GuruGuys Posted February 9, 2008 Posted February 9, 2008 Popular Mechanics Article on BIG Ferris Wheels At almost 700 feet Beijing Great Wheel will become the tallest/largest "Observational Wheel" in 2009. -GG
Coaster Joe Posted February 9, 2008 Posted February 9, 2008 The construction of large ferris wheels is amazing. Similar to a cable stayed or arch bridge, the construction loads often dictate member sizes. Once the wheel is complete, the loading is balanced and the rim is stabilized by the network of spokes, or in hubless wheels by a circumferential tie. In an incomplete wheel, the sections are giant cantilevers and the members have to take large bending loads. Enough of my geekiness...but these wheels are construction engineering masterpieces.
TheRapidsNerd Posted February 9, 2008 Posted February 9, 2008 In curious way, this nods back to the turn of the century and the early days, particularly the races to build bigger and better wood coasters. Though more modern in some ways, this race has a similar charm. As for these massive new wheels, it really is a marvel how these things go together. The creativity, balance, and design is really staggering. After watching some of the rides go up at Mall of America, I have a new appreciation of how rides are designed and built. The construction of large ferris wheels is amazing. Similar to a cable stayed or arch bridge, the construction loads often dictate member sizes. Once the wheel is complete, the loading is balanced and the rim is stabilized by the network of spokes, or in hubless wheels by a circumferential tie. In an incomplete wheel, the sections are giant cantilevers and the members have to take large bending loads. Enough of my geekiness...but these wheels are construction engineering masterpieces. Coaster Joe, I understood everything you just said and whole-heartily agree. It's technical, sculptural and mechanical art in it's own way...and it's just REALLY FREAKING COOL!
GuruGuys Posted February 9, 2008 Author Posted February 9, 2008 Now we'll see who is first for a 600ft Wonder Wheel type Ferris Wheel -GG
socalMAN123 Posted February 9, 2008 Posted February 9, 2008 ^ OMG that would be the scariest thing ever! Being 600 feet up in the air and swinging side to side. ---Brent
Tanks4me05 Posted February 10, 2008 Posted February 10, 2008 ^ Who cares? What I want is a 700 ft Star Flyer.
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