After conducting much research on the vast aspects of skatepark design and construction, three alternative solutions were formulated. The following is an in-depth analysis of each solution, where the pros and cons of each will be assessed (see Appendix 1-A). Finally, this will be concluded with a selection of the intended final solution.
The first of these solutions is a concrete “Plaza” style park (see Alternate Solution #1), the skatepark of choice for many skaters, which resembles the local downtown streetscape. The Plaza design simulates the multi-level platforms, stairs, benches, and handrails found in front of your community’s malls and in business districts. This design, while presenting a unique difference from today’s average skatepark design and a quiet riding surface, also presents many cons. Architectural and engineering fees alone can reach $30,000 - $50,000 alone, before the ground is even broken. In addition, free-forming concrete transitions are very expensive and annual maintenance costs can be high as well. Concrete is also very prone to cracking and crumbling, the result of normal use and weather, which is very difficult to patch. These style parks are also more susceptible to destructive vandalism, with objects such as sledge hammers and tire irons. Lastly, concrete parks leave the town with no option for any relocation or redesign. Overall, it is clear that this solution should not be further pursued.
The second solution is a Vert themed skatepark (see Alternate Solution #2). The park’s main features include a large, 15 foot half pipe, as well as several banks with hubbas and rails situated near the center of the park. There are two small stair sets in entire the park, and two corner banks. The park is the smallest of the three designs, and does not present the skater with much room for creativity. The material selected for the construction of this park, X-Series, is also the most expensive and has the lowest lifespan. In the design matrix (see Appendix 1-A), this solution came up with the lowest overall score. It is very evident that this design is not the best solution.
The third solution is a “hybrid” design (see Alternate Solution #3), combining the plaza style street park with numerous vert and transition ramps. The plaza section consists of a raised platform, with stairs and banks on all sides. The stairs include single sets, double sets, and stairs to bank. Each stair set includes dual hubbas and handrails. Traveling around the park clockwise, the first ramp is a large corner bank, with a sub-bank on top. Next, the skater is greeted by a large box with triple banks, a hubba, rail and a small step-up. After that there is a bank flybox with an aluminum bench on top. The main attraction of the park is its large, double half pipe with a spine, multiple roll-ins, and hip quarter pipes off each deck. At the back of the west end of the half pipe is located a large bank, with a long sub-quarter and a small stair set with hubba. Lastly, there is a large, triple-sided flybox with a hubba, and a long curved flat rail. In addition, in the middle of the park, there is a kicker with a picnic table, a small multi-level fun box, and two flat ground rails. This solution, because of its unique fusion of both street and vert elements, provides the skater with a new environment in which to invent new tricks and unlimited lines. This design scored the highest score in the design matrix test, and the material that this solution is to be made with, Pro Series, is the finest, safest, and lowest maintenance material available. Overall, after examining the pros and cons of each of each of the other designs, the alternate solution #3 is the best option, and has been selected to be developed further.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Monday, October 29, 2007
Model Pictures
Figure 1-11 Hip transfer
Figure 1-10 flat ground rail
Figure 1-9 Extended spine transfer with sub-box
Figure 1-8 Northwest corner of park (plaza and bank with sub-bank)
Figure 1-7 Spine of miniramp
Figure 1-6 Gate at entrance to park
Figure 1-5 East view of park from ground level
Figure 1-4 Picnic table with kicker
Figure 1-3 Eight stair and double-set in plaza
Figure 1-2 Aerial view of park
Figure 1-1 Overview of Park from East.Friday, October 19, 2007
Log
Friday, October 19, 2007
This week I have begun my selection rejection reoprt, analyzing my soultions and stating why I selected the one I did. Also, I am continuing to work on my model, which I anticipate finishing in the near future. The model is due on 10/31, along with the selection rejection report.
This week I have begun my selection rejection reoprt, analyzing my soultions and stating why I selected the one I did. Also, I am continuing to work on my model, which I anticipate finishing in the near future. The model is due on 10/31, along with the selection rejection report.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Log
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
The past two weeks I have been working on one thing, my model. The model is nearly complete, and there is only one ramp left to be completed. In the future I hope to spray paint the ramps to make them more uniform. I have also contacted my mnentor numerous times regarding the dimenstions of my model.
The past two weeks I have been working on one thing, my model. The model is nearly complete, and there is only one ramp left to be completed. In the future I hope to spray paint the ramps to make them more uniform. I have also contacted my mnentor numerous times regarding the dimenstions of my model.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Log
Friday, October 12, 2007
I have completed my matrix of solutions, and the Alternate Solution #3 was the design that scored the most points. Therefore, I have selected it as my final solution. This week I have been updating my blog, as well as keeping in contact with my mentor.
I have completed my matrix of solutions, and the Alternate Solution #3 was the design that scored the most points. Therefore, I have selected it as my final solution. This week I have been updating my blog, as well as keeping in contact with my mentor.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Log
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
I have begun to constructed a matrix that compares 10 aspects ans gives each park a specific score. I also have begun collecting materials for my model, which I will start construction on in the near future. In addition, I have been keeping in contact with my mentor.
I have begun to constructed a matrix that compares 10 aspects ans gives each park a specific score. I also have begun collecting materials for my model, which I will start construction on in the near future. In addition, I have been keeping in contact with my mentor.
