Rollercoaster Reverse Track Switchback for Multi-Segment Rides

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing rollercoaster attractions requiring costly arrangements and increased operational complexity to reverse the ride vehicle direction for thrill experiences.

Innovation Solution

A reverse track switch device with a movable dead-end track section that can be aligned with multiple trajectory segments, allowing the ride vehicle to reverse direction multiple times using a single installation, reducing the need for additional arrangements and simplifying operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate reverse track arrangements are installed to enable reverse rides at different trajectory segments, then the thrill experience for passengers is improved, but the installation cost and operational complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereverse ride capabilityVSAvoidtrack switch arrangement

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies multi-functionality by designing a single reverse track switch device that can serve multiple trajectory segments. The switchback is configured to be aligned with multiple trajectory segments and can redirect vehicles to different segments, allowing one device to perform the function of multiple separate reverse track arrangements, thereby reducing overall system complexity and installation cost while maintaining versatile reverse ride capabilities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple reverse track functions into a single integrated switchback structure. By merging the capabilities of multiple separate track switches into one device that can redirect to multiple trajectory segments, the system achieves the same thrill experience with reduced operational complexity and lower installation costs

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Duration of action of moving object

If the trajectory length is extended to provide more reverse ride segments, then the ride duration and passenger experience are improved, but the installation cost and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveride durationVSAvoidtrajectory length

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of moving objectVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes spatial redirection by directing vehicles back along previously traversed trajectory segments in the opposite direction. This dimensional approach allows the vehicle to experience extended ride duration by revisiting and re-traversing existing track segments, rather than requiring continuous extension of the physical trajectory length, thereby achieving longer rides without proportionally increasing installation cost and space requirements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS20250325912A1Rollercoaster switch back for a reverse ride on trajectory segment track

Publication Date: 2025.10.23 VEKOMA RIDES ENGINEERING BV

AI summary

A rollercoaster includes a reverse track switch device including a dead-end track section which is movable between at least three switch positions. The three switch positions include an entrance position and at least two exit positions. The exit positions are in alignment with a first and second trajectory segment. On one trajectory segment, passengers enjoy a backwards ride, whilst on the other trajectory segment a forward ride is made. The separate two exit positions are beneficial in that a single reverse track switch device may suffice to obtain a spectacular rollercoaster trajectory including a reverse riding trajectory segment.