A safety device that clamps the suspension ropes to halt the elevator car as part of the unintended car movement protection system.
Full Definition
Rope grippers are electro-mechanical or spring-applied devices mounted on the car frame or in the hoistway that clamp onto the suspension ropes when triggered by the UCMP system or overspeed governor. Unlike safety gears (which act on guide rails), rope grippers act directly on the ropes, bringing the car to a controlled stop. They are particularly suitable for MRL lifts where the drive machine is located in the hoistway. EN 81-20 recognises rope grippers as an acceptable protective device for UCMP and requires them to be type-tested and certified.
