Support device for a rail line of an roller coaster arrangement, and roller coaster arrangement having the same

Abstract

The invention relates to a roller coaster arrangement (1000) comprising a car arrangement and a track (S) with at least one support device (100) having: a support base (10a) for anchoring the support device (100) in a foundation (F1, F2, F3); a support head (14a) that can be connected to the track (S) to transfer a static and dynamic load of the roller coaster arrangement (1000) into the foundation (F1, F2, F3); and at least one modular segment (12) arranged between the support base (10a) and the support head (14a). The support device (100) is designed as a single load-bearing column, with at least one segment (10, 12, 14) being designed as a prestressed spun concrete hollow body.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a support device for a track section of a roller coaster assembly, and to a roller coaster assembly including the same. Furthermore, the invention relates to a connecting element for connecting two segments of a support device to a boom, and to a support device subassembly including the same.

[0002] The use of supports in roller coaster systems, particularly as load-bearing structural elements for tracks, is well-known and widespread. Steel support columns are typically used, but due to their high susceptibility to vibration in tall roller coaster structures (such as lifts, humps, and / or banked curves), they require one or more bracing elements. These multi-section column configurations, known as A-frames, therefore require considerable space at their bases. This also increases material requirements and costs.

[0003] In light of these problems, the use of massive concrete supports, to be manufactured directly on the construction site of such a roller coaster, was considered. However, this concept proved to be inefficient, costly, and time-consuming, and therefore was not implemented in practice.

[0004] Centrifugally cast concrete columns, which are conventionally used as radio or overhead line masts, are known from the state of the art. Centrifugally cast concrete refers to concrete components produced using a special manufacturing process (the centrifugal casting process). Production is carried out using rotating rollers and steel molds. The rollers, rotating at 600 to 900 revolutions per minute, compact the poured concrete from the inside out due to centrifugal forces at approximately 20 times the force of gravity. Because the excess water drains inwards, while the heavy concrete components are continuously pushed outwards, the resulting concrete has a very low water-cement content, making the centrifugally cast concrete particularly dense and therefore also very strong. This process enables the production of centrifugally cast concrete components with a slender design and exceptional load-bearing capacity.High-strength concrete up to a concrete quality class of C100 is produced as standard; the use of ultra-high-strength concrete (UHPC) offers a concrete quality class up to C180.

[0005] Further advantages of spun concrete technology include the long service life of the spun concrete components, accelerated construction progress due to factory pre-assembly and the resulting cost savings, as well as improved deformation properties. In combination with prestressed steel strands that subject the spun concrete to compressive stress, cracking can be further reduced, making the use of spun concrete even more attractive.

[0006] In this context, German patent application DE 10 2012 110 184 A1 describes, for example, a reinforced concrete column for a building structure made of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) with a concrete strength class of at least C115. Such a column can be formed from several segments, which are connected to each other, for example, by means of a flange connection. Such a flange connection is known from German patent application DE 102014 104439 B4. Furthermore, a foundation for a column is described in German patent application EP 2 757 213 A2.

[0007] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improved support device for a track section of a roller coaster arrangement, which has, on the one hand, optimal load-bearing capacity and, on the other hand, reduced space and material requirements.

[0008] This problem is solved by a support device according to claim 1. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0009] In particular, this problem is solved by a support device for a roller coaster assembly, comprising a support base of the lowest segment of the support device, e.g., in the form of a base plate for anchoring the support device in a foundation, a support head that can be connected to the track to transfer static and dynamic loads of the roller coaster assembly into the support device and then further into the foundation, and at least one modular segment arranged between the support base and the support head. The support device is designed as a single load-bearing column. In the following description, a segment is referred to as a support base, support head, or intermediate segment, depending on the application.

[0010] It is particularly advantageous if at least one segment is designed as a prestressed spun concrete hollow body. The use of spun concrete ensures high load-bearing capacity and high overall structural damping of the support structure. This results in low susceptibility to vibration, especially due to vortex excitation phenomena perpendicular to the wind load. Consequently, the support structure can be designed as a single load-bearing column, requiring no additional support beams. This also reduces the space required at the column base, as multi-unit column configurations are no longer necessary (as, for example, with a steel column configuration). The result is an attractive and appropriate design. Furthermore, the prestressing of the prestressing steel gives the support structure high stiffness, meaning that, compared to a similar, non-prestressed steel-concrete component, less deformation occurs under high loads.This allows them to be used for tall structures in roller coaster systems, such as lifts. Furthermore, the segment's production uses significantly less material due to the spun concrete construction method.

[0011] The segment can absorb horizontal and vertical load components of the roller coaster arrangement, both in the dynamic and static load.

[0012] Furthermore, the segment can have a conical or cylindrical shape. For example, a conical design of the segment further improves the load-bearing behavior, especially when using additional segments designed as intermediate segments, as it follows the distribution of internal forces along the support structure. This results in a structurally optimal shape for the supporting structure.

[0013] In this context, the segment can have a taper greater than 5 mm / m.

[0014] Furthermore, the segment can have a length ranging from 10 m to 30 m and / or a wall thickness ranging from 80 mm to 300 mm. By selecting the appropriate segment lengths, the number of segments can be adapted to corresponding transport capacities (for example, to the size and / or length of a shipping container or a truck bed). This avoids unnecessary special transport costs. Additionally, due to the high wall thickness, all oe segments are less susceptible to vandalism.

[0015] The segment, the column base, and the column head can have a diameter ranging from 500 mm to 2500 mm. For example, the column head of a column head segment of a 60-meter-long support structure can have a diameter of 800 mm, and the column base of a column foot segment can have a diameter of 2300 mm.

[0016] A force-fit connection of the segment to a segment designed as a column base segment, an intermediate segment, and / or a column head segment can be formed by a flange connection or a butt joint. The connection type can be selected according to requirements.

