Prototyping and Experimental Validation for Design of Recreational Waterslides

• Autores: K. H. Chang, C. Chen
• Localización: Mechanics based design of structures and machines, ISSN 1539-7734, Vol. 38, Nº. 4, 2010, págs. 516-529
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • This paper presents prototyping and experimental methods for validating design of recreational waterslides obtained using computer-aided modeling and simulation technology. A scaled physical prototype of the waterslide designed in computer-aided design (CAD) is first fabricated using a rapid prototyping machine. The surface of the prototype is polished and treated to reduce friction, which plays a key role in this study. The object sliding path and time are then captured using a high-speed digital camera. The path and time are compared with those obtained from computer simulations. The simulation and experimental results agree well; therefore, validating the accuracy of the simulation method. A real-world waterslide configuration is employed for the study. This proposed method offers a cost effective alternative for verifying design of waterslides, especially for those scenarios where simulations are not yet available