Rollercoaster Reverse Track Switch for Multi-Segment Reversal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rollercoaster attractions that provide backwards riding experiences require costly and complex arrangements for reversing the ride vehicle direction, necessitating significant initial capital investment and operational complexity.
Innovation Solution
A reverse track switch device, or switchback, with a movable dead-end track section that can be aligned with multiple trajectory segments, allowing the ride vehicle to travel in both forward and backward directions using a single installation, reducing the need for separate reversal arrangements and minimizing space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate reversal arrangements are installed for each trajectory segment, then the ride vehicle can reverse direction multiple times, but the device complexity and initial capital investment increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The switchback device is designed to serve multiple trajectory segments with a single installation. The movable dead-end track section can be positioned to connect with different trajectory segments, allowing one switchback to enable reversals for multiple segments rather than requiring separate reversal arrangements for each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The dead-end track section is made movable between different positions to align with various trajectory segments. This dynamic positioning capability allows the same physical structure to serve multiple functions and connect with different track segments as needed, providing versatility without proportionally increasing device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate reversal arrangements are installed, then the ride vehicle can reverse direction along multiple trajectory segments, but the space requirements and construction costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single switchback installation serves multiple trajectory segments, eliminating the need for separate reversal arrangements for each segment. This multi-functional approach reduces the total track length and space requirements while maintaining the capability to reverse direction along multiple segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple reversal functions into a single integrated switchback device. By merging what would otherwise be separate reversal arrangements into one unified structure that can be positioned to serve multiple segments, the overall space and construction requirements are reduced.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex reversal arrangements are used, then backward riding experience is provided, but the operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable dead-end track section simplifies operation by automatically aligning with the appropriate trajectory segment. The dynamic positioning mechanism reduces operational complexity compared to static complex arrangements, as the system adapts its configuration based on which segment needs to be accessed.
Data Source
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AI summary
Rollercoaster comprising 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.