U.S. patent application number 11/880490 was filed with the patent office on 2008-07-10 for method and apparatus for quick change of events associated with a multi-use amphitheater/sports complex.
Invention is credited to Gordon E. Churchward.
Application Number | 20080163560 11/880490 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39593080 |
Filed Date | 2008-07-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080163560 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Churchward; Gordon E. |
July 10, 2008 |
Method and apparatus for quick change of events associated with a
multi-use amphitheater/sports complex
Abstract
Herein described is a multi-use amphitheater/sports complex that
greatly increases profits, as the timeframe for breakdown/setup has
been substantially reduced. Furthermore, a novel seating
arrangement is provided including a bulletproof glass floor that
allows for viewing there through. Also, the events and all
associated instructions for rapid interchange are calculated and
controlled by a computer. Thus, many different types of shows,
sports events, etc., can be rapidly interchanged resulting in the
capability of scheduling many more events than previously
attainable.
Inventors: |
Churchward; Gordon E.;
(Silver City, NV) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Gordon E. Churchward
270 Main Street #134
Silver City
NV
89428
US
|
Family ID: |
39593080 |
Appl. No.: |
11/880490 |
Filed: |
July 23, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60879202 |
Jan 8, 2007 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
52/10 ;
52/745.2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04H 3/12 20130101; E04H
3/22 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
52/10 ;
52/745.2 |
International
Class: |
E04H 3/28 20060101
E04H003/28 |
Claims
1. An amphitheater/sports complex comprising in combination: a
vertical telescopic stage; a main lift; a center lift; at least a
first storage area; at least a second storage area; at least one
exit path; various activity floors; and a computer; said
amphitheater/sports complex having an above ground portion, an
intermediate portion, a below ground portion and an underground
portion, said vertical telescopic stage being adjustably positioned
above said main lift, said main lift is adjustably operatively
inline with said center lift and said intermediate portion, said
center lift is adjustably operatively inline with said at least a
first storage area, said main lift is adjustably operatively inline
with said at least a second storage area, each said storage area
removably slidably contains said various activity floors, at least
one said storage area is in open communication with said exit path,
said main lift and said center lift are operable independently or
in combination, said center lift when operated independently
functions to slidably receive thereon one of said various activity
floors from said at least a first storage area then vertically
transport one of said various activity floors into proper position
inline with said intermediate portion beneath said vertical
telescopic stage, said main lift when operated independently or in
combination with said center lift functions to slidably receive
thereon one of said various activity floors from said at least a
second storage area then vertically transport one of said various
activity floors into proper position inline with said intermediate
portion beneath said vertical telescopic stage and said computer is
interconnected to a display board that is viewable by
personnel.
2. The amphitheater/sports complex of claim 1 further includes a
maintenance/fabrication facility.
3. The amphitheater/sports complex of claim 1 wherein said above
ground portion further includes bleachers, entrances, exits,
broadcast box and restroom facilities.
4. The amphitheater/sports complex of claim 1 wherein said above
ground portion further includes a seating arrangement that is
formed from skyboxes, skyboxes are made from clear high-impact
material that allow viewing there through, whereby providing
increased seating and complete use of the internal upper space of
said complex.
5. The amphitheater/sports complex of claims 1 & 4 wherein said
complex is a dome and said seating arrangement within said dome
includes mega suits and penthouse(s) that are accessible by
stairs/elevators.
6. The amphitheater/sports complex of claim 1 wherein said computer
is programmed having all pertinent information including scheduling
of events, sequence of events, estimated time for changing from one
event to another, exact location of said various activity floors
and instructions for said personnel for interchanging said various
activity floors.
7. The amphitheater/sports complex of claim 1 wherein each said
storage area comprising: a support structure having adjustable
horizontal support rails therein for support of said various
activity floors thereon and each one of said various activity
floors being slidably removable from within said support
structure.
8. The amphitheater/sports complex of claim 7 wherein said
horizontal support rails support at least one pod thereon and said
at least one pod being slidably removable from within said support
structure.
