U.S. patent application number 11/167423 was filed with the patent office on 2005-12-29 for moving reef wave generator.
Invention is credited to Lochtefeld, Thomas J., Sauerbier, Charles E..
Application Number | 20050286976 11/167423 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26982074 |
Filed Date | 2005-12-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050286976 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lochtefeld, Thomas J. ; et
al. |
December 29, 2005 |
Moving reef wave generator
Abstract
The invention relates to a wave generating system comprising a
wave generator that travels along the surface of a body of water,
and preferably in the middle thereof, wherein the wave generator
can create both primary and secondary waves that travel toward the
shore. The primary waves are intended to allow surfing maneuvers to
be performed in a relatively deep water environment. In the
preferred embodiment, the body of water has opposing undulating
shorelines upon which the secondary waves can break, wherein by
modifying the shoreline's slope and curvature, and providing
undulating peninsulas and cove areas, various multiple wave
formations and effects can be created.
Inventors: |
Lochtefeld, Thomas J.; (La
Jolla, CA) ; Sauerbier, Charles E.; (Arroyo Grande,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
J. John Shimazaki
P.O. Box 650741
Sterling
VA
20165
US
|
Family ID: |
26982074 |
Appl. No.: |
11/167423 |
Filed: |
June 27, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11167423 |
Jun 27, 2005 |
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10319595 |
Dec 16, 2002 |
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6928670 |
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60339805 |
Dec 17, 2001 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
405/79 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 69/0093 20130101;
E04H 4/0006 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
405/079 |
International
Class: |
E02B 003/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A method of creating multiple wave formations in a wave pool,
comprising: providing a relatively deep area and a relatively
shallow area in said wave pool, wherein said shallow area has an
inclined contoured floor forming a shoreline thereon: providing a
wave generator capable of traveling across the wave pool, wherein
said wave generator is adapted to travel along said deep area, at a
predetermined distance from said shoreline; creating primary waves
in said deep area in the vicinity of said wave generator; creating
secondary waves on the water surface that travel outwardly from
said wave generator, through said deep area, across said wave pool,
and into said shallow area; and enabling said secondary waves to
form wave formations that enter into said shallow area, and break
across and/or onto said shoreline.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein said wave generator is adapted to
travel along a submerged track extending substantially horizontally
along the floor of said deep area, wherein said track extends
substantially in the middle of said wave pool.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein the track extends substantially
along a straight predetermined path, substantially through said
deep area, and said shoreline extends substantially around the
perimeter of said wave pool, wherein the secondary waves that
travel outward from said wave generator can create various wave
formations that eventually break along the shoreline around said
wave pool.
4. The method of claim 3, wherein the inclined floor of the
shoreline comprises undulations having peninsulas and cove areas at
predetermined angles relative to the direction of said track,
wherein the different angles at which the secondary waves break
onto said shoreline are able to create various wave breaking
formations along said shoreline.
5. The method of claim 4, wherein said peninsulas and cove areas
are adapted such that, between adjacent peninsulas and cove areas,
curling and/or plunging waves are created, and between adjacent
cove areas and peninsulas, surging and/or collapsing waves are
created.
6. The method of claim 2, wherein said track extends along a
substantially straight path, and said wave generator is capable of
traveling in two directions along said path.
7. The method of claim 6, wherein said wave generator is adapted
with opposing wave generator hulls on opposite sides thereof, such
that said wave generator can travel in said two directions without
needing to turn around at the end of said path.
8. The method of claim 6, wherein said wave generator is adapted
such that at the end of said path, said wave generator can rotate
and/or pivot to enable the wave generator hulls to face the
appropriate direction relative to said path.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein said primary waves are formed by
flow forming surfaces on said wave generator, wherein said flow
forming surfaces are adapted to exert an upward and lateral force
to the water, to form primary waves that curl upward and laterally
outward relative to said wave generator, and wherein said secondary
waves are formed by the transition of said primary waves, as a
second phase thereof, in combination with wave motions consisting
of transverse and divergent waves created by water displacement as
the wave generator travels through the water, and wherein the
combination of wave motions creates an enhanced secondary wave that
travels like a wake from said deep area, through said wave pool, to
said shallow area, and then breaks onto said shoreline.
10. The method of claim 1, wherein the floor of the shoreline
comprises undulations having peninsulas and cove areas that allow
the secondary waves created by said wave generator to be enhanced
and/or modified as they travel across the wave pool, through said
shallow area, and break onto said shoreline.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein said peninsulas and cove areas
are adapted such that, between adjacent peninsulas and cove areas,
curling and/or plunging waves are created, and between adjacent
cove areas and peninsulas, surging and/or collapsing waves are
created.
12. A method of creating multiple wave formations in a wave pool,
comprising: providing a relatively deep area and a relatively
shallow area, wherein said shallow area has an inclined floor
forming a shoreline thereon: providing a wave generator capable of
traveling across the wave pool, wherein said wave generator is
adapted to travel along a submerged track extending substantially
along a floor of said deep area, at a predetermined distance from
said shoreline; operating said wave generator on said track in a
first direction to create primary waves in said deep area in the
vicinity of said wave generator, and secondary waves that travel
outwardly from said wave generator in substantially said first
direction, to said shallow area, and onto said shoreline; and
operating said wave generator on said track in a second direction
opposite said first direction to create primary waves in said deep
area in the vicinity of said wave generator, and secondary waves
that travel outwardly from said wave generator, in substantially
said second direction, to said shallow area, and onto said
shoreline.
13. The method of claim 1, wherein said submerged track extends
substantially horizontally along said floor of said deep area, and
substantially in the middle of said wave pool.
14. The method of claim 12, wherein the track extends substantially
along a straight predetermined path, substantially through said
deep area, and said shoreline extends substantially around the
perimeter of said wave pool, wherein the secondary waves that
travel outward from said wave generator create various wave
formations that eventually break along the shoreline around said
wave pool.
15. The method of claim 12, wherein said wave generator is adapted
with opposing wave generator hulls on opposite sides thereof, such
that said wave generator can travel in said first and second
directions, without needing to turn around at the end of said
path.
16. The method of claim 12, wherein said wave generator is adapted
such that at the end of said path, said wave generator can rotate
and/or pivot to enable the wave generator hulls to face the
appropriate direction relative to said path.
17. The method of claim 12, wherein the floor of the shoreline
comprises undulations having peninsulas and cove areas that allow
the secondary waves created by said wave generator to be enhanced
and/or modified as they travel across the wave pool, through said
shallow area, and break onto said shoreline.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein said peninsulas and cove areas
are oriented at predetermined angles relative to the direction of
said track, wherein the different angles at which the secondary
waves break onto said shoreline are able to create various wave
breaking formations along said shoreline.
19. The method of claim 17, wherein said peninsulas and cove areas
are adapted such that, between adjacent peninsulas and cove areas,
curling and/or plunging waves are created, and between adjacent
cove areas and peninsulas, surging and/or collapsing waves are
created.
20. The method of claim 12, wherein said wave generator has flow
forming surfaces that are adapted to form primary waves that curl
upward and laterally outward on either side of said wave generator,
and said secondary waves that travel in opposite directions
relative to the direction of said track, wherein said secondary
waves travel like wakes from said deep area, through said wave
pool, to said shallow area, and then break onto said shoreline.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of the filing date of
U.S. application Ser. No. 10/319,595, filed on Dec. 16, 2002, and
of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/339,805, filed on Dec.
17, 2001.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a wave generating system,
and in particular, to a wave generating system adapted to travel
within a body of water having an extended shore with wave enhancing
features thereon.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Water theme parks have become popular in recent years. Water
theme parks generally consist of water rides and often provide
other water related activities.
