U.S. patent application number 10/531761 was filed with the patent office on 2006-06-29 for multi-capacity amusement ride.
Invention is credited to Robert Cummins.
Application Number | 20060137563 10/531761 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36609917 |
Filed Date | 2006-06-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060137563 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Cummins; Robert |
June 29, 2006 |
Multi-capacity amusement ride
Abstract
An amusement ride including a non-continuous track supported
over a curved path and extending between a high end and a low end
for transporting riders. The track includes at least two
independent running rails. The amusement ride also includes at
least one carrier arranged to carry at least one rider on each
running rail of the track. The carriers include attachment means
arranged to slidingly engage with the running rails to enable the
carriers to descend carrying the riders from the high end to the
low end.
Inventors: |
Cummins; Robert;
(Wellington, NZ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Clifford W Browning
Suite 3700
111 Monument Circle,
Indianapolis
IN
46204-5137
US
|
Family ID: |
36609917 |
Appl. No.: |
10/531761 |
Filed: |
August 29, 2003 |
PCT Filed: |
August 29, 2003 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/NZ03/00192 |
371 Date: |
November 1, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
104/53 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63G 21/20 20130101;
A63G 21/10 20130101; A63G 7/00 20130101; A63G 21/04 20130101; A63G
33/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
104/053 |
International
Class: |
A63G 7/00 20060101
A63G007/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 18, 2002 |
NZ |
522668 |
Claims
1. An amusement ride including: a non-continuous track supported
over a curved path and extending between a high end and a low end,
the track including at least two independent running rails, at
least one carrier arranged to carry at least one rider on each
running rail of the track, the carriers including attachment means
arranged to slidingly engage with the running rails to enable the
carriers to descend carrying the riders from the high end to the
low end.
2. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 1 wherein the ride
includes a mechanical or other braking system to control the speed
of the rider(s) during the descent or at the conclusion of the ride
or both.
3. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 1 wherein the running
rails include areas of different slope.
4. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 1 wherein the running
rails include twists.
5. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 1 wherein the running
rails include barrel rolls.
6. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 1 wherein the track is
positioned around the outside of a structure from which the track
is supported.
7. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 1 wherein the track is
positioned inside a valley or natural feature.
8. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 1 wherein the track is
positioned down the side of a hill or sloping surface.
9. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 1 wherein the track is
supported partially or totally by cables.
10. An amusement ride as clamed in claim 1 wherein the bottom of
the track is close to a means of access to the top of the
track.
11. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 1 wherein each carrier is
slidingly engaged to a running rail by at least one set of
wheels.
12. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 1 wherein the carrier is
lightweight.
13. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 1 wherein the running
rails are an integral part of the track.
14. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 1 wherein not all the
running rails have the same shape.
15. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 1 wherein all the running
rails have the same shape.
16. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 1 wherein there is
provided a mechanical and/or electrical means to elevate the
carriers to the high end of the track.
17. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 6 wherein the riders
start the ride from a platform at the top of the support
structure.
18. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 1 wherein the riders are
carried in carriers in a substantially prone position.
19. An amusement ride including: a track supported over a curved
path, the track including a high point and a low point and
including at least two independent running rails, at least one
carrier arranged to carry at least one rider on each running rail
of the track in a substantially prone position, the carriers
including attachment means arranged to slidingly engage with the
running rails to enable the carriers to traverse the ride carrying
the riders.
20. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 19 wherein the ride
includes a mechanical or other braking system to control the speed
of the rider(s) during the descent or at the conclusion of the ride
or both.
21. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 19 wherein the running
rails include areas of different slope.
22. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 19 wherein the running
rails include twists.
23. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 19 wherein the running
rails includes barrel rolls.
24. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 19 wherein the track is
positioned around the outside of a structure from which the track
is supported.
25. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 19 wherein the track is
positioned inside a valley or natural feature.
26. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 19 wherein the track is
positioned down the side of a hill or sloping surface.
27. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 19 wherein the track is
supported partially or totally by cables.
28. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 19 wherein each carrier
is slidingly engaged to a running rail by at least one set of
wheels.
29. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 19 wherein the carrier is
lightweight.
30. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 19 wherein the running
rails are an integral part of the track.
31. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 19 wherein the track
includes more than two running rails.
32. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 19 wherein not all the
running rails have the same shape.
33. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 19 wherein all the
running rails have the same shape.
34. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 19 wherein the track
includes mechanical means to elevate the riders from the low point
of the track to the high point of the track from where the riders
descend to the low end of the track under gravity.
35. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 1 wherein the rides
descend the track from the high end of the track to the low end of
the track under gravity.
36. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 1 wherein the carriers
are propelled along the track by electrical and/or mechanical
means.
37. An amusement ride as claimed in claim 19 wherein the carriers
are propelled along the track by electrical or mechanical means.
Description
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The invention relates to amusement rides and in particular
to a ride arranged so that two or more riders may be attached by
harnesses or carriers to different parts of a track which the
riders descend
BACKGROUND
[0002] Rides have been devised to move a rider from one point to
another with the ride following the line of a cable. In these rides
the rider either holds onto or sits on a cross beam suspended from
the cable or rides in a cart suspended from a cable, or similar.
These "flying fox" or "zip line" rides start at a higher point
above the ground and end at a point away from the start point and
nearer the ground than the start point. A disadvantage with a
flying fox or zip line ride is that once the ride is finished the
crossbeam or cart must be retrieved from the end point and returned
to the start point. Another disadvantage is that a flying fox or
zip line typically runs along a straight path and cannot be formed
into a circular route or be formed into twists or turns to increase
the rider's enjoyment of the ride. Another disadvantage is that a
flying fox typically cannot support riders above and below the
cable at the same point and consequently the number of rides
possible in a given period, and the potential economic benefit to
the ride operator, is reduced.
[0003] Another form of ride is the roller coaster where riders are
strapped or otherwise held in seats in carriages that move along a
track. The roller coaster is typically permanently attached to the
track. In these rides the start and end points are in the same
place and some form of power is required to move the carriage into
position to begin the ride. A disadvantage with this sort of ride
is that a roller coaster track typically cannot support riders
separately attached to different sides or parts the track at the
same linear point and at the same time. Consequently the number of
rides possible in a given period, and the potential economic
benefit to the ride operator is reduced. A further disadvantage is
that a single roller coaster track typically does not allow riders
to apparently race each other along or down the track during the
course of the ride.
[0004] Roller coasters have been developed with riders seated in
carriages above and below the rail. U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,269,750 and
6,047,645 and Japanese patent abstract JP 09-117570 show examples
of this type of roller coaster. Like other roller coasters these
systems form closed loop tracks. One disadvantage of these systems
it that they cannot be formed into open loop system as the
carriages are too bulky to be easily transported. An obvious
consequence of such bulky carriages is that a more substantial, and
therefore costly, track and support structure is required to
support the carriages.
[0005] Another disadvantage is that the riders are constrained
within the carrier which limits the apparent danger of the
ride.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 5,979,333 is an example of an amusement ride
where the rider is in a prone position. This ride forms a
continuous loop and cannot be formed into an open loop ride as the
carrier for the rider is too bulky to be easily transported. A
further disadvantage of this type of ride is that it does not allow
for riders above and below the track or for two or more riders to
traverse the same part of the track at different times.
[0007] A further disadvantage apparent with the abovementioned
rides is that generally at least two running rails are required to
support each carrier.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0008] It is the object of the current invention to overcome or
alleviate some of the disadvantages described above or to at least
provide the public, and/or those in the business of operating such
amusement rides, with a useful choice.
[0009] In broad terms in one aspect the invention comprises an
amusement ride including a non-continuous track supported over a
curved path and extending between a high end and a low end, the
track including at least two independent running rails and at least
one carrier arranged to carry at least one rider on each running
rail of the track the carriers including attachment means arranged
to slidingly engage with the running rails to enable the carriers
to descend carrying the riders from the high end to the low
end.
[0010] The riders may traverse the track simultaneously or at
different times.
[0011] In this aspect the track extends between a high end and a
low end and generally slopes down from the high end to the low end.
However the track may include curves, twists, barrel rolls and
loops and other sections where the slope is not uniform between the
high end and the low end. The slope of the track may vary along the
length of the track.
