A sensitivity analysis tool for improving the capacity of amusement rides

S S Desai and J L Hunsucker

Journal of Simulation, 2008, vol. 2, issue 2, 117-126

Abstract: During peak seasons a common sight at amusement parks is a long queue of visitors waiting to seek the thrill and excitement of amusement rides. With a limited ride capacity, the park managers in real time face major problems in coping with this heavy demand and high wait times on rides. Presently from experience, the park managers know the capacity of amusement rides at their park and are able to identify the variables that affect the ride capacity. However, they do not have the ability to analyse the impact of varying these variables on the ride capacity. In this work, we aimed to equip the park managers with a tool that allows them to visualize the ride capacity and conduct a sensitivity analysis on it. With this intent, we conducted a full-fledged study on three diverse and popular rides at a local amusement park. We identified several variables affecting the ride capacity and collected data on every ride studied. On the basis of our study, we developed a generic simulation tool that investigates the capacity concerns of amusement rides of a particular class. We supplied the generic tool with realistic data to perform the sensitivity analysis. Our experiments indicate that the capacity numbers predicted by the simulation tool will provide valuable insights to the park managers: (1) in implementing the ride operating policies that show maximum improvement in the ride capacity (thereby, the service levels at the park) and (2) in making a strategic decision on whether the park needs to invest in a ride with certain capacity.

Date: 2008
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DOI: 10.1057/jos.2008.3

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