How Does a Pulley's Design Affect the Maximum Weight a Strongman Can Lift?

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  • Thread starter Thread starter Cenax Kikia
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the mechanics of a pulley system and its impact on the maximum weight a strongman can lift. It concludes that the upper limit of weight that can be lifted by the strongman is equal to his own body weight, assuming he is not restrained. The analysis disregards potential failures such as cable snapping or the pulley fixture breaking, focusing solely on the theoretical limits of the system's design.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles related to pulleys
  • Knowledge of tension forces in rope systems
  • Familiarity with the concept of weight and lifting mechanics
  • Basic comprehension of strongman competition dynamics
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  • Research the mechanics of pulley systems in detail
  • Explore the effects of friction in pulley systems
  • Study the safety factors in lifting equipment design
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This discussion is beneficial for strength trainers, sports scientists, and engineers interested in the mechanics of lifting and pulley systems.

Cenax Kikia
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Im having trouble with a question I have to answer, It's not so much the answer I want but I am having trouble understanding the wording of the question.. Its an open ended answer I need to try to write, but no numbers are involved. Here it is:

For the pulley system shown, what is the upper limit of weight the strongman can lift?

And the picture is of a Strongman pulling a rope, wrapped around a pulley that is attached to the celing, connected to a block that is on the ground.
 
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Provided his feet aren't strapped to the floor, the upper limit on what he could lift would be his own weight.

(This also assumes that we are ignoring the fact that the cable could snap under too much tension and that the fixture holding the pulley in the ceiling could break.)
 

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