How to Design a Roller Coaster Model

Every roller coaster starts out on paper as a design. The design then transforms into a model roller coaster. Engineers use the roller coaster model to tweak the design of the roller coaster and test the feasibility of the design for use in a theme park or other venue.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Pick a roller coaster type. This entails deciding if the roller coaster will be for children, adults or people of any age. You also have to decide if the roller coaster will sit on the track or hang off the track.

2. Choose features you want for your roller coaster. Some choices are loops, twists, tunnels or steep drops.

3. Determine the scale for your model. Keep in mind that your model should be mobile. A typical roller coaster model is between 1/25 and 1/50 the actual size of the real roller coaster.

4. Decide on your track layout. Draw a basic track design first then you can add more detail for the features of your roller coaster. Keep in mind that the basic force moving a roller coaster is gravity.

5. Draw a sample of the roller coaster car. Be sure to include the brace that will hold it to the track and any safety features such as secure bars or seat belts.

6. Gather materials to build your model. A solid piece of wood covered in turf is a good base. Construct the track out of toothpicks, ice cream treat sticks or dowels.

7. Build your roller coaster model complete with a sample car. Be sure to add realistic looking decorations such as trees, lights and applicable characters.