[0017] For example, a segment designed as a column base segment can have a column base at one end and an end plate at a second end opposite the first end. Similarly, a segment designed as a column head segment can have a column head at one end and an end plate at a second end opposite the first end. An intermediate segment can have a first end plate at one end and a second end plate at a second end opposite the first end. The end plates can be force-fitted to further end plates of another segment. For example, the intermediate segment can have a lower and an upper end plate, which are arranged at a lower and upper end of the intermediate segment, respectively, in the assembled state, and which are connected to a lower and upper end plate, respectively.The upper end plate of another intermediate segment can be connected in a force-fit manner. This shape is similar to that of solid steel columns and makes it possible to integrate the support device into existing assembly and maintenance processes for roller coaster systems.

[0018] Construction tolerances can also be compensated for using the end plates and / or the column base and column head. For example, oversized holes in the end plates can be used to compensate for these tolerances. High-strength mortar can be used under a base plate for vertical adjustment of the support structure.

[0019] Furthermore, the column base segment, column head segment, or intermediate segment can incorporate prestressed steel strands running between the end plates of the intermediate segment, between the column base and end plate of the column base segment, between the column head and end plate of the column head segment, or between the column base and column head. These straight, prestressed steel strands subject the spun concrete to compressive stress. Preferably, steel strands with a diameter of 11 to 15.7 mm are used, e.g., with a strength class of St 1660 / 1860. The steel strands can be anchored by wedge anchorage in an end plate or by immediate bond directly in the concrete. The steel strands can be slightly prestressed before the spun concrete application to position them as intended.Final prestressing can also be applied in stages; however, it is important that the concrete remains sufficiently flowable at maximum prestressing. Long-term effects that lead to prestress loss, such as concrete creep, shrinkage, and relaxation, must also be considered in the design calculations. Splitting tensile reinforcement must be provided in the load introduction area. If necessary, additional non-load-bearing steel can be placed in the cross-section.

[0020] The segment can be made of concrete ranging from concrete grade C80 to C180. This ensures that the aforementioned properties regarding load-bearing capacity, vibration resistance, deformation behavior, and service life are maintained.

[0021] As mentioned above, the support device can have further segments designed as intermediate segments, which are arranged on top of each other in a modular construction to form the individual support column.

[0022] The additional intermediate segments can be designed as prestressed spun concrete hollow bodies and / or as steel bodies. This results in hybrid solutions with spun concrete and steel segments. For example, a lower section of the support structure can comprise spun concrete segments and an upper section steel segments. In a further embodiment, the support structure can also have several cantilevers that connect a segment designed as a support base segment and / or a segment designed as a support head segment and / or the intermediate segments of the support structure to the track or to other adjacent supports of the roller coaster assembly.

[0023] The support device may also include a ring element that can accommodate one or more outriggers.

[0024] The ring element can be multi-part and have a circumferential preload.

[0025] In another embodiment, the support device can have a steel intermediate segment that is arranged between two segments and accommodates one or more cantilevers.

[0026] It can also have a connecting element that is positioned between two segments and accommodates one or more booms.

[0027] The segment may further include one or more inserted sleeve bars connecting one or more cantilevers to the segment.

[0028] In another example, a boom can be attached to a steel blade of the segment, which is spun in, via a hinge connection or a pre-tensioned bolted connection. Depending on the requirements, these connection options can be used and combined.

[0029] A segment designed as a column base segment can be connected to the foundation by a base plate enclosed in the column base, by a tenon connection, or by a socket design.

[0030] The above task is also solved by a roller coaster arrangement comprising a car arrangement and a track with at least one support device described above.

[0031] A connecting element for forming a connection between two segments of a support device for a roller coaster arrangement with at least one boom comprises a first connecting surface at a first end of the connecting element, wherein the first connecting surface is or can be brought into detachable contact with an end of a first segment; a second connecting surface at a second end of the connecting element opposite the first end, wherein the second connecting surface is or can be brought into detachable contact with an end of a further segment; and a projecting nose part which is configured to force-fit the at least one boom to the connecting element by means of a tab connection.

[0032] Such a connecting element enables a simple and efficient connection of two segments, with the connecting element also being able to accommodate one or more outriggers of the roller coaster assembly by means of its nose section. An optimized selection of the transition radii of the nose section ensures a notch-free connection. This allows the stresses to be transferred into the support very effectively and economically.

[0033] The connecting element can be designed, for example, as an adapter ring plate or as an adapter circular plate.

[0034] In one embodiment, the first connecting surface of the connecting element can be in or be brought into detachable contact with a first end plate arranged at the end of the first segment.

[0035] Likewise, the second connecting surface of the connecting element can be in detachable contact with another end plate arranged at the end of the further segment.

[0036] The coaxial connection of the first segment, the connecting element, and the subsequent segment can be achieved by a screw connection. The connection of the first segment, the subsequent segment, and the connecting element located between the first and subsequent segments can therefore be achieved by a common screw connection, which in particular passes through coaxial bores in the two segments and the connecting element. Thus, the first segment, the subsequent segment, and the connecting element located coaxially between the first and subsequent segments are connected by common screw connections, each of which passes through three coaxial bores arranged in a row in the two segments and the connecting element.In this design, the screws of the common connecting screw set pass through coaxial bores in the first segment, the connecting element, and the subsequent segment, so that the two segments and the connecting element are joined by a single screw / nut set. For this to work, it is advantageous if the thickness of the connecting element is no greater than 350 mm, 300 mm, 250 mm, or 200 mm, respectively. This allows all three elements to be connected with a single screw connection using a single screw / nut set, where the screw length must be longer than the sum of the thicknesses of the connecting element and the thicknesses of the connecting flanges of the two segments.

[0037] Furthermore, the connecting element can be made of heat-treated steel, in particular 42CrMo4 or 34CrNiMo6. The use of heat-treated steel is preferred here, as its fatigue strength and load-bearing capacity are significantly higher compared to structural steel, which is predominantly used in steel roller coaster structures.

