U.S. patent application number 14/290559 was filed with the patent office on 2014-12-04 for inflatable water attraction and ride vehicle.
The applicant listed for this patent is Douglas Murphy. Invention is credited to Douglas Murphy.
Application Number | 20140357387 14/290559 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51985734 |
Filed Date | 2014-12-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140357387 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Murphy; Douglas |
December 4, 2014 |
INFLATABLE WATER ATTRACTION AND RIDE VEHICLE
Abstract
A water or other amusement attraction or ride vehicle that
includes an inflatable portion or material. A coating or sheet is
applied to at least a part of the inflatable portion for achieving
a desired amount of friction between the inflatable portion and a
sliding surface and/or a rider that makes contact therewith. More
than one coating or sheet may be disposed on varying portions of
the inflatable portion with greater or less frictional coefficients
configured to alter rider movement. The inflatable portion inflates
flat and the coating or sheet may be a flexible coating or sheet
that is configured to allow for movement of the inflatable portion
during use. A rider may travel from an entry area to an exit area
along the sliding surface that incorporates inflatable portions. A
plantroom for housing equipment, such as water pumps, may make up a
portion of the entry end.
Inventors: |
Murphy; Douglas; (Glasgow,
GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Murphy; Douglas |
Glasgow |
|
GB |
|
|
Family ID: |
51985734 |
Appl. No.: |
14/290559 |
Filed: |
May 29, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61828607 |
May 29, 2013 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
472/117 ;
472/116 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63G 21/18 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
472/117 ;
472/116 |
International
Class: |
A63G 21/18 20060101
A63G021/18 |
Claims
1. An amusement attraction comprising: a sliding surface configured
to support a rider thereon, the sliding surface extending from a
first area to a second area and wherein at least a part of the
sliding surface includes an inflatable material; and a first
coating applied to at least a portion of the inflatable
material.
2. The water attraction of claim 1 wherein the inflatable material
is configured to inflate flat.
3. The water attraction of claim 2 wherein the inflatable material
comprises a drop stitch material.
4. The water attraction of claim 3 wherein the first coating is a
flexible coating configured to allow for flexing of the inflatable
portion.
5. The water attraction of claim 4 wherein the first coating
comprises a polymer coating.
6. The water attraction of claim 4 wherein the first coating
comprises at least one aliphatic compound.
7. The water attraction of claim 3 wherein the first coating
applied to the inflatable material has a lower coefficient of
friction than the inflatable material for helping the rider to
slide along the sliding surface from the first area to the second
area.
8. The water attraction of claim 7 further comprising a second
coating applied to at least a portion of the inflatable material
adjacent to the second area, the second coating having a higher
coefficient of friction than the first coating for slowing the
rider as the rider nears the second area.
9. The water attraction of claim 1 wherein the sliding surface
defines at least one hill that extends to an elevation higher than
an adjacent elevation of the sliding surface.
10. A water attraction comprising: a sliding surface configured to
support a rider thereon, the sliding surface extending from an
entry end to an exit end and wherein at least a part of the sliding
surface is an inflatable material; a first coating applied to a
first portion of the inflatable material and configured to aid in
sliding the rider from the entry end to the exit end along the
sliding surface; and a second coating applied to a second portion
of the inflatable material and configured to slow the rider after
the rider slides along the sliding surface.
11. The water attraction of claim 10 further comprising at least
one side containment positioned at a perimeter edge of the sliding
surface for aiding in keeping the rider on the sliding surface.
12. The water attraction of claim 10 further comprising at least
one nozzle positioned adjacent to the entry end and configured to
provide a flow of water onto the sliding surface, the flow of water
flowing from the entry end to the exit end.
13. The water attraction of claim 12 further comprising a plantroom
having a roof for housing a water pump connected with the at least
one nozzle, the roof of the plantroom being at least a portion of
the entry end.
14. The water attraction of claim 13 wherein the flow of water is
configured to exit the nozzle and flow to a lower elevation on the
sliding surface before flowing to a higher elevation on the sliding
surface.
15. The water attraction of claim 14 further comprising a reservoir
disposed beneath the sliding surface, wherein water is configured
to flow from the at least one nozzle onto the sliding surface, onto
the exit end, and into the reservoir via the exit end.
16. A ride vehicle for a rider to use on an amusement attraction
comprising: a first material defining a first surface, at least a
portion of the first surface configured to contact at least a
portion of the rider, the first surface having a front end, a rear
end, and a side end; an inflatable material coupled with the first
material and defining a second surface, at least a portion of the
second surface configured to contact a sliding surface of the
amusement attraction; and a first flexible coating applied to the
inflatable material for lowering a frictional force exerted by the
sliding surface of the water attraction.
