Flexible multibody dynamics of the Enterprise amusement ride

The Enterprise is an example of an amusement ride in which passengers are subjected large motions and dynamic loads. These loads also cause continuous deformations in the structural parts of the ride. Flexible multibody dynamics models are ideal to simulate the coupled behavior of large motions and small elastic deformations. However, these models are not often used in practice, because this is not required by the current safety standards. In this work, a methodology for developing a full flexible multibody dynamic model of the Enterprise is presented and compared to both an analytical model and a rigid multibody model. Where possible, the results are validated using experimental tests on the Enterprise in Avonturenpark Hellendoorn. The results show that the flexibility of the rotating frame has very limited influence on the swinging motion of the gondola and on the g-forces on the passengers. However, the flexible model can be used to simulate the deformations of the rotating frame more realistically. The internal dynamics of the rotating frame account for approximately 10 percent of the elastic deformation of the frame. The transient simulation of these vibrations can potentially be used to further improve the assessment of static strength and fatigue strength. The methodology presented in this work can be used to study the dynamic behavior of many other amusement rides.