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Giant Observation Wheels vs Ferris Wheels

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Singapore Flyer, a giant observation wheel, belongs to a completely different generation from the traditional ferris wheels.

Britain’s London Eye, which is 30m lower than Singapore Flyer, started the new generation of giant observation wheels.

Unlike ferris wheels with their cramped carriages which hang in open air, Singapore Flyer and other giant observation wheels such as the London Eye feature fixed capsules.

Also, each Singapore Flyer capsule is about the size of a bus and can carry up to 28 people. Passengers are able to walk around and enjoy the views outside without feeling any movement or vibration at all.

In contrast, due to its reliance on gravity which helps in keeping its carriage balanced, the carrying capacity of the ferris wheel is usually limited to about 8 passengers.

These factors, as well as others, distinguish giant observation wheels like Singapore Flyer from the older-generation ferris wheels.

Singapore Flyer is under the umbrella of Great Wheel Corporation, developer and operator of Great Wheels and Observation Platforms worldwide.

Differences Between Giant Observation Wheels & Ferris Wheels

  Giant Observation Wheel Ferris Wheel
General Definition A large slowly rotating and vertically oriented non-building structure carrying enclosed passenger cars along its circumference. A smaller, non-building structure consisting of an upright wheel with passenger gondolas or carriages suspended from the rim.
Development Cost High cost (e.g. Singapore Flyer at a cost of S$240 million) due to the high level of sophistication in technology. Generally much lower cost due to its conventional construction method.
Support Supported by a single A-frame or slim two-leg support system. Supported by two towers on each side of the axles.
Height Usually more than 135m (e.g. London Eye at 135m & Singapore Flyer at 165m). Usually below 100m.
View Usually offers a 360-degree, unobstructed view of more than 45km of the surrounding. Usually offers an obstructed view by the side when the wheel is on the descent.

With the limitations in height, the view is also restricted to only about 20km.
Rim A 3-dimensional triangular rim is used by other observation wheels, while Singapore Flyer uses a slim ladder truss rim, a technological revolution.

By using a wider hub to create more acute cable angles, there is greater efficiency in resisting lateral loads and providing the rim for buckling in compression. Cables are used to attach the rim to the spindle. 		Usually, massive steel structures are used to support the rim.
Stability Element Capsules are kept level by mechanical means, providing a stable platform which allows people to stand and walk around with ease.

This emphasis on providing passengers with quality and the experience of a lifetime has been crucial in the conceptualization and construction of Singapore Flyer. 		Carriages hang within the wheel’s frame and are usually kept level by gravity.
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