What is the primary purpose of an elevator door lock?

The primary purpose of an elevator door lock is to prevent the elevator from moving when the doors are open. This safety mechanism is essential to protect passengers and ensure that they are safely inside the elevator car before it begins to move. An effective door lock system engages when the doors are not fully closed, thereby initiating a safety feature that immobilizes the elevator until the doors are securely shut. This is crucial in preventing accidents that could occur if the elevator were to move while doors are open, thus providing a safe environment for users.

While securing the elevator when not in use is an important function, it is not the primary role of a door lock. Similarly, holding the elevator in place at upper floors is managed through different mechanisms like brakes, rather than the door locks. The alignment of the elevator car is also vital for safe operation, but that is typically the responsibility of the guide rails and other components of the elevator system rather than the door locking mechanism itself.