[0012] The structure around which the track is arranged may be a
solid structure or may be supports forming a skeleton or shell of a
structure. The structure may also be a natural feature such as a
canyon or valley and the track may be sited in such a natural
feature.
[0013] In this aspect preferably the amusement ride includes means
for riders to ascend from the bottom of the structure to a platform
on the structure at or near the high end of the track. Preferably
the low end of the track is close to the means to ascend to the
platform. Alternatively the high and low ends of the track may be
in different places. The ride may also include mechanical means to
elevate the carriers, independently of the riders, to the high end
of the track.
[0014] In broad terms in another aspect the invention comprises an
amusement ride including a track supported over a path, the track
including at least one embark point where rider(s) begin the ride,
the track including at least two independent running rails, and at
least one carrier arranged to carry at least one rider in a
substantially prone position each running rail of the track, the
carriers including attachment means arranged to slidingly engage
with the running rails to enable the carriers to traverse the ride
carrying the riders.
[0015] The riders may traverse the track simultaneously or at
different times.
[0016] The amusement ride may be arranged around a structure which
may be a solid structure or may be supports forming a skeleton or
shell of a structure or even poles. The structure may also be a
natural feature such as a valley or canyon and the track may be
situated in such a feature.
[0017] The amusement ride in the second aspect may also include
mechanical means for the rider(s) to ascend the track to a high
point of the track from where the riders descend through
gravitational forces. The movement of riders along the track may be
controlled by a known computerised ride management and/or braking
system.
[0018] The term track is used throughout the specification to
include a solid beam or guide structure or a beam or guide
structure that is not solid and running rails to which the
harnesses or carriers are attached. The running rails may be formed
as an integral part of the track.
[0019] In this specification where the track is a pipe or other
hollow beam the term running rail includes the distinct part of the
track onto which the carriers can be slidingly engaged.
[0020] In this specification where the track is an "I" beam or
other solid beam the term running rail includes that part of the
beam onto which the carriers are directly slidingly engaged. In
general the running rail is the part of the track onto which
carriers are directly slidingly engaged. The running rails may be
part of the track or may be distinct structures attached to the
track. The word "rail" in the term "running rail" is not limiting
on the shape of the running rail. Differing shapes and sizes of
running rails may be provided within the invention.
[0021] Each running rail allows a carrier or carriers to slidingly
engage with the running rail without contacting carriers engaged to
other running rails of the track. This means that carriers
slidingly engaged on different running rails may move past one
another along the track. For example a track may be a beam or a
plurality of beams joined together either directly or by trusses or
similar construction methods to form one unitary rigid member.
Although described as rigid, it is known that there will be some
flexing due to the weight of the track itself and the weight of the
riders moving along the running rails of the track.
[0022] The running rails may be identical so that by way of example
the ride on top of the track is in effect a reflection of the ride
under the track. Alternatively the running rails may be
different.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0023] The invention will be further described by way of example
only and without intending to be limiting with reference to the
following drawings, wherein:
[0024] FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of amusement ride of the
invention;
[0025] FIG. 2 shows a second embodiment of amusement ride of the
invention;
[0026] FIG. 3 shows two riders on a track of the invention;
[0027] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of one form of carrier and
wheel assembly of the invention;
[0028] FIG. 5 is a view of harness that may be used to secure
riders into carriers;
[0029] FIG. 6 shows two riders on a track of the invention;
[0030] FIG. 7A is a side view of a further embodiment of track that
may be used for an amusement ride of the invention;
[0031] FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the track of FIG.
7A;
[0032] FIG. 8A is a side view of a further embodiment of track that
may be used for an amusement ride of the invention;
[0033] FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of the track of FIG.
8A;
[0034] FIG. 9 shows an amusement ride of the invention where the
track is suspended; and
[0035] FIG. 10 shows an amusement ride of the invention where the
track runs down a valley.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED FORMS
[0036] FIG. 1 shows one form of amusement ride of the invention.
The amusement ride starts from platform 1 which is near the high
end of track 2. Track 2 curves around hexagonal structure 3 from
platform 1 to at or near the ground at low point 4. The track is
supported by support means 5 cantilevered from hexagonal structure
3.
