Million Whys Press logo
Million Whys PressToronto
← Book 25 videos

Book 25, Question 10 · Video

How do elevator brakes and floor sensors keep riders safe?

Video · 1:53 · Crafty Clover explains, from A Million Whys Book 25

An elevator has several safety systems. A speed governor watches how fast the car moves, and if the car goes too fast, safety clamps squeeze the steel rails along the shaft and stop it. Sensors and a computer track which floor you are on and stop the car at the right place. Door sensors stop the doors from closing on people. Inspectors check elevators regularly.

Read the full answer →

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. How do elevator brakes and floor sensors keep riders safe?

The Big Idea

Elevators carry millions of people every day. They have many clever safety systems. Let's see how they keep riders safe!

Speed Governor

Step one: Speed Governor. A speed governor watches how fast the elevator car moves. If the car goes too fast, safety clamps squeeze the steel rails along the shaft and stop it.

Floor Sensors

Step two: Floor Sensors. Sensors and a computer track which floor you are on. They stop the car at the right place.

Door Sensors

Step three: Door Sensors. Door sensors stop the doors from closing on people. Inspectors check elevators regularly.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! The governor watches speed. Clamps grip the rails. Sensors find the floor. Door sensors protect riders.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Elevators are one of the safest ways to travel. Elevators hang from several strong steel cables. In a fire, always use the stairs, not the elevator. Many elevators have an inspection certificate posted inside.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Draw an elevator shaft. Add the car and the guide rails. Add the safety clamps. Label the part that grips the rails if the car goes too fast. Share your drawing.

Outro

Elevators keep riders safe with a speed governor and safety clamps that grip the rails, floor sensors that stop at the right place, door sensors, and regular inspections. Science is amazing! Keep asking questions! The more you look around, the more wonders you will find, so keep your eyes open! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!

Why I wrote this