Explore the Pulley System Simulator
Pull the rope, see how more rope strands cut the force you need but lengthen the pull. Free, no signup, runs in your browser.
- Free to use
- No signup
- Nothing to install
- Runs in your browser
Illustration. Open the tool for the real thing.
See it in action
The Pulley System Simulator with sample data entered and the result showing.
What is the Pulley System Simulator?
Pull the rope, see how more rope strands cut the force you need but lengthen the pull. It runs in your browser, so a change to a setting or a drag on an object shows up at once.
Pulleys lift loads on cranes, sailboats, elevators and construction sites. The block and tackle multiplies force so people can move heavy loads.
3 steps to your result
Open the tool and follow along. Nothing to install.
What you get
With n supporting strands the ideal effort force is load ÷ n.
You pull n times as much rope as the load rises, so the work stays the same.
Friction lowers the efficiency, so the real effort is a bit bigger than ideal.
Set 4 strands, then drag the rope handle down and read the effort force.
Compare the distance you pull with how far the load rises.
Add friction and see the efficiency drop.
Used for
Pick one to see how it fits.
Engineering learners
Engineering and technology students, makers, robotics clubs and teachers of design and technology.
Try it freeTeachers
For teachers: project the Pulley System Simulator on the board, let students predict the result, then run it together and test this: Compare the distance you pull with how far the load rises. For students: change one thing at a time and write down what changes.
Try it freeHow it compares
A plain look at this tool next to the usual alternative.
| This simulation | Textbook diagram | |
|---|---|---|
| Interactive | Drag, tap and change settings | Fixed picture |
| Install | Nothing to install | Not needed |
| Cost | Free to use | Depends on the book |
Questions people ask
What is mechanical advantage?
The factor by which a machine multiplies your force. For an ideal pulley system it equals the number of rope strands supporting the load.
Do pulleys reduce the work needed?
No. They reduce the force but you pull a longer distance, so the work (force × distance) is the same in an ideal system.
Is the Pulley System Simulator free to use?
Yes. The Pulley System Simulator is free, needs no signup or download and runs in your web browser. It is part of the Engineering group of AZRS simulations.
Does the Pulley System Simulator work on a phone or tablet?
Yes. The Pulley System Simulator takes touch input as well as mouse input, so you can use its 5 adjustable settings with a finger. A larger screen makes the controls and graphs easier to read.
How do I use the Pulley System Simulator?
1. In the Pulley System Simulator, use the controls to change Set-up, Number of supporting ropes, Load mass, Friction per pulley wheel, Your strength (max pull). The simulation reacts instantly. 2. In the Pulley System Simulator, pick an option such as 1 fixed pulley, Movable pulley (2 ropes), 3 ropes, 4 ropes to switch modes or load an example. 3. In the Pulley System Simulator, press "Lower the load", "Raise fully", "Reset" to start, reset or change what is happening. 4. Start with this experiment: Set 4 strands, then drag the rope handle down and read the effort force. Drag any glowing handle, object or slider with your mouse or finger and the Pulley System Simulator responds in real time. 5. Change one setting at a time and watch which readout moves, then compare it with this idea: With n supporting strands the ideal effort force is load ÷ n.
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Try the Pulley System Simulator now
Pull the rope, see how more rope strands cut the force you need but lengthen the pull. Free to use.
Try it free