Powered Zipline Trolley With Weight-Balancing Wings for Flatlands
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing zipline systems require geographical features like mountainous regions to function, limiting their use to flatlands, and prior art lacks effective and safe implementation of self-propelled trolleys with thrust generation.
Innovation Solution
A zipline system with a trolley featuring horizontally extending wings, an integrated thrust generating unit (e.g., electric turbine), energy storage, and a weight distribution system, allowing operation in flatlands and ensuring rider safety and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional gravity-based zipline system is used, then the system can operate with simple structure, but it requires geographical features (mountainous regions) with significant height difference between start and finish bases
Solution Approach 1:
The zipline system performs preliminary action by using a thrust generating unit (electric or internal combustion engine) to propel the trolley along the zipline before the rider disembarks. This preliminary propulsion action enables the system to overcome the lack of gravitational potential energy in flatland environments, allowing operation without requiring height difference between start and finish bases.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention substitutes the traditional gravity-based mechanical system with a powered propulsion system. Instead of relying solely on gravitational force to move the trolley from high to low elevation, the system uses electric or internal combustion engines to generate thrust, replacing the gravity-dependent mechanical mechanism with an active propulsion mechanism that can operate on flat terrain.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a self-propelled trolley with thrust generating unit is implemented, then the zipline can operate in flatlands, but the safety and effective implementation of thrust generation was not adequately addressed in prior art
Solution Approach 1:
The zipline system implements feedback control through a control unit that monitors the operation of the thrust generating unit and adjusts power delivery accordingly. The control unit receives signals about the trolley's position, speed, and operational status, and modulates the engine or electric motor output to maintain safe and efficient operation throughout the ride cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies beforehand cushioning by incorporating safety mechanisms that prepare for potential emergencies before they occur. This includes controlled deceleration systems that gradually reduce speed before the trolley reaches the finish base, and emergency stop capabilities that can be activated if abnormal conditions are detected during operation.
3Speed
If rigid attachment of harness to wing is used, then unnecessary inertia during acceleration is avoided, but the structure requires precise rigid connection to prevent rider movement
Solution Approach 1:
The harness is rigidly merged with the wing structure of the trolley, creating an integrated assembly where the rider is securely attached to the load-bearing wing rather than to a separate frame. This merging eliminates relative movement and unnecessary inertia between the harness and wing during acceleration, while the wing's inherent structural strength provides the necessary rigidity.
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
Enables zipline operation in flatlands by providing forward thrust and balancing uneven rider weights, ensuring safe and stable travel with energy-efficient retrieval.
Implementation Method 1
The trolley (16) comprises a thrust generating unit (4) attached to the body (17) of the trolley (16) and configured to provide a forward thrust to the trolley (16)
Implementation Method 2
In a preferred embodiment the turbine is arranged above the wings and positioned on the vertical axis of the trolley so that the weight of the turbine is distributed symmetrically
Implementation Method 3
The energy storage unit in a case of the electric turbine is a battery which is electrically connected to the electric turbine
Implementation Method 4
The wheels rest on the zipline so that the trolley can move along the zipline
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to zipline systems and control thereof. A zipline system comprising a starting base (1), a finish base (14) and a zipline (2) extended therebetween. The system comprise a trolley (16) arranged on the zipline (2). The trolley (16) comprises two wings (18), harnesses (19) attached to each wing (18) and configured to secure riders (5) of the system. The trolley (16) comprises a thrust generating unit (4) to provide a forward thrust to the trolley (16), an energy storage unit to store energy for the thrust generating unit (4) and a power control unit to control the thrust generating unit (4). Each wing (18) comprises a weight distribution system (20) to balance a centre of gravity of the trolley (16) along its vertical axis (X). The system further comprises a retrieve track (6) to retrieve the trolley (16) back to the starting base (1).