Friday, October 5, 2007
Log
Friday, October 5, 2007
I have sucessfully completed my outlines and finished my informal presentation on 10/3. They went well and there were a few minor aspects that required change. I have finished my alternate solution drawings, and anticipate beginning my matrix soon.
I have sucessfully completed my outlines and finished my informal presentation on 10/3. They went well and there were a few minor aspects that required change. I have finished my alternate solution drawings, and anticipate beginning my matrix soon.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Research
· Surveying
Types of Surveys & Applicability
ALTA/ACSM Survey: a surveying standard jointly proposed by the American Land Title Association and the American Congress on Surveying and Mapping that incorporates elements of the boundary survey, mortgage survey, and topographic survey. ALTA/ACSM surveys, frequently shortened to ALTA surveys, are often required for real estate transactions.
Archaeological survey: used to accurately assess the relationship of archaeological sites in a landscape or to accurately record finds on an archaeological site.
As-Built Survey: a survey conducted several times during a construction project to verify, for local and state boards (USA), that the work authorized was completed to the specifications set on the Plot Plan or Site Plan. This usually entails a complete survey of the site to confirm that the structures, utilities, and roadways proposed were built in the proper locations authorized in the Plot Plan or Site Plan. As-builts are usually done 2-3 times during the building of a house; once after the foundation has been poured; once after the walls are put up; and at the completion of construction.
Bathymetric Survey: a survey carried out to map the seabed profile.
Boundary Survey: the actual physical extent of property ownership, typically witnessed by monuments or markers, such as (typically iron rods, pipes or concrete monuments in the ground, but also tacks or blazes in trees, piled stone corners or other types of monuments) are measured, and a map, or plat, is drawn from the data.
Construction surveying (otherwise "lay-out" or "setting-out"): the process of establishing and marking the position and detailed layout of new structures such as roads or buildings for subsequent construction. In this sense, surveying may be regarded as a sub-discipline of civil engineering.
Deformation Survey: a survey to determine if a structure or object is changing shape or moving. The three-dimensional positions of specific points on an object are determined, a period of time is allowed to pass, these positions are then re-measured and calculated, and a comparison between the two sets of positions is made.
Erosion and Sediment Control Plan: a plan that is drawn in conjunction with a Subdivision Plan that denotes how upcoming construction activities will effect the movement of stormwater and sediment across the construction site and onto abutting properties and how developers will adjust grading activities to limit the depositing of more stormwater and sediment onto abutting properties than was done prior to construction.
Foundation Survey: a survey done to collect the positional data on a foundation that has been poured and is cured. This is done to ensure that the foundation was constructed in the location authorized in the Plot Plan, Site Plan, or Subdivision Plan. When the location of the finished foundation is checked and approved the building of the remainder of the structure can commence. This should not be confused with an As-Built Survey which is not to be done until all work on the site is completed.
Hydrographic Survey: a survey conducted with the purpose of mapping the coastline and seabed for navigation, engineering, or resource management purposes. Products of such surveys are nautical charts. See hydrography.
Mortgage Survey or Physical Survey: a simple survey that generally determines land boundaries and building locations. Mortgage surveys are required by title companies and lending institutions when they provide financing to show that there are no structures encroaching on the property and that the position of structures is generally within zoning and building code requirements. Some jurisdictions allow mortgage surveys to be done to a lesser standard, however most modern U.S. state minimum standards require the same standard of care for mortgage surveys as any other survey. The resulting higher price for mortgage surveys has led some lending institutions to accept "Mortgage Inspections" not signed or sealed by a surveyor.
Plot Plan or Site Plan: a proposal plan for a construction site that include all existing and proposed conditions on a given site. The existing and proposed conditions always include structures, utilities, roadways, topography, and wetlands delineation and location if necessary. The plan might also, but not always, include hyrdology, drainage flows, endangered species habitat, FEMA Federal Flood Insurance Reference Maps and traffic patterns.
Subdivision Plan: a plot or map based on a survey of a parcel of land. Boundary lines are drawn inside the larger parcel to indicated the creation of new boundary lines and roads . The number and location of plats, or the newly created parcels, are usually discussed back and forth between the developer and the surveyor until they are agreed upon. At this point monuments, usually in the form of square concrete blocks or iron rods or pins, are driven into the ground to mark the lot corners and curve ends, and the plat is recorded in the cadastre (USA, elsewhere) or land registry (UK). In some jurisdictions, the recording or filing of a subdivision plat is highly regulated. The final map or plat becomes, in effect, a contract between the developer and the city or county, determining what can be built on the property and under what conditions. Always upon finally completion of a subdivision an As-Built Plan is required by the local government. This is done so that the roadway constructed therein will pass ownership from the developer to said local government by way of a contract called a Covenant. When this stage is completed the roadways will now be maintained, repaved, swept, and plowed (if necessary for your geographic region) by the local government
Tape Survey: this type of survey is the most basic and inexpensive type of land survey. Popular in the middle part of the 20th century, tape surveys while being accurate for distance lack substantially in their accuracy of measuring angle and bearing. Considering that a survey is the documentation of one-half (1/2) distances and one-half (1/2) bearings this type of survey is no longer accepted amongst local, state, or federal regulatory committees for any substantial construction work. However for determining the extent of you property boundaries for way of peace-of-mind this type of survey is the least expensive, least time consuming and least invasive, while being nowhere close to accurate for the standards that are practiced by professional land surveyors.