9. The amphitheater/sports complex of claim 8 wherein said at least
one pod contains prearranged accessories necessary and associated
with a specified event.
10. The amphitheater/sports complex of claim 1 wherein said various
activity floors include each being either, an ice rink, a
basketball court, a wood activity floor, a grass activity floor, a
multipurpose activity floor, a dirt activity floor, a tennis court,
or a pool.
11. Method steps for converting a first activity floor associated
with a first event into a second activity floor associated with a
second event comprising the steps of: a. personnel are informed as
to the specific location of said second activity floor; b.
personnel are informed to retrieve said second activity floor; c.
personnel are informed to inspect said first activity floor which
is located on a main lift, if said first activity floor is damaged
then transport said first activity floor to a
maintenance/fabrication facility; if said first activity floor is
not damaged then transport said first activity floor to a storage
area for later use; and; d. personnel are instructed to
transport/install said second activity floor to said main lift and
prepare for said second event.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of PPA Ser. No.
60/879,202 filed Jan. 8, 2007 by the present inventor and the
frammis vane disclosed in my U.S. Pat. No. 7,007,428 granted Mar.
7, 2006.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates in general to a method and apparatus
that allows for a multi-use amphitheater/sports complex to be
quickly converted for various events/shows. More specifically the
method and apparatus is much more cost effective and allows for
quick conversion that heretofore has not been attained. The present
method/apparatus may be used for any type of event/show including
the required conversion details that are controlled by computer
programming. Thus, the overall complex is most efficient and
extremely cost effective because the time for setup has been
greatly reduced. The present invention allows for more events
and/or shows to be interchanged rapidly thus saving many man-hours
and generating much more income than previously attainable.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Within the past numerous attempts have been made to provide
a complex that can be used for multiple entertainment purposes such
as for the performing arts, sport events, conventions, etc.
However, such attempts have proven to be much too costly due to the
fact that the time involved for changing the stage and settings is
much too time consuming and complicated. For example, in most of
these types of complexes it may take many hours and/or days to
change the stage and/or associated playing field. As a result, such
complexes have not proven successful and/or economically
feasible.
[0004] It can be seen that there is a need for a method and
apparatus that can be incorporated into a large multi-use
amphitheater/sports complex that eliminates problems and costs
associated with current complexes of this type.
[0005] Within the known prior art, there have been attempts to
resolve these issues but to no avail as yet. Examples of such prior
art include U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,863,126, 4,934,113, and 3,399,887.
However, each reference has various problems and they are simply
not efficient and/or cost effective.
[0006] The present invention incorporates use of my issued U.S.
Pat. No. 7,007,428 of which is an important component that is used
in combination with the present invention. The '428 patent is a
device having multiple support members telescopically contained
therein, with each member having a set of lights, a set of curtains
and various compartments for numerous stage accessories and allows
for quick change of the lights and curtains that are used for
different sized stage settings. The '428 patent has proven to be
most efficient and when combined with the present method and
apparatus provides a novel and new multi-use amphitheater/sports
complex that is extremely cost effective.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] It is therefore an object of the present invention to
provide a cost-effective large multi-use amphitheater/sports
complex that can serve as a superb landmark or focal point for a
major city and also to provide an effective economic engine that is
capable of creating tremendous economic growth. The complex is
extremely large and can be easily used for the Olympics or the
like. For example the complex requires approximately 40 acres or
more.
[0008] Another object of the invention is to provide a
cost-effective large multi-use amphitheater/sports complex that
will pay for itself within a very short time frame because of the
calculated financial/economic advantages.
[0009] Still another object of the present invention is to provide
a unique large multi-use amphitheater/sports complex that is a
magnificent functional structure of tremendous potential that could
have a major economic impact on a large metropolitan area.
[0010] A further object of the present invention is to provide a
cost-effective large multi-use amphitheater/sports complex that is
simplified and the events and/or shows are pre-scheduled and
organized by computer programming and skilled workers.
