The Diving Machine is a model of roller coaster manufactured by Swiss company Bolliger and Mabillard. It is distinguished from other roller coasters by its vertical drop and wide shuttle trains.
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History
The first Diving Machine to open was Oblivion at Alton Towers, England, in 1998. This did not have a true vertical drop because its maximum angle was 88.8 degrees so that the wheels could remain in contact with the track at all times, however it is known and accepted as the world's first vertical drop coaster. On recent versions of the Diving Machine coaster train wheels are spring loaded, keeping the wheels firmly touching the track throughout the drop, allowing for true 90 degree vertical drops. Since then, four other installations have opened, with the most recent featuring inversions and floorless trains. Another newer element to Diving Machines is the "splashdown", where fins at the end of the coaster train create a high tail of water as it passes over a pool as an exciting effect. Splashdowns do not get riders wet but some off-ride observation areas can soak spectators.
Today, Bolliger & Mabillard is still the only company to design and build such roller coasters.
Design
The Diving Machine is characterized by distinctly wide trains, usually consisting two or three rows each seating 6 to 10 passengers. Additionally, stadium seating is employed, as to provide all riders a clear view. At the top of the primary vertical drop, a braking system holds the train for 3 to 5 seconds, giving riders a view of the drop ahead.
Diving Machine installations
| Name | Park | Location | Opened |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oblivion | Alton Towers |  United Kingdom |
1998 |
| Diving Machine G5 | Janfusun Fancyworld |  Taiwan |
2000 |
| SheiKra | Busch Gardens Tampa Bay |  United States |
2005 |
| Griffon | Busch Gardens Europe | United States |
2007 |
| Dive Coaster | Chimelong Paradise |  China |
2008 |
| Extremely Treasures [1][2] | Happy Valley Shanghai | China |
16 August 2009 |
References
External links
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