Carousel Lift System for Uniform Figure Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional carousel ride systems cause delays and accessibility issues during loading and unloading due to varying vertical heights of figures, making it difficult for riders to climb on and off, especially those in raised positions.
Innovation Solution
A lift system with annular tracks that moves figures up and down relative to the rotatable platform during ride operations and positions them at the same vertical height during loading and unloading, using actuators and a control system to coordinate the movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If figures are positioned at varying vertical heights during rotation, then the ride experience is enhanced, but loading and unloading operations become difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The lift system dynamically adjusts the vertical position of figures based on the operational phase. During loading/unloading, all figures are positioned at the same vertical height for easy access. During ride operations, figures are raised to varying heights to create the desired ride experience. This dynamic repositioning resolves the contradiction between ride variety and loading ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic cycles of loading, riding, and unloading operations. During each loading/unloading cycle, figures are lowered to a standardized height. During ride cycles, figures are raised to varying heights. This periodic switching between standardized and varied positioning resolves the contradiction by applying the appropriate configuration at the appropriate time.
2Productivity
If figures remain at varying vertical heights throughout operation, then the ride maintains continuous motion, but loading and unloading operations experience delays
Solution Approach 1:
Before loading and unloading operations begin, the lift system preliminarily positions all figures at the same vertical height. This preliminary action ensures that when loading/unloading occurs, no time is wasted adjusting figure heights, thereby eliminating delays while maintaining operational continuity during the ride portion.
3Adaptability or versatility
If figures are raised to varying heights during rotation, then rider excitement is increased, but accessibility for riders with mobility issues is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts figure heights based on operational needs. During loading/unloading phases, all figures are positioned at a standardized, accessible height that accommodates riders with mobility issues. During ride phases, figures are raised to varying heights to increase excitement. This dynamic adjustment ensures both accessibility and ride intensity are optimized at different times.
Data Source
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AI summary
A carousel ride system includes a rotatable platform, a plurality of figures that are configured to rotate with the rotatable platform, and a lift system. The lift system is configured to raise and to lower the plurality of figures relative to the rotatable platform along a vertical axis during ride operations and to position each of the plurality of figures at a same vertical height relative the rotatable platform along the vertical axis during loading and unloading operations.