Topographic Survey: a survey that measures the elevation of points on a particular piece of land, and presents them as contours on a plot.
Wetlands Delineation & Location Survey: a survey that is completed when construction work is to be done on or near a site containing defined wetlands. Depending on your local, state, or federal regulations wetlands are usually classified as areas that are completely inundated with water more than two (2) weeks during the growing season. Contact you local or state Conservation Commission or Wetlands Regulatory Commission to determine the particular definition for wetlands in your given geographical region. The boundary of the wetlands is determined by observing the soil colors, vegetation, erosion patterns or scour marks, hydrology, and morphology. Typically blue or pink colored flags are then placed in key locations to denote the boundary of the wetlands. A survey is done to collect the data on the locations of the placed flags and a plan is drawn to reference the boundary of the wetlands against the boundary of the surrounding plots or parcels of land and the construction work proposed within.
Information Courtesy of Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surveying#Types_of_Surveys_.26_Applicability
Types of Surveys & Applicability
ALTA/ACSM Survey: a surveying standard jointly proposed by the American Land Title Association and the American Congress on Surveying and Mapping that incorporates elements of the boundary survey, mortgage survey, and topographic survey. ALTA/ACSM surveys, frequently shortened to ALTA surveys, are often required for real estate transactions.
Archaeological survey: used to accurately assess the relationship of archaeological sites in a landscape or to accurately record finds on an archaeological site.
As-Built Survey: a survey conducted several times during a construction project to verify, for local and state boards (USA), that the work authorized was completed to the specifications set on the Plot Plan or Site Plan. This usually entails a complete survey of the site to confirm that the structures, utilities, and roadways proposed were built in the proper locations authorized in the Plot Plan or Site Plan. As-builts are usually done 2-3 times during the building of a house; once after the foundation has been poured; once after the walls are put up; and at the completion of construction.
Bathymetric Survey: a survey carried out to map the seabed profile.
Boundary Survey: the actual physical extent of property ownership, typically witnessed by monuments or markers, such as (typically iron rods, pipes or concrete monuments in the ground, but also tacks or blazes in trees, piled stone corners or other types of monuments) are measured, and a map, or plat, is drawn from the data.
Construction surveying (otherwise "lay-out" or "setting-out"): the process of establishing and marking the position and detailed layout of new structures such as roads or buildings for subsequent construction. In this sense, surveying may be regarded as a sub-discipline of civil engineering.
Deformation Survey: a survey to determine if a structure or object is changing shape or moving. The three-dimensional positions of specific points on an object are determined, a period of time is allowed to pass, these positions are then re-measured and calculated, and a comparison between the two sets of positions is made.
Erosion and Sediment Control Plan: a plan that is drawn in conjunction with a Subdivision Plan that denotes how upcoming construction activities will effect the movement of stormwater and sediment across the construction site and onto abutting properties and how developers will adjust grading activities to limit the depositing of more stormwater and sediment onto abutting properties than was done prior to construction.
Foundation Survey: a survey done to collect the positional data on a foundation that has been poured and is cured. This is done to ensure that the foundation was constructed in the location authorized in the Plot Plan, Site Plan, or Subdivision Plan. When the location of the finished foundation is checked and approved the building of the remainder of the structure can commence. This should not be confused with an As-Built Survey which is not to be done until all work on the site is completed.
Hydrographic Survey: a survey conducted with the purpose of mapping the coastline and seabed for navigation, engineering, or resource management purposes. Products of such surveys are nautical charts. See hydrography.
Mortgage Survey or Physical Survey: a simple survey that generally determines land boundaries and building locations. Mortgage surveys are required by title companies and lending institutions when they provide financing to show that there are no structures encroaching on the property and that the position of structures is generally within zoning and building code requirements. Some jurisdictions allow mortgage surveys to be done to a lesser standard, however most modern U.S. state minimum standards require the same standard of care for mortgage surveys as any other survey. The resulting higher price for mortgage surveys has led some lending institutions to accept "Mortgage Inspections" not signed or sealed by a surveyor.
Plot Plan or Site Plan: a proposal plan for a construction site that include all existing and proposed conditions on a given site. The existing and proposed conditions always include structures, utilities, roadways, topography, and wetlands delineation and location if necessary. The plan might also, but not always, include hyrdology, drainage flows, endangered species habitat, FEMA Federal Flood Insurance Reference Maps and traffic patterns.
