A riding capsule device includes a capsule member, a base, and control mechanism. The capsule member has a bottom configuration in the form of a convex spherical segment. The base has a lower portion with a top configuration in the form of a concave spherical segment engaged by said bottom configuration of the capsule member and having a radius of curvature which is larger than the radius of curvature of the bottom configuration of the capsule member. The base further has an upper portion with an internal concavely arcuate surface that forms a smooth continuation of and overlies the concave spherical segment of the bottom portion of the base. The control mechanism includes a circular, tubular control member that is inflatable and deflatable and which when inflated is doughnut shaped, and which is attached to the concavely arcuate surface of the upper base portion, and which, when inflated engages and immobilizes the capsule member, and which, when deflated, goes limp and disengages the capsule member.
A variable motion device displaying interactive rocking and rotating motion and having a geometrically eccentric center of mass, The device is supported upon a teetering surface bearing against a corresponding counterteetering surface, At least one of these surfaces is curved, so that the device wobbles. These features, which are concealed from an observer, cause compound or unpredictable precession in response to the device being rocked or similarly moved by a rider. Further ride altering effects are produced by powered pushing or pulling devices. In another alternative embodiment, initial Potation is produced by a powered source. The device, which finds its best application as an amusement ride, accommodates one or more riders.
