Dodgem Cars: A Fun and Thrilling Ride
Have you ever been to a fair or an amusement park and seen those small electric cars that bump into each other? If so, then you have probably experienced the fun and thrill of dodgem cars. Dodgem cars, also known as bumper cars or dashing cars, are a type of flat amusement ride that consists of multiple small electrically powered cars that draw power from the floor and/or ceiling. The cars are turned on and off remotely by an operator, and the riders can steer them around a track and try to hit or avoid other cars. In this article, we will explore the history, design, benefits, tips, and safety of dodgem cars.
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The History of Dodgem Cars
Dodgem cars were invented by two brothers from Massachusetts, Max and Harold Stoehrer, in the early 1920s. They filed a patent for their invention on Dec. 7, 1920, and created a new company called the Dodgem Company. The original name of the ride was "Dodgem", because the idea was to dodge the other cars and not to bump them. Bumping could cause damage to the cars and injuries to the riders. However, as the ride became more popular, people started to enjoy bumping each other more than dodging them, and the name "bumper cars" was adopted by many operators.
Some sources credit Victor Levand, an employee of General Electric, with creating the technology that led to the bumper car. However, this is a part of bumper car history that is not very clear. What is clear is that dodgem cars have been around for almost a century and have evolved over time in terms of design, power source, and safety features.
The Design of Dodgem Cars
Dodgem cars are usually powered by one of three methods:
The Over Head System (OHS)
This is the oldest and most common method of powering dodgem cars. It uses a conductive floor and ceiling with opposing power polarities. Contacts under the vehicle touch the floor while a pole-mounted contact shoe touches the ceiling, forming a complete circuit.
The Floor Pick-Up (FPU) System
This is a newer method that uses alternating strips of metal across the floor separated by insulating spacers, and no ceiling grid. The strips carry the supply current, and the cars are large enough so that they cover at least two strips at all times. An array of brushes under each car makes random contact with the strips, and the voltage polarity on each contact is arranged to always provide a correct and complete circuit to operate the vehicle.
The Battery System
This is a third method that is used on some modern cruise ships or indoor venues. It avoids the conductive floor/ceiling of the traditional bumper car setup, allowing for more flexibility in space usage. The bumper cars run on electric batteries that need to be recharged periodically.
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The metal floor is usually set up as a rectangular or oval track, and graphite is sprinkled on the floor to decrease friction. A rubber bumper surrounds each vehicle, and drivers can either ram or dodge each other as they travel. The controls are usually an accelerator and a steering wheel. The cars can be made to go backwards by turning the steering wheel far enough in either direction.
The Benefits of Dodgem Cars
Dodgem cars are not only fun but also beneficial in many ways. Here are some of the benefits of dodgem cars:
They Provide Physical Exercise
Driving a dodgem car requires coordination, balance, reflexes, and strength. It can burn calories, improve blood circulation, and enhance muscle tone. It can also help relieve stress and tension by releasing endorphins.
They Stimulate Mental Activity
Driving a dodgem car requires concentration, strategy, decision making, and problem solving. It can improve cognitive skills, memory, creativity, and spatial awareness. They Enhance Social Skills
Driving a dodgem car can be a great way to interact with other people, whether they are friends, family, or strangers. It can foster communication, cooperation, competition, and camaraderie. It can also help develop confidence, self-esteem, and assertiveness.
They Offer Entertainment and Variety
Driving a dodgem car can be a fun and exciting way to spend time and have fun. It can offer a break from the routine and monotony of everyday life. It can also appeal to people of different ages, backgrounds, and preferences.
The Tips for Dodgem Cars
If you want to have the best experience with dodgem cars, here are some tips to follow:
Choose the Right Car
Not all dodgem cars are created equal. Some may be faster, smoother, or more responsive than others. Try to pick a car that suits your driving style and preference. You may also want to avoid cars that are damaged, dirty, or have low battery power.
Wear the Right Clothes
Dodgem cars can be rough and bumpy, so you want to wear clothes that are comfortable, durable, and appropriate for the weather. You may also want to avoid wearing loose or dangling accessories that could get caught or damaged by the cars or the floor.
Follow the Rules
Dodgem cars may seem like a free-for-all, but there are still some rules and regulations that you need to follow for your safety and enjoyment. For example, you should always wear a seat belt, keep your hands and feet inside the car, follow the direction of the traffic, and listen to the operator's instructions. You should also avoid hitting other cars head-on, as this could cause whiplash or neck injuries.
The Safety of Dodgem Cars
Dodgem cars are generally safe and harmless, as long as you follow the rules and use common sense. However, there are still some risks and hazards that you need to be aware of and avoid. Here are some of the safety issues of dodgem cars:
Electric Shocks
Dodgem cars use electricity to power their motors and lights. This means that there is a possibility of getting an electric shock if you touch the metal parts of the car or the floor/ceiling grid. The shock is usually mild and harmless, but it can still be unpleasant and painful. To prevent electric shocks, you should avoid touching the metal parts of the car or the floor/ceiling grid, wear rubber-soled shoes, and keep your hair dry.
Injuries
Dodgem cars involve bumping into other cars at moderate speeds. This means that there is a possibility of getting injured by the impact or by flying objects. The injuries can range from bruises and cuts to sprains and fractures. To prevent injuries, you should wear a seat belt, keep your hands and feet inside the car, avoid hitting other cars head-on, and wear protective gear such as helmets and gloves.
Nausea
Dodgem cars involve spinning and turning around a track. This means that there is a possibility of getting nauseous or dizzy by the motion. The nausea can range from mild discomfort to vomiting. To prevent nausea, you should avoid eating too much or too fast before riding, drink plenty of water, focus on a fixed point on the horizon, and stop riding if you feel sick.
The Conclusion
Dodgem cars are a fun and thrilling ride that have been around for almost a century. They offer many benefits such as physical exercise, mental stimulation, social interaction, and entertainment. They also have some tips and safety issues that you need to follow and avoid for your best experience. Dodgem cars are suitable for people of all ages and backgrounds who want to have some fun and excitement.
The FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about dodgem cars:
Q: How fast do dodgem cars go?
A: Dodgem cars usually go at speeds of 5 to 10 mph (8 to 16 km/h), depending on the power source, design, and weight of the car.
Q: How much do dodgem cars cost?
A: Dodgem cars vary in price depending on the size, quality, condition, and features of the car. A new dodgem car can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 USD (or more), while a used one can cost anywhere from $500 to $5,000 USD (or less). Q: How long do dodgem cars last?
A: Dodgem cars can last for many years if they are well maintained and repaired. The lifespan of a dodgem car depends on the frequency of use, the quality of the materials, and the care of the owner. A dodgem car can last anywhere from 5 to 20 years (or more), depending on these factors.
Q: Where can I find dodgem cars?
A: Dodgem cars can be found in many places such as fairs, amusement parks, carnivals, arcades, malls, or private venues. You can also buy or rent your own dodgem car from online or offline dealers or manufacturers.
Q: Are dodgem cars safe for children?
A: Dodgem cars are generally safe for children as long as they are supervised by an adult, follow the rules and safety precautions, and wear the appropriate gear. However, some dodgem cars may have age or height restrictions that limit the access of children. You should always check the signs and instructions before letting your child ride a dodgem car. 44f88ac181
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