Escalator

transportation · machines · buildings

Moving chain of steps. An escalator is made of individual steps linked together on a chain that keeps moving in a loop, kind of like a conveyor belt but with stairs. The track system keeps each step perfectly level so you stay balanced as you ride.

Powered by a motor. A strong electric motor drives the entire escalator by pulling the chain of steps around the tracks. This same motor also powers the handrails on the sides so they move at exactly the same speed as the steps.

Connects building floors. Escalators are installed inside buildings and structures to move lots of people quickly between different levels without them having to climb stairs. They're super common in shopping malls, airports, and subway stations where crowds of people need to move around.

Steps stay level always. Even though the steps are constantly moving and changing angle on the tracks, they stay perfectly horizontal the whole time, that's why you don't slip or feel wobbly when you stand on one.

Built with safety features. Escalators have edge sensors that stop them if something gets caught, and the handrails are designed to help you balance if the escalator suddenly stops.