Zipline mathematical model forming, experimental verification and analysis of influential parameters

The optimal construction of long-span ziplines represents a complex engineering and construction task, especially from a safety point of view. In contemporary literature and engineering practice, there are no appropriate theoretical bases, standards and recommendations directly related to this issue. The aim of this work is to try to define the appropriate theoretical and professional basis for the design of these devices. The paper describes the procedure for creating a mathematical model of a zipline, followed by experimental verification of the formed mathematical model on a particular zipline, and afterwards by an analysis of the influencing parameters. The beginning of the paper defines the theoretical background that is necessary for the mathematical model forming of descending a rider down a heavy rope that takes into account mechanical and aerodynamical resistances that occur during the descent, after which a description of formation of the model itself is given. The next part of the paper gives a detailed description of the zipline on which the measurements were made, and a complete description of the used measuring equipment. Then succeeding part contains measurement results, followed by verification of the mathematical model by comparing the measured and calculated values. In the end, the influence of relevant parameters are analyzed by using the mathematical model and adequate conclusions are drawn.