Subdivision Plan: a plot or map based on a survey of a parcel of land. Boundary lines are drawn inside the larger parcel to indicated the creation of new boundary lines and roads . The number and location of plats, or the newly created parcels, are usually discussed back and forth between the developer and the surveyor until they are agreed upon. At this point monuments, usually in the form of square concrete blocks or iron rods or pins, are driven into the ground to mark the lot corners and curve ends, and the plat is recorded in the cadastre (USA, elsewhere) or land registry (UK). In some jurisdictions, the recording or filing of a subdivision plat is highly regulated. The final map or plat becomes, in effect, a contract between the developer and the city or county, determining what can be built on the property and under what conditions. Always upon finally completion of a subdivision an As-Built Plan is required by the local government. This is done so that the roadway constructed therein will pass ownership from the developer to said local government by way of a contract called a Covenant. When this stage is completed the roadways will now be maintained, repaved, swept, and plowed (if necessary for your geographic region) by the local government
Tape Survey: this type of survey is the most basic and inexpensive type of land survey. Popular in the middle part of the 20th century, tape surveys while being accurate for distance lack substantially in their accuracy of measuring angle and bearing. Considering that a survey is the documentation of one-half (1/2) distances and one-half (1/2) bearings this type of survey is no longer accepted amongst local, state, or federal regulatory committees for any substantial construction work. However for determining the extent of you property boundaries for way of peace-of-mind this type of survey is the least expensive, least time consuming and least invasive, while being nowhere close to accurate for the standards that are practiced by professional land surveyors.
Topographic Survey: a survey that measures the elevation of points on a particular piece of land, and presents them as contours on a plot.
Wetlands Delineation & Location Survey: a survey that is completed when construction work is to be done on or near a site containing defined wetlands. Depending on your local, state, or federal regulations wetlands are usually classified as areas that are completely inundated with water more than two (2) weeks during the growing season. Contact you local or state Conservation Commission or Wetlands Regulatory Commission to determine the particular definition for wetlands in your given geographical region. The boundary of the wetlands is determined by observing the soil colors, vegetation, erosion patterns or scour marks, hydrology, and morphology. Typically blue or pink colored flags are then placed in key locations to denote the boundary of the wetlands. A survey is done to collect the data on the locations of the placed flags and a plan is drawn to reference the boundary of the wetlands against the boundary of the surrounding plots or parcels of land and the construction work proposed within.
Information Courtesy of Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surveying#Types_of_Surveys_.26_Applicability
Research
Skatepark Ramp Materials
· Pro Series: This is an all-steel building method that is coated in a durable MaxGrip powder-coat paint finish. Although there are 3 distinct product lines, about 80% of the municipalities we build outdoor parks for opt for the all-steel system because:
1. Safest: Our riding surface is perfectly smooth - no fasteners on any of the riding surfaces! The riding surface for each section is welded to the laser cut framework from the underside prior to being painted. These ribs contain laser cut holes so that the equipment can be bolted together from the underside in order to build components in endless configurations and sizes. All other construction methods require hundreds of fasteners in the riding surface to hold it down, which if not checked regularly, could back out and cause severe injuries.
2. Cooler Temperature: Third party temperature testing shows that our special powder-coat formula is actually cooler than concrete or Skatelite™ during different parts of the day and well below the heat threshold.
3. Grippy Surface: Through our extensive R&D we have formulated our MaxGrip powder-coat paint surface that has the same grip/feel as concrete or Skatelite™ and offers incredible corrosion protection. Electro-statically applied TGIC polyester powder-coat is the standard finish in the playground/recreational equipment industry for all outdoor equipment. This method of painting is far more durable than industrial wet paint.
4. Quieter: Since we use the thickest steel on the market (3/16" thick), our ramps are much quieter than lighter gauge ramps and below dangerous levels. Third party testing showed that our Pro Series only gave off a few decibels more than other building options and that with whatever ramp option you choose, ramp sound will blend in with the background noise within ≈100'. If ever in the future you wish to quiet the ramps down even further, ARC or the customer can install sound dampening to the underside of the equipment very easily, but for most customers it is not even an issue.
5. Warranty: Industry leading 20-year warranty on the ENTIRE system. 100% Steel.
6. Maintenance: There is no such thing as a maintenance-free skate park. It doesn't matter what type of finish you use: steel rusts, wood rots, concrete cracks/pits/chips, Skatelite™ will need to be replaced. However, our Pro Series equipment boasts less expensive maintenance and lower total cost of ownership than concrete, wood, and there is not a paper-based product (Skatelite Pro™/RampX) to maintain and replace. Customers will never have to replace our thick 3/16" thick steel sheets. ARC provides plenty of touch-up paint that has the same texture and color so that if the paint is ever compromised these areas can be easily and quickly touched up. The true value of a Pro Series park may not be realized until a couple years down the road. Composite/Skatelite Pro™ surfaces look “newer” longer when compared to our Pro Series if a maintenance program is not followed with the Pro Series. However, years down the road a mere 0.5% investment of the original park cost will repaint the entire surface (includes labor/freight/materials) to make the park look brand new again. Compare this with replacing Skatelite Pro™ at ≈20% of the original park cost every time this needs to be done (includes labor/freight/installation), or the tens of thousands of dollars it takes to make repairs to concrete skate parks (because of this cost many concrete parks that crack/pit/chip are neglected and make for a rough ride).
7. Thickest Steel: We use the thickest steel for the riding surface on the market (3/16" thick).
8. Value: For an outdoor application, our Pro Series equipment is the best bang for the buck. You will get more equipment with this building method than concrete or Skatelite™ surfaced options (with the exception of wood framed equipment). Although our Pro Series is initially more expensive than a wood frame system, within the first few years it will balance out with the extra cost to maintain wood/concrete/Skatelite™.
9. Fastest: Since there are no fasteners in ARC's thick gauge steel and it will not dent/pit/crack/rot/absorb water, the ride is consistently fast. Thick rolled steel is free from waves inherent with a concrete riding surface. Skatelite Pro™ absorbs water, so when it rains it takes a few days till the sluggishness wears off.