[0038] The segments can be designed as hollow steel bodies.

[0039] Furthermore, they can have a cylindrical shape.

[0040] The invention will be explained in more detail below, for example, with reference to the drawings. The drawings show: Fig. 1A a schematic perspective exploded view of a support device according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 1B a schematic perspective view of the support device in the assembled state according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 1C a schematic perspective view of a section of a roller coaster arrangement with the support device according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 1D a schematic perspective side view of a support base, support head or intermediate segment of the support device according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 2 a schematic perspective view of a support head of the support device according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 3 a schematic perspective sectional view of a connection between two segments of the support device according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 4A a schematic perspective sectional view of a support foot of the support device according to an embodiment of the invention. Fig. 4B a schematic perspective sectional view of a support foot of the support device according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 5A a schematic perspective view of two connection variants of a boom arranged on the support device according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 5B a schematic perspective view of two connection variants of a boom arranged on the support device according to an embodiment of the invention; and. Fig. 5C a schematic perspective view of two connection variants of a boom arranged on the support device according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0041] Fig. 1A Figure 1 shows a simplified schematic exploded view of a support device 100 according to an embodiment of the invention. Fig. 1B The support device 100 is shown in its assembled state. The support device 100 is designed for a track section S of a roller coaster arrangement 1000. A section of such a roller coaster arrangement 1000 is shown here in Fig. 1C The support device 100 comprises a support base 10a, a support head 14a, and at least one modular segment 10, 12, 14 arranged between the support base 10a and the support head 14a, which can be force-fitted to the support base 10a and the support head 14a. The segment 10, 12, 14 can be configured as a support base segment 10 and / or as a support head segment 14 and / or as an intermediate segment 12 and is represented here as a representative example of these different configurations. Furthermore, the support device 100 can comprise only one segment 12, in which case the load-bearing column is formed from the single segment 12 (not shown in Fig. 1A und Fig. 1B (shown). Furthermore, in this embodiment, the support base 10a and the support head 14a can be part of the segment 12.

[0042] The support base 10a can also be a component of a segment 10, 12, 14 designed as a support base segment 10 and serves to anchor the support device 100 in a foundation F1. Fig. 1A und Fig. 1B Anchoring is achieved using the support base 10a, which includes a base plate. A socket design or a pin design is also possible, which will be discussed in detail later with reference to… Fig. 4A und Fig. 4B is described.

[0043] The support head 14a can also be a component of a segment 10, 12, 14 designed as a support head segment 14 and can be connected to the rail section S to transfer a static and dynamic load of the roller coaster assembly 1000 into the foundation F1. As in Fig. 1A bis Fig. 1C As shown, foundation F1 can be constructed as a base slab or as a single foundation (not shown). In the Fig. 1A und Fig. 1B In the example shown, the connection to the rail section S is formed by a connecting attachment 16 on the support head 14a, which receives or is connected to the rail section S. In this context, it shows Fig. 2 A detailed embodiment of the support head 14a. Here, the connecting piece 16 is connected to a chord tube of the rail section S, for example by welding or bolting, depending on project-specific parameters such as the rail's height or transport capacities. The connecting piece 16 and the support head 14a can be made of steel. The in Fig. 2 The shown form of the support head 14a is, however, only one possible example. Depending on the requirements, the design of the support head 14a for connection with the rail section S can vary.

[0044] A segment 10, 12, 14 designed as an intermediate segment 12 forms the middle section of the support device 100. The support device 100 can be constructed from one or more segments 10, 12, 14 connected to each other by a force-fit connection, as follows: Fig. 1A, Fig. 1B and Fig. 1C depicted.

[0045] Traditionally, support beams for roller coaster structures are made of steel. However, a single steel support is highly susceptible to vibration. Consequently, these support beams require additional supports at the foundation to ensure sufficient load-bearing capacity, as needed for taller roller coaster structures such as lifts, humps, and banked turns. This results in a large space requirement at the base of the support, as multi-tiered support configurations, such as A-beams, are usually necessary.

[0046] The support device 100 of the present invention is designed as a single support column. In this case, at least one segment 10, 12, 14 of the support device 100 is designed as a prestressed spun concrete hollow body.

[0047] Centrifugally cast concrete is produced using the centrifugal casting process. This process is characterized by low material consumption, resulting in high-strength concrete with high load-bearing capacity. The construction of the support device 100 according to the invention, made of centrifugally cast concrete segments 10, 12, 14 with this property, thus makes it possible to dispense with additional support beams at the base of the support 10a. This saves space and material. At the same time, the visual aesthetics of the support device 100 and the roller coaster arrangement 1000 are improved, which, for example, Fig. 1C as is evident.

[0048] Segment 10, 12, 14 can absorb horizontal and vertical load components of the roller coaster arrangement 1000 contained in the dynamic and static load.

[0049] Segment 10, 12, 14 may also have a conical or cylindrical shape. In Fig. 1A bis Fig.1C For example, the segment 10, 12, 14, which is designed as an intermediate segment 12, is shown in its conical configuration. Fig. 3 is the intermediate segment 12 and in the Figuren 4A und 4B The segment 10, 12, 14, designed as a support base segment 10, is shown in its cylindrical form. The conical design allows for better load distribution on the support device 100 and reduces material usage.

[0050] In particular, segments 10, 12, and 14 can have a taper C greater than 5 mm / m. The taper is calculated using the following formula: C = D 1 − D 2 / L , where D1 denotes the diameter of segment 10, 12, 14 at a first end of segment 10, 12, 14, D2 denotes the diameter at a second end of segment 10, 12, 14 opposite the first end, and L denotes the length of segment 10, 12, 14. This is simplified to Fig. 1D depicted.

