Amusement Ride Braking System for Interactive Speed Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional roller coasters lack an interactive element that allows riders to control their speed, making the ride experience less engaging and competitive.
Innovation Solution
An amusement ride with a braking system that induces a braking force on the carriage due to inertial forces, requiring riders to counteract this force to maintain speed, incorporating magnetic or friction braking systems and user interfaces to enhance interaction and competition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a braking system is added to allow rider control, then interactivity and competitiveness are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The braking system automatically detects when the carriage is on a curved portion of the track and applies braking force without requiring manual activation by the rider. The system monitors carriage position and speed, and the braking mechanism engages automatically when needed, reducing the need for complex control interfaces while maintaining rider influence over speed through body positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical braking systems with a magnetic braking mechanism that uses magnetic fields to apply braking force. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity by eliminating contact-based braking components while maintaining effective speed control capability.
2Reliability
If automatic braking is applied on curved portions, then safety and speed control are improved, but loss of time occurs due to unintended slowing
Solution Approach 1:
The braking system incorporates feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor carriage speed, position, and the rider's counteracting actions. When the system detects that the rider is actively counteracting the braking force (indicating intentional speed maintenance), it automatically reduces or cancels the braking application. This feedback loop ensures braking is only effective when the rider is not actively resisting, preventing unintended time loss while maintaining safety and control reliability.
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 system introduces an interactive element that makes the ride more enjoyable and competitive by allowing riders to control their speed, enhancing the thrill and participation in the experience.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic or friction braking systems
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic or friction braking systems
Implementation Method 3
at least part of the carriage will move in response to at least one inertial force acting upon the carriage
Data Source
AI summary
An amusement ride having a track (15) with a curved portion, a carriage (1) for holding an occupant (7) that is movable along the track, and a braking system. At least part of the carriage (1) will move in response to at least one inertial force acting upon the carriage as the carriage traverses the curved portion of the track, in the absence of a counteraction by an occupant of the carriage. The braking system operates in response to the movement of the at least part of the carriage (1) to inducing a braking force. Upon an action by an occupant of the carriage (1) to counteract the induction of the braking force, the braking force acting on the carriage is reduced or substantially avoided.