I found this in Q&A and it may help a few teams. While it it legal for a PILOT to assist in removing the ROPE from the DAVIT, the laws of physics likely wouldn't allow it in the 'clamping to the field' scenarios above.
https://frc-qa.firstinspires.org/qa/381
We're going to pneumatically actuate a vice grip into a brake off the gearbox of our winch. We'll probably add some cushioning to our contacts to make sure the touchpad stays engaged if we drop a few tenths of an inch. Anyone know alternative names for them?