[0051] The conicity C can, for example, have a value greater than 10 mm / m, greater than 15 mm / m, greater than 20 mm / m, greater than 25 mm / m, or greater than 30 mm / m. Likewise, the conicity C can have a value less than 100 mm / m, less than 80 mm / m, less than 60 mm / m, less than 40 mm / m, less than 20 mm / m, less than 18 mm / m, less than 16 mm / m, less than 14 mm / m, less than 12 mm / m, or less than 10 mm / m. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the conicity C can be in the range of 20 mm / m to 25 mm / m.

[0052] In another embodiment, a single segment 10, 12, 14 can have a length L in a range of 10 m to 30 m and a wall thickness in a range of 80 mm to 300 mm. The length L can also be greater than 2 m, greater than 4 m, greater than 6 m, greater than 8 m, or greater than 10 m. Likewise, the length L can be less than 20 m, less than 18 m, less than 16 m, less than 12 m, or less than 10 m. In particular, the length L can be in a range of 10 m to 20 m. The length L can, for example, be adapted to the available transport capacities. For a freight wagon with 6 or more wheelsets, a loading length of at least 12 m is required, so that segments 10, 12, or 14 with a length L of up to 12 m can be manufactured, thus enabling trouble-free freight transport.

[0053] Segments 10, 12, 14 of the support base 10a ( Fig. 1A , see also Fig. 4A, Fig. 4B The column head 14a and the column head 14a can have a diameter ranging from 500 mm to 2500 mm. The column head 14a can have a smaller diameter than the column base 10a, for example, ranging from 600 mm to 800 mm. The column base 10a, on the other hand, can have a diameter ranging from 2400 mm to 2500 mm. The diameter of all segments 10, 12, 14 can vary. With regard to a conical design of a segment 10, 12, 14, the diameters D1 and D2 are decisive for the resulting taper C. Independently of one another, the segments 10, 12, 14 of the support device 100 can have different tapers C. Combining a cylindrical segment 10, 12, 14 with other conical segments 10, 12, 14 is also possible.

[0054] A force-fit connection of segment 10, 12, 14 with further segments 10, 12, 14 designed as column base segment 10, as intermediate segment 12, or as column head segment 14 can comprise a flange connection or a butt joint connection. Figuren 1A bis 1C Segments 10, 12, and 14 are shown, which are connected to each other by means of a flange connection. Furthermore, in the Fig. 3 The example shown illustrates a butt joint between two segments 10, 12, 14, made of spun concrete. Similarly, the following can be shown: Fig. 3 The segments shown, 10, 12, 14, are made of spun concrete, and the further segment, 10, 12, 14, is made of steel.

[0055] As from Fig. 3 As can be seen, in the butt joint, a connecting section VBA1 of a segment 10, 12, 14 has a reduced outer diameter, which is received into another connecting section of a further segment 10, 12, 14 (made of spun concrete or steel). The annular space formed between the connecting sections can be filled or injected with a high-strength grout 18a. A ring 20a, e.g., made of rubber or silicone, is provided for sealing.

[0056] A segment 10, 12, 14 designed as a column base segment 10 can have a column base 10a at a first end and an end plate 10b at a second end opposite the first end. A segment 10, 12, 14 designed as a column head segment 14 can have a column head 14a at a first end and an end plate 14b at a second end opposite the first end. A segment 10, 12, 14 designed as an intermediate segment 12 can further have a first end plate 12a at a first end and a second end plate 12b at a second end opposite the first end. The end plates 10b, 12a, 12b, 14b can be force-fitted to further end plates 10b, 12a, 12b, 14b of another segment 10, 12, 14.

[0057] In the Fig. 1A und Fig. 1B In the example shown, segments 10, 12, 14 have, for instance, an upper, a lower, or an upper and a lower end plate or flange plate 10b, 12a, 12b, 14b, which are arranged at a lower or upper end of the support base segment 10, the support head segment 14, or the intermediate segment 12 in the assembled state and which, in the assembled state, ensure a force-fit connection between the segments 10, 12, 14 of the support device 100. However, this connection type is only exemplary, and other connection types, as already described above, are possible.

[0058] The end plates 10b, 12a, 12b and 14b, as well as the support base 10a and support head 14a, can further compensate for construction tolerances, for example, by means of enlarged holes. In the case of an enlarged hole, the use of thicker washers is preferred to form a sufficient pressure body due to preload of the screws, as shown in Fig. 2 depicted.

[0059] The column base segment 10, and / or the column head segment 14, and / or the intermediate segment 12 may further comprise prestressed steel strands running between the end plates 12a, 12b of the intermediate segment 12, and / or between the column base 10a and the end plate 10b of the column base segment 10, and / or between the column head 14a and the end plate 14b of the column head segment 14, and / or between the column base 10a and the column head 14a. The steel strands subject the spun concrete to compressive stress. A direct, immediate bond exists between the prestressing steel and the concrete. The prestressing force is applied by the bond between the concrete and the prestressing steel, as well as by wedging the strand in the column base 10a and / or the column head 14a and / or the respective end plates 10b, 12a, 12b, 14b, in particular with the holes provided in the plates 10b, 12a, 12b, 14b.

[0060] Segments 10, 12, 14 can be made of concrete with a concrete quality class ranging from C80 to C180.

[0061] As already described, the support device 100 can have several segments 10, 12, 14 designed as intermediate segments 12, which are arranged on top of each other in a modular construction to form the single support column.