10. BMX Proof: Throw a bike down from 30' in the air and see what happens to a 3/16" thick steel surface...no dents. Then see what happens with the same impact on any other surface.
11. Customization: Through our state-of-the-art engineering department, we have been able to create obstacles that were, until now, only available in concrete. These obstacles include bowls, bowled corners, pyramid radius corners, and volcano hips. We are the only aboveground ramp company to be able to create and manufacture such innovative equipment in an all-steel design. Our Pro Series equipment can constantly be changed, moved, and added onto to keep it fresh. Our ramp frames are laser cut from 3/16" steel for accuracy so that we can bolt modules together in 4’ wide sections with no on-site welding, resulting in seamless transitions between sections.
· Stealth Series: Key features of this system are a wood frame, Ramp Armor™/ Skatelite Pro™ riding surface. This product is very similar to our X-Series but instead of a steel framework a wood framework is used. If Ramp Armor™ riding surface is a must on a tight budget this is the system for you, especially in an indoor environment. This system is priced about 15% lower than our Pro Series.
1. Wood Framework: ACQ treated 2x6 framing and ¾” marine grade interior templates throughout.
2. HD Substrate: ½” high-density polyethylene acts as sound dampening and additional structural support. ¾” poly blend can also be used although our ½” HD has outperformed in third-party engineering tests.
3. Ramp Armor or Skatelite Pro Riding Surface: Pre-engineered, pre-cut, pre drilled and pre-countersunk on our CNC machine to match hole pattern of templates and substrate.
4. Stainless Steel Hardware: Thickest gauge and longest stainless steel screws used in the industry for ultimate protection.
5. CNC Precision: All poly templates/substrate and Ramp Armor™ is pre-engineered, pre-cut, pre drilled and pre-countersunk on our CNC machine to match hole pattern of templates. This is essential for ease of initial install or when it comes time to replace the old sheet with no drilling/cutting or skilled labor required.
6. No Exposed Lumber: Even though this is a wood framed system, no lumber is visible throughout.
7. Hot Dipped Galvanized Steel: All steel (coping, strapping, hip plates, guard rails, rails, etc.) is hot-dipped galvanized after fabrication.
8. Exclusive UNI-FORM Coping: We form a solid ¼” plate (thicker than everyone else’s coping) for a perfect coping “bump” every time without any nasty seams. This also includes adequate protection below (most other companies do not have this essential protection) and above the coping.
9. Maintenance: Ramp Armor™ comes with a 5-year warranty and will need to be replaced eventually. Plan on about 20% of the original park cost every time this needs to be done (includes labor/freight/installation). We recommend someone going out monthly to ensure bolts are tight and inspect the surface for scratches/gouges/chips/cracks to determine if sheets need to be replaced.
10. Warranty: 20 years on steel parts, 10 years on polyethylene, 10 years on lumber (lumber manufacturer offers lifetime warranty), 5 years on Ramp Armor™.
· X-Series: Key features are a triple layer system with an interchangeable riding surface. If Ramp Armor™ riding surface is a must with a long–lasting steel framework in an outdoor environment, this is the system for you. This system is priced about 30% higher than our Pro Series.
1. Steel Framework: Choose between our popular powder-coated or hot-dipped galvanized frame.
2. Triple Layer Riding Surface: The 1st layer is a full sheet of 12-gauge steel with laser-cut holes which allow us to use our bolt through fastening system. The 2nd layer of high-density polyethylene acts as sound dampening and additional structural support. The 3rd layer is an interchangeable riding surface.
3. Interchangeable Riding Surface: At the time of purchase or anytime in the future the customer can pick/change what type of riding surface they want. You can choose between Ramp Armor™, Skatelite Pro™, Ramp X, powder-coated steel, or stainless steel.
4. Bolt Through Design: Stainless steel tamper-resistant hardware with nylon inserts throughout to greatly reduce maintenance. Self-tapping and factory inserted nuts are not recommended due to difficulty to replace when they strip out.
5. CNC Precision: All polyethylene and Ramp Armor™ is pre-engineered, pre-cut, pre drilled and pre-countersunk on our CNC machine to match the hole pattern of 1st layer laser cut steel. This is essential for ease of initial install or when it comes time to replace the old sheet with no drilling/cutting or skilled labor required.
6. Laser Cut Frame Accuracy: the framework on the X-series is laser cut for accuracy like the Pro Series which will also allow for future additions with ease and will provide a look that is seamless rather than looking like an afterthought.
7. Exclusive UNI-FORM Coping: We form a solid ¼” plate (thicker than everyone else’s coping) for a perfect coping “bump” every time without any nasty seams. This also includes adequate protection below (most other companies do not have this essential protection) and above the coping.
8. Maintenance: Ramp Armor™ comes with a 5-year warranty and will need to be replaced eventually. Plan on about 20% of the original park cost every time this needs to be done (includes labor/freight/installation). We recommend someone going out monthly to ensure bolts are tight and inspect the surface for scratches/gouges/chips/cracks to determine if sheets need to be replaced.
