Amusement Device Tilting Arm Nesting Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Amusement devices with rotating structures face challenges in cost, implementation complexity, and aesthetics due to protruding arms and the need for extensive base structures, which hinder efficient passenger loading and unloading.
Innovation Solution
An amusement device design featuring a base structure, a rotatably constrained arm with movable portions, and a rotating structure where the arm is completely contained within a cylinder during the load position, utilizing a four-bar linkage for controlled movement and reduced bulk, allowing for aesthetic improvements and simplified installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the arm is made protruding to support the rotating structure, then the structural stability is improved, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates and implementation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The arm is completely contained within the cylindrical volume defined by the rotating structure's radius during the load position, nesting the support structure within the aesthetic envelope. This eliminates protruding elements while maintaining structural functionality through the four-bar linkage mechanism that operates within the cylinder.
Solution Approach 2:
The design transitions from a traditional protruding arm configuration to a compact mechanism that operates within the vertical and radial dimensions of the rotating structure itself. The four-bar linkage enables movement within the cylindrical space, eliminating the need for external arm extensions.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the arm is made protruding to support the rotating structure, then the structural stability is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The four-bar linkage mechanism is nested within the cylindrical volume of the rotating structure, eliminating the need for external arm extensions and complex mounting structures. This reduces both the visual complexity and the implementation complexity while maintaining structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The four-bar linkage provides a dynamic mechanism that enables the arm to move between positions while remaining contained within the cylinder. This dynamic solution replaces static protruding structures with a compact, space-efficient mechanism that achieves the same functional goals with reduced complexity.
3Shape
If the arm is completely contained within the cylinder during load position, then the aesthetic appearance and space efficiency are improved, but the structural stability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The four-bar linkage provides a dynamic support mechanism that maintains structural stability while operating within the compact cylindrical space. The linkage's mechanical advantage and geometric constraints ensure stable support for the rotating structure without requiring external protruding arms.
Solution Approach 2:
The support mechanism operates within the vertical and radial dimensions of the rotating structure, utilizing the cylindrical space efficiently. The four-bar linkage transfers loads through the vertical axis and radial constraints, maintaining stability without external arm extensions.
4Stability of the object's composition
If traditional base structures are used to support the arm, then the structural stability is improved, but the space requirements and implementation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The arm and support mechanism are nested within the cylindrical volume of the rotating structure, eliminating the need for extensive external base structures. This compact configuration reduces the footprint and space requirements while maintaining structural stability through the integrated four-bar linkage.
Solution Approach 2:
The four-bar linkage serves multiple functions: it supports the rotating structure, enables movement between positions, and maintains stability—all within the compact cylindrical envelope. This multi-functional mechanism replaces the need for separate extensive base structures.
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
This design reduces bulk, simplifies installation, and enhances aesthetics while maintaining efficient passenger loading and unloading, allowing for more attractions in amusement parks with reduced space and cost requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a first portion (31) has a four-bar linkage (31a, 31b, 31c)
Implementation Method 2
Such amusement devices comprise a hydraulic arm on which a wheel provided with vehicles is mounted
Implementation Method 3
they are moved to a tilted position due to the centrifugal force caused by a quick rotation of the rotating structure carrying the vehicles
Data Source
AI summary
Amusement device comprising a base structure (2), an arm (3) constrained at least rotationally to said base structure (2), a rotating structure (4) provided with at least one vehicle (8) and rotatably constrained, with respect to one end of said arm, around a rotation axis (R), and movement means (6) for moving the arm between at least a first load position in which passengers are loaded, and a second rotation position of the rotating structure (4). The arm comprises at least two portions (31, 32) mutually movable, and in the load position, the arm portions are completely comprised in a cylinder (C) having an axis that is said rotation axis (R), and having a radius that is the distance from the vehicle to the rotation axis.