[0062] As already mentioned, the column base segment 10 can be connected to the foundation by the base plate enclosed in the column base 10a, by a tenon joint, or by a socket design. In this context, it shows Fig. 4A A socket design in which the column base segment 10 with a column base 10a is inserted into and received in a concrete socket F2. The space or joint 22 between the column base segment 10 and the socket F2, and the interior of the column base segment 10 within the socket F2, is filled with stiff vibrated concrete. The inner surface of the socket F2F can also be smooth or rough. Preferably, the outer surface 10R of the column base segment 10 in the socket area is intentionally roughened by the centrifugal casting process by placing dimpled sheeting into the die before the centrifugal casting process. The column base 10a can be designed without a base plate. In the embodiment with a base plate (not shown), the plate can serve as an adjustment means. In a further embodiment, a tenon connection is also possible, which is Fig. 4B The figure shows a lower section of the column base segment 10 connected to a single foundation in the form of a tenon F3. As with the butt joint connection, a rubber or silicone seal 20b is provided in the illustrated embodiment. The column base 10a is designed without a base plate. Furthermore, the space 18b between the tenon F3 and the column base segment 10 is filled with grout.

[0063] The further intermediate segments 12 can be designed as prestressed spun concrete hollow bodies and / or as steel bodies. The support device 100 can also have several cantilevers A that connect the column base segment 10, column head segment 14, or the intermediate segments 12 to the rail section S or adjacent columns. The different arrangement variants of the cantilever A on the segments 10, 12, 14 are described in Fig. 5A , Fig. 5B and Fig. 5C shown. The boom A can also be made of steel.

[0064] For example, in the two variants shown, Fig. 5A The cantilevers A around the cross-section of segments 10, 12, 14 are attached by means of a cylindrical ring element 24. The ring element 24 can be made of steel. In this embodiment, the cantilever A is welded to the ring element 24. The ring element 24 of connection variant V1 rests on a circumferentially prestressed support profile 28. In particular, with a conical design of the column base segment 10, the column head segment 14, or the intermediate segment 12, relative movement of the ring element 24 in the longitudinal direction of the support structure 100 is prevented, with the support profile 28 serving only as secondary slip protection and for sealing. The space between the ring element 24 and the spun concrete segments 10, 12, 14 is filled or injected with a high-strength grout. A suitable sealant 26 is also provided.This connection is very well suited for connecting a cantilever A due to its high flexibility regarding positional tolerance. The dimensions of the ring element 24 are variable and depend on the dimensions of a corresponding segment 10, 12, 14 that surrounds the ring element 24.

[0065] Variant V1 is suitable for predominantly torsion-free loading in the ring cuff 24. Furthermore, variant V1 is particularly suitable for predominantly compressive forces acting in the boom A.

[0066] In connection variant V2, a multi-part version of the ring element 24 is provided, which is designed as a ring sleeve. Circumferential preloading of the ring element 24 by means of the screws 30 shown in V2 enables the use of this connection under torsional loads on the ring sleeve. Furthermore, variant V2 is better suited than variant V1 to absorb the tensile loads of the boom A, since the preloading of the ring element 24 reduces the surface stresses of the ring sleeve.

[0067] Two more in Fig. 5B In the variants shown, the boom A is attached to a steel intermediate segment 32 (V3) or a connecting element 34, which is designed as an adapter ring plate (V4).

[0068] In variant V3, a steel intermediate segment 32 is arranged between the spun concrete segments 10, 12, 14 and fastened to the end plates 10b, 12a, 12b, 14b of the column base segment 10, the column head segment 14, or the intermediate segment 12 by flange plates 32a and 32b. The cantilever A can be welded or bolted to the steel intermediate segment 32.

[0069] In variant V4, a thick connecting element 34, designed, for example, as an adapter ring plate, is arranged between the concrete parts. This connecting element has a nose section 34a oriented towards the cantilever A. The cantilever A is bolted to the surface of the nose section 34a on the connecting element 34 using a conventional lug connection 36 or hingedly connected using a bolt. Since the connecting element 34 is not welded, the use of heat-treated steel, such as 42CrMo4 or 34CrNiMo6, is very advantageous from a structural point of view and technically feasible. Steel roller coasters are constructed with ordinary structural steel with a yield strength of up to 355 MPa. In the present invention V4, an unwelded intermediate plate for bolting one or more cantilevers A, the use of heat-treated steel is very suitable, especially since its fatigue strength and load-bearing capacity are significantly higher compared to structural steel.

[0070] Furthermore, such a thing serves in Fig. 5B - V4 illustrates connecting element 34 for forming a coaxial connection between two hollow-profile steel segments 10, 12, 14. It replaces the hollow-profile connection forms used for this common purpose.

[0071] The connecting element 34 comprises a first connecting surface FL1 at a first end of the connecting element 34. The first connecting surface FL1 is in releasable contact with an end of a first segment 10, 12, 14 or can be brought into contact with it. Furthermore, it has a second connecting surface FL2 at a second end of the connecting element 34 opposite the first end. The second connecting surface FL2 is in releasable contact with an end of another segment 10, 12, 14 or can be brought into contact with it. The connecting element 34 also comprises the projecting nose section 34a described above, which connects a cantilever A to the connecting element 34 by means of a lug connection 36 in a force-fit manner.

[0072] In conventional hollow profile connection systems, connecting elements are welded to the segments, which, in addition to increased material usage, places corresponding demands on the segments. For example, a lower segment must have a thicker wall than an upper segment to ensure sufficient load-bearing capacity of a column assembled from these segments. Furthermore, such a connection system cannot be easily disassembled, which complicates maintenance of the segments or makes individual replacement difficult. The connecting element 34 according to the invention, in its assembled state, is in detachable contact with the segments 10, 12, 14, without requiring any additional properties such as wall thickness for the segments 10, 12, 14. Moreover, the segments 10, 12, can be individually replaced via this detachable contact, which simplifies maintenance.

[0073] As can be seen from the exploded view in Fig. 5B - As can be seen in V4, the first connecting surface FL1 of the connecting element 34 can be in detachable contact with a first end plate 12a, 14b arranged at the end of the first segment 12, 14.

[0074] The second connecting surface FL2 of the connecting element 34 can furthermore be in or be brought into detachable contact with a further end plate 10b, 12b arranged at the end of the further segment 10, 12.

