Carousel Rides Working Principle in 10 Aspects
A carousel ride, also known as a merry-go-round, is a popular amusement ride that consists of a rotating circular platform with seats that are usually shaped like horses or other animals. The seats are attached to poles that move up and down, creating a galloping motion for the riders. But how does a carousel ride work? Here are 10 aspects of the working principle of a carousel ride.
Different types of carousels on sale in our factory
The main component of a carousel ride
1. The main component of a carousel ride is the motor, which is usually located under the center of the platform. The motor provides the power to rotate the platform at a constant speed, typically between 4 and 6 revolutions per minute.
The motor
2. The motor is connected to a gearbox, which transfers the rotational motion to a drive shaft. The drive shaft runs through the center of the platform and supports the weight of the platform and the riders.
The drive shaft
3. The drive shaft is attached to a large gear, called the bull gear, which meshes with smaller gears, called pinion gears, that are fixed to the poles of the seats. The bull gear and the pinion gears form a gear train that synchronizes the movement of the seats with the rotation of the platform.
The poles of the seats
4. The poles of the seats are mounted on cranks, which are connected to rods, called sweeps, that radiate from the center of the platform. The cranks and the sweeps form a crank-rocker mechanism that converts the rotational motion of the pinion gears into an up-and-down motion of the poles.
Hinges
5. The seats are attached to the poles by hinges, which allow them to swing slightly from side to side as they move up and down. This adds to the realism and excitement of the ride.
The metal frame
6. The platform is supported by a metal frame, which rests on wheels or rollers that run on a circular track. The track is fixed to the ground or to a trailer, depending on whether the carousel ride is permanent or portable.
The overhead canopy
7. The frame also supports an overhead canopy, which covers the platform and provides shade and protection from rain or snow. The canopy is usually decorated with lights, mirrors, paintings, or sculptures that create a festive atmosphere.
The music box
8. The canopy also supports a music box, which plays tunes that match the theme and style of the carousel ride. The music box can be mechanical or electronic, depending on the age and design of the ride.
Additional design: the ring dispenser
9. Some carousel rides also have a ring dispenser, which is a device that holds metal rings that riders can try to grab as they pass by. The rings are usually located near the edge of the platform, and riders have to reach out with one hand to catch them. Some rings are special prizes that entitle the rider to a free ride or a souvenir.
Operations
10. Carousel rides are controlled by an operator, who can start and stop the ride, adjust the speed and direction of rotation, and monitor the safety of the riders. The operator usually sits in a booth near the entrance of the ride, where he or she can also collect tickets or coins (coin-op carousels) from the riders.