[0004] An attraction that has become popular at many water theme
parks throughout the country is the wave pool. Wave pools are
typically man-made bodies of water wherein a wave generator is
located at one end of the pool, and a simulated beach is located at
the other end, wherein waves are created by the wave generator that
travel across the pool and break onto the beach. In particular,
attempts have been made to create spilling, breaking waves using
mechanical wave generators that are designed to push large amounts
of water back and forth in the pool. This movement is created on
the deep end of the pool and involves creating waves that travel
toward the opposite shallower end where the waves break. These
generators are often driven by motors, such as those that are
mechanically, pneumatically, or hydraulically operated.
[0005] While many different methods have been attempted, one of the
shortcomings of wave pools is that they typically create waves by
moving water back and forth, and therefore, can only create a
single wave at a time. That is, in most wave pools, only a single
periodic wave can be created by the wave generator at any given
moment in time, wherein the passage of time is required between
successive waves. This requires one wave to pass before another is
created. Although different sized and shaped beaches can be
provided, and wave frequencies can be increased, only one wave is
created at one time. In such circumstances, particularly when wave
pools are crowded, there is often little space or opportunity for
participants to ride the waves. Either the occupancy of the wave
pool must be limited, or larger wave pools with additional wave
generating capacity must be provided, in order for more people to
enjoy riding the waves.
[0006] Conventional wave pools also typically only have a single
sloped beach area upon which the waves will break. In such case,
people who want to perform water skimming maneuvers in the shallow
areas near the beach often have to share the same space with those
who simply want to wade, such as children and the elderly, which
can disadvantageously increase the risk of accident and create an
overcrowded situation within the pool.
[0007] The unavailability of usable space within the wave pool also
makes it difficult to create surfable quality waves and for
participants to take advantage of waves that are produced. In
conventional wave pools, water is moved back and forth on one end
of the pool, and waves created by this movement must travel across
the pool, and then be acted upon by the inclined surface of the
pool floor for the waves to form and eventually break. In this
respect, there must be sufficient length within the pool for the
waves to travel far enough to curl and finally spill onto the
beach. Also, even if surfable quality waves can be created,
competition for space within the pool can make it difficult for
participants to perform surfing and skimming maneuvers on the waves
that are created.
[0008] In view of the limitations of existing wave pools, as
outlined above, the invention described herein is concerned with a
wave pool that produces various wave formations on which water
skimming and surfing maneuvers can be performed, and that increases
the number and variety of wave formations that can be created, so
that participants with different interests and skills can co-exist
and play at the same time in the same pool.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention relates to a wave generating system
that increases the amount of throughput and usable space provided
by a wave pool, and produces various wave formations on which water
skimming and surfing maneuvers can safely be performed.
[0010] One aspect of the present invention involves providing a
wave generator located within the middle of the wave pool which
travels from one end of the pool to the other along a submerged
track. The track is preferably located on the pool floor, and
enables the wave generator to slide/travel thereon, in a manner
that allows the wave generator to travel along the surface of the
body of water, wherein waves that travel outwardly from the wave
generator toward the shoreline can be created.
[0011] In one embodiment, the wave generator can create both
primary and secondary waves, which can be separate waves, or phases
of the same wave, as will be discussed, that expand outward toward
opposite sides of the shore. Primary waves are formed in close
proximity to the wave generator (to enable surfing maneuvers to be
performed in a relatively deep water environment), and secondary
waves are created by the combination of the effect of the primary
waves, plus the displacement of water caused by the generator as it
travels through water, wherein enhanced secondary waves can travel
outward, i.e., in opposite directions, toward the shore.
[0012] By virtue of creating waves in this manner, two sets of
primary and secondary waves can be created by a single wave
generator, wherein two primary waves can travel outwardly from the
wave generator in opposite directions, and two secondary waves can
travel in opposite directions toward opposing shorelines. When the
primary waves transition and help to form secondary waves, the
resultant wave is an enhanced secondary wave that travels toward
shore, which can then be acted upon by the inclined floor to create
curling, spilling, plunging, collapsing and/or surging type
breaking waves along the shoreline.
[0013] By positioning the track in substantially the middle of the
pool in this manner, and providing separate shorelines with beaches
on opposite sides of the track, the wave generator of the present
invention can create two sets of primary and secondary waves,
traveling in opposite directions toward opposing sides of the pool,
wherein unique wave formations for performing surfing maneuvers can
be created. For example, variations along the pool floor can be
adapted to create various wave effects and formations upon which
surfing and skimming maneuvers can be performed.
[0014] U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,105,527; 5,911,190; 5,860,766; 5,664,910
are incorporated herein by reference. The wave generator of the
present invention is preferably a wave forming device that can be
pulled and/or pushed through a body of water in a relatively deep
water environment. The wave generator preferably has wave or flow
forming surfaces that are designed to act upon the surface of the
water as it is pushed/pulled. For example, the wave generator can
be mounted on or otherwise attached to a sled that can travel along
the submerged track (wherein a cable can be used to pull the sled),
or a partially submerged vehicle that can travel along the
track.
[0015] As the wave generator moves along the water surface in this
manner, the wave generator preferably displaces water in a manner
that creates surfable quality waves. In the preferred embodiment,
the wave generator preferably has leading edges that are capable of
cutting and lifting water upward, and/or pushing water outward.
Wave forming surfaces are preferably extended above and behind the
leading edges, wherein they are preferably curved upward and
outward in a concave manner, in both horizontal and vertical
directions, to enable water to be lifted up, and displaced
laterally outward, away from the wave generator. In this manner,
when the wave generator travels through water, it preferably cuts
through and displaces water in a manner that helps to create
various wave formations in the water.
[0016] In this respect, primary waves are those upon which
participants can perform surfing maneuvers in a relatively deep
water environment (formed in close proximity to the wave
generator). These are often called primary bow waves, insofar as
they are typically created by the "bow" of the wave generator,
i.e., water is displaced upward and laterally outward, forming
waves that curl outward from the sides of the wave generator. The
secondary waves, on the other hand, are generally formed as part of
the second phase of the primary wave, in conjunction with the
transverse and divergent waves that are naturally created as the
wave generator travels through the water. As the wave generator
travels through water, water is displaced by and away from the wave
generator, i.e., behind the generator, and, as water seeks its own
level (by the restoring force of gravity), it tends to fill the
area behind the wave generator, wherein transverse and divergent
waves are formed and then combine to form secondary wave formations
that spread outwardly in the form of a V toward the shore.
[0017] In the preferred embodiment, the motions created by the wave
generator preferably combine "synergistically" to create an
"enhanced secondary wave" that tends to be larger than the second
phase of the primary wave, transverse wave or divergent wave by
itself. By virtue of the flow forming surfaces incorporated into
the design of the wave generator, the various momentums in the
water caused by the wave generator preferably combine together, to
create an enhanced secondary wave, with synergistic properties that
ultimately travels toward the shore.
[0018] The depth at which the wave generator's leading edges are
positioned relative to the water surface preferably determines the
thickness of the primary wave formations that are formed, insofar
as the depth controls the amount of water that is lifted up and
displaced by the wave generator. The deeper the leading edges of
the wave generator are positioned in relation to the water surface,
the more water that can be lifted and pushed upward by the wave
generator, thereby enabling the wave generator to create relatively
thick primary waves. The shallower the leading edges are positioned
in relation to the water surface, on the other hand, the less water
that can be lifted and pushed upward by the wave generator, thereby
enabling the wave generator to create relatively thin waves. The
wave generator is preferably maintained at a level and in a manner
that helps to keep the leading edges at a substantially constant
level in the water, i.e., along the surface of the water, such that
when the wave generator moves through the water, the leading edges
help to scoop up a sheet flow of water having a relatively uniform
thickness upwardly and laterally as conducive to surfing.
