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WE BUILD NEAT STUFF
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Move it, drop it, slam it, tilt it, shoot it, swing it. What ever
action you need, we can find the most realistic, and cost effective solution.
Designing show action equipment to withstand the constant use of most Theme Park
Attractions takes an engineering approach that is supported with years of
experience with building unusual and creative mechanical devices.
Considerations of Show Action Equipment design
- Realistic action - If it does not move naturally, no one will be
impressed. For example, a design for "dropping harpoons" actually
involved "dropping" them, not lowering them with an actuator. The key
was the hidden mechanism that "stood them back up" for the next show
- Use something simple to move things when ever possible - Many engineers
design to impress themselves by using complex and costly approaches.
Hydraulics is a good example of something that is over used in many cases.
Hydraulics are sometimes a good solution, but in many cases, pneumatic or
electric actuation is far less costly and easier to maintain.
- Solid designs - Many designers with limited experience will use
"textbook" solutions for things like bearings and shafts. It looks
good on paper, but will not hold up to the rigors of the Theme Park or
Museum environment. Textbook is not good enough in many cases.
- Maintainability - If a piece of show action is difficult to maintain, or
has frequent maintenance requirements, it will be a costly for the owner,
and eventually may fail completely and be shut down. The design must
take into account the technical ability of the maintenance staff.
- SAFE - Of course, with all the above, safety is still paramount for the
guests and employees.
One of two huge towers with rotating cam wheels that propel an overhead
"Yo-Yo" from side to side at the California Science Center
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