9. Warranty: 20 years on steel parts, 15 years on polyethylene, 5 years on Ramp Armor™.
Information Courtesy of American Ramp Company
· Skatepark Design
Essentials in Skatepark Design
q Ramp selection – ARC realizes that each community has different needs and wants. Since skateparks are all we do we are able to offer an enormous selection of individual ramps/rails and endless possibilities for ramp combinations. This means you do not have to settle for a “cookie cutter” skatepark or pick from a short list of ramps, but rather, you can get a custom skatepark from ARC with equipment that previously only existed in the imagination.
q Clustering – This is a fundamental principle in skatepark design that is evidenced by ramps being grouped together. Clustering ramps takes up less space while at the same time increasing the skate value by adding new “lines” and trick combinations. Beware of designs where narrow ramp sections are scattered across the skating area. This can give the appearance of more equipment and a larger skatepark, but in reality it decreases the skate value of the park.
q “Plaza” style – The “skatepark” of choice for many skaters, unfortunately, is the local downtown streetscape. Plaza designs simulate the multi-level platforms, stairs, benches, and handrails found in front of your community’s malls and in business districts. ARC’s unique engineering allows us to create incredible plaza sections to fit within your budget.
q Phasing – There’s no need to wait until you’ve got enough funding to purchase your skatepark in its final form. We specialize in designing small parks that become big parks as funding becomes available. Multiple skatepark phases are ideal for communities needing a place for skaters right now, while working within annual budget constraints. Our Pro Series is ideal for phased projects due to its seamless engineering, and because it is virtually maintenance free, additional funds can be applied to new ramps rather than maintaining the existing equipment.
Information Courtesy of American Ramp Company
· Pro Series: This is an all-steel building method that is coated in a durable MaxGrip powder-coat paint finish. Although there are 3 distinct product lines, about 80% of the municipalities we build outdoor parks for opt for the all-steel system because:
1. Safest: Our riding surface is perfectly smooth - no fasteners on any of the riding surfaces! The riding surface for each section is welded to the laser cut framework from the underside prior to being painted. These ribs contain laser cut holes so that the equipment can be bolted together from the underside in order to build components in endless configurations and sizes. All other construction methods require hundreds of fasteners in the riding surface to hold it down, which if not checked regularly, could back out and cause severe injuries.
2. Cooler Temperature: Third party temperature testing shows that our special powder-coat formula is actually cooler than concrete or Skatelite™ during different parts of the day and well below the heat threshold.
3. Grippy Surface: Through our extensive R&D we have formulated our MaxGrip powder-coat paint surface that has the same grip/feel as concrete or Skatelite™ and offers incredible corrosion protection. Electro-statically applied TGIC polyester powder-coat is the standard finish in the playground/recreational equipment industry for all outdoor equipment. This method of painting is far more durable than industrial wet paint.
4. Quieter: Since we use the thickest steel on the market (3/16" thick), our ramps are much quieter than lighter gauge ramps and below dangerous levels. Third party testing showed that our Pro Series only gave off a few decibels more than other building options and that with whatever ramp option you choose, ramp sound will blend in with the background noise within ≈100'. If ever in the future you wish to quiet the ramps down even further, ARC or the customer can install sound dampening to the underside of the equipment very easily, but for most customers it is not even an issue.
5. Warranty: Industry leading 20-year warranty on the ENTIRE system. 100% Steel.
6. Maintenance: There is no such thing as a maintenance-free skate park. It doesn't matter what type of finish you use: steel rusts, wood rots, concrete cracks/pits/chips, Skatelite™ will need to be replaced. However, our Pro Series equipment boasts less expensive maintenance and lower total cost of ownership than concrete, wood, and there is not a paper-based product (Skatelite Pro™/RampX) to maintain and replace. Customers will never have to replace our thick 3/16" thick steel sheets. ARC provides plenty of touch-up paint that has the same texture and color so that if the paint is ever compromised these areas can be easily and quickly touched up. The true value of a Pro Series park may not be realized until a couple years down the road. Composite/Skatelite Pro™ surfaces look “newer” longer when compared to our Pro Series if a maintenance program is not followed with the Pro Series. However, years down the road a mere 0.5% investment of the original park cost will repaint the entire surface (includes labor/freight/materials) to make the park look brand new again. Compare this with replacing Skatelite Pro™ at ≈20% of the original park cost every time this needs to be done (includes labor/freight/installation), or the tens of thousands of dollars it takes to make repairs to concrete skate parks (because of this cost many concrete parks that crack/pit/chip are neglected and make for a rough ride).
7. Thickest Steel: We use the thickest steel for the riding surface on the market (3/16" thick).
8. Value: For an outdoor application, our Pro Series equipment is the best bang for the buck. You will get more equipment with this building method than concrete or Skatelite™ surfaced options (with the exception of wood framed equipment). Although our Pro Series is initially more expensive than a wood frame system, within the first few years it will balance out with the extra cost to maintain wood/concrete/Skatelite™.
9. Fastest: Since there are no fasteners in ARC's thick gauge steel and it will not dent/pit/crack/rot/absorb water, the ride is consistently fast. Thick rolled steel is free from waves inherent with a concrete riding surface. Skatelite Pro™ absorbs water, so when it rains it takes a few days till the sluggishness wears off.
10. BMX Proof: Throw a bike down from 30' in the air and see what happens to a 3/16" thick steel surface...no dents. Then see what happens with the same impact on any other surface.