[0011] Still another object is to provide a cost-effective large
multi-use amphitheater/sports complex that includes a highly
improved seating arrangement that greatly increases seating
capacity. Namely, the complex includes numerous levels and/or
skyboxes each of which are constructed with clear, high-impact
plastic and/or bulletproof glass walls. The unusual results are
mainly achieved because a patron can see the game through the glass
floor and/or walls. Whereby, the entire dome structure can be
utilized for seating and viewing.
[0012] Yet another object is to provide a cost-effective large
multi-use amphitheater/sports complex that is designed with safety
as a priority. The security room will include surveillance cameras
for overall viewing of the entire complex. Not to mention a 24-hour
full security force will be provided.
[0013] A further object of the present invention is to provide a
cost-effective large multi-use amphitheater/sports complex that
accomplishes new and novel end results, that heretofore has not
been attainable.
Operation/Method of Use
[0014] In operation, the entire sequence of events are controlled
and organized by a computer as programmed by a technician in
combination with skilled personnel. The computer as programmed has
all pertinent information including sequence of events, the
estimated time for changing from one event to another, the exact
location of various activity floors, instructions for personnel for
interchanging activity floors, etc., and the computer is also
interconnected to a display board that is viewable by all personnel
at all times.
[0015] Upon receiving information for scheduling a desired event,
such as the time, date, expected occupancy, etc., the information
is calculated by the computer/program/operator to determine if the
event can be successfully completed within the existing timeframe
and scheduled events. The computer also determines if there are any
specific requirements for the event that must be addressed in a
timely manner before the event occurs. For example, if there is a
need for special lighting, any gimmicks, specialized activity
floor, repairs of any existing actively floors, etc. If the event
cannot be scheduled on the specific time/date as requested, the
computer calculates an alternative schedule and presents this to
the requesting party for acceptance or denial. If the event can be
scheduled then the requesting party is notified and the event is
scheduled accordingly.
[0016] All personnel are instructed by the computer (and/or any
supervisors) as to what procedures must be completed in a timely
manner for success of the desired event. Upon each employee
receiving their instructions for the day, they can each then
initiate work accordingly.
[0017] For clarity purposes, the following is an example of the
steps involved for converting the current activity floor into the
next scheduled activity floor. In this case, the employees are
converting the main activity floor from an ice hockey floor into a
basketball floor. The general steps for converting are as follows:
[0018] a. when the hockey game is over and while the people are
existing the building, the computer locates the basketball activity
floor; [0019] b. the computer informs personnel as to which storage
area the basketball activity floor is currently being stored and to
retrieve it; [0020] c. the hockey ice rink is located on the main
activity floor; [0021] d. personnel are instructed to inspect the
floor for any damage that need be repaired; [0022] e. if repair is
needed personnel are instructed to transport the floor to the
storage area, then outward through the exit path and deliver to the
maintenance facility; [0023] f. if repair is not needed personnel
are instructed to remove the ice hockey floor and transport it to a
specified storage area for later use; [0024] g. in this case the
scoreboard would remain for the next event, if however the event
were a concert or the like, the score board would then be removed
and transported to a specified storage area; [0025] h. personnel
are instructed to install the basketball activity floor and prepare
for the basketball game accordingly.
[0026] It is to be understood the above is only an example of the
steps initiated for one scenario, as each event will have variable
steps as determined by the computer and personnel.
[0027] It is to be further understood that the present complex is
very large and can accommodate any type of sports event or show and
due to the arrangement of the various components and the facility,
rapid change of events/shows are possible.
[0028] Other objects, uses and advantages of the invention will
become apparent to those skilled in the art from the drawings and
the brief description as follows.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] FIG. 1 is a top internal overhead view representing an
overall plan of operation and/or configuration for the
amphitheater/sports complex.
[0030] FIG. 2 is a side view depicting hydraulic lifts and plan of
operation.