[0075] The coaxial connection of the first segment 12, 14, the connecting element 34, and the further segment 10, 12 can be achieved by a screw connection. In the Fig. 5B - In the example shown in V4, connecting screws extend through coaxial bores in the connection plate 12a, 14b of the first segment 12, 14, of the connecting element 34, as well as in the connection plate 10b, 12b of the further segment 10, 12.

[0076] As described above, the connecting element 34 can be made of heat-treated steel, in particular 42CrMo4 or 34CrNiMo6. The use of heat-treated steel is preferred here because its fatigue strength and load-bearing capacity are significantly higher compared to structural steel. Furthermore, by optimally selecting the transition radii R of the nose section 34a, a notch-free connection can be designed. This allows the stresses to be transferred very effectively and economically into the support 100. The use of structural steel for the connecting element 34 is also possible with a lower load on the cantilever A or a welded nose section 34a.

[0077] The segments 10, 12, 14 can therefore furthermore be formed from hollow steel bodies, or as structural steel bodies, or as structural steel tubes and / or have a cylindrical shape. However, it is preferred according to the invention if at least one segment 10, 12, 14 is formed as a spun concrete hollow body, in particular as a prestressed spun concrete hollow body.

[0078] One in Fig. 5C Variant V5 shows a bolted connection using a steel flange AF of a cantilever A and sleeve bars 36 cast into the concrete. The sleeve bars are secured by tying them to a slack steel reinforcement 38 of segment 10, 12, 14. By placing an inlay in the casting mold, a flat contact surface of segment 10, 12, 14 is created for bolting the flange AF.

[0079] Another one in Fig 5C Variant V6 shown depicts a joint connection of a push-pull boom A by using spun-in steel blades 40. In a further embodiment (not shown), entire gusset plates made of steel can also be spun in for multiple booms A.

[0080] The roller coaster arrangement 1000 also includes a car arrangement (not in Fig. 1C shown) and the rail section S with at least one support device 100 described above, as in Fig. 1C Illustrated. The support device 100 is shown here for a section of the roller coaster arrangement 1000, which represents a lift. A lift, lift hill, or elevator hill represents a section of the track structure of the roller coaster arrangement 1000. By lifting the car arrangement onto the lift, it acquires the potential energy required to travel through the track. The in Fig. 1CThe lift shown is only an example and the support device 100 can also be used for other structures of the roller coaster arrangement 1000, especially in the case of a vertical lift or a hump.

[0081] The roller coaster assembly 1000 with the support device 100 according to the invention is characterized by high operational and load-bearing strength, as well as good cost-effectiveness compared to conventional steel support beams. The technical implementation using one or more prefabricated segments 10, 12, 14 can also save costs and enables improved maintainability and accessibility. The slim design of the segments also results in a high architectural quality for the roller coaster assembly 100.

[0082] The concept behind the present invention is based on previous experience in the construction industry. The amusement park industry has undergone significant global changes in recent years. The use of modern software solutions allows for contemporary design of steel roller coaster structures. However, the shapes of the support structures for some common roller coaster elements, such as lifts, humps, and banked curves, have remained unchanged. Due to the susceptibility of a simple steel support strut to vibration, particularly in taller structures, one or more bracing elements may be required.

[0083] The present invention offers the possibility of reducing the space required at the column base, as two- or multi-tiered column configurations for tall, low-load-bearing structures can be replaced by a single strut. This results in an attractive and appropriate design. Furthermore, spun concrete columns are expected to have a more favorable environmental impact over their life cycle compared to composite steel columns. In addition to the reduced steel consumption, the use of reinforcing steel with a high recycled content and the maintenance-free nature of spun concrete columns also have a positive impact on the environmental footprint. Therefore, good public and societal acceptance is anticipated.

[0084] In summary, the prerequisites for the technical implementation of this invention are in place. The standardization landscape is clear and provides a reliable assessment of load-bearing capacity. Since some manufacturers are constantly gaining new insights through research projects, extending standards through special approvals is a recognized practice. Because the concrete columns do not differ in shape from solid-web steel struts and are preferably bolted together with high-strength pre-stressed bolts via a flange, integration into existing assembly and maintenance processes in amusement parks is very straightforward. Susceptibility to errors is eliminated through certified manufacturing processes. Due to the large wall thickness of the concrete cross-section, these components offer superior fire protection compared to steel columns. The flexibility offered by concrete-steel hybrid solutions is a particular advantage.

[0085] The manufacturing and overall costs of a spun concrete column can be lower compared to a solid steel column for some roller coaster features. These criteria, combined with a reduction in the footprint at the column base, offer a product that should be very attractive to amusement parks.

[0086] Some technical aspects of the present invention are briefly outlined below.

[0087] The invention relates to the implementation of spun concrete columns in the amusement park industry. The column consists of one or more segments in a cylindrical or conical design. The conical design of a concrete column offers optimal load-bearing behavior that follows the distribution of internal forces along the column.

[0088] The length and diameter of the segments are determined by manufacturing and transport possibilities. There is no upper limit.

[0089] The segments are preferably connected by bolting two flange plates together. Other design variations are possible. The concrete column is prestressed by spun-in steel strands, which are preferably wedged into the flange plates.

[0090] The connection at the base of the support can be made, for example, with a base plate or as a quiver design.

[0091] The required material properties of the concrete for typical applications in roller coaster figures with low transverse loads are in the range up to C100 (100 MPa compressive strength). For roller coaster figures subjected to significantly higher loads, the implementation of UHPC with a compressive strength exceeding 100 MPa, preferably from 140 MPa, is possible.

[0092] The overall structural damping of this system is significantly higher than that of a solid steel column. This results in lower susceptibility to vibration, particularly in the transverse direction to the wind due to vortex excitation, as well as in the longitudinal direction to the wind.

[0093] Construction tolerances can be compensated for by using oversized holes in the flange plates. The column's misalignment is minimized using standard construction methods, within the limits of what is typical for a solid steel column.

