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The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 1 / 24

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Page 1: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters

Erik M. Olague

November 21, 2009

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 1 / 24

Page 2: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Outline

1 BeginningsRussian Mountains

2 RevolutionsSteelAmusement Parks go to War

3 SafetySafety in Roller CoastersThe Car Hangs on TightNo Rolling Back on the JobArt in Roller Coasters

4 What Makes a Good Roller Coaster?ThinkGood Roller Coaster QualitiesSmoothYes SmoothForcesConnecting the TwoThird Derivative Continuous

5 Other Design TechniquesHeartlining

6 Application

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 2 / 24

Page 3: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Beginnings Russian Mountains

Beginnings

Roller Coasters started in Russia.

Constructed mainly out of ice.

Many languages still use the term “Russian Mountain”

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 3 / 24

Page 4: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Beginnings Russian Mountains

Beginnings

Roller Coasters started in Russia.

Constructed mainly out of ice.

Many languages still use the term “Russian Mountain”

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 3 / 24

Page 5: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Beginnings Russian Mountains

Beginnings

Roller Coasters started in Russia.

Constructed mainly out of ice.

Many languages still use the term “Russian Mountain”

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 3 / 24

Page 6: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Beginnings Russian Mountains

Beginnings

Mauch Chunk Gravity Railroad.

Switchback Railway was the first “conventional” roller coaster.

Through the 1920’s, roller coasters reamined popular.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 4 / 24

Page 7: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Beginnings Russian Mountains

Beginnings

Mauch Chunk Gravity Railroad.

Switchback Railway was the first “conventional” roller coaster.

Through the 1920’s, roller coasters reamined popular.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 4 / 24

Page 8: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Beginnings Russian Mountains

Beginnings

Mauch Chunk Gravity Railroad.

Switchback Railway was the first “conventional” roller coaster.

Through the 1920’s, roller coasters reamined popular.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 4 / 24

Page 9: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Revolutions Steel

Steel Leads the Way

The Great Depression saw a temporary halt in coaster development.

In 1959, Disney opened Matterhorn Bobsleds, the world’s first steelroller coaster.

Allowed for the extreme manipulation of the track.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 5 / 24

Page 10: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Revolutions Steel

Steel Leads the Way

The Great Depression saw a temporary halt in coaster development.

In 1959, Disney opened Matterhorn Bobsleds, the world’s first steelroller coaster.

Allowed for the extreme manipulation of the track.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 5 / 24

Page 11: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Revolutions Steel

Steel Leads the Way

The Great Depression saw a temporary halt in coaster development.

In 1959, Disney opened Matterhorn Bobsleds, the world’s first steelroller coaster.

Allowed for the extreme manipulation of the track.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 5 / 24

Page 12: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Revolutions Amusement Parks go to War

Amusement Parks go to War

Cedar Point’s Magnum XL-200 broke 200 ft. in 1989.

Amusement Parks in the 90’s fought to claim the tallest coaster title.

Several parks unveild the new so called “hyper coaster”.

New designers such as Bolliger and Mabillard and Intamin AGcame to prominence during the coaster wars.

People have always wondered if roller coasters are safe, the coasterwars didn’t change that.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 6 / 24

Page 13: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Revolutions Amusement Parks go to War

Amusement Parks go to War

Cedar Point’s Magnum XL-200 broke 200 ft. in 1989.

Amusement Parks in the 90’s fought to claim the tallest coaster title.

Several parks unveild the new so called “hyper coaster”.

New designers such as Bolliger and Mabillard and Intamin AGcame to prominence during the coaster wars.

People have always wondered if roller coasters are safe, the coasterwars didn’t change that.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 6 / 24

Page 14: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Revolutions Amusement Parks go to War

Amusement Parks go to War

Cedar Point’s Magnum XL-200 broke 200 ft. in 1989.

Amusement Parks in the 90’s fought to claim the tallest coaster title.

Several parks unveild the new so called “hyper coaster”.

New designers such as Bolliger and Mabillard and Intamin AGcame to prominence during the coaster wars.