[0031] FIGS. 3-A & 3-B are each an end view of a storage area
depicting various activity floors and/or pods when positioned
therein.
[0032] FIG. 4 is a partial side view depicting a novel seating
arrangement, various levels and/or skyboxes within the complex.
[0033] FIG. 5 is a block diagram representing computer operational
parameters.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0034] Referring now in detail to the drawings wherein like
characters refer to like elements therein. It is to be understood
the actual mechanics of each of the components are not described
herein in detail as the overall invention incorporates a computer,
elevators, hydraulics, electronics, motors, etc., all of which
technology is well known and provided within the prior art,
respectively.
[0035] Referring now in general to FIG. 1, wherein (10) represents
a general aerial overview depicting one possible configuration and
internal construction for the above ground portion (12) of the
amphitheater/sports complex (14). As can be seen, in this
embodiment the complex (14) is substantially in the shape of a
dome. However it is to be noted that the dome is only exemplary and
the invention is not to be limited to any specific shape or size.
Also, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the complex (14) is only partially
depictive, as the top exterior section and variable levels are not
illustrated for clarity purposes. Whereby, it is to be understood
FIG. 1 is for conceptual purposes.
[0036] The amphitheater/sports complex (14) includes standard
features such as numerous sets of bleachers (16), numerous
entrances (18), numerous exits (20), numerous restroom facilities
(22), at least one broadcast box (24), mega suits (26), penthouses
(28), elevators (30) and stairs (32). All of which are only
partially shown for clarity purposes. Thus it is to be understood
various combinations of these features (depending upon engineering
choice) are to be inherent within the invention. Also, other
standard features include lights, cameras, security booths, display
screens, display booths, novelty shops, a childcare center, etc
(not shown). Whereby, the invention is not to be limited to these
specific features and/or restricted combinations thereof.
[0037] With further reference to FIG. 1, the amphitheater/sports
complex (14) as depicted therein illustrates some of the novel and
new features of the invention. Namely, in combination, a main
hydraulic lift (34), a center hydraulic lift (36), a vertical
telescopic stage (38), one or multiple first storage area(s) (40),
one or multiple second storage area(s) (42), one or multiple exit
path(s) (44) and transparent skyboxes (66). It is to be noted each
of the lifts (34 & 36), storage areas (40 & 42) and the
exit paths (44) are depicted in ghost lines as these components are
located within the below ground portion of the complex (14).
[0038] As previously mentioned the amphitheater/sports complex (14)
further includes use of my issued U.S. Pat. No. 7,007,428, namely a
vertical stage (38). The vertical stage (38) is positioned above
the main hydraulic lift (34) and/or center hydraulic lift (36) and
used in combination therewith, respectively. Whereby, the lifts (34
& 36) with the vertical stage (38) in combination provide the
overall scenario for the performance where the main events occur,
such as a sports game, a concert, a play, etc.
[0039] It is to be understood the '428 patent provides numerous
accessories of engineering choice, such as all the components
necessary for stage operation. Examples include lights, curtains,
explosives, laser lights, confetti fireworks, fluid, flowers,
balloons, streamers, speakers, sound effects, a scoreboard,
etc.
[0040] For further clarity the lifts (34 & 36)) are more
clearly illustrated within FIG. 2 which is a side view thereof
respectively. Wherein (46) represents the hydraulics associated
with lifts (34 & 36) for vertical positioning of the lifts
between variable positions. To more clearly define, a part of each
lift is located in the below ground portion (48) and the bottom of
each lift is buried within the underground portion or earth
(50).
[0041] Further depicted in FIG. 2, phantom lines illustrate various
positions for each of the lifts (34 & 36). Namely, (34-A)
represents a first raised position for each lift in combination.