[0019] The wave generator is preferably connected to a sled,
vehicle, or other device or mechanism that rolls, slides, or is
pulled/pushed along the submerged track. For example, the sled can
have a stem extended up to the wave generator in a manner that
helps to keep the wave generator at a substantially constant level
in the water, i.e., with the leading edge just below the surface of
the water. Mounting the wave generator on a rigid stem extending
from the sled at a predetermined distance allows the depth at which
the wave generator travels in the water to be maintained relatively
constant.
[0020] In another embodiment, the wave generator can be buoyant,
and be pulled by a cable at a predetermined distance from the sled
to help maintain the wave generator at the appropriate depth. In
yet another embodiment, the wave generator can be mounted on a
partially submerged vehicle that can travel along the track,
wherein the wave generator can be positioned at a constant level
relative to the water surface.
[0021] In the rigid stem embodiment, because it is not always easy
to maintain the level of water constant, i.e., due to temperature
and weather changes, or other variances, the stem can be made
adjustable so that the wave generator can be positioned at
different levels, depending on how much water is in the pool. The
adjustability of the stem can be provided, for example, by using
telescoping members, with a fastening means that allows the wave
generator to be set at a predetermined distance above the sled. In
other embodiments, other adjustment means can be provided to adjust
the level of the wave generator relative to the water surface.
[0022] Preferably, the wave generator has two substantially
identical wave generating surfaces on either side, wherein each one
is capable of creating wave formations that travel in opposite
directions. The wave generator preferably has symmetrical leading
edges and wave forming surfaces that help to displace water
uniformly and in opposite directions, thereby creating a relatively
balanced V shaped wake. The V shaped wake, in turn, helps to create
two mirror-image wave formations that flow in opposite directions
toward the shore.
[0023] In another embodiment, the wave generator can be adapted
with only one wave forming surface on one side, so that only one
primary wave is created. This embodiment is preferably used in wave
pools that are smaller and only have one shoreline, on one side
relative to the wave generator, along which the waves break.
[0024] The wave generator also preferably travels in two directions
along the track. This way, it can generate waves traveling in one
direction, and then generate additional waves traveling in the
other direction, i.e., back and forth along the track. For example,
in one embodiment, the wave generator can be adapted to pivot at
the end of the track, so that the direction that the forward end
faces can easily be reversed. This way, when the wave generator
reaches one end of the track, the wave generator can be turned
around, and then pushed/pulled in the other direction, to create
primary and secondary waves traveling in the opposite direction.
And, when the wave generator reaches the other end of the track,
the wave generator can be turned around again, wherein it can then
be pushed/pulled back in the opposite direction, to create more
primary and secondary waves. This back and forth movement can be
repeated to create waves that travel in opposite directions.
[0025] In another embodiment, the wave generator can have dual wave
generating surfaces, each facing opposite directions. This way,
rather than having to pivot the wave generator when it comes to a
stop at the end of the track, it preferably has two sets of leading
edges and wave forming surfaces facing opposite directions, so that
the wave generator can be pushed/pulled in two directions, to
create primary and secondary waves traveling in opposite
directions.
[0026] Based on the above, the present invention contemplates that
the wave generator of the present invention can create four
different wave formations that travel in four different directions,
i.e., two that expand outward in the shape of a V in one direction,
and another two that expand outward in the shape of a V in the
opposite direction.
[0027] Another aspect of the present invention preferably involves
employing beach areas or shorelines with undulating patterns having
predetermined curvatures and slopes, etc., designed to increase the
number and types of curling, spilling and/or breaking wave
formations that can be created by a single solitary wave. This
aspect of the invention is preferably accomplished by providing an
undulating shoreline (i.e., with intermittent peninsula and cove
areas) that can cause each enhanced secondary wave to break in one
manner in one area, and in another manner in another area, etc. The
undulations are preferably provided so that as the waves travel
toward the shore and break, the breaking sequences can be repeated
over and over along the two shorelines. And, depending on how many
undulating areas are provided, a predetermined number of wave
formations can be created along the shoreline, thereby providing
multiple opportunities for participants to ride the waves.
[0028] In the present invention, the curvatures, slopes and
patterns of the shoreline preferably serve to enhance the wave
formations formed by the wave generator, and create additional wave
effects along the shore. In this respect, the shoreline is
preferably adapted so that it can create additional waves and wave
formations from a single enhanced secondary wave. As the enhanced
secondary wave travels through the water, it can be affected by the
slope and curvature of not only the pool floor, but the curvature
and slope of the shoreline, such that as the wave travels further
toward and/or across the shoreline, it can form multiple wave
formations, each capable of breaking independently on the beach.
This can be accomplished, for example, by the undulation of the
shoreline, with intermittent peninsulas and cove areas, which are
preferably extended along both sides of the shore.
[0029] The creation of these different and multiple wave formations
enables a wide variety of water skimming and surfing maneuvers to
be performed at the same time at various locations within the same
pool. For example, the present invention preferably creates primary
waves upon which participants can perform surfing maneuvers in a
relatively deep water environment (near the wave generator). The
primary waves then transition to help form secondary waves, which
are then acted upon by the other motions created by the wave
generator, to create enhanced secondary wave formations that travel
toward the shore. When the enhanced secondary waves travel toward
the shore, they create additional wave effects along the undulating
shorelines, on which many other participants can perform additional
surfing and/or water skimming maneuvers.
[0030] The angle at which the waves travel toward shore, and how
they break relative to the beach, can be modified by the peninsulas
and undulations along the shoreline. That is, by forming peninsulas
and cove areas, which modify the angle at which the secondary waves
break onto the sloped floor, the type of wave that can be formed at
any given location along the length of the beach can be altered.
This enables the direction of the waves relative to the shoreline,
and how they break along the beach, to be modified from one
location to another, which enables a greater variety of wave
formations to be created. This enables the water park operator to
create different waves, to give variety to the users.
[0031] The wave formations also enable participants to easily enter
into and exit from the ridable areas of the breaking waves, from
any of many different locations on the shoreline. And, because of
the repetitive nature of the undulations, substantially identical
wave formations and characteristics can be duplicated from one area
to the next, thereby increasing predictability and safety. The
present invention also provides multiple areas within the pool
where participants can simply wade in shallow water, without
interruption and interference by any other participant.
[0032] In another embodiment, one side of the pool is preferably
provided with an undulated beach area, and the other side, i.e.,
the side opposite the track, is provided with a containment wall.
