Roller CoastersWho said civil engineers don't know how to have fun? These experts are instrumental in building thrilling rides such as the Millennium Force in Ohio. This monster roller coaster reaches speeds up to 92 mph and a height of 310 feet.
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Earn an engineering degreeConsider a degree in mechanical engineering, structural engineering, electrical engineering or a related field. It's important to choose a program that focuses heavily on physics, as roller coasters are machines that operate within the laws of physics.
A roller coaster designer is someone who creates the structural designs for amusement park rides. Designers often work among a team of specialists with focuses in civil, structural and mechanical engineering.
Calculus is used to create and analyze curves, loops, and twists along the roller coaster track. It helps with slope calculations and finds the maximum and minimum points along the track.
Designers test roller coasters with water-filled dummies. “It covers every aspect of coasters. The rides are tested with what we call water dummies, or sometimes sandbags.” The inanimate patrons allow designers to figure out how a coaster will react to the constant use and rider weight of a highly trafficked ride.