Feasibility study for an iconic ferris wheel

How do you turn a Ferris wheel concept into a feasible design? The Beijing Great Wheel was originally designed to commemorate the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China. With its enormous diameter and modern design, it was meant to become one of the largest Ferris wheels in the world. Iv conducted a thorough feasibility study and created the conceptual design for the project developer. The experience Iv gained from designing the London Eye was also applied here.

The location where the Beijing Great Wheel was to be constructed is characterized by earthquakes and typhoons. To ensure safety, the design had to withstand these conditions. Together with The Great Wheel Corporation and FAG, Iv developed an innovative bearing in the axle of the wheel. The bearing can withstand heavy loads, is easy to maintain, and most importantly, reliable. Iv collaborated with renowned specialists on the load cases for earthquakes and typhoons, as well as the assembly methodology. Due to the enormous diameter and angular velocity of the wheel, the speed of the capsule had to be limited to 0.25 m/s to ensure safety. To achieve this, Iv conducted a logistics study, including practical tests with large groups of people, and worked together with drive specialists and (Technische Überwachungsvereine) to find solutions for safe boarding and disembarking. This included a moving boarding and disembarking platform and a safe capsule design.

The design was intended to become one of the largest Ferris wheels in the world, with a height of approximately 208 meters. The Ferris wheel was to be equipped with 48 capsules, each with a capacity of up to 40 people, and a rotation speed of 3 revolutions per hour. The construction utilized the latest technology and was designed to withstand strong winds, earthquakes, and fatigue from intensive use.