People have always wondered if roller coasters are safe, the coasterwars didn’t change that.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 6 / 24

Page 15: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Revolutions Amusement Parks go to War

Amusement Parks go to War

Cedar Point’s Magnum XL-200 broke 200 ft. in 1989.

Amusement Parks in the 90’s fought to claim the tallest coaster title.

Several parks unveild the new so called “hyper coaster”.

New designers such as Bolliger and Mabillard and Intamin AGcame to prominence during the coaster wars.

People have always wondered if roller coasters are safe, the coasterwars didn’t change that.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 6 / 24

Page 16: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Revolutions Amusement Parks go to War

Amusement Parks go to War

Cedar Point’s Magnum XL-200 broke 200 ft. in 1989.

Amusement Parks in the 90’s fought to claim the tallest coaster title.

Several parks unveild the new so called “hyper coaster”.

New designers such as Bolliger and Mabillard and Intamin AGcame to prominence during the coaster wars.

People have always wondered if roller coasters are safe, the coasterwars didn’t change that.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 6 / 24

Page 17: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Safety Safety in Roller Coasters

Safety in Roller Coasters

Roller Coasters employ a series of techniques to ensure optimal safety.

A roller coaster cannot “fly off” the track.

Nor can the trains slip off the lift hill.

Designers employ a complex set of rules on the design of the track.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 7 / 24

Page 18: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Safety Safety in Roller Coasters

Safety in Roller Coasters

Roller Coasters employ a series of techniques to ensure optimal safety.

A roller coaster cannot “fly off” the track.

Nor can the trains slip off the lift hill.

Designers employ a complex set of rules on the design of the track.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 7 / 24

Page 19: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Safety Safety in Roller Coasters

Safety in Roller Coasters

Roller Coasters employ a series of techniques to ensure optimal safety.

A roller coaster cannot “fly off” the track.

Nor can the trains slip off the lift hill.

Designers employ a complex set of rules on the design of the track.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 7 / 24

Page 20: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Safety Safety in Roller Coasters

Safety in Roller Coasters

Roller Coasters employ a series of techniques to ensure optimal safety.

A roller coaster cannot “fly off” the track.

Nor can the trains slip off the lift hill.

Designers employ a complex set of rules on the design of the track.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 7 / 24

Page 21: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Safety The Car Hangs on Tight

The Car Hangs on Tight

The train in essence “hugs the track”.

Upstop wheels hold the train in the vertical direction.

Guide wheels hold the train in the horizontal.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 8 / 24

Page 22: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Safety The Car Hangs on Tight

The Car Hangs on Tight

The train in essence “hugs the track”.

Upstop wheels hold the train in the vertical direction.

Guide wheels hold the train in the horizontal.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 8 / 24

Page 23: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Safety The Car Hangs on Tight

The Car Hangs on Tight

The train in essence “hugs the track”.

Upstop wheels hold the train in the vertical direction.

Guide wheels hold the train in the horizontal.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 8 / 24

Page 24: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Safety No Rolling Back on the Job

No Rolling Back on the Job

On the lift hill, a train can never roll back down.

“Anti-rollbacks” will catch the train if the chain breaks.

Responsible for the iconic sound on the lift hill.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 9 / 24

Page 25: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Safety No Rolling Back on the Job

No Rolling Back on the Job

On the lift hill, a train can never roll back down.

“Anti-rollbacks” will catch the train if the chain breaks.

Responsible for the iconic sound on the lift hill.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 9 / 24

Page 26: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Safety No Rolling Back on the Job

No Rolling Back on the Job

On the lift hill, a train can never roll back down.

“Anti-rollbacks” will catch the train if the chain breaks.

Responsible for the iconic sound on the lift hill.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 9 / 24

Page 27: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Safety Art in Roller Coasters

Art in Roller Coasters

Roller Coasters really are peices of art.

Designers give themeselves limits in g-forces and shapes to design aroller coaster.

Designers take into account human physiology and psycology whenproducing a design.

Observing the track can lead riders into the mind of the designers.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 10 / 24

Page 28: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Safety Art in Roller Coasters

Art in Roller Coasters

Roller Coasters really are peices of art.

Designers give themeselves limits in g-forces and shapes to design aroller coaster.

Designers take into account human physiology and psycology whenproducing a design.

Observing the track can lead riders into the mind of the designers.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 10 / 24

Page 29: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Safety Art in Roller Coasters

Art in Roller Coasters

Roller Coasters really are peices of art.

Designers give themeselves limits in g-forces and shapes to design aroller coaster.

Designers take into account human physiology and psycology whenproducing a design.

Observing the track can lead riders into the mind of the designers.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 10 / 24

Page 30: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Safety Art in Roller Coasters

Art in Roller Coasters

Roller Coasters really are peices of art.

Designers give themeselves limits in g-forces and shapes to design aroller coaster.

Designers take into account human physiology and psycology whenproducing a design.

Observing the track can lead riders into the mind of the designers.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 10 / 24

Page 31: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Think

What is Your Favorite Roller Coaster?

What about your favorite roller coaster do you like?

What is the pacing on the greatest roller coasters?

How does your favorite roller coaster feel?

If you were to make your dream coaster, what would it be like?

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 11 / 24

Page 32: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Think

What is Your Favorite Roller Coaster?

What about your favorite roller coaster do you like?

What is the pacing on the greatest roller coasters?

How does your favorite roller coaster feel?

If you were to make your dream coaster, what would it be like?

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 11 / 24

Page 33: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Think

What is Your Favorite Roller Coaster?

What about your favorite roller coaster do you like?

What is the pacing on the greatest roller coasters?

How does your favorite roller coaster feel?

If you were to make your dream coaster, what would it be like?

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 11 / 24

Page 34: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Think

What is Your Favorite Roller Coaster?

What about your favorite roller coaster do you like?

What is the pacing on the greatest roller coasters?

How does your favorite roller coaster feel?

If you were to make your dream coaster, what would it be like?

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 11 / 24

Page 35: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Good Roller Coaster Qualities

Good Roller Coaster Qualities

No jolts in the track.

Quick, but not unpleasant changes in forces.

Good pacing.

Intense, but not uncomfortable.

Asthetics.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 12 / 24

Page 36: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Good Roller Coaster Qualities

Good Roller Coaster Qualities

No jolts in the track.

Quick, but not unpleasant changes in forces.

Good pacing.

Intense, but not uncomfortable.

Asthetics.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 12 / 24

Page 37: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Good Roller Coaster Qualities

Good Roller Coaster Qualities

No jolts in the track.

Quick, but not unpleasant changes in forces.

Good pacing.

Intense, but not uncomfortable.

Asthetics.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 12 / 24

Page 38: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Good Roller Coaster Qualities

Good Roller Coaster Qualities

No jolts in the track.

Quick, but not unpleasant changes in forces.

Good pacing.

Intense, but not uncomfortable.

Asthetics.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 12 / 24

Page 39: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Good Roller Coaster Qualities

Good Roller Coaster Qualities

No jolts in the track.

Quick, but not unpleasant changes in forces.

Good pacing.

Intense, but not uncomfortable.

Asthetics.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 12 / 24

Page 40: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Smooth

Smooth?

Smooth roller coasters don’t have any jolts in the track path.

Wooden roller coasters often have vibrations, but their track is stillsmooth.

“Rough” roller coaster paths can be uncomfortable even on steelcoasters.

What mathematical properties does a smooth track have?

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 13 / 24

Page 41: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Smooth

Smooth?

Smooth roller coasters don’t have any jolts in the track path.

Wooden roller coasters often have vibrations, but their track is stillsmooth.

“Rough” roller coaster paths can be uncomfortable even on steelcoasters.

What mathematical properties does a smooth track have?

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 13 / 24

Page 42: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Smooth

Smooth?

Smooth roller coasters don’t have any jolts in the track path.

Wooden roller coasters often have vibrations, but their track is stillsmooth.

“Rough” roller coaster paths can be uncomfortable even on steelcoasters.

What mathematical properties does a smooth track have?

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 13 / 24

Page 43: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Smooth

Smooth?

Smooth roller coasters don’t have any jolts in the track path.

Wooden roller coasters often have vibrations, but their track is stillsmooth.

“Rough” roller coaster paths can be uncomfortable even on steelcoasters.

What mathematical properties does a smooth track have?

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 13 / 24

Page 44: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Yes Smooth

Yes, Smooth

The path any roller coaster takes is at least first derivative continuous.

Most modern-day roller coasters are continuous in their secondderivative.

More twisted roller coasters are continuous in their third and higherderivatives.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 14 / 24

Page 45: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Yes Smooth

Yes, Smooth

The path any roller coaster takes is at least first derivative continuous.

Most modern-day roller coasters are continuous in their secondderivative.

More twisted roller coasters are continuous in their third and higherderivatives.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 14 / 24

Page 46: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Yes Smooth

Yes, Smooth

The path any roller coaster takes is at least first derivative continuous.

Most modern-day roller coasters are continuous in their secondderivative.

More twisted roller coasters are continuous in their third and higherderivatives.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 14 / 24

Page 47: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Forces

Forces

Forces are created when the train is changing direction in some formor another.

Turns and pullups on drops create positive vertical g-forces.

Cresting a hill creates negative or zero g-forces.

Some turns and twisting motions create lateral g-forces.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 15 / 24

Page 48: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Forces

Forces

Forces are created when the train is changing direction in some formor another.

Turns and pullups on drops create positive vertical g-forces.

Cresting a hill creates negative or zero g-forces.

Some turns and twisting motions create lateral g-forces.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 15 / 24

Page 49: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Forces

Forces

Forces are created when the train is changing direction in some formor another.

Turns and pullups on drops create positive vertical g-forces.

Cresting a hill creates negative or zero g-forces.

Some turns and twisting motions create lateral g-forces.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 15 / 24

Page 50: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Forces

Forces

Forces are created when the train is changing direction in some formor another.

Turns and pullups on drops create positive vertical g-forces.

Cresting a hill creates negative or zero g-forces.

Some turns and twisting motions create lateral g-forces.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 15 / 24

Page 51: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Connecting the Two

Connecting the Two

Smooth transitions in forces corresponds to a smooth secondderivative.

a =v2

r

Smooth forces implies smoothly changing radius, implying a smoothsecond derivative.

When does the third derivative have to be smooth?

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 16 / 24

Page 52: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Connecting the Two

Connecting the Two

Smooth transitions in forces corresponds to a smooth secondderivative.

a =v2

r

Smooth forces implies smoothly changing radius, implying a smoothsecond derivative.

When does the third derivative have to be smooth?

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 16 / 24

Page 53: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Connecting the Two

Connecting the Two

Smooth transitions in forces corresponds to a smooth secondderivative.

a =v2

r

Smooth forces implies smoothly changing radius, implying a smoothsecond derivative.

When does the third derivative have to be smooth?

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 16 / 24

Page 54: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Connecting the Two

Connecting the Two

Smooth transitions in forces corresponds to a smooth secondderivative.

a =v2

r

Smooth forces implies smoothly changing radius, implying a smoothsecond derivative.

When does the third derivative have to be smooth?

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 16 / 24

Page 55: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Third Derivative Continuous

Well...

Observe the following pictures:

Figure: Courtesy of rcdb.com

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 17 / 24

Page 56: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Third Derivative Continuous

Well...

Observe the following pictures:

Figure: Courtesy of rcdb.com

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 17 / 24

Page 57: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Third Derivative Continuous

Well...

Note in both elements, the rotation doesn’t stay constant.

That means the rate at which the track is changing its direction isnot constant.

Therefore, the designers had to make sure that the track wascontinuous on the third derivative.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 18 / 24

Page 58: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Third Derivative Continuous

Well...

Note in both elements, the rotation doesn’t stay constant.

That means the rate at which the track is changing its direction isnot constant.

Therefore, the designers had to make sure that the track wascontinuous on the third derivative.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 18 / 24

Page 59: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

What Makes a Good Roller Coaster? Third Derivative Continuous

Well...

Note in both elements, the rotation doesn’t stay constant.

That means the rate at which the track is changing its direction isnot constant.

Therefore, the designers had to make sure that the track wascontinuous on the third derivative.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 18 / 24

Page 60: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Other Design Techniques

What’s Up with this Track?

Figure: Courtesy of rcdb.com

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 19 / 24

Page 61: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Other Design Techniques

Strange Track Shapings

The track swings the right before it swings to the left.

To prepare for the drop, the track seems to first raise.

It’s almost as if it were twising around something.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 20 / 24

Page 62: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Other Design Techniques

Strange Track Shapings

The track swings the right before it swings to the left.

To prepare for the drop, the track seems to first raise.

It’s almost as if it were twising around something.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 20 / 24

Page 63: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Other Design Techniques

Strange Track Shapings

The track swings the right before it swings to the left.

To prepare for the drop, the track seems to first raise.

It’s almost as if it were twising around something.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 20 / 24

Page 64: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Other Design Techniques Heartlining

Remember Stengel?

Werner Stengel pioneered many design techniques, one of which iscalled heartlining.

Stengel also was able to push through today’s modern loop, known asthe clothoid loop.

The reason why roller coasters are as comfortable as they are islargely because of Stengel.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 21 / 24

Page 65: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Other Design Techniques Heartlining

Remember Stengel?

Werner Stengel pioneered many design techniques, one of which iscalled heartlining.

Stengel also was able to push through today’s modern loop, known asthe clothoid loop.

The reason why roller coasters are as comfortable as they are islargely because of Stengel.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 21 / 24

Page 66: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Other Design Techniques Heartlining

Remember Stengel?

Werner Stengel pioneered many design techniques, one of which iscalled heartlining.

Stengel also was able to push through today’s modern loop, known asthe clothoid loop.

The reason why roller coasters are as comfortable as they are islargely because of Stengel.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 21 / 24

Page 67: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Other Design Techniques Heartlining

Spining Around the Heart

Actually, around the center of mass of the average rider.

Heartlining can be extended to all pivots, such as headlining andkneelining.

More useful to see in an editor.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 22 / 24

Page 68: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Other Design Techniques Heartlining

Spining Around the Heart

Actually, around the center of mass of the average rider.

Heartlining can be extended to all pivots, such as headlining andkneelining.

More useful to see in an editor.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 22 / 24

Page 69: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Other Design Techniques Heartlining

Spining Around the Heart

Actually, around the center of mass of the average rider.

Heartlining can be extended to all pivots, such as headlining andkneelining.

More useful to see in an editor.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 22 / 24

Page 70: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Other Design Techniques Heartlining

Amazing Implications

You can actually be more in control of a ride if you make the tracklook more out of control.

High speed turns, large changes in banking and large changes in forceare better modeled through heartlining.

Allows designers to “hide” things.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 23 / 24

Page 71: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Other Design Techniques Heartlining

Amazing Implications

You can actually be more in control of a ride if you make the tracklook more out of control.

High speed turns, large changes in banking and large changes in forceare better modeled through heartlining.

Allows designers to “hide” things.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 23 / 24

Page 72: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Other Design Techniques Heartlining

Amazing Implications

You can actually be more in control of a ride if you make the tracklook more out of control.

High speed turns, large changes in banking and large changes in forceare better modeled through heartlining.

Allows designers to “hide” things.

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 23 / 24

Page 73: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Application

Enough Lecture!

Let’s build an actual roller coaster.

We’ll see one of mine first.

Get your creative jucies flowing!

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 24 / 24

Page 74: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Application

Enough Lecture!

Let’s build an actual roller coaster.

We’ll see one of mine first.

Get your creative jucies flowing!

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 24 / 24

Page 75: The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters - MIT ESP · The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters Erik M. Olague November 21, 2009 Erik M. Olague The Design and Analysis of Roller

Application

Enough Lecture!

Let’s build an actual roller coaster.

We’ll see one of mine first.

Get your creative jucies flowing!

Erik M. Olague () The Design and Analysis of Roller Coasters November 21, 2009 24 / 24