WITTENSTEIN, a leader in mechanical and mechatronic servo drive systems, has shared how its innovative servo gearboxes can drive technical precision for dark rides.
Dark rides focus on immersion and show effects, creating high expectations for technical perfection. Even slight variations in functionality can lead to vastly different guest experiences compared to the designers’ intent. For instance, if a ride vehicle stops slightly off-mark, the synchronisation of lights or sound may be disrupted, which riders perceive as a break in immersion.
Therefore, technical precision is essential, with suppliers like WITTENSTEIN providing suitable products.
Smooth, quiet and reliable
Smooth drive systems are crucial for dark rides. Quiet, gentle movements enhance comfort and prevent noisy technical effects that spoil the atmosphere.
“WITTENSTEIN’s servo gearboxes impress with helical toothing that guarantees extra-smooth running,” says the firm. “They help riders lose themselves in the immersive experience and stop them being snapped out of the illusion.”
In addition, reliability and durability are vital.
Attractions operate for many hours during the day, and breakdowns must be restricted to a minimum to maximise visitor satisfaction. Dark rides, often inside enclosed structures, may also have outdoor sections or critical equipment in non-air-conditioned areas. Plus, special effects, like air or water, are common features, necessitating protection for indoor technical components.
WITTENSTEIN servo gearboxes are designed to deliver consistent and dependable performance even under constant stress.
“The use of high-quality materials, a robust design, increased corrosion protection, and precise manufacturing techniques add up to a long service life as well as less expenditure on maintenance,” adds the company.
High performance on a small footprint
Space is a valuable asset in dark ride buildings. Consequently, the technical components and the area required for servicing them must be designed to be as compact as possible.
WITTENSTEIN’s right-angle servo gearboxes offer more than just a small footprint; they also come in various output shapes that enable flexible integration into different designs.
“That simplifies implementation in cramped conditions, and vehicle upkeep is easy even when space is limited.”
Few dark rides today lack irregular or turbulent movements. Contemporary ride sequences are vibrant and diverse, incorporating rapid accelerations, abrupt stops, twists, and spins into their storytelling. Interactive elements, where riders engage directly with the attraction’s narrative, have also become integral to modern dark rides.
Servo gearboxes built by WITTENSTEIN provide high power density, meaning they can transmit high torques of up to 40,000 Nm despite their compact architecture. “Even the most demanding motion profiles are consequently not a problem, and riders attest to the awesome experience.”
Dark rides are major attractions in theme parks, popular with guests. They must meet strict requirements for precision, smooth operation, reliability, and minimal downtime. While the high-tech aspects remain hidden from visitors, reliable components ensure a perfect rider experience.
Servo gearboxes from WITTENSTEIN enhance the storytelling experience of dark rides and ensure a lasting high level of satisfaction for passengers and attraction operators alike.
The firm also recently shared details of its smart cynapse gearboxes, which provide a proactive approach to maintenance by connecting to the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).