[0037] The track 2 extends between high end 9 and low end 4. The
track is non-continuous in that the high end of the track is not
directly joined to the low end. The track is shown as having a
smooth descent curve in FIG. 1 but the track may include twists,
spirals, loops, barrel rolls, sections of steeper descent and other
deviations from a uniform descent, slope and/or curve. At the low
end of the track, the track may be substantially horizontal or may
curve up slightly to slow the rider(s) to a stop. Alternatively
other means of stopping the rider(s) may be used.
[0038] The track may be arranged to impart side to side motion to
the rider(s). This may be by means of the supports or by twists in
the track. Alternatively the track may be arranged not to impart
side to side motion to the riders.
[0039] In one embodiment the track is a rigid member. The rigid
member may be a beam or a plurality of beams or pipes enjoined to
form one rigid member. Although described as rigid, it is known
that there will be some flexing due to the weight of the member
itself and the weight of the riders moving along it. The track 2
includes two or more running rails, each of which is arranged to
engage at least one carrier. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, track 2
has two running rails (not shown), one for each rider 7, 8.
[0040] Where it is desired to arrange the track so as to impart
side to side motion to the riders, for example to alter the quality
of the ride, then the track may alternatively be supported by
cables or other non-rigid means so that the track is not fixed in
space.
[0041] The hexagonal structure of FIG. 1 also optionally includes
means for a rider(s) to ascend from the bottom of the ride at point
4 to platform 1 up pillar 6. This may be by means of a set of
steps, an elevator, or some other device. The high and low ends of
the track may be arranged in a substantially straight line
vertically, or close together, so that a rider does not have far to
walk to ascend to the platform and begin another ride and the
attachment means do not have to be retrieved from a distant point.
Alternatively the high and low ends of the track may be in
different locations.
[0042] In one embodiment if the high and low ends of the track are
close, mechanical means may be provided to move carriers from the
low end of the track to the high end of the track. The mechanical
means may also be suitable for transporting carriers with riders
harnessed into the carriers. In this embodiment riders queue at the
bottom of the ride and begin the ride by being harnessed into a
carrier and transported to the high end of the ride.
[0043] Although the hexagonal structure is shown as a skeleton or
shell the structure around which the track extends may be solid,
for example a building. A solid structure will suffice so long as
clearance is allowed between the track and structure so that a
rider does not risk impacting the structure. The structure
supporting the track is not limited to a hexagonal shape and may be
any suitable shape or type including towers or poles. The structure
may also include a natural feature such as a valley or canyon in
which the ride is arranged.
[0044] In one embodiment the support means 5 attaching the track to
the hexagonal structure are preferably formed from rigid material.
Support wires or cables may also be used to add stability to the
track. In another embodiment support the track may be supported by
support cables. The support means 5 are shown on the outside of the
hexagonal structure but may alternatively be arranged with the
track inside the hexagonal structure to provide a ride with steeper
curvature than the ride shown in FIG. 1. In another embodiment the
track may be arranged partially inside and partially outside the
structure.
[0045] The amusement ride apparatus of the invention also includes
harnesses or carriers into which or onto which a rider(s) is
harnessed. The carriers include attachment means (shown in FIG. 4)
arranged to slidingly engage with the track around the hexagonal
structure both on top of the track and underneath the track. The
attachment means are arranged to slide around the track from high
end 9 to low end 4 when engaged with the track. The attachment
means may be engaged to the track at the high point of the ride and
disengaged from the track at the low point of the ride. In a ride
with a continuous track or mechanical means for moving the carriers
(and in some embodiments the riders) to the top of the track the
attachment means may engage with the mechanical means for moving
the carriers.
[0046] The attachment means or the track itself may also include a
braking system arranged to slow the carriers and riders at the low
end of the ride or during the course of the ride to control speed.
The braking system may be magnetic and automatically slow a carrier
as it passes a position on the running rail. Typically this will
occur at or near the end of the ride but alternatively it may also
occur at other points along a running rail. Alternative braking
systems can also include operator controlled braking and rider
controlled braking or a combination of systems.
