Elements & Figures

Easy- One is made up of the other, just like atoms and molecules. Elements are 1) a segment of motion in a single linear or curving direction performed by a train that 2) constitutes the entire duration of movement in that direction (the atoms). Figures are simply combinations of multiple elements, or multiple figures (like molecules).

The boundaries between elements are set; whenever the direction changes it's a new one, and if the direction hasn't changed, the element isn't over yet. There are exceptions to this rule, such as when an element leads into certain track features (see next topic), but for the most part, elements begin when you start moving in a direction, and don't stop until you change that direction.

The boundaries between figures are more arbitrary but are generally designed to either 1) clump together commonly used patterns of elements or figures for convenient classification or 2) identify a set of elements/figures grouped specifically to provide an intended thrill or sensation. This is important; not just any random series of elements can be called a figure. For instance, a section of straight track followed by a left S-bend is just that- two elements, not the world's most boring figure.

On most roller coasters, figures are generally separated by stretches of simple elements (see Element Glossary) to give the riders a moment to catch their breath, and multiple complex figures encountered consecutively is one of the traits common to the most intense roller coasters.

Example 1.1
The elements of half-loop (blue) and downscrew (green) combine to form the figure Sidewinder (yellow), which combines with the figure Reverse Sidewinder (orange) to form the figure Cobra Roll (red).

So to recap; an element is

• A segment of motion in one direction, either linear or curvilinear (vocabulary word). Their boundaries are determined by changes in direction of motion. The names of elements are not capitalized. (e.g. corkscrew, half loop)

And a figure is

• A string of elements or smaller figures encountered together to provide a specific thrill or sensation for the rider. Names of figures are capitalized. (e.g. Cobra Roll, Batwing, Psycho-Death Spiral*)

*The Psycho-Death Spiral is not an actual figure. Yet.