What is the structure of a Ferris wheel?
Spokes:
Definition: The spokes are the main supporting structure of the Ferris wheel, usually made of steel.
Shape and arrangement: The spokes are arranged radially, connecting the axle and the cabin.
Function: Responsible for supporting the cabin and transmitting force.
Axle:
Definition: The axle is the central part of the Ferris wheel.
Structure and design: The axle can be single-axis or double-axis, depending on the size and structural design of the Ferris wheel.
Function: Responsible for supporting the entire spoke and cabin.
Cockpit:
Definition: The cabin is the part for passengers to ride.
Shape and capacity: Usually round or oval, can accommodate multiple people.
Connection method: The cabin can be hung on the spokes and rotate with the wheel.
Entertainment cabin:
Definition: The entertainment cabin is the external structure of the cabin.
Features: Usually closed, which can protect passengers from the influence of the external environment.
Structural type:
Rigid structure: The original Ferris wheel was made of rigid trusses, but its heavy weight limited the possibility of further expansion in size.
Flexible and rigid-flexible hybrid structures: more common in large-diameter Ferris wheels, lighter weight, slender cables, and more popular with architects for their architectural effects.
Drive and braking system:
Drive system: The rim (i.e., outer ring) is driven to rotate by friction.
Braking system: A braking system is provided to ensure that the Ferris wheel can be stopped in time in case of an emergency.
Support structure:
The support system of the Ferris wheel structure used steel truss support in the early days, but now mostly uses A-shaped support to form a force-bearing system with greater rigidity. Cables are set on the outside of the two A-shaped support frames to ensure the stability of the structure.
Load bearing:
The loads borne by the Ferris wheel structure mainly include cable prestressing, self-weight load, braking force, wind load, and snow load.