[0047] The carriers may be arranged to fit a single rider or to fit
a plurality of riders. For example, a group of riders may be
harnessed together for a ride. In a preferred embodiment the
carriers are arranged so that the rider is lying substantially
prone during at least part of the ride. In this embodiment
preferably the carriers and attachment means are sufficiently
lightweight so that at the end of the ride they can be manually
transported to the high end of the track. Transport may be by lift
or stairs. Alternatively if the low end of the track is spaced away
from the high end transport may include vehicular transport or an
existing mechanical means such as a ski field chair lift. The
carriers and attachment means are generally sufficiently
lightweight to be carried on a single running rail on the track and
should be sufficiently lightweight to enable an operator or
operators to engage the carriers and attachment means with the
track without mechanical assistance.
[0048] In use a rider(s) is harnessed into the carrier either while
on the platform or on the ground before ascending to the platform.
In one embodiment when the harnessed rider(s) is on the platform an
operator engages the attachment means of the carrier to the running
rail either below or above the track as required. In another
embodiment the harnessed rider(s) are transported from the ground
to the start of the ride by mechanical means. These means may also
engage the attachment means with the start of the track. The
operator is then able to begin the ride by moving the carrier to
the start point of the running rail. In a further embodiment when
the track is continuous the rider(s) are harnessed into carrier(s)
at the bottom of the ride and are moved by mechanical means to a
high point of the ride to begin the ride. The track may include a
section of steep descent to give the rider(s) the initial
impression of free falling or flight. The running rails may also
include sections where the running rails and track twists and/or
turns and/or "barrel rolls" or becomes inverted with respect to the
rider(s).
[0049] In preferred embodiment the only force on a rider as the
rider descends the ride is gravity. In alternative embodiments
known mechanical or electrical power propulsion means may be
provided on the carriers and/or on the tracks.
[0050] At the conclusion of the ride the rider(s) may detach the
carrier attachment means from the running rail or an operator may
do this. The rider(s) may then ascend to the platform again or may
take the harness or carrier off so that another rider(s) may use
the ride.
[0051] A rider on a running rail above the track may be directly
above a rider in a carrier on a running rail below the track.
Alternatively the rider on the running rail above the track may not
be directly above a rider in a carrier on a running rail below the
track. The two rides are separate and can be operated independently
of each other. Alternatively the riders can commence their rides at
the same time and apparently race each other to the conclusion of
the ride.
[0052] More than one rider may be simultaneously harnessed to a
carrier engaged with a running rail. So long as the riders are
spaced apart and one rider cannot catch up with the rider in front
a plurality of riders may use the same running rail.
[0053] FIG. 2 shows a second embodiment of the invention. In this
embodiment the track is continuous in that it forms a closed loop
or circuit and the carriers and attachment means remain engaged
with the running rails of the track. A mechanical elevator 10 is
used to take the harnessed riders and attachment means to the high
point 9 of the track 2 from where they descend by gravitational
force to low point 4.
[0054] The track is shown as having a smooth descent curve in FIG.
2 but may include twists, spirals, loops, sections of steeper
descent and other variations from a uniform descent and/or curve.
The track may also be arranged to impart side to side movement to
the rider(s).
[0055] Again where it is desired to arrange the track so as to
impart side to side motion to the riders then the track may
alternatively be suspended by cables or other non-rigid means so
that the track is not fixed in space.
[0056] Again the structure may include a natural feature and is not
limited to a hexagonal shape. The track may be inside, outside or
partially inside and outside the structure.
[0057] Unlike the embodiment described with reference to FIG. 1, in
use a rider(s) is harnessed into the carrier and attached to the
track at a lower point before ascending to the high point of the
track via the mechanical elevator 10. At the conclusion of the ride
the riders are detached from the harness or carrier and attachment
means that remain engaged with the running rails of the track.
Alternatively the riders may start the ride where the track at a
higher point and exit the ride where the track at a lower point as
shown in FIG. 1 but the carriers may remain on the track and be
lifted to the high point of the track via the elevator 10. In the
alternative embodiment a lighter, less expensive elevator may be
utilised.
