The Waterfall Swing is a creation that would delight both children and adults. It essentially creates a perpetually rainy playground. The interesting bit, however, is that it appears that the swingers don't actually have to get wet. It is an intelligent swingset that is equipped with mechanical waterjets (solenoids), which creates the waterfall effect. Yet the Waterfall Swings are controlled so that just as it looks like the rainfall will hit the swinger. Instead it parts just in time so that their playtime is not dampened.
A collaborative installation between Mike O’Toole, Andrew Ratcliff, Ian Charnas and Andrew Witte, the Waterfall Swing made its debut at the World Maker Faire. The Waterfall Swing is so impressively smart, it doesn't just part before the swinger, it can also form alphabet letters and hearts.
Perpetually Rainy Playgrounds
The Waterfall Swing Doesn't Dampen the Swinger's Fun Time
Trend Themes
1. Intelligent Swingsets - Creating swingsets equipped with mechanical waterjets that create a waterfall effect but control the water to avoid getting the swingers wet.
2. Perpetually Rainy Playgrounds - Designing playgrounds that mimic a rainy environment using intelligent swingsets with controlled water flow.
3. Interactive Play Installations - Developing collaborative installations that combine technology and play, such as the Waterfall Swing that forms alphabet letters and hearts.
Industry Implications
1. Playground Equipment - Innovating on traditional swingsets by incorporating intelligent features like mechanical waterjets.
2. Amusement Parks - Enhancing visitor experiences at amusement parks by introducing interactive play installations like the Waterfall Swing.
3. Event Planning - Creating memorable and engaging event installations by incorporating interactive elements such as the Waterfall Swing.