Whereby, the main hydraulic lift (34) is adjustably operatively
inline with the center lift (36) and an intermediate portion (52)
located between the above ground portion (12) and the below ground
portion (48). A second variable position for the main hydraulic
lift (34) with the center lift (36) in combination is illustrated
at (34-B). Whereby the main hydraulic lift (34) and the center
hydraulic lift (36) are each adjustably operatively inline with the
second storage areas (42). A third lowered position for the main
hydraulic lift (34) with the center lift (36) in combination is
illustrated at (34-C). Wherein the main hydraulic lift (34) and the
center hydraulic lift (36) when combined are each positioned above
the underground portion or earth (50), respectively. Whereby, when
the main hydraulic lift (34) when operated either independently or
in combination with the center lift (36), the main lift (34)
functions to slidably receive thereon one of the various activity
floors from either one of the second storage area(s) (42) and then
can vertically transport the floor into proper position inline with
the intermediate portion (52) beneath the vertical telescopic stage
(38). Thus it is to be understood that the main lift (34) and the
center lift (36) are operable independently or in combination and
variably adjustable between the first raised position (34-A) and
the third lowered position (34-C).
[0042] Referring now to the variable adjustable positions for the
center hydraulic lift (36) of which includes a first raised
position (36-A). Wherein the center hydraulic lift (36) is
adjustably operatively inline with the main hydraulic lift (34).
The center hydraulic lift (36) includes a second position
illustrated at (36-B). Wherein the center hydraulic lift (36) is
operatively positioned just below the first raised position 34-A.
Whereby, when one of the various activity floors (later defined) is
positioned on top of the center hydraulic lift (36), the various
activity floor is level/flush with the main hydraulic lift (34).
The center lift (36) includes a third position illustrated at
(36-C). Wherein the center hydraulic lift (36) is independently
operatively inline with the first storage area (40). Whereby, when
the center hydraulic lift (36) is independently adjusted it
functions to slidably receive thereon one of the various activity
floors from the first storage area (40) and then can vertically
transport the floor into proper position inline with the
intermediate portion (52) beneath the vertical telescopic stage
(38). The center lift (36) includes a fourth position illustrated
at (36-D). Wherein the center hydraulic lift (36) is independently
operatively inline with the main hydraulic lift (34) when in its
third lowered position (34-C).
[0043] Referring now to FIGS. 3-A "wherein depicted is an end view
of one of the first storage areas (40)" and 3-B "wherein depicted
is an end view of one of the second storage areas (42)". It is to
be noted FIGS. 3-A & 3-B only partially depict the height of
the storage areas (40 & 42), as the height thereof is dependant
upon engineering choice. Each of the storage areas (40) being
located in alignment with the center hydraulic lift (36) as
depicted in FIGS. 1 & 2. Each of the storage areas (42) being
located in alignment with the main hydraulic lift (34) as depicted
in FIGS. 1 & 2. Each of the storage areas (40 & 42) are
constructed to removably slidably, contain various activity floors
(58) therein. Storage areas (40) are formed from a support
structure (54) and storage areas (42) are formed from a support
structure (55). Support structures (54 & 55) have adjustable
horizontal support rails (56). The support rails (56) function to
support various activity floors (58) or pods (60) thereon and each
one of the various activity floors (58) and each of the pods (60)
are slidably removable from within each support structure (54 &
55) via any suitable attachment means, such as electric mule
hookups (60) or the like. It is to be noted that any suitable type
of adjustable support rails, attachment means and/or motors or the
like can be used depending on engineering choice, as such
technology for slidably moving large objects is very well known
within the prior art. Thus the attachment means and/or motors are
not shown, as they are not unique to the claimed invention.
[0044] It can now be seen that the first storage areas (40) are
suitable for storage of smaller sized activity floors (58) or pods
(60) associated with smaller events/shows, such as those used for
plays, boxing, etc. While the second storage areas (42) are
suitable for storage of the larger sized activity floors (58)
and/or pods (60), such as the activity floors that are either, an
ice rink, a basketball court, a wood activity floor, a grass
activity floor, a multipurpose activity floor, a dirt activity
floor, a pool tennis court, etc. Further optional features to be
noted include trap doors (not shown) or the like that are
incorporated into particular activity floors to allow for special
effects. For example, the trap doors may be small allowing for an
object/person to miraculously appear such as during a magic show.
