Trolley Brake Assembly with Dynamic Force Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current trolley systems for suspended cable systems face challenges with inconsistent braking performance across varying weather conditions and lack user control over braking force, which can lead to safety issues and reduced throughput in amusement rides.
Innovation Solution
A trolley system with an adjustable brake assembly featuring segmented brake pads made of different materials and a mechanism for on-the-fly adjustment of braking force, combined with a retrieval system that minimizes operator interaction and prevents collisions by using a closed-loop retrieval line.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a fixed brake assembly is used, then the structure is simple, but the braking performance varies significantly with weather conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The brake assembly incorporates an adjustable mechanism that allows the braking force to be dynamically modified based on weather conditions. The brake pad position can be changed along the cable to adapt to varying friction coefficients caused by rain or temperature changes, transforming a static system into a dynamic one that maintains reliable braking performance across different environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows operators to change the braking parameter (brake pad position) in response to changing weather conditions. By adjusting the position of the brake pad along the cable, the effective braking force is modified to compensate for changes in the coefficient of friction caused by environmental factors, thereby maintaining consistent braking reliability.
2Ease of operation
If braking force is fixed, then safety is simplified, but user control and adaptability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The brake assembly incorporates an adjustable mechanism that allows the braking force to be dynamically modified based on weather conditions. The brake pad position can be changed along the cable to adapt to varying friction coefficients caused by rain or temperature changes, transforming a static system into a dynamic one that maintains reliable braking performance across different environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables users to independently adjust the brake pad position according to their needs and weather conditions without requiring operator intervention. This self-adjustment capability empowers users to control their own braking experience while maintaining safety, eliminating the need for complex operator-controlled mechanisms.
3Reliability
If operators closely monitor weather conditions, then braking safety is improved, but operator workload and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables users to independently adjust the brake pad position according to their needs and weather conditions without requiring operator intervention. This self-adjustment capability empowers users to control their own braking experience while maintaining safety, eliminating the need for complex operator-controlled mechanisms.
4Productivity
If trolley retrieval requires operator intervention, then collision safety is maintained, but throughput and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The retrieval system incorporates sensors that detect the presence and position of trolleys on the cable. When a trolley is detected, the system automatically prevents retrieval operations, creating a feedback loop that ensures collision prevention. This automated feedback mechanism eliminates the need for continuous operator monitoring while maintaining safety, thereby increasing throughput.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables users to independently adjust the brake pad position according to their needs and weather conditions without requiring operator intervention. This self-adjustment capability empowers users to control their own braking experience while maintaining safety, eliminating the need for complex operator-controlled mechanisms.
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 provides consistent braking performance across weather conditions, allows user control over braking force, and enhances safety and throughput by automatically adjusting braking and minimizing operator intervention.
Implementation Method 1
a brake assembly that generates a friction force between a brake pad and the cable sufficient to slow and stop the trolley
Data Source
AI summary
A trolley for traveling along a cable. The trolley may include a frame having a first end, a second end, and a rail positioned between the first and second ends. A brake pad may connect to the frame. A sheave mount may also connect to the frame and include a sheave for rolling along the cable. A carriage may connect to the frame and include a user mount for suspending a user. The carriage may selectively travel along the rail through a continuous range of motion to control a braking force generated by the trolley between the brake pad and the cable.