11. Customization: Through our state-of-the-art engineering department, we have been able to create obstacles that were, until now, only available in concrete. These obstacles include bowls, bowled corners, pyramid radius corners, and volcano hips. We are the only aboveground ramp company to be able to create and manufacture such innovative equipment in an all-steel design. Our Pro Series equipment can constantly be changed, moved, and added onto to keep it fresh. Our ramp frames are laser cut from 3/16" steel for accuracy so that we can bolt modules together in 4’ wide sections with no on-site welding, resulting in seamless transitions between sections.
· Stealth Series: Key features of this system are a wood frame, Ramp Armor™/ Skatelite Pro™ riding surface. This product is very similar to our X-Series but instead of a steel framework a wood framework is used. If Ramp Armor™ riding surface is a must on a tight budget this is the system for you, especially in an indoor environment. This system is priced about 15% lower than our Pro Series.
1. Wood Framework: ACQ treated 2x6 framing and ¾” marine grade interior templates throughout.
2. HD Substrate: ½” high-density polyethylene acts as sound dampening and additional structural support. ¾” poly blend can also be used although our ½” HD has outperformed in third-party engineering tests.
3. Ramp Armor or Skatelite Pro Riding Surface: Pre-engineered, pre-cut, pre drilled and pre-countersunk on our CNC machine to match hole pattern of templates and substrate.
4. Stainless Steel Hardware: Thickest gauge and longest stainless steel screws used in the industry for ultimate protection.
5. CNC Precision: All poly templates/substrate and Ramp Armor™ is pre-engineered, pre-cut, pre drilled and pre-countersunk on our CNC machine to match hole pattern of templates. This is essential for ease of initial install or when it comes time to replace the old sheet with no drilling/cutting or skilled labor required.
6. No Exposed Lumber: Even though this is a wood framed system, no lumber is visible throughout.
7. Hot Dipped Galvanized Steel: All steel (coping, strapping, hip plates, guard rails, rails, etc.) is hot-dipped galvanized after fabrication.
8. Exclusive UNI-FORM Coping: We form a solid ¼” plate (thicker than everyone else’s coping) for a perfect coping “bump” every time without any nasty seams. This also includes adequate protection below (most other companies do not have this essential protection) and above the coping.
9. Maintenance: Ramp Armor™ comes with a 5-year warranty and will need to be replaced eventually. Plan on about 20% of the original park cost every time this needs to be done (includes labor/freight/installation). We recommend someone going out monthly to ensure bolts are tight and inspect the surface for scratches/gouges/chips/cracks to determine if sheets need to be replaced.
10. Warranty: 20 years on steel parts, 10 years on polyethylene, 10 years on lumber (lumber manufacturer offers lifetime warranty), 5 years on Ramp Armor™.
· X-Series: Key features are a triple layer system with an interchangeable riding surface. If Ramp Armor™ riding surface is a must with a long–lasting steel framework in an outdoor environment, this is the system for you. This system is priced about 30% higher than our Pro Series.
1. Steel Framework: Choose between our popular powder-coated or hot-dipped galvanized frame.
2. Triple Layer Riding Surface: The 1st layer is a full sheet of 12-gauge steel with laser-cut holes which allow us to use our bolt through fastening system. The 2nd layer of high-density polyethylene acts as sound dampening and additional structural support. The 3rd layer is an interchangeable riding surface.
3. Interchangeable Riding Surface: At the time of purchase or anytime in the future the customer can pick/change what type of riding surface they want. You can choose between Ramp Armor™, Skatelite Pro™, Ramp X, powder-coated steel, or stainless steel.
4. Bolt Through Design: Stainless steel tamper-resistant hardware with nylon inserts throughout to greatly reduce maintenance. Self-tapping and factory inserted nuts are not recommended due to difficulty to replace when they strip out.
5. CNC Precision: All polyethylene and Ramp Armor™ is pre-engineered, pre-cut, pre drilled and pre-countersunk on our CNC machine to match the hole pattern of 1st layer laser cut steel. This is essential for ease of initial install or when it comes time to replace the old sheet with no drilling/cutting or skilled labor required.
6. Laser Cut Frame Accuracy: the framework on the X-series is laser cut for accuracy like the Pro Series which will also allow for future additions with ease and will provide a look that is seamless rather than looking like an afterthought.
7. Exclusive UNI-FORM Coping: We form a solid ¼” plate (thicker than everyone else’s coping) for a perfect coping “bump” every time without any nasty seams. This also includes adequate protection below (most other companies do not have this essential protection) and above the coping.
8. Maintenance: Ramp Armor™ comes with a 5-year warranty and will need to be replaced eventually. Plan on about 20% of the original park cost every time this needs to be done (includes labor/freight/installation). We recommend someone going out monthly to ensure bolts are tight and inspect the surface for scratches/gouges/chips/cracks to determine if sheets need to be replaced.
