Descending Track Swing Gravity Transport System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water recreational systems, such as zip-line and rope swing combinations, are complex and costly to manufacture, making them inefficient in providing a safe and fun experience in a cost-effective manner.
Innovation Solution
The Descending Track Swing (DTS) system, which includes a frame assembly, Y-connection assembly, track support assembly, track assembly, trolley, and grab device, allows users to be transported from a position on land to over water, using a gravity-driven trolley on an inclined track, with a retraction mechanism for repeated use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a zip-line system is used to transport users over water, then users can be transported from land to water, but the system becomes complicated and costly to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: a frame assembly with left and right leg assemblies, a track assembly supported by the frame, and a trolley that moves along the track. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently and assembled together, reducing overall system complexity and manufacturing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the zip-line transport function with a rope swing entertainment function into a single integrated system. The trolley carries both the transport mechanism and the swing rope, allowing users to be transported over water and then swing into the water, thereby reducing the need for separate systems while lowering manufacturing costs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a rope swing is combined with a zip-line, then users can swing into water after transport, but the frame complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The trolley is designed as a multi-functional component that serves both as the transport vehicle along the track and as the support structure for the rope swing. This universal design allows a single component to perform multiple functions, reducing the need for additional frame structures and lowering manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The rope swing mechanism is nested within the trolley structure, with the swing rope attached to the trolley that itself is attached to the track. This nested arrangement allows the swing function to be integrated into the transport mechanism without requiring a separate, complex frame structure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The DTS system simplifies the manufacturing process while providing a safe and enjoyable experience by reducing complexity and costs, allowing for efficient user transport and easy retraction of the trolley for repeated use.
Implementation Method 1
the trolley will be driven under gravity from the first end of the cable to the second end of the cable
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for engaging with a user, the system for transporting the user forward from a first position to a second position. The system can include (A) a frame assembly including: (a) a left leg assembly and (b) a right leg assembly; (B) a Y-connection assembly, the Y-connection assembly connected to both an upper end of the left leg and an upper end of the right leg; (C) a track support assembly, the track support assembly being connected to, and supported under, the Y-connection assembly, the track support assembly extending in a transport direction and along the vertical axis; (D) a track assembly, the track assembly being supported by the track support assembly, and the track assembly including a track; (E) a trolley, the trolley movably positioned upon the track; and (F) a grab device.