[0058] FIG. 3 is a side view of one track 38 of the invention
showing two riders on running rails 34 and 35. At this point along
the track, rider 30 is an upright position above running rail 34
and rider 31 is positioned beneath running rail 35. Riders 30 and
31 are harnessed into carriers 32 and 33 by harness pieces 40-45.
Carriers 32 and 33 move slidingly along running rails 34 and 35
using attachment means 36 and 37. In this embodiment the attachment
means are wheel assemblies. FIG. 4 shows the wheel assemblies in
more detail. In this embodiment two wheel assemblies are used,
however in other embodiments different number of sets of wheels may
be used.
[0059] In the portion of track shown in FIG. 3, the centre of
gravity of riders 30 and 31 is close to the centre of gravity of
the tracks. By having the riders prone and the centre of the riders
close to that of the track, there is less pitch and roll during the
ride, lower centrifugal forces on the riders, and less onerous
dynamic loads on the track. This allows for a lighter weight and
less costly track and support structure construction. The track can
also be constructed in natural or remote locations, for example on
or adjourning ski fields. The track section shown in FIG. 3 is
straight but it should be noted that the track may twist or turn or
even barrel roll. If the track does a half barrel roll, rider 30
will be positioned below the track while rider 31 will be above the
track. It should be noted that the carriers 32 and 33 used in this
embodiment are substantially identical so that each carrier may
safely carry a rider whether the carrier is below or above the
track.
[0060] FIG. 4 is a view taken through line AA on FIG. 3 and without
riders 30 and 31 in place. As can be seen in FIG. 4, main track 38
includes two running rails 34 and 35 to which carriers 32 and 33
are slidingly engaged via wheel assemblies 36 and 37. As shown in
FIG. 3, each carrier has two wheel assemblies designated by
numerals 36 and 37. In this embodiment, each wheel assembly
includes two sets of wheels around the running rail and either a
guide or a third set of wheels. Upper carrier 32 includes upper
wheels 51 and lower wheels 50. The carrier also includes section 58
through which axle 55 runs. Axle 55 connects the carrier upper
wheel 51 and cross pieces 57 together. Cross pieces 57 then extend
down to axles 54 which are connected to lower wheel 50. Joint 56
along cross piece 57 may be a guide to keep the carrier in place
along the running rail or may be a further wheel. The wheel
assembly is repeated for lower carriage 33 which has lower axle 55
connecting lower wheels 53 and carrier 58 as well cross piece 57
and upper axle 54 connecting cross piece 57 with upper wheel
52.
[0061] Again centre portions 56 of the cross pieces 57 may be
wheels for guides to keep the carriage in place on the running
rails.
[0062] In preferred embodiments, the harness is designed to be
light weight and the carriers are designed to be light weight in
order that they may be carried by a single running rail and
manhandled without mechanical assistance as previously described.
Although in this Figure only two wheel assemblies are shown for
each rider, more wheel assemblies may be used. It should also be
noted in the embodiment of FIG. 4 that the wheel assemblies 36 and
37 do not extend further outwards than the carriages 32 and 33 and
so to help to assist in providing a feeling a danger and
acceleration to the riders.
[0063] FIG. 5 shows one embodiment of harness that may be used to
harness a rider into a carrier. Rider 7 lies on the carrier and is
harnessed to the carrier 32 by central harness 60 and arm and leg
straps 61-64. Optional body straps 65, 66 may be used in addition
to central harness 60.
[0064] In preferred embodiments carrier 32 is provided with hand
grips 67, 68 that a rider can grip during the ride. The hand grips
can be formed from any suitable material.
[0065] As shown in FIG. 5 arm straps 61 and 62 are provided at the
wrists of rider 7. In one embodiment the position of these straps
is adjustable so that riders of different height can be harnessed
in the carrier. As well as arm straps 61 and 62 at the wrists of
rider 7 further arm straps may be provided to provide more support
for the arms or to prevent the rider from making contact with the
running rails or the track or any part of the support structure or
support cables as the case may be, for example additional arm
straps could be provided at the elbows.
[0066] As shown in FIG. 5 leg straps 63 and 64 are provided at the
ankles of rider 7. In one embodiment the position of these straps
is adjustable so that riders of different height can be harnessed
in the carrier. As well as leg straps 63 and 64 at the ankles of
rider 7 further leg straps may be provided to provide more support
for the legs, for example additional arm straps could be provided
at the knees.
