Man Builds A Roller Coaster In His Backyard
A man builds a roller coaster in his backyard. Will Pemble, a California-based father of two, spent more than a year building a roller coaster in his backyard, using mostly scrap metal and lumber.
The coaster, which measures about 180 feet long and reaches speeds of up to 12 mph, was completed in 2014 and has since become a popular attraction among neighborhood children and thrill-seekers.
The idea for the coaster came to Pemble while he was at an amusement park with his son.
ââI realized that the experience of going on a roller coaster is fundamentally different from other amusement park rides, Pemble said in an interview with Wired. It's not just about the ride itself, but also the anticipation and excitement leading up to it.
- Will Pemble
So, the man builds a roller coaster in his backyard. Pemble initially planned to build a smaller coaster that could be easily disassembled, but as he began researching the project, he became more ambitious.
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He taught himself about roller coaster design, physics, and construction, and began sourcing materials from local businesses and construction sites.
The coaster features a wooden track supported by a steel frame, with a single train that seats two riders. Pemble estimates that he spent about $3,500 on materials, but notes that the true cost was much higher when factoring in his time and effort.
Building a roller coaster is a complex engineering feat, requiring knowledge of physics, mathematics, and construction. Pemble used software programs to simulate the coaster's movements and ensure that it would be safe for riders. He also consulted with engineers and roller coaster enthusiasts online to get feedback and advice.
Once the coaster was completed, Pemble conducted a series of safety tests and inspections to ensure that it met industry standards. He has since hosted numerous riders, including his children and their friends, who have all given the coaster rave reviews.
Pemble's backyard roller coaster has become something of a sensation, with media outlets and amusement park enthusiasts around the world taking notice. Pemble has also launched a website, CoasterDad.com, where he shares tips and advice for other parents interested in building their own backyard coasters.
How This Guy Built a Roller Coaster In His Backyard | WIRED
Will Pemble's roller coaster project gained him not only the admiration of his family and friends but also the attention of the internet. After building his backyard roller coaster, Pemble started to document his progress on social media platforms, including Facebook and YouTube.
The videos he posted quickly went viral, and he received numerous media inquiries. He was interviewed by major news outlets, such as Wired, and was invited to appear on several TV shows.
Pemble became somewhat of a celebrity in the DIY community, and his project inspired many people to pursue their own backyard roller coaster dreams. He received messages from people all over the world asking for advice and tips on how to build their own coaster.
In response to the overwhelming interest in his project, Pemble created a website called "Coaster Dad," where he shares his expertise and experience with others who want to build their own roller coasters. The website includes a blog, videos, and a shop where Pemble sells plans and parts for DIY coasters.
Apart from sharing his knowledge with others, Pemble is also involved in various philanthropic activities. He has used his roller coaster as a platform to raise money for charities such as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and he has also partnered with organizations such as Make-A-Wish to give children with serious illnesses a chance to ride his coaster.
However, Pemble notes that building a roller coaster is not for everyone. It requires a significant investment of time and resources, as well as a willingness to take on risk and liability. "If you're not passionate about roller coasters and engineering, it's probably not worth it," Pemble said. "But for those who are, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience."
How To Build A Roller Coaster At Home?
Building a roller coaster at home can be a fun and challenging project for those who are passionate about engineering and amusement park rides. Although it may seem like an impossible feat, with careful planning and execution, anyone can build a functioning roller coaster in their backyard. Here are some steps to follow to build a roller coaster at home:
Plan And Design
The first step in building a roller coaster is to plan and design the layout. This involves determining the track length, height, and speed of the coaster, as well as the type of elements you want to include, such as loops and drops. You can use a computer program or software to create a virtual model of your roller coaster and test its functionality and safety.
Gather Materials
The next step is to gather all the necessary materials and tools. This includes metal tubing for the track, steel supports, bolts, nuts, and washers, as well as power tools such as drills and saws. It is important to purchase high-quality materials to ensure the coaster is safe and sturdy.
Build The Foundation
Once you have your materials and design, you can start building the foundation. This involves excavating the ground to create a level base and installing concrete footings to support the steel track and support structure.
Install The Track And Supports
After the foundation is complete, you can begin installing the track and supports. This involves welding together the metal tubing to create the track and attaching it to the support structure using bolts and nuts. It is important to ensure the track is level and securely attached to the supports.
Add Safety Features
Safety is crucial when building a roller coaster, so it is important to add safety features such as brakes and restraints. You can use pneumatic brakes to slow down the coaster and ensure a smooth ride, as well as lap bars or harnesses to keep riders safely secured.
Test And Adjust
Once the roller coaster is complete, it is important to test and adjust it to ensure it is safe and functional. This involves conducting test runs with weighted carts to ensure the coaster can handle the weight and speed of riders.
Building a roller coaster at home requires a lot of time, effort, and attention to detail. It is important to follow all safety guidelines and regulations to ensure the coaster is safe and secure for riders. If you are not confident in your ability to build a roller coaster, it is recommended to seek professional help or hire a contractor with experience in amusement park rides.
It's important to note that building a roller coaster at home can be incredibly dangerous and should only be attempted by experienced engineers and builders. Without proper knowledge and experience, the risk of injury or death is very high.
That being said, there are some resources available for those who are interested in learning more about building roller coasters at home. The Roller Coaster Database (RCDB) is a great place to start. It is a comprehensive online database of roller coasters from around the world and includes information on their construction and design.
People Also Ask
How Long Did It Take Will Pemble To Build His Backyard Roller Coaster?
According to the Wired article, Pemble spent about six months designing and building the roller coaster.
Is It Legal To Build A Roller Coaster In Your Backyard?
It depends on the laws and regulations in your specific location. In some places, building a roller coaster on private property may require permits and inspections.
How Much Did It Cost To Build Will Pemble's Backyard Roller Coaster?
The Wired article does not provide an exact cost, but Pemble estimates that he spent around $3,500 on materials.
Has Anyone Been Injured On Will Pemble's Backyard Roller Coaster?
According to the Wired article, Pemble has not had any serious injuries on the roller coaster, but he did make modifications to the design to increase safety.
Conclusion
A California man builds a roller coaster in his backyard and his roller coaster project not only provided him and his family with a unique and exciting way to spend their time, but it also inspired and helped others to pursue their own roller coaster dreams.
His dedication and expertise have made him a respected figure in the DIY community, and his philanthropic activities have made him an admirable role model.
