From loop to landing – experience the ride through measurement with the VibraCorder

Theme parks are all about thrill, excitement, and creating unforgettable experiences. But behind the scenes, safety is always the number one priority. To monitor and enhance that safety, increasingly advanced technologies are being deployed. One of the most innovative developments in this area is the Dytran 4404AX VibraCorder™, a compact 6DoF vibration recorder specifically designed to measure whole-body vibrations in accordance with the ASTM F2137 standard.

With this solution, Dytran – part of HBK – addresses the needs of test engineers in the amusement industry who are looking for a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to the often complex and bulky measurement systems of the past.

ASTM F2137: The standard for whole-body vibration testing

The ASTM F2137 standard outlines the methodology for measuring whole-body vibrations on amusement rides. These measurements are essential for assessing whether the forces to which riders are exposed remain within safe limits. The Dytran 4404AX was developed specifically to meet all the requirements of this standard – including sampling rates, filter topology, and transverse sensitivity accuracy.

Dytran 4404AX: Compact, powerful and certified

The Dytran 4404AX VibraCorder is a stand-alone recorder with integrated MEMS-based triaxial accelerometers and gyroscopes. This allows the device to simultaneously capture both acceleration and angular velocity data across six degrees of freedom (6DoF).

Key features include:

✔ Full compliance with ASTM F2137-16
✔ Selectable acceleration ranges: ±2g, ±5g, ±10g, ±30g, ±200g
✔ User-friendly software for configuration, data analysis (including FFT), and export in various formats such as MATLAB, TDMS, and UFF58
✔ Wireless mesh network capability for simultaneous triggering of multiple units (2.4GHz ISM band)
✔ Compact and rugged design (IP67): ideal for installation in tight spaces or harsh outdoor environments
✔ Extended recording time thanks to battery operation and replaceable MicroSD card
✔ Traceable calibration in accordance with ISO17025

Easy installation, maximum efficiency

Unlike traditional measurement systems with separate sensors, long cables, and complex setups, the 4404AX offers an all-in-one solution. This not only simplifies the measurement process but also saves significant time in preparation and analysis.

Thanks to programmable axis orientation, users can align the measurement direction with the installation position without compromising measurement accuracy. Mounting is straightforward with the included mounting plate and screws, and a convenient toolkit including charger and software is provided as standard.

Applications

Although the Dytran 4404AX was developed with amusement park rides in mind, its range of applications extends much further. Examples include:

▶ Vibration measurements in off-road vehicles (construction machinery, industrial trucks, tractors)
▶ Seating dynamics testing
▶ Human vibration exposure in transportation
▶ Structural monitoring of moving installations

A smart investment in safety

The 4404AX VibraCorder enables theme parks, engineers, and safety inspectors to perform accurate, repeatable, and standard-compliant measurements. Thanks to its affordability, deploying multiple units, for instance in different vehicles of a roller coaster, becomes feasible, providing a comprehensive view of vibration levels throughout a ride.

More information

Curious how the Dytran 4404AX VibraCorder could benefit your test environment or theme park? Don’t hesitate to contact the team at ENMO Sound & Vibration Technology. We’re happy to offer tailored advice!

Want to learn more about the VibraCorder? Click here for the whitepaper. Product information is available via this link.