[0067] In the harness of FIG. 5 control harness 60 extends from fin
69 between the legs of rider 7 to attachment points 70 and 71 at
the shoulders of the rider. This arrangement provides full torso
support for rider 7. As well as attachment points 70 and 71 at the
shoulders of rider 7, further attachment point (not shown) may be
provided along the torso of the rider. These addition attachment
points are preferably adjustable width-wise to provide for riders
of different sizes. In an alternative embodiment straps 65 and 66
are provided instead of or in addition to the additional attachment
point of harness 60. In the embodiment of FIG. 5 harness 60 is
pivotally attached to fin 69.
[0068] The harness for the carrier securely harnesses the rider to
the carrier. In one embodiment the same harness can be used for
carriers on all running rails of the ride. This means that each
harness must be suitable for harnessing a rider who may be upside
down (with all their weight on the harness) for part of the ride.
In another embodiment different harnesses are provided for
different running rails of the ride. Carriers of different lengths
and different harnesses may also be provided for riders of
different shape, for example a shorter harness and carrier may be
provided for child riders. It is preferably that the harness is
adjustable to account for riders with different sizes.
[0069] It should be noted that FIG. 5 shows only one embodiment of
harness and any suitable harness may be used.
[0070] FIG. 6 is a view of two riders on one embodiment of
amusement ride of the invention. Upper rider 7 is in an upper
carrier and lower rider 8 is in the lower carrier. In this
embodiment both carriers are slidingly engaged with running rails
11 and 12 by means of sets of wheels that are arranged around
running rails 11 and 12. The running rails in this embodiment are
different to those shows in FIGS. 3 and 4. The carriers may also
include braking means (not shown) and in the case of a complete
loop track (such as that shown in FIG. 2) means to engage with the
lift mechanism to return the carriers to the top of the track. As
can be seen from this Figure the slope and curve of the track is
not uniform. If the track is symmetrical the upper and lower
carriers may be identical and interchangeable (in a non-continuous
track ride). Alternatively the running rails on each side of the
track may be different and the upper and lower carriers may be
different.
[0071] In FIG. 6 rider 7 is shown lying flat on his/her stomach and
facing forwards. The carrier could also be arranged so that the
rider lies on his/her back and faces forward like a luge ride or
any other suitable position.
[0072] Rider 8 is shown lying flat on his/her stomach and facing
forward. This is a preferred position for riders under the track
although other positions may be used. One alternative position is
to suspend the rider below the track to allow more freedom of
movement to the rider.
[0073] In this Figure the track is depicted so that the top half of
the track is in effect a reflection of the bottom half of the track
and the carriers shown may be utilised by either rider. Other forms
of track are possible under the invention and different forms of
carrier may be used for riders carried on different running rails
of the track.
[0074] The foregoing descriptions indicate only two riders
slidingly engaged to the track and capable of moving through the
same linear point of the track at the same time. These are
indicated as riders engaged to the top and the bottom of the track.
It is possible under the invention to extend the number of riders
so engaged to three or more by adapting the cross section shape of
the track to provide for more running rails to allow a third or
more riders to become engaged to the track.
[0075] FIGS. 7A and 7B shows a portion of one embodiment of track
72 with three running rails 73-75. Track 72 has a circular
cross-section as do running rails 73-75. The running rails may be
attached to track 72 using any suitable means. The track 72 is
attached to a support structure by attachment points 76.
[0076] FIGS. 7A and 7B show the track 72 and running rails 73-75 at
one position along a ride. In this position (which may be at the
start of the ride) running rail 74 is at the bottom of the track
and running rails 73 and 75 are spaced around tack 72 so that all
the running rails are equidistant. At this point the attachment
means for attaching the track to a support structure are through
the top of the rail. Along the ride track 72 may twist and the
positions of the running rails may change. As this occurs the
positions of the attachment points 76 may also change.