17. The ride vehicle of claim 16 further comprising at least one
hand hold.
18. The ride vehicle of claim 17 wherein the hand hold is a
handlebar coupled with the first material or a depression in the
first material
19. The ride vehicle of claim 16 further comprising a second
flexible coating applied to the inflatable material, the second
flexible coating having a higher coefficient of friction than the
first flexible coating.
20. The ride vehicle of claim 19 wherein: the first flexible
coating is disposed a first distance from a perimeter edge of the
inflatable material, the second flexible coating is disposed a
second distance from the perimeter edge of the inflatable material,
and the second distance is less than the first distance.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 61/828,607, filed on May 29, 2013,
entitled "INFLATABLE WATER ATTRACTION AND RIDE VEHICLE," which is
hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field
[0003] The present invention relates generally to amusement
attractions, such as wave machines, or ride vehicles for use on
amusement attractions. More particularly, the present invention
relates to amusement or water attractions or ride vehicles for use
thereon that incorporate one or more inflatable areas or
portions.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Water attractions (e.g., waterslides, surfing slides or
machines, boogie-boarding slides, etc.) are a popular entertainment
activity during periods of warm weather. Conventional water
attractions are commonly made of fiberglass or other rigid or
semi-rigid materials that provide a smooth and slippery surface for
supporting a flow of water thereon to transport a rider from an
entrance to an exit. A variety of different types of ride vehicles
(e.g., inner tubes, body boards, surfboards, floatation devices,
etc.) may be used by the rider when the rider travels along the
water attraction by supporting the rider as the ride vehicle slides
along the sliding surface.
[0006] Maintaining low friction between the rider (or a ride
vehicle that the rider rides upon) and the sliding surface that
supports the flow of water helps ensure the ride is exciting or
thrilling since the lower the friction on the sliding surface of
the water attraction, typically the greater the speed that the
rider may achieve. Lower friction between the rider and the sliding
surface can also increase the comfort of the rider since it aids in
preventing undesirable rubbing on the rider's skin or tugging at
the rider's swimsuit. When using a ride vehicle, low friction can
also aid in lengthening the life of the ride vehicle and the water
attraction due to reduced wear and tear to each of the ride vehicle
and the water attraction as the ride vehicle travels down the water
attraction, which can reduce maintenance or install costs.
[0007] One type of water attraction that has proven a popular lure
for patrons to water or other amusement parks or venues is the
surfing machine or simulator. These machines may be used both for
entertainment purposes as well as training purposes for helping
instruct individuals that may be wary or otherwise unable to surf
out in the open ocean. Conventional surf machines utilize water
pumps cooperating with nozzles or jets to flow a layer of water
over a surface that allows riders to skim atop the water flow. A
sliding surface of the surf machines is conventionally a rigid or
semi-rigid, low-friction surface that supports maneuvering by
riders upon a conventional or modified surfboard or boogie
board.
[0008] Unfortunately, users without much surfing experience, either
in the ocean or upon surfing machines, commonly fall off of the
board during early attempts at using surfing machines. The surfaces
of these apparatuses make uncomfortable contact with a rider upon
the rider's falling off of their board. Moreover, the risk of
falling while walking on conventional surf machines (e.g., when
entering or exiting the portion of the ride to be surfed upon) is
heightened since the surfing machine surface must commonly be
manufactured to be slippery in order to adequately allow for
low-friction between a rider's board and the surface of the
ride.
[0009] As the surfing machine market becomes more popular, water
venues increasingly look to new surfing machines that can provide
novel experiences to riders or improve comfort or safety to riders
interacting therewith. Moreover, as the surfing industry becomes
more sophisticated and the influence of extreme sports becomes more
popular, more extreme standing waves created by such surfing
machines is desired in order to satisfy the thrill anticipated by
these new generation of users, both adults and children. As new
surfing machines are developed, particularly those with more
extreme characteristics, safety concerns, maneuverability, and
rider comfort must be adequately addressed.
[0010] Thus, an improved water attraction configured to help ensure
rider safety, reduce rider discomfort, and/or to improve rider
maneuverability is desired. Ideally, the water attraction would
allow a rider to make contact with the surface of the water
attraction, for example, upon falling off of a ride vehicle, with
reduced risk of injury or discomfort. Moreover, the water
attraction would ideally permit improved control, either by the
rider themselves, or by the ride designer and/or operator, over the
speed, location, orientation, or other maneuverability
characteristic as the rider uses the water attