PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Abstract

The COVID Coaster team project is tasked to produce a working prototype and design for an on-campus roller coaster that is both COVID-19 friendly and a fun, efficient means of transportation around the back perimeter of the campus. The team has developed a detailed design plan for a 2,500 lbs roller coaster that stretches 4,191 feet with 50 - 60 foot spans. The train for this ride uses a tri-dimensional wheel complex and connects 8 carts that are 10’ x 5’ x 3’ in dimension holding three people each. Rider safety is of the utmost importance, as design matrices determined car design and placement of loading stations and structural supports. Engineering design had to withstand forces of nature and current campus infrastructure, including wind and load displacement in accelerating and decelerating the system. Seating also needed to be designed to be both comfortable and efficient in its use of transportation, directing the engineers towards a shape that allows for three patrons per cart and can easily break in time for the loading station. Ultimately, the cart needs to be safe enough to prevent spreading of possible coronavirus while providing the experience of a slow moving rollercoaster to the users.