What is a limit switch in a motorized rigging system?

• A. A device that measures load on a batten.
• B. A sensor that stops movement when the system reaches a preset position.
• C. A threaded anchor point used to attach rigging hardware or lines.
• D. A metal plate used to distribute a load across multiple points.

Answer: (B)

A limit switch is a sensor that stops movement when the moving system reaches a preset position. In a motorized rigging setup, it marks the end of travel and tells the controller to halt the motor, preventing over-travel, collisions, or damage and ensuring the batten lands in a safe, repeatable position for locking off or re-referencing. These switches are placed at the top and bottom of travel and can be mechanical, magnetic, or optical, but their essential role is to provide a hard or soft stop at known positions. This is different from measuring load, acting as an anchor point, or distributing load, which are functions of other components.