What is the function of a pulley in a rigging system?

The function of a pulley in a rigging system is to change the direction of force and provide mechanical advantage. When you use a pulley, it allows the user to pull down to lift a load up, making it easier to lift heavy objects. This directional change is essential because it can reduce the amount of effort needed to lift the load.

Moreover, a pulley system can create a mechanical advantage through various configurations, such as using multiple pulleys in a block and tackle setup. This configuration allows a smaller force to lift a heavier load by distributing the weight across several ropes, which reduces the effort required from the user.

The roles of measuring load weight, securing the load in place, or calculating lifting speed do not align with the primary function of a pulley. These tasks are typically handled by other tools or systems in the rigging process.