Colloquia

Summary

The Enterprise is one of the numerous examples among amusement rides where large rotations and translations are present. However, during the design and development of these rides a dynamic analysis is rarely performed as this is not required by certifications. In this work, a clear methodology for developing a full flexible multibody dynamic model is presented and compared to both an analytical model and rigid multibody model. Comparison between models is used to verify reliability. In addition, the Finite element model used for the flexible multibody model is verified by experimental testing. This is performed at the full size Enterprise located in Attractiepark Hellendoorn, The Netherlands. Great similarity is shown between the models. The added value of a full dynamic model compared to conventional methods is clear. Both analytical and multibody models present great insight in the movements, vibrations and cyclic loads during a ride programme. The flexible model adds frame deformations and natural modes to this, but these effects are moderate. Even though the flexible effects are not significant to have large influence on for example lifetime prediction, this work gives a clear example of how an analysis can be conducted in similar fashion for numerous other machines where natural vibrations might be relevant.