The Stratosphere's newest thrill ride, Insanity, is a steel structure of over 20 tons, A massive mechanical arm extending out 64 feet over the edge of the Stratosphere Tower at a height of over 900 feet spins passengers in the open air at speeds of up to three 'G's, reaching a speed of 40 miles per hour while spinning at a 70 degree angle. Passengers who keep their eyes open can look down over a one of a kind breathtaking view of historic downtown Las Vegas. Wright Engineers collaborated with designer, Interactive Rides, to ensure the structural stability of this ride.
Structural design involved analysis of the existing tower structure. The ride structure is supported on level 109 on the north side of the tower; the main supports are the existing main radial beams of level 109. The portion of the tower affected by the new ride was modeled in RISA-3D with various load cases considered. Framing and loading were based on original design documents, field observations of the framing, and reactions from the new ride as supplied by Interactive Rides, with consideration given for fatigue under cyclic loading. Additional members were added as needed to support existing members.
Exciting portions of the project included the design collaboration, the helicopter lift of the finshed ride, and the “structural testing and observation” that was required after the ride was completed.
Structural design involved analysis of the existing tower structure. The ride structure is supported on level 109 on the north side of the tower; the main supports are the existing main radial beams of level 109. The portion of the tower affected by the new ride was modeled in RISA-3D with various load cases considered. Framing and loading were based on original design documents, field observations of the framing, and reactions from the new ride as supplied by Interactive Rides, with consideration given for fatigue under cyclic loading. Additional members were added as needed to support existing members.
Exciting portions of the project included the design collaboration, the helicopter lift of the finshed ride, and the “structural testing and observation” that was required after the ride was completed.