Variable Vehicle Ride Switch Dynamic Pathway Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing amusement park rides lack flexibility in vehicle direction and pathway adjustment, leading to bottlenecks and limited excitement for repeat riders, especially in track-based and trackless rides.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a variable vehicle ride switch with a rotating base and actuable conveyor that can change the orientation and path of ride vehicles dynamically, allowing for multiple input and output paths, orientation reversals, and simultaneous handling of multiple vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed switches are used to direct ride vehicles along different track sections, then vehicle direction can be changed at fixed angles, but the switches become bottlenecks and cannot be dynamically adjusted during the ride
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic switch system where the conveyor belt can change its angle of rotation during operation. The switch is no longer fixed at a predetermined angle but can be adjusted in real-time based on ride conditions, vehicle positions, and operational requirements. This dynamic capability allows the switch to adapt to multiple vehicles simultaneously and change pathways on-the-fly, eliminating the bottleneck effect of fixed switches while maintaining directional control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If track switches are used to change vehicle direction, then fixed angle rotation is achieved, but the system cannot handle multiple spaced-apart vehicles with dynamic pathway adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor-based switch system serves multiple functions: it can change vehicle direction at variable angles, hold vehicles temporarily, transfer vehicles between different pathways, and accommodate multiple vehicles simultaneously at different positions. This multi-functional design replaces the need for multiple specialized fixed switches, reducing overall system complexity while increasing adaptability to handle various ride scenarios with multiple spaced-apart vehicles.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed angle switches are implemented, then complete track loops are achieved, but dynamic adjustment of vehicle pathway during ride is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The switch system incorporates dynamic angle adjustment capability, allowing the conveyor belt to rotate to different angles during the ride rather than being fixed at a predetermined angle. This enables the ride to reconfigure pathways on-the-fly, creating variable ride experiences for repeat riders and allowing dynamic response to operational conditions without extending ride duration, as adjustments occur seamlessly during vehicle traversal.
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 solution enhances ride experience by providing flexibility in pathways and orientations, reducing bottlenecks, and extending the lifespan of rides, while allowing for dynamic reconfiguration and increased throughput.
Implementation Method 1
at least one conveyor positioned on the base and configured to actuate relative to the base to move a ride vehicle
Data Source
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AI summary
A variable vehicle ride switch in accordance with present embodiments includes a base configured to rotate with respect to a ride surface. The variable vehicle ride switch also includes a conveyor positioned on the base that can actuate relative to the base to move a ride vehicle towards or away from an outer edge of the base and to change an angle or orientation of the at least one conveyor within the base, e.g., to rotate within the base. The variable vehicle ride switch also includes a controller configured to receive an activation signal to cause the base to rotate and to actuate the conveyor.