This embodiment can be used in areas where the size of the pool
must be limited due to space limitations. The wave generator in
this embodiment is preferably the kind that has only one wave
forming surface on one side, as discussed above, to create wave
formations that travel toward one side of the pool. Because
asymmetrical forces would necessarily act upon the wave generator
as it travels through the water, however, the wave generator in
this embodiment is preferably symmetrical to the axis of travel and
either (1) secured to a sled running along a track in a manner that
helps maintain the wave generator in substantial equilibrium, i.e.,
to keep it moving in the direction of travel without being tilted
or pushed sideways from the path, or (2) pulled by a cable wherein
the hydraulic interaction between generator and water is balanced
to achieve a stable steady state flow condition.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0033] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the wave generator of the
present invention being pulled across a wave pool;
[0034] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the wave generator of the
present invention positioned on a sled that runs on a track;
[0035] FIG. 3a is an overhead view of the wave generator of the
present invention;
[0036] FIG. 3b is a side view of the wave generator of the present
invention showing its relationship to the water line;
[0037] FIG. 4 is a front view of the wave generator of the present
invention positioned within the wave pool;
[0038] FIG. 5 is a schematic top view of the mechanical driving
means and cable used to pull the wave generator through the
pool;
[0039] FIG. 6 is a schematic side view of the mechanical driving
means and cable of the present invention;
[0040] FIG. 7 is a plan view of one embodiment of the wave pool of
the present invention having undulated shorelines on opposite sides
of the pool, wherein the wave generator track extends substantially
within the center of the pool;
[0041] FIG. 8 is a plan view of an alternate embodiment of the wave
pool of the present invention wherein there is a containment wall
on one side thereof, and the undulating shoreline is provided on
the other side;
[0042] FIG. 9 is a partial plan view of an undulated shoreline
showing the wave generator of the present invention moving along a
track, wherein primary and secondary waves are generated by the
wave generator, and the waves depicted are shown at preselected
time intervals;
[0043] FIGS. 10a through 10e are provided to show the movement of
the wave generator and the waves created thereby as it travels
across the pool, wherein each figure represents a point in time
showing how the waves travel and break along the undulated
shoreline.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0044] FIG. 1 represents a perspective view of the wave generator 1
of the present invention in operation traveling through a body of
water 3 on a submerged track 5. The wave generator 1 preferably
travels partially submerged along the surface of the body of water
3 such that it can displace water and create primary and secondary
waves, as discussed. The track 5 is preferably substantially
straight and preferably extends along a substantially horizontal
floor 4 of the body of water 3. The track 5 is preferably designed
so that the wave generator 1 can travel on a sled 9 or vehicle,
which is adapted to travel along the track 5. The wave generator 1
is preferably mounted to a connector or stem 7 extending upward
from the sled 9, such that the wave generator 1 can travel along
the water surface.
[0045] In one embodiment, the submerged track 5 comprises a pair of
channels 10, as shown in FIG. 2, extending longitudinally in the
direction of travel A, wherein the channels 10 are preferably
located a predetermined distance apart from one another, so that
sled 9, having a predetermined width, can be slidably mounted there
between. The two channels 10 are preferably positioned with their
flanges 8a facing toward each other, wherein the flanges 8a form
grooves 6, in which the sled 9 can roll or slide. In this respect,
the sled 9 is preferably adapted to roll or slide within the
grooves 6 between the flanges 8a in a longitudinal direction A,
wherein the web portion 8b of each channel 10 preferably help to
prevent the sled from moving side-to-side, while the flanges 8a can
maintain the sled 9 in a substantially horizontal orientation. This
substantially prevents tilting and other undesirable movements
along the track 5.
[0046] The sled 9 can, in one embodiment, be adapted to slide
within the channels 10, using water as the lubricant, wherein by
adapting the wave generator 1 to move freely within the body of
water 3, the sled 9 can be adapted to slide relatively freely
within the channels 10, without any additional mechanical means.
For example, the wave generator 1 can be adapted to float so that
its buoyancy reduces the effective weight of the wave generator 1
on track 5, wherein sled 9 can then slide through channels 10 with
very little friction being applied.
[0047] In another embodiment, the sled 9 can have a plurality of
rollers 16, as shown in FIG. 2, which can extend from the top and
bottom surfaces of sled 9, and along the front and back ends, on
either side thereof. The rollers 16 are preferably adapted to be
positioned within the body of the sled 9 and extend upward and
downward to engage the flanges 8a, such that they allow the sled 9
to roll or slide freely within the grooves 6, as the sled 9 is
pulled through the water. In this manner, as the wave generator 1
travels through water, and hydrodynamic drag is experienced by the
wave generator 1, any tendency of the wave generator 1 to tilt
backward can be resisted by the rollers 16 applying upward pressure
in the front and downward pressure in the back, i.e., against the
upper and lower flanges 8a, respectively. Although the embodiment
with rollers 16 is shown, other types of tracks that enable the
wave generator 1 to slide freely, such as those used in the
operation of trains, monorails, roller coasters, conveying systems,
etc., can also be used, and are within the contemplation of the
present invention.
[0048] The wave generator 1 is a wave forming device that is
adapted to travel substantially along the surface of the body of
water 3 to cause water to be displaced in a manner that creates
primary and secondary waves, much like a boat traveling through
water. As shown in FIG. 2, it preferably has a double hull design
which, as it is being pulled through water, can displace water in
two different directions, i.e., in the shape of a V, away from wave
generator 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the wave generator 1 preferably
has two leading edges, 13a and 13b, which are part of two wave
generating hulls, 12a and 12b, extending from a forward end 11. The
hulls preferably sweep substantially rearward from leading edges
13a and 13b, forming two wave forming surfaces 15 thereon. The
leading edges 13a and 13b are designed to travel below the water
surface, such that they can cut through and scoop water up to form
a sheet flow of water that flows onto the flow forming surfaces 15.
The leading edges 13a and 13b are preferably substantially rounded
and covered with a soft material, as will be discussed, so as to
reduce the risk of injury.
[0049] The flow forming surfaces 15 preferably have both horizontal
and vertical concave curvatures or slopes, such that as water is
lifted up onto the hulls, 12a and 12b, the sheet flow of water will
conform to the contours of the flow forming surfaces 15. The hulls,
12a and 12b, preferably extend substantially horizontally outwardly
at an angle, forming a substantial V-shape from above, as shown in
FIG. 3a. The angle at which the hulls extend rearward is preferably
between about 15 to 45 degrees in relation to the direction of
travel A, although the actual angle can vary.
[0050] The wave generator 1 has an inclined concave curvature which
causes water flowing over the flow forming surfaces 15 to flow in
an upward, lateral and ultimately forward direction, relative to
the surrounding water, as it moves through the water. The hulls 12a
and 12b are preferably oriented substantially laterally at an
angle, as discussed above, which can cause the sheet flow of water
to flow upward and laterally across the flow forming surfaces 15,
forming substantially identical wave shapes 18 on either side of
the wave generator 1.
[0051] The incline and/or the degree of curvature of the flow
forming surfaces 15 and their lateral orientations determine the
amount of forward, upward and lateral momentum exerted on the sheet
flow of water, as the wave generator 1 travels through water, and
functional to the speed of the wave generator 1 through the water,
the size, character, and height of the wave shapes. For example, if
the flow forming surfaces 15 have a relatively steep incline,
and/or a relatively concave curvature, the wave shapes that are
formed are likely to be relatively steep and of a plunging
character. Conversely, if the flow forming surfaces 15 have a
relatively shallow incline, and/or relatively open curvature, the
wave shapes that are formed are likely to have less of an incline
and an unbroken or spilling character. In addition, if the angle of
lateral orientation is relatively wide, the wave generator 1 is
likely to impart a greater lateral momentum to the water as water
flows across the flow forming surfaces 15, wherein water is likely
to flow further laterally away from the wave generator 1 as it
travels through the water. On the other hand, if the wave generator
1 is made relatively narrow, the wave generator 1 is likely to
impart only a small amount of lateral momentum to the water,
wherein less lateral trajectory is likely to be created.
[0052] In the preferred embodiment, the wave generator 1 is
preferably symmetrical in configuration, such that as it travels
through water, the hydrodynamic forces acting on the generator 1
help to keep it aligned in the direction of travel A. The double
hull design preferably extends substantially identically on both
sides of the forward end 11, wherein the hulls 12a and 12b can
experience substantially identical hydrodynamic forces, tending to
stabilize the device in a forward direction.