[0077] FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the track 72 and
running rails 73-75. FIG. 7B also shows one set of wheels and part
of a carrier 32 engaged with running rail 73. The set of wheels of
carrier 32 are spaced around running rail 73 so that the carrier
cannot disengage with the running rail except at the start and end
of a non-continuous rail. The wheel axles may be attached to a
semicylindrical tube that is then connected to the carrier. One
advantage of attaching the wheel axles to a semicylindrical tube is
that it protects the wheels from outside interference. In an
alternative embodiment the wheel axles are connected directly to
the base of the carrier.
[0078] The track and running rails are not shown to scale in FIGS.
7A and 7B. The track must be large enough so that carriers on
different running rail don't come into contact and remain a safe
distance apart. The running rails must be dimensioned so that the
carriers slidingly engage with the running rails and cannot
disengage with the running rails except at the ends of a
discontinuous track.
[0079] FIGS. 8A and 8B shows a portion of another embodiment of
track 77 with four running rails 78-81. Track 77 has a cross-shaped
cross-section and running rails 78-81 have a circular
cross-section. The running rails may be attached to track 77 using
any suitable means. The track 77 is attached to a support structure
by attachment points 72 and 83.
[0080] FIGS. 8A and 8B show the track 77 and running rails 78-81 at
one position along a ride. In this position (which may be at the
start of the ride) the running rails are spaced equally between
horizontal and vertical axes running through the centre of the
running rail. At this point the attachment means for attaching the
track to a support structure are at the side of the track. Along
the ride, track 77 may twist and the positions of the running rails
may change. As this occurs the positions of the attachment points
82 and 83 may also change.
[0081] FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of the track 77 and
running rails 78-81. Wheels on a carrier engaged with a running
rail of track 77 may be similar to those described with reference
to FIG. 7B. In an alternative embodiment running rails 78-81 may be
the flat ends of I-beam as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 and the wheel
assemblies of the carriers may be similar to those shown in FIG.
4.
[0082] The track and running rails are not shown to scale in FIGS.
8A and 8B. The track must be large enough so that carriers on
different running rail don't come into contact and remain a safe
distance apart. The running rails must be dimensioned so that the
carriers slidingly engage with the running rails and cannot
disengage with the running rails except at the ends of a
discontinuous track.
[0083] FIG. 9 shows an example of a section of a track formed so
that riders on the running rails perform a barrel roll as the track
turns around a corner. Track 84 has upper running rail 85 and lower
running rail 86. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9 the track and
running rails form an I-beam like those shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. It
should be noted that the track and running rails are not limited to
this configuration. Track 84 is supported by two types of support
members, rigid support members 87 and cable support member 88. The
rigid support members may be connected together to form a support
structure (not shown) and the support structure may include cable
support member 88.
[0084] Cable support member 88 is attached to the middle of the
track 84 when the running rails are in a vertical position. Cable
support member 88 includes a rigid support 88 onto which cable 90
is attached. Cable 90 is attached to track 84 at its second end.
Spacer 89 may be used as a guide for cable 90 to ensure that there
is a sufficient gap between the cable and the running rails so that
carriers on the running rails do not come into contact with the
cable.
[0085] Use of cable 90 as part of the support structure for the
ride provides a section of track that is able to move laterally as
riders pass that point on the track providing a greater feeling of
danger for the riders. Cable support members may be placed at any
suitable point along the track. In some embodiments the cable
support members may extend through the track and be supported on
both sides of the track. Spacers may also be used in these
embodiments.
[0086] FIG. 10 shows an embodiment of ride of the invention
positioned down the slope of a ski field. Track 91 has a plurality
of running rails (not shown) and starts from high point 98 on the
slope and ends at low point 97. Track 91 is supported by supports
from existing chair lifts 96 and separate support members 95. The
separate support members 95 may be connected together in groups to
form structures and/or may be connected to the supports from
existing chair lifts 96. The existing chair lifts 96 can be any
existing structure on the slope that is suitable for supporting a
track and ride.
[0087] As can be seen in FIG. 10 track 91 includes a turn 92,
corkscrew 93 and barrel roll 94 along the length of the ride. These
elements provide excitement to the ride and the riders.
[0088] The foregoing describes the invention including preferred
forms thereof. Alterations and modifications as will be obvious to
those skilled in the art are intended to be incorporated within the
scope hereof as defined in the accompanying claims.
* * * * *