Other trap doors may be extremely large so as to allow for an
elephant or the like to be delivered to the performance area, such
as during a circus performance or the like.
[0045] As previously noted, at least one of the second storage
areas (42) is in open communication with the exit path (44). This
is very important as this allows for any of the various activity
floors (58) to be removed from the complex (14) (via the exit path
44) and delivered to the maintenance/fabrication facility via a
trailer (not shown) or by any other suitable transport means.
[0046] It is to be noted that each of the storage areas (40 &
42) may further include additional equipment that is necessary for
specialized floors. For example, in FIG. 3-B, (70) maybe a
refrigeration unit or the like that is functional for maintaining
the ice hockey rink at a predetermined temperature. Other
additional equipment may include a sprinkler device (72) or the
like for maintaining a grass activity floor. Furthermore, with
reference to the pods (60) they are functional for containment of
prearranged accessories necessary and associated with a specified
event. For example, one pod may include accessories that are
specifically associated with a particular play or the like.
Whereby, the pod when delivered to the performance area provides
the personnel with all the equipment necessary for complete
assembly and setup for the event.
[0047] Referring now to FIG. 4, wherein depicted is a novel seating
arrangement and various levels within the complex. It is to be
understood FIG. 4 is only conceptual of one possible
configuration/arrangement for the complex as this is dependant upon
engineering choice, thus the invention is not to be limited to this
specific illustration as this is only exemplary. As depicted and
previously noted the complex (14) includes numerous sets of
bleachers (16), numerous entrances (18), numerous exits (20),
stairs (32), numerous restroom facilities (22) and at least one
broadcast box (24). Note that the standard features (18, 20, 22, 24
and 32) are only depicted in FIG. 1 for clarity purposes. As
previously noted the complex (14) also includes mega suits (26),
penthouses (28) and elevators (30). A novel and new feature for the
present invention is to include a seating arrangement (64) that is
formed within skyboxes (66). The skyboxes are novel and unique as
they are made from clear high-impact material, (such as bulletproof
glass or plastic) that allows viewing there through. Whereby,
providing increased seating capacity and complete use of the
internal upper space of the complex. The sky boxes (66) are
constructed to extend outwardly above the performance area,
respectively. This is extremely important as nowhere within the
known prior art has the bulletproof glass/plastic been used within
an amphitheater complex as a skybox in this manner for viewing
there through.
[0048] Referring now to FIG. 5 of which is a block diagram
representing some of the computer operational parameters. Wherein
the computer receives a request for a specific event, the computer
denies/confirms if the event can be scheduled for the desired date.
If denied, reschedules, confirms and informs the requesting party
that the event is scheduled. If confirmed, the computer informs the
requesting party that the event is scheduled and schedules the
event. When scheduled the computer determines all requirements for
the event and then informs/instructs all personnel of their daily
duties via a display board. The computer is constantly
communicating with the maintenance/fabrication facility and
constantly updates maintenance/fabrication requirements and
informs/instructs personnel as to their daily duties. The computer
constantly updates locations for all activity floors. The computer
is constantly in communication with the security department via
security cameras. The computer constantly displays current
activities, jobs, requirements, timeframes, etc., via a display
board and also controls all of the big screen monitors during the
events. It is to be understood the computer may monitor and control
numerous other information depending on engineering choice.
[0049] It can now be seen herein taught and presented is a new and
novel multi-use amphitheater/sports complex having great potential
for economy and is most profitable when compared to any of the
prior art. Thus, new and unusual results are now attainable due to
the method of use and components in combination.
[0050] Although the invention has been herein shown and described
in what is conceived to be the most practical and preferred
embodiment, it is recognized that departures may be made there from
within the scope and spirit of the invention, which is not to be
limited to the details disclosed herein but is to be accorded the
full scope of the claims so as to embrace any and all equivalent
devices and apparatuses.
* * * * *