[0094] The use of the spun concrete columns according to the invention in the amusement park industry meets all the criteria for successful implementation.

[0095] The most important criteria can be summarized as follows. Firstly, economic viability and technical feasibility are important. Secondly, the lower susceptibility to vibration compared to solid steel columns plays a significant role, as does sufficient operational and load-bearing capacity. Improved deformation behavior compared to solid steel columns is another criterion. Furthermore, maintainability and accessibility are comparable to solid steel columns, but with less effort. Compensation for construction and manufacturing tolerances on the building site is possible within the required parameters. The improved aesthetic aspects are also a further criterion.

[0096] For specific applications (for example, in the case of a support strut with multiple cantilevers for connection to the rail or adjacent supports), hybrid supports made of multiple materials are also possible, consisting of a lower concrete module and an upper, solid-web steel module. Attaching a cantilever to a concrete segment is possible using steel components, such as a circumferential ring collar. Alternatively, a steel segment in the form of an adapter piece or adapter plate in various designs can be positioned between two concrete segments. A connecting element designed as an adapter ring plate with a nose section for receiving a cantilever is particularly preferred. A connection can also be made using sleeve bars cast into the concrete module, which allow for a connection to a flange plate attached to the cantilever.Another connection option is via a hinged joint or a pre-tensioned bolted connection of the boom to a steel blade inserted into a segment. These connection types can be used depending on the requirements.

[0097] The present invention may also include the configurations described in the following points.

[0098] (Point 1) Support device (100) for a track section (S) of a roller coaster arrangement (1000) comprising: a support base (10a) for anchoring the support device (100) in a foundation (F1, F2, F3); a support head (14a) which can be connected to the track (S) in order to transfer a static and dynamic load of the roller coaster arrangement (1000) into the foundation (F1, F2, F3); and at least one modular segment (10, 14, 12) arranged between the support base (10a) and the support head (14a), characterized in that the support device (100) is designed as a single load-bearing column.

[0099] (Point 2) Support device (100) according to 1, characterized in that at least one segment (10, 12, 14) is designed as a prestressed spun concrete hollow body.

[0100] (Point 3) Support device (100) according to 1 or 2, characterized in that the segment (10, 12, 14) has a conical shape or a cylindrical shape, wherein the segment (10, 12, 14) has a conicity (C) greater than 5 mm / m in the case of a conical shape.

[0101] (Point 4) Support device (100) according to one of the preceding points, characterized in that the segment (10, 12, 14) has a length (L) in a range of 10 m to 30 m and / or a wall thickness in a range of 80 mm to 300 mm.

[0102] (Point 5) Support device (100) according to one of the preceding points, characterized in that the segment (10, 12, 14), the support foot (10a), and the support head (14a) have a diameter in a range of 500 mm to 2500 mm.

[0103] (Point 6) Support device (100) according to one of the preceding points, characterized in that a force-fit connection of the segment (10, 12, 14) with a segment (10, 12, 14) designed as a support foot segment (10), a segment (10, 12, 13) designed as an intermediate segment (12), and / or a segment (10, 12, 14) designed as a support head segment (14) is formed by a flange connection or a plug-in connection.

[0104] (Point 7) Support device (100) according to one of the preceding points, characterized in that a segment (10, 12, 14) designed as a column base segment (10) having a column base (10a) at a first end and a top plate (10b) at a second end opposite the first end, and / or a segment (10, 12, 14) designed as a column head segment (14) having a column head (14a) at a first end and a top plate (14b) at a second end opposite the first end, and / or a segment (10, 12, 14) designed as an intermediate segment (12) having a first top plate (12a) at a first end and a second top plate (12b) at a second end opposite the first end, wherein the top plates (10b, 12a, 12b, 14b) are connected to further top plates (10b, 12a, 12b, 14b) of a further segment (10, 12, 14) are able to be connected by force-fit.

[0105] (Point 8) Support device (100) according to 6 or 7, characterized in that the at least one segment (10, 12, 14) is made of concrete, and that the support base segment (10), and / or the support head segment (14), and / or the intermediate segment (12) further comprise prestressed steel strands which run through the concrete between the end plates (12a, 12b) of the intermediate segment (12) and / or between the support base (10a) and the end plate (10b) of the support base segment (10) and / or between the support head (14a) and the end plate (14b) of the support head segment (14) and / or between the support base (10a) and the support head (14a).

[0106] (Point 9) Support device (100) according to one of the preceding points, characterized in that the segment (10, 12, 14) is made of concrete and comprises a concrete grade of C80 to C180.

[0107] (Point 10) Support device (100) according to one of the preceding points, characterized in that the support device (100) has further segments (10, 12, 14) designed as intermediate segments (12) which are arranged one above the other in a modular construction to form the single support column.

[0108] (Point 11) Support device (100) according to 10, characterized in that the further intermediate segments (12) are designed as prestressed spun concrete hollow bodies and / or as steel bodies, in particular as structural steel bodies, wherein the support device (100) further comprises several cantilevers (A) that connect a segment (10, 12, 14) designed as a support base segment (10) and / or a segment (10, 12, 14) designed as a support head segment (14) and / or the intermediate segments (12) to the rail string (S) or other adjacent supports.

[0109] (Point 12) Support device (100) according to 11, further comprising a ring element (24) which is arranged on the segment (10, 12, 14) and is configured to receive one or more cantilevers (A), wherein the ring element (24) is a single piece, or wherein the ring element (24) is formed in multiple parts with ring segments which generate a circumferential preload by means of a screw connection.

[0110] (Point 13) Support device (100) according to 11, further comprising a steel intermediate segment (32) arranged between two segments (10, 12, 14) and designed to accommodate one boom (A) or several booms (A).

[0111] (Point 14) Support device (100) according to 11, further comprising a connecting element (34) which is arranged between two segments (10, 12, 14) and is designed to accommodate one boom (A) or several booms (A).