[0053] Keeping the wave generator 1 substantially level, and the
leading edges 13a and 13b at a substantially constant depth in the
water, are important aspects to the successful formation of primary
wave shapes 18. The depth of the leading edges 13a and 13b relative
to the water surface level 14, can determine the thickness and
consistency of the sheet flow of water lifted onto the flow forming
surfaces 15, wherein it can determine the overall size and
consistency of the primary wave shapes 18. In this respect, the
wave generator 1 is preferably designed so that the leading edges
13a and 13b are consistently maintained below the water surface at
between 8 to 36 inches, which is sufficient to pare the top layer
of water that passes up onto the flow forming surfaces 15, and
allow the downward gravitational force to interact with the upward
flow and cause the resultant wave effect.
[0054] In one embodiment, the wave generator 1 is connected to stem
7 that extends upward from sled 9, such that hulls 12a and 12b
extend substantially above the water line 14, as shown in FIG. 4.
The wave generator 1, in this respect, is preferably designed to be
rigidly mounted to the sled 9 such that the height of the wave
generator 1, and in particular, the leading edges 13a and 13b, in
relation to sled 9, can remain substantially constant. Rigidly
mounting the wave generator 1 to sled 9, in this respect, enables
the tilt of the hull to be controlled so that the proper
orientation of the leading edges 13a and 13b, and of the flow
forming surfaces 15, in relation to the body of water 3, can be
achieved.
[0055] Because it is difficult to control the level of the water in
the body of water 3, due to evaporation, rain and other conditions,
etc., the present invention contemplates that stem 7 can be
provided with an adjustability feature, such that the height of the
wave generator 1 in relation to sled 9 can be adjusted. This can be
accomplished, for example, by adapting stem 7 with telescoping
members and a holding means to maintain the wave generator 1 at a
proper adjustable height. In this respect, any of many conventional
methods of adjusting and controlling the height of the wave
generator 1 on stem 7 can be used.
[0056] In another embodiment, the wave generator 1 can be made of
buoyant material so that it floats on the surface of the water. In
this embodiment, the wave generator 1 can be pulled by the sled 9
with a separate cable (extending between the sled 9 and wave
generator 1), and is preferably adapted to be symmetrical in design
so that it can remain in substantial hydrodynamic equilibrium, and
at a substantially constant level in the water, as the wave
generator 1 travels through water. Various buoyancy and planing
forces, as well as the weight and drag forces that can be applied,
are preferably taken into consideration, to adapt the wave
generator 1 in this manner. For a better understanding of the
different designs that are possible, which could affect the way the
wave generator 1 can travel through the water, and how the wave
generator 1 can be designed to account for these forces, resort
should be made to U.S. Pat. No. 5,664,910, which is incorporated
herein by reference.
[0057] In either embodiment, when the wave generator 1 is
accelerated through water, hydrodynamic forces can act upon the
hulls 12a and 12b, making it difficult, on the basis of the
buoyancy and weight alone, to keep the wave generator 1 in
substantial equilibrium. The shape of the wave generator 1,
therefore, in conjunction with its weight and buoyancy, is
preferably designed to help stabilize the wave generator 1 in the
water, even during rapid acceleration. Water flowing over the wave
generator 1, for instance, can create a downward force, as water is
lifted up onto the flow forming surfaces 15, wherein the speed and
angle at which the generator 1 travels can be affected. Pulling the
wave generator 1 through the water can also cause the generator 1
to tilt backward as hydrodynamic drag is experienced by the hulls
12a and 12b, with the forward end 11 tilting up. To counteract
these forces, and to maintain the leading edges 13a and 13b at a
substantially constant level in the water, the wave generator 1 can
be rigidly connected to the stem 7, which can be rigidly connected
to sled 9, which is preferably made wide and long enough so that it
can be held in a substantially horizontal position within the
channels 10, as discussed above.
[0058] Either with or without the stem 7, the wave generator 1 is
preferably made of buoyant material, such that it can stay afloat
in the water, which can reduce drag that may otherwise exist as it
travels along the track 5. For example, by providing the wave
generator 1 of the present invention with the appropriate buoyancy,
the effective weight of the wave generator can be minimized, such
that the sled 9 can slide within the grooves 6 of track 5 with very
little friction, i.e., with water as the lubricant. By making the
wave generator 1 virtually weightless in water in this manner, sled
9 can be adapted to slide relatively freely within grooves 6.
[0059] The buoyancy of the wave generator can be made possible 1)
by the materials that are used, 2) by making the wave generator
hollow, 3) by inserting air pockets into the wave generator where
needed, or 4) any other known method. The wave generator can be
hollow, such as with double walls, or air pockets of various sizes,
and at various locations, can be dispersed within its body,
wherever additional buoyancy is needed.
[0060] Virtually any type of material used in the manufacture of
boats can be used to manufacture the wave generator 1 of the
present invention. The wave generator 1 is preferably made of a
strong, durable, slightly flexible material, such as fiberglass,
wood, metal or carbon graphite composite. The wave generator 1 is
also preferably integrally formed, i.e., a fiberglass shell, and
manufactured by a conventional hand lay up or injection mold
process. The wave generator 1 is preferably made strong enough to
withstand the impact of sheer, torsion, and bending, that can be
caused by the hydrodynamic forces acting on it during operation.
The exterior of the wave generator 1 should be covered by a soft,
impact absorbent material, such as coated foam, or other material
that is easy to apply. This covering material is preferably
flexible so that the wave generator 1 will not cause injury to
riders, who may fall or be accidentally struck during use. In
addition, the wave generator 1 should be coated with a waterproof,
or water resistant material, such as urethane rubber, which has a
low coefficient of friction, and can be formed without seams, so
that hydrodynamic drag can be minimized. The outer layer or coating
can be applied in any conventional manner, such as by spray, glue,
thermal heating, welding, or other method. The sled 9, stem 7 and
track 5 components, as well as the rollers 16, can be made of any
conventional rust resistant material, such as stainless steel,
aluminum, plastic, carbon graphite, fiberglass, etc. The body of
water 3 is preferably formed with and supported by concrete or
other suitable stable material that can withstand wave action. The
surface of the floor is also preferably coated with a water proof
material to prevent seepage.
[0061] The wave generator 1 of the present invention is preferably
driven by a conventional drive motor 22, such as those that have
been used to power trains, funiculars, cable cars, ski lifts,
trolleys, etc. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the drive motor 22 can be
connected to bull wheels 20 that are designed to rotate and drive a
cable loop 24 that has been pretensioned and extended across the
body of water 3. In this embodiment, there are preferably two
wheels 20, each at opposite ends of the track 5, with the cable
loop 24 pretensioned to span the distance therebetween, wherein by
rotating the drive motor 22, the cable loop 24 can be rotated to
move the cable 24 through the body of water. In this fashion, by
connecting the wave generator 1 to the sled 9, and attaching the
sled 9 to the cable loop 24, and then rotating the wheels 20 with
the drive motor 22, the sled 9 can be pulled along the track 5,
across the body of water 3, which in turn pulls the wave generator
1.
[0062] The cable loop 24 can be laid in slotted sleeves 26
underneath the track 5 so that it will not interfere with the
movement of the sled 9, nor be visible or accessible from above. A
cable tension screw 28 can be provided to adjust the pretensioning
of the cable loop 24 depending on how much slack is desired. An
additional adjustment 30 can also be provided to control the
vertical position of the wheel in relation to the floor 4. The
present invention also contemplates that other conventional driving
means and mechanisms can be provided to enable the wave generator 1
to travel across the body of water 3 along the track 5.
