Real-size simulated drag strip ride

Abstract

A real-size simulated drag strip ride is presented which recreates the physical and visual sensations of a drag race. A real-size dragster is located along a specified and controlled linear track. The rider is positioned inside the driver's compartment, with a specially adjustable safety helmet and full safety harness securing him in place in an adjustable seat. Once the simulated light tower signals that the dragster is set to race, each driver of two, side-by-side vehicles, may push the acceleration pedal to accelerate the vehicle through an initial acceleration zone. The dragsters are propelled by use of a linear induction motor and fin located out of sight underneath the vehicle. The race is finished when the cars pass the finish line. Speeds and the winner are displayed on the starting line tower. The cars are then returned to the loading and unloading area for the next riders.

Having fully described my invention, I claim:  
     
         1 : A real-size dragstrip amusement ride, comprising: 
 (a) at least two simulated dragsters located on side-by-side tracks;    (b) at least two side-by-side parallel tracks, having a means to constrain each dragster to remain on its respective track;    (c) an acceleration means to accelerate each dragster down the track;    (d) a starting line signal tower to signal when to start the race and to display information about the speed of each dragster during the race.    
     
     
         2 : A real-size dragstrip amusement ride as in  claim 1 , wherein each dragster further comprises an adjustable safety helmet and seat and a reliable safety harness for each rider of said dragster.  
     
     
         3 : A real-size dragstrip amusement ride as in  claim 1 , wherein said constraining means comprises left and right C-channels and left and right actual caster wheels for supporting said dragster.  
     
     
         4 : A real-size dragstrip amusement ride as in  claim 3 , further comprising horizontal restraining casters.  
     
     
         5 : A real-size dragstrip amusement ride as in  claim 1 , wherein said acceleration means comprise a series of linear induction motors located in a trough below each dragster and a reaction plate connected to said dragster.  
     
     
         6 : A real-size dragstrip amusement ride as in  claim 1 , wherein said acceleration means comprises an elastic cord having one end attached near the starting or finish line of said track and the other end attached to said dragster.