[0112] (Point 15) Support device (100) according to 11, characterized in that the segment (10, 12, 14) further comprises a spun-in sleeve bar (36) or several spun-in sleeve bars (36) which are arranged to connect a boom (A) or several booms (A) to the segment (10, 12, 14).

[0113] (Point 16) Support device (100) according to 11, furthermore with a boom (A) which is arranged by a hinge connection or a pre-tensioned screw connection on a sling-in steel blade (40) of the segment (10, 12, 14).

[0114] (Point 17) Connecting element (34) for forming a connection between two segments (10, 12, 14) of a support device (100) of a roller coaster arrangement (1000) with at least one outrigger (A), comprising: a first connecting surface (FL1) at a first end of the connecting element (34), wherein the first connecting surface (FL1) is in or can be brought into detachable contact with an end of a first segment (12, 14); a second connecting surface (FL2) at a second end of the connecting element (34) opposite the first end, wherein the second connecting surface (FL2) is in or can be brought into detachable contact with an end of a further segment (10, 12); and a projecting nose part (34a) which is designed to connect the boom (A) to the connecting element (34) by means of a tab connection (36) in a force-fit manner.

[0115] (Point 18) Connecting element (34) according to 17, characterized in that the connecting element (34) is designed as an adapter ring plate or as an adapter circular plate.

[0116] (Point 19) Connecting element (34) according to 17 or 18, characterized in that the connection of the first segment (12, 14), the further segment (10, 12) and the connecting element (34) arranged coaxially between the first segment (12, 14) and the further segment (10, 12) is made by a common screw connection which passes through three coaxial bores arranged in series in the two segments and the connecting element.

[0117] (Point 20) Support device sub-assembly with a connecting element (34) according to one of points 17 to 19 and two segments (10, 12, 14) of a support device (100) of a roller coaster arrangement (1000), characterized in that the connecting element (34) is made of structural steel or quenched and tempered steel, in particular 42CrMo4 or 34CrNiMo6, and / or the segments (10, 12, 14) are designed as prestressed spun concrete hollow bodies and / or as steel bodies, in particular as structural steel bodies.

[0118] (Point 21) Roller coaster arrangement (1000) comprising a car arrangement and a track (S) with at least one support device (100) according to any one of points 1 to 16.

Claims

1. Connecting element (34) for forming a connection between two segments (10, 12, 14) of a support device (100) with at least one boom (A), comprising: a first connecting surface (FL1) at a first end of the connecting element (34), wherein the first connecting surface (FL1) is in or can be brought into releasable contact with an end of a first segment (12, 14); a second connecting surface (FL2) at a second end of the connecting element (34) opposite the first end, wherein the second connecting surface (FL2) is in or can be brought into releasable contact with an end of a further segment (10, 12); and a projecting nose part (34a) which is configured to force-fit the boom (A) to the connecting element (34) by means of a tab connection (36).

2. Connecting element (34) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the connecting element (34) is designed as an adapter ring plate or as an adapter circular plate.

3. Connecting element (34) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact that the connection of the first segment (12, 14), the further segment (10, 12) and the connecting element (34) arranged coaxially between the first segment (12, 14) and the further segment (10, 12) is made by a common screw connection which passes through three coaxial bores arranged in series in the two segments and the connecting element.

4. Connecting element (34) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by the fact that the connecting element (34) is made of structural steel.

5. Connecting element (34) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by the fact that the connecting element (34) is made of tempered steel, in particular 42CrMo4 or 34CrNiMo6.

6. Connecting element (34) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact thatthe first connecting surface (FL1) of the connecting element (34) is in or can be brought into detachable contact with a first end plate (12a, 14b) arranged at the end of the first segment (12, 14), and the second connecting surface (FL2) of the connecting element (34) is in or can be brought into detachable contact with a further end plate (10b, 12b) arranged at the end of the further segment (10, 12).

7. Ring element (24) of a support device (100) which is arranged on a segment (10, 12, 14) of the support device (100) and is configured to receive one or more cantilevers (A), wherein the ring element (24) is a single piece, or wherein the ring element (24) is formed in multiple parts with ring segments which generate a circumferential preload by means of a screw connection.

8. Ring element (24) according to claim 7, characterized by the fact that the ring element (24) is cylindrical.

9. Ring element (24) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized by the fact that the ring element (24) is made of steel and the boom A is welded to the ring element.

10. Ring element (24) according to one of claims 7 to 9, characterized by the fact that the ring element (24) is designed as a ring cuff.

11. Support device sub-assembly with a connecting element (34) according to one of claims 1 to 6 or a ring element (24) according to one of claims 7 to 10 and two segments (10, 12, 14) of a support device (100), characterized by the fact that the connecting element (34) is made of structural steel or quenched and tempered steel, in particular 42CrMo4 or 34CrNiMo6, or that the ring element (24) is made of steel and / or the segments (10, 12, 14) are designed as prestressed spun concrete hollow bodies and / or as steel bodies, in particular as structural steel bodies.

12. Support device sub-assembly according to claim 11, characterized by the fact thatthe support device sub-assembly has at least one segment (10, 12, 14) of the support device (100) designed as an intermediate segment (12), wherein the segments (10, 12, 14) are arranged one above the other in a modular design to form a single support column.

13. Support device subassembly according to claim 12, characterized by the fact that the at least one intermediate segment (12) is designed as a prestressed spun concrete hollow body and / or as a steel body, in particular as a structural steel body, wherein the segments (10, 12, 14) of the support device (100) further comprise at least one cantilever (A).

14. Support device sub-assembly according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized by the fact that the segments (10, 12, 14) have a conical shape or a cylindrical shape.

15. Roller coaster arrangement (1000) comprising a car arrangement, a track (S) and a support device (100) with at least one support device sub-assembly according to one of claims 11 to 14.

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