[0063] Another aspect of the invention is that the wave generator 1
can be adapted to travel back and forth along the track 5 in
opposite directions A and B. As discussed previously, wave
generator 1 and sled 9 are connected to the cable loop 24 which is
driven by wheels 20 that can be rotated in two different
directions. By driving wheels 20 in one direction, the wave
generator 1 can be accelerated and driven in direction A across the
body of water 3, and by driving the wheels 20 in the opposite
direction, the wave generator 1 can be accelerated and driven in
the opposite direction B. Alternatively, by connecting wave
generator 1 to a cable loop 24 that is configured in a full circuit
around wheels 20, a continuously moving generator can move in
direction A, then, do a 180-degree turn around wheel 20 and move in
direction B. This enables the wave generator 1 of the present
invention to create various wave formations, including primary and
secondary waves, traveling in both directions A and B.
[0064] The wave generator 1 can be adapted so that the wave
generator hulls 12a and 12b can be reversed, i.e., so that they can
face opposite directions at the appropriate time. This can be
accomplished, for example, by providing a pivoting means on sled 9,
which allows stem 7, and therefore, wave generator 1, to rotate 180
degrees. This way, when the wave generator 1 travels in direction
A, and comes to the end of the track 5, the wave generator 1 can be
turned around to face the opposite direction, wherein the cable
loop 24 can then drive the wave generator 1 in the opposite
direction B, through the body of water 3, to create additional wave
effects traveling in the opposite direction. By rotating the wave
generator 1 in this fashion, the same wave generator 1 can be used
to create wave formations in two different directions.
[0065] In this embodiment, the stem 7, which is mounted on the sled
9, is preferably designed so that it can pivot around a vertical
axis extending from the sled 9, such that when the wave generator 1
reaches the end of the track 5, the wave generator 1 can be rotated
around the pivot point to face the opposite direction. For example,
a vertical pylon can be extended from the sled 9 on which a fitted
sleeve in the stem 7 can be provided, wherein the sleeve can be
adapted to rotate about the pylon. Fastening means for maintaining
the wave generator 1 in a predetermined rotational position on the
sled 9 can also be provided.
[0066] The present invention also contemplates that the wave
generator 1 can be made so that it is capable of being
self-aligned, i.e., pivoted automatically. In this respect, the
wave generator 1 can be adapted so that the pulling motion on the
sled 9 by the cable 24 in one direction will cause the wave
generator 1 to automatically swing or rotate around to the desired
orientation. That is, simply pulling the sled 9 in one direction
can cause the wave generator 1 to be oriented with the flow forming
surfaces 15 facing that direction, whereas, when the wave generator
1 reaches the end of the track 5, and the cable 24 pulls the sled 9
in the opposite direction, the pulling motion in the opposite
direction can cause the wave generator 1 to rotate and be oriented
in the opposite direction automatically. This way, when the wave
generator 1 reaches the end of the track 5, the system is adapted
so that pulling the wave generator 1 with the cable 24 will, by
virtue of the self-alignment feature, cause the wave generator 1 to
be rotated to face the appropriate wave forming direction when
needed.
[0067] In another embodiment, a drive motor can be provided on sled
9 to enable wave generator 1 to be rotated if desired. That is, a
motor can be provided to rotate the stem 7 about the sled 9 when
the wave generator 1 comes to a stop at the end of the track 5,
such that the wave generator 1 can be positioned in the appropriate
direction.
[0068] In another embodiment, the operation of the wave generator 1
can be computer programmed so that it can be pulled across the body
of water 3, and then, when it comes to the end of the track 5, can
automatically be rotated by the motor, wherein the wave generator 1
can then be pulled across the water in the opposite direction,
wherein these steps can be repeated over and over, by running the
program. A computer controller can, in this respect, be used to
control the operation of the system.
[0069] The present invention also contemplates that the wave
generator 1 can be designed with dual facing hulls, such that the
wave generator 1 can be pulled in two different directions without
having to rotate the wave generator 1. That is, a single wave
generator can have 2 sets of wave generating hulls, 12a and 12b,
including two sets of leading edges, 13a and 13b, and two sets of
flow forming surfaces 15, that face in opposite directions, such
that when the wave generator 1 reaches the end of the track 5, it
simply has to be pulled in the opposite direction to create waves
traveling in opposite directions.
[0070] The speed at which the wave generator 1 is pulled and
travels through water is preferably about 8 to 16 miles per hour,
although the speed can be varied. The desired speed is sufficient
to create both primary and secondary waves of sufficient size and
shape for purposes of enabling surfing maneuvers to be performed on
the primary waves, and the secondary waves to be formed, wherein
the combination of the two waves form an enhanced wave which
travels toward the shore.
[0071] A general discussion of wave creation principles will now be
provided to help describe how the different waves and wave
formations are created by the present invention. In general, the
waves that are formed by the wave generator 1 of the present
invention are created by the effect of gravity on the displacement
of water caused by the wave generator's hull moving through water.
A series of complex motions are typically created in the water as
the wave generator 1 displaces water, which collectively help to
form various wave formations, including both primary and secondary
waves.
[0072] As water is displaced by the wave generator 1, the effect of
gravity on the water displaced can cause various harmonic motions
and water effects to occur. For example, a wave termed a "primary
wave" is typically formed by the wave generator's bow as it travels
through water, i.e., energy from the hull's movement is imparted
directly to the water, causing water to be displaced forward,
upward and laterally away from the wave generator 1, forming a
spilling or curling wave that spreads outwardly and laterally away
from the wave generator 1 as it passes on.
[0073] The primary waves then transition to help create additional
wave formations termed "secondary waves." "Secondary waves" are
generally formed as part of the second phase of the primary wave,
in conjunction with the transverse and divergent waves that are
naturally created as the wave generator travels through the water.
As the wave generator travels through water, water is displaced by
and away from the wave generator, i.e., behind the generator, and,
as water seeks its own level (by the restoring force of gravity),
it tends to fill the area behind the wave generator, wherein
transverse and divergent waves are naturally formed and then
combine to form secondary wave formations that spread outwardly in
the form of a V toward the shore.
[0074] In this respect, a pressure differential normally builds
along the sides of the wave generator 1, wherein the hollow area
displaced by the wave generator, i.e., created immediately behind
the wave generator, naturally causes the water that builds along
the sides to converge inwardly into the hollow area. When the
differential is great enough, the restoring force of gravity can
cause the water converging from both sides of the hollow to
overshoot the equilibrium point, causing it to rebound, and form an
"eruption" or peak that raises the water level on both sides to
form a V shaped crest. This helps to create larger secondary waves
that spread outwardly behind the wave generator 1, i.e., in the
shape of a V, and in a manner that has sloped and angular
components that travel toward the shore.
[0075] In the preferred embodiment, these motions created by the
wave generator preferably combine "synergistically" to create
"enhanced secondary waves" that tend to be larger than either the
second phase of the primary wave, or the transverse or divergent
wave, by itself. By virtue of the flow forming surfaces 15
incorporated into the design of the wave generator 1, the various
momentums in the water created by the wave generator can combine
together, to create an enhanced secondary wave, with synergistic
properties that ultimately travels toward the shore.
[0076] The combination of these motions in the water results in the
creation of an enhanced secondary wave, derived from both primary
and secondary wave aspects. The primary wave, which is a wave that
cascades directly from the flow forming surfaces 15 of wave
generator 1, is generally higher and steeper in shape than the
secondary waves. Under ideal circumstances, the primary waves are
typically twice as high as the crests of the secondary waves along
any point thereof. On the primary waves, surfing type maneuvers can
be performed in a relatively deep water environment, since the flow
forming surfaces 15 of the wave generator 1 form in effect a moving
reef. The secondary waves, on the other hand, are generally more
like wakes while they travel through deep water, and do not begin
to transition into breaking wave formations until after they are
closer to shore, and are affected by the inclined slope of the
floor, i.e., before they will begin to curl and break.