9. Warranty: 20 years on steel parts, 15 years on polyethylene, 5 years on Ramp Armor™.
Information Courtesy of American Ramp Company
· Skatepark Design
Essentials in Skatepark Design
q Ramp selection – ARC realizes that each community has different needs and wants. Since skateparks are all we do we are able to offer an enormous selection of individual ramps/rails and endless possibilities for ramp combinations. This means you do not have to settle for a “cookie cutter” skatepark or pick from a short list of ramps, but rather, you can get a custom skatepark from ARC with equipment that previously only existed in the imagination.
q Clustering – This is a fundamental principle in skatepark design that is evidenced by ramps being grouped together. Clustering ramps takes up less space while at the same time increasing the skate value by adding new “lines” and trick combinations. Beware of designs where narrow ramp sections are scattered across the skating area. This can give the appearance of more equipment and a larger skatepark, but in reality it decreases the skate value of the park.
q “Plaza” style – The “skatepark” of choice for many skaters, unfortunately, is the local downtown streetscape. Plaza designs simulate the multi-level platforms, stairs, benches, and handrails found in front of your community’s malls and in business districts. ARC’s unique engineering allows us to create incredible plaza sections to fit within your budget.
q Phasing – There’s no need to wait until you’ve got enough funding to purchase your skatepark in its final form. We specialize in designing small parks that become big parks as funding becomes available. Multiple skatepark phases are ideal for communities needing a place for skaters right now, while working within annual budget constraints. Our Pro Series is ideal for phased projects due to its seamless engineering, and because it is virtually maintenance free, additional funds can be applied to new ramps rather than maintaining the existing equipment.
Information Courtesy of American Ramp Company
Testing Procedures
To evaluate the success of my project, I will employ the following strategies:
- First, I will analyze the park design and certify that it fits in the required space, and that the ramps are of feasible size and style.
- Next, I will examine the model, and confirm that it is realistic and of professional appearance.
- To evaluate the success of the design itself, I will refer to my fellow skateboarding peers and obtain their opinion on whether or not they think it is a good park design.
- Lastly, after the project has been completed, I anticipate presenting it to the Toms River Board of Chosen Freeholders in the hopes that they will see the park as an excellent idea and begin construction on its real life counterpart. This will be the ultimate test of my project.
Specifications and Limitations
III. Specifications / Limitations
- Materials for model can be easily obtained.
- Computers and programs in CAD lab can be used to create drawings.
The model and drawings must be:
- Neat and have a professional appearance.
- Constructed during shop time, unless prior approval has been given by Mr. Cuttrell.
- Exhibit the final concept of the skatepark design for inspection by class and instructor.
The final skatepark design must be:
- Good for skateboarding and easy to construct.
- Sized limited by the dimensions of the pre-determined site (305 ft. x 145 ft.)
- Budget appropriate.
Design Brief
Design and construct a scaled model of a safe and pleasurable skatepark for Toms River, NJ that will adequately fit in the designated site.
Site Photos
The future site of the Toms River Skatepark, located at Shelter Cover.
(Image courtesy of Google Earth)
Background Information
I. Background Information
Figure 1-1 One of the many signs banning the act of skateboarding in Dover Township.
Imagine coming to your favorite tennis court to play some quality tennis with your friends, and you suddenly notice a sign that says: Tennis Prohibited by Law. Imagine going to your local baseball field and coming across a sign stating: No Baseball Allowed. Sounds ridiculous, right? However, this is a very real problem that faces skateboarders of Dover Township everyday, as evident in Figure 1-1. Everyday, skaters are constantly being harassed, hassled and even arrested for doing something that they love. And what, you might ask, is the major cause of all this trouble with skateboarders? Well, all of these problems stem from one pressing fact: Dover township’s lack of a nice, fun-filled environment for its citizens to skateboard. It is just that a local skate park be constructed in Dover Township.
Figure 1-2 Skateboarder enjoying the ramps of a concrete skatepark.
Dover Township is a district of New Jersey that is of significant proportions. Today, there are three high schools, three intermediate schools, thirteen elementary schools, ten parks, twenty-two basketball courts, forty tennis courts, thirty -five baseball fields, and over sixty soccer fields located in Dover Township. However, nowhere is there to be found a single skate park. Skateboarding’s popularity has exploded over the past few years, especially in the United States. Many recent marketing studies show that skateboarding is growing more and more popular with kids; and basketball, baseball, and football losing the younger audience. And Dover Township is no exception to this. Over fifty percent of Dover Township’s teen population skateboards, which seems reason alone to construct a skate park.Not having a skate park in Dover Township is extremely unfair to the innocent skateboarders as well. Many people complain that skateboarders are ruining public property and destroying the town, but this is just not true. Skateboarders are indirectly being forced to skate in areas where they are not wanted. For you see, there is nowhere else to turn. Because Dover Township does not have a skate park, skateboarder’s resort to doing what they love wherever they can, whether it is down stairs, or down a curb. And because of this, skateboarders have gained a reputation for being “hoodlums” with no regard for public property. As you can clearly see, these accusations are erroneous, and all of these problems could simply be avoided if a skate park were to be constructed.
Figure 1-3 Professional skateboarder Corey Duffel showing off his wounds.
Figure 1-4 Future site of Toms River Skateboard Park, located at Shelter Cove.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Log
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
This week I am preparing an outline and working on my informal presentation. I am also updating my blog frequently with many pictures and summer work. I anticipate beging construction of my model soon.
This week I am preparing an outline and working on my informal presentation. I am also updating my blog frequently with many pictures and summer work. I anticipate beging construction of my model soon.
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