Wild Insides
#5How things work
Why Shopping Carts Lock Up At The Parking Lot Edge
Some shopping carts have a hidden brake in one wheel.
Short. Strange. True.The real science
elevator · elevator cable · how elevators work · elevator safety · overspeed governor · safety brake
The real science
Almost everyone has wondered what happens if an elevator's cable snaps. This cutaway follows the backups: extra cables, a speed-sensing wheel with fling-out weights, steel wedges that grip the rails, and buffers in the pit. If you ever get stuck, press the alarm and wait for help.
Don’t try anything shown in this video.
Follow the facts
- Otis: High-Rise Safety Systems
- Otis Elevator Co: Elevator brake and safety patent
- Otis Elevator Co: Elevator System Safety Brake patent
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Curious about something in “Why A Snapped Elevator Cable Won't Drop You”? Our AI-powered helper answers using only this page’s write-up and sources.
AI answers can be wrong; check the sources. Not medical advice.
Our illustrations simplify anatomy and scale. Educational content only; not medical advice.
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#5
#2How things work
How Pill Bottle Caps Outsmart Most Toddlers
Child-resistant medicine caps hide a two-part lock that only opens when you push down and turn at the same time.
Short. Strange. True.The real science
#48How things work
Why A Popcorn Kernel Turns Itself Inside Out
Every popcorn kernel is a tiny sealed pressure cooker.
Short. Strange. True.The real science