[0077] Because the primary wave is created strictly by the
influence of the wave generator 1 on the surface of the water,
there is no need for the floor to be sloped. In fact, in a deep
water environment, the effect of the floor on the primary wave is
negligible. This enables the wave generator 1 to be mounted to a
substantially horizontal track 5 that runs along a substantially
horizontal floor in a relatively deep water environment. Unlike the
waves that travel to shore, which require the pool floor to become
shallower to impart friction and a breaking component to the waves,
the primary waves are created in a relatively deep water
environment, and cascade directly from wave generator 1, as curling
and plunging waves near where wave generator 1 travels. As shown in
FIG. 4, it is contemplated that the level of water in the body of
water 3 where the track 5 is located is preferably at least about
six feet deep. This depth is the preferred depth, i.e., it is deep
enough so that the risk of injury is reduced, and shallow enough to
reduce the cost of pool construction and water maintenance.
[0078] As a by-product of creating the primary waves, and the
displacement of water created by the wave generator 1, the
secondary waves are naturally created, which extend behind the wave
generator 1, much like transverse and divergent stern waves behind
a boat traveling through water. These secondary waves travel
through deeper portions of the body of water 3 without being
affected by the pool floor, and therefore, initially travel in the
form of a wake, i.e., a non-breaking crest. Then, when they begin
to encounter the inclined floor, and friction is imparted to the
lower portions of the waves, the upper wave portions will naturally
begin to speed up in relation to the lower wave portions, and the
waves will begin to curl, spill, plunge and/or surge. The slope of
the floor closer to the shore, which determines how the waves will
break, is preferably in the range of between 1 to 6, and 1 to 18,
to provide the appropriate effects needed to cause the waves to
"break."
[0079] The slope of the floor can determine the type of wave that
will be created and how the secondary wave will break. For example,
where the secondary wave travels toward a relatively shallow slope,
a "spilling breaker" wave can be created, which is characterized by
a wedge shaped wave formation with foam and turbulence at the wave
crest. Spilling in such case usually starts at some distance from
the shore and is caused when a layer of water at the crest moves
forward faster than the wave as a whole. Foam eventually covers the
leading face of the wave. Such waves are characteristic of a gently
sloping shoreline.
[0080] "Plunging breaker" waves are the most spectacular type of
wave, and are created when the floor is shallow to intermediate in
slope. The classic form of plunging breaker wave, which is what
surfers typically like to ride on, is arched, with a convex back
and concave front. The crest curls over and plunges downwards with
considerable force, dissipating its energy over a short
distance.
[0081] "Collapsing breaker" waves, as they are so called, are
similar to plunging breaker waves, except that the waves are
typically less steep, and instead of the crest curling over, the
front face simply collapses. Such waves typically occur on beaches
with intermediate to moderately steep slopes, and under moderate
wave conditions.
[0082] Finally, "surging breaker" waves are found on the most
steeply sloped beaches. Surging breakers are typically formed by
long, low waves, wherein the front faces and crests remain
relatively unbroken as the waves slide up the beach.
[0083] Although it is a matter of common knowledge that waves
coming onto a sloped beach increase in height and steepness and
eventually break, how the waves actually do this, and the factors
that come into play in determining the extent of the height,
steepness and shape of the waves, are dependent upon a number of
variables. Some of the variables that come into play are: 1) the
speed of the wave, 2) the slope of the beach, 3) the depth of the
beach at any point along the wave, 4) the length of the wave, 5)
the height of the wave, and 6) the total wave energy. Although
there are mathematical formulas that attempt to define an empirical
relationship between these factors, what actually happens during
the transition of the waves from deep to shallow water is a
difficult question to answer, particularly when the floor
configuration and slope is ever-changing. Based on these factors,
nevertheless, it has been determined that there are particular
characteristics of wave formation that can be manipulated, to
create ideal types and sizes of waves.
[0084] The present invention contemplates adapting the shoreline of
the body of water termed a "wave pool" 31 in a manner intended to
increase the functionality and usability of the waves that break
onto the beach. Having discussed how the primary and secondary
waves are generally created, and how the secondary waves can travel
toward the shore and break, the present invention contemplates that
the shoreline 33 can be provided with specific curvatures and
slopes to maximize not only the number of breaking waves that can
be created by a single secondary wave, but also the size and
quality of those breaking waves.
[0085] In one aspect of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 7,
the shoreline 33 upon which the secondary waves will break is
provided with undulated patterns, i.e., a series of rounded
peninsulas 32 and cove areas 34 having predetermined configurations
and slopes, such that multiple waves and wave formations, which
individually break onto different areas or beaches 35 extending
along the edge of the wave pool 31, can be created along the shore.
FIG. 7 shows an example of a shoreline 33 with two opposing beach
areas 35 that are substantially identical in shape. The shoreline
in this embodiment is preferably symmetrical in shape, and on
either side, extends an equal distance away from the track 5 which
preferably extends along the middle of the pool 7 from one end to
another.
[0086] As shown in FIG. 8, the wave pool 31 preferably has a
relatively horizontal floor portion 36 extending along the length
of the pool where the track 5 extends. The horizontal floor portion
36 is provided to enable the track 5 to run substantially
horizontally. Beyond the horizontal section, the pool floor extends
upward and is raised to form an inclined contoured reef 37. The
particular contours of the reef 37 can best be seen by the
topographical lines 38 shown in FIG. 8, wherein each line
represents a predetermined depth, which in the preferred
embodiment, ranges from about six inches to one foot. Although the
horizontal floor portion 36 is preferably about six feet deep, the
reef 37 is preferably formed with a relatively steep, inclined and
sloped area extending upward in an undulating pattern 40 from the
deeper areas 36 to the beach areas 35. The steep areas preferably
rise quickly along the undulated patterns 40 and then begin to
level out to create a more moderate or intermediate slope that
transitions through the water line 14 onto the beach areas 35. As
seen in FIG. 8, there are approximately two topographical lines 38
that are relatively spaced far apart near the water line 14,
showing that the inclined floor is relatively shallow near the
beach areas. There are also a series of additional topographical
lines that are closer together in the deeper water areas 36 of the
reef 37, representing the steeper areas of the reef 37.
[0087] The wave pool 31 shown in FIG. 8 is actually representative
of one that has a containment wall 44 on one side, which can be
useful in situations where the size of the pool must be limited due
to availability of space, rather than opposing shorelines as shown
in FIG. 7. Nevertheless, it should be apparent that the shoreline
33 shown in FIG. 8 can be duplicated and provided on the opposite
side of the pool, as shown in FIG. 7, to form substantially
identical shorelines on opposing sides of the pool. In this
respect, the shoreline 33 in FIG. 8 is intended to be substantially
the same as the shorelines 33 shown in FIG. 7, i.e., the
topographical lines 38 shown in FIG. 8 are intended to be
representative of the contours that can be provided on the
shorelines 33 in the embodiment of FIG. 7.
[0088] The preferred embodiment of the present invention has a
series of undulating peninsula 32 and cove areas 34 forming a
multiple number of curvatures and slopes. For ease of
understanding, the following discussion will focus on a single
undulating area between two adjacent peninsulas 32, as shown in
FIG. 9.
