Fun of the fair

Article Abstract:

Amusement parks around the world continually compete to have the fastest and highest roller coasters and most thrilling rides, yet there is room for only a handful of manufacturers and top designers. While computer-aided design can speed up design time with fewer errors, the process remains basically the same as in pre-computer days. Most roller coasters are built of steel since its properties are well known and reliable. In other cases new materials have been incorporated, such as polyamide and polyurethane wheels, which are resistant to deformation from the heat produced at high speed.

Usage, Design and construction, Computer-aided design, Computer aided design, Roller coasters

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Magnetic attractions

Article Abstract:

Oxford Instruments developed the first magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) body scanner 10 years ago, and stills leads in world superconducting magnet technology. The MRI business is now jointly owned by Siemens, but Oxford Instruments continues to research new technologies in medical insturments and advanced physics. It invested 8 million pounds terling on research and development in 1991, the majority of which went to the research instruments division. It has developed magnets for use in the semi conducting chip industry and the first miniature superconducting cyclotron in the world.

Product development, Oxford Instruments Group PLC

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New orbits

Article Abstract:

Space technology is advancing rapidly and there is increased demand to put satellites into space. Pioneering work in new forms of propulsion is under progress and the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York has tested the 'Air Spike' concept to beam up spaceship in a shock tunnel, thereby reducing the need to carry heavy, dangerous chemical fuel on board. Electrical propulsion is another form of propulsion under use, which accelerates ionized gases by applying electromagnetic forces.

Research, Methods, Science and technology policy, Space technology, Jet propulsion, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

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