Zelfvangende

Zelfvangende is a Dutch term that translates to "self-catching" or "self-arresting" in English. It refers to a mechanism or principle designed to stop or prevent an unwanted action or state without external intervention. This concept can be applied in various fields, from engineering to social sciences.

In engineering, a zelfvangende mechanism is often found in safety systems. For example, a self-arresting brake on a hoist or crane is designed to automatically engage and stop the load if the primary braking system fails or if the power is cut. This prevents the load from falling. Similarly, in some mechanical systems, components might be designed to lock in place if they experience excessive force or vibration, preventing further damage or malfunction.

Beyond mechanical applications, the term can be used metaphorically. For instance, in an economic context, a policy might be described as "zelfvangend" if it is designed to automatically correct for its own negative consequences. This could involve feedback loops that adjust variables to maintain stability. In cybersecurity, a system might have self-catching protocols that detect and neutralize threats without human input, preventing a breach from escalating. The core idea remains the automatic cessation or prevention of an undesirable event.