[0089] FIG. 9 depicts how a typical secondary wave 41 formed by a
wave generator 1 would travel through the wave pool 31 and break
along the shore 33. In this figure, as well as FIGS. 10a through
10e, an attempt has been made to create a time lapse view of the
wave 41 and where it might break at any particular point in time,
as the wave generator 1 passes across the pool 31. For example, in
FIG. 9, each wave line 41 represents where the secondary wave 41
might be every 7 seconds or so when the wave generator 1 travels at
the preferred speeds mentioned above.
[0090] The primary wave 18 is shown breaking away from the wave
generator 1 in a relatively deep water area where floor 36 is
preferably substantially horizontal. As the secondary wave 41
travels toward the shoreline 33, and begins to encounter the sloped
surface of the reef 37, the leading edge of the secondary wave 41
begins to curl and break, as represented by lines 42. Due to the
steepness of the reef 37 along the area just past the peninsula 32,
the secondary wave 41 will typically form a plunging breaker wave
at that location, wherein the lip of the wave is typically created
at about a depth of about two to three feet (in cases where the
deepest part of the pool is about six feet deep). This is
represented by the third or fourth topographical line 38 in the
body of water 3 in FIG. 9.
[0091] Because of the undulating shoreline 33, it can be seen that
where the secondary waves 41 actually plunge or break shifts in
accordance with the undulating pattern 40, i.e., depending upon
where the topographical line with a depth of two to three feet lies
along the shoreline 33. Also, at this juncture, the secondary wave
preferably encounters the shoreline 33 at an angle that is about
normal to the slope of the beach, wherein the plunging wave can
continue to form and crest as it passes by.
[0092] With wave formations following this pattern, a continuous
curling and/or spilling breaker wave can be created along the
shoreline extending from about the peninsula point 32 to the base
of the cove area 34. That is, a surfable quality curling and/or
plunging breaking wave, upon which surfing maneuvers can be
performed, can be formed that will last anywhere from five to
fifteen seconds, depending on the size of the pool, and length of
the section between adjacent peninsulas, which is the typical
length of an actual surf ride.
[0093] During this phase of the wave formation, the portion of the
secondary wave that is in deeper water tends to travel faster than
the portion of the wave that is in shallower water, by virtue of
friction encountered by the wave. This tends to cause each wave to
curve and break along about the same location along the shore. This
way, the manner in which the waves are created and break can be
controlled, and to a great extent, duplicated from one location of
the pool to another, wherein more predictable flow patterns and
wave formations can be created thereby.
[0094] Although a curling and/or spilling wave will typically be
created between the peninsula 32 and cove area 34, once it passes
the base of the cove area 34, and encounters the steep slope on the
other side of the cove area 34, i.e., between the cove area 34 and
the adjacent peninsula 32, the wave will typically break directly
onto the shore or beach, i.e., parallel to the shore. In this
respect, the secondary wave will typically encounter the steeper
portion of the reef 37 directly, thereby resulting in secondary
waves that "collapse" or "surge" onto the beach, rather than spill
or plunge.
[0095] Because the shoreline 33 is undulated, and there are
transition areas between the peninsulas 32 and cove areas 34, the
waves that break directly onto the bottom of the cove areas 34 will
tend to be "collapsing" breaker waves. That is, between the areas
where the waves plunge, on one hand, and surge, on the other hand,
there is typically an area, which has relatively intermediate to
moderate slopes, where the waves will simply collapse.
[0096] Because the preferred embodiment of the present invention
contemplates that a multiple number of similarly shaped undulations
can be provided along the shoreline 33, a single secondary wave can
create a multiple number of curling, spilling, plunging, collapsing
and surging breaker waves that break individually and repeatedly
along different areas of the beach 35. The present invention
contemplates that different types of breaker waves can be formed,
beginning at different points along the undulations, all along the
shoreline 33, one following the other. This enables surfers to not
only surf on a number of different types of breaker waves at
different locations along the shoreline 33, but also allows people
who simply want to wade, or perform skimming maneuvers along the
beach, to do so without interfering with the others.
[0097] FIGS. 10a through 10e show the wave generator 1 traveling
across the pool 31 from one end to the other in a time lapse
manner. FIG. 10a shows the wave generator 1 starting out at one end
of the track 5. The letters A, B and C (in these figures only)
represent the successive undulating peninsulas 32 along the
shoreline 33, and the letters A', B' and C' represent the
successive undulating cove areas 34. Topographical lines 38
represent how the floor of the pool 31 is sloped, with undulating
peninsulas 32, followed by cove areas 34, and then followed again
by additional peninsulas 32 and cove areas 34. At the far end 46 of
the shoreline 33 is a relatively evenly sloped beach area where the
secondary wave will ultimately break directly onto the beach as
discussed above.
[0098] FIG. 10b shows the wave generator 1 moving across the pool
31 and creating a secondary wave 41 that begins to break at the
first peninsula A. The wave 41 is created by the wave generator 1
and extends like a wake through the deep water areas 45, but as the
wave is affected by the reef 37, and its sloped floor, the
secondary wave begins to break. In this case, the wave 41 breaks
when it encounters the reef 37 at about the third or fourth
topographical line 38. The wave encounters the shoreline 33 at an
angle that is about normal to the slope of the beach along that
portion, and therefore, the wave continues to rise and crest as it
passes by. And, assuming a sufficient height of the secondary wave,
and because of the moderate to steep incline of the floor at that
location, a plunging or spilling breaker wave can be created, upon
which surfing maneuvers can best be performed.
[0099] In this respect, a rider would typically enter the wave 41
from the peninsula areas 32 and then ride the wave through the
curl, or plunging area, which transitions to a spilling wave, until
the wave ultimately collapses onto the bottom of the cove area 34.
This can, depending on the size of the pool, last anywhere from
five to fifteen seconds.
[0100] FIG. 10c shows the wave generator 1 progressing further
across the pool 31 and causing the secondary wave 41 to encounter
the reef 37 directly along the shoreline 33 extending between the
first cove area A' and second peninsula B. Because the
topographical lines of the slope of the reefs floor is about
parallel with the wave 41, and the sloped floor rises quickly, the
waves here tend to surge quickly onto the beach 35. This is quite
different from the phenomenon that occurs where the wave crests,
plunges and breaks progressively along the area between the first
peninsula A and cove area A' as described above.
[0101] FIG. 10d shows the wave generator 1 advancing further across
the pool 31, wherein the secondary wave 41 encounters the second
peninsula B. The wave that encounters this portion also forms a
curling and/or spilling breaker wave that travels from the second
peninsula B to the base of the second cove area B' where the wave
collapses. Because in the preferred embodiment the undulations are
similarly shaped from one peninsula to the next, the waves and
breaking actions that take place are preferably substantially the
same from one area to the next. However, in other embodiments, it
may be desirable to vary the topography between undulations in
order to create different breaking wave characterizations.
[0102] FIG. 10e shows the wave generator 1 advancing even further,
wherein the secondary wave 41 encounters the third peninsula C. At
the far end 46 of the shoreline 33 there is preferably a sloped
beach area onto which the secondary wave 41 will ultimately break.
This beach area 46 is preferably somewhat evenly sloped so that the
wave will spill and/or curl onto the beach, where water skimming
maneuvers can be performed, and where people who prefer to wade in
the water can do so without fear of interfering with more advanced
riders in other areas of the pool.
[0103] The present invention contemplates that various undulating
patterns, and repetitions of patterns, can be provided. The object
of the invention is to use a shoreline with curvatures and slopes
to enhance the wave effects created by a single secondary wave
traveling across the pool, wherein different types of breaking
waves and wave formations can be created, upon which different
types of water skimming and surfing maneuvers can be performed.
* * * * *