Platform Height0.5m – 3.7m (1.6ft – 12.2ft)
Lift Capacity750 kg (1,650 lbs)
Mechanism3-stage scissor linkage
Total Weight350 kg (770 lbs)
Weight w/ Ballast650 kg (~1,400 lbs)
Propulsion & Safety
Drive SystemElectric motor — lead screw
Lift Time~45 seconds full extension
Bearing SystemCustom bearing tracks
Backdrive ProtectionNon-backdrivable ACME screw
RedundancyDual motor propulsion
SafetyKevlar harness, LEDs & speaker alert

Design Overview

This project involved designing a fully parametric, industrial-grade scissor lift in SolidWorks. The 3-stage scissor mechanism was engineered for a 750 kg lifting capacity over a full height range of 0.5m to 3.7m, optimized for portability at just 350 kg total weight.

The design process covered full kinematic analysis, component sizing, material selection, and assembly modeling — all within a parametric SolidWorks environment to enable rapid design iteration.

Design Goals

  • Achieve 750 kg capacity with a lightweight, portable structure
  • Provide a stable, controlled lift across full height range
  • Integrate safety systems for real-world industrial use
  • Minimize cycle time while ensuring reliability
Top View
Side View

Propulsion System

The lift is driven by a dual electric motor arrangement powering a lead-screw actuator. The non-backdrivable ACME screw design ensures the platform holds its position under load without continuous motor engagement — a critical safety requirement.

Drive Features

  • Electric motor driven lead-screw for smooth, controlled actuation
  • ~45 second lift cycle from full collapse to full extension
  • Custom bearing tracks for low-friction scissor arm travel
  • Dual redundant motor setup for operational safety

Materials & Weight Strategy

Material selection balanced structural performance with the portability requirement. High-strength titanium, magnesium, and aluminum alloys were specified for primary structural members, using an isogrid pattern to minimize material while maintaining stiffness.

Material Choices

  • High-strength titanium, magnesium, and aluminum alloys for primary structure
  • Isogrid lightweighting pattern to reduce mass without sacrificing stiffness
  • Steel & tungsten ballast plates for stability when carrying light loads
  • Total weight: 350 kg without ballast, 650 kg with ballast plates
Propulsion and Materials
In Action

Scissor Lift Operation

3D Model Views
Base View
Side View
Front View
Mechanism Detail
Key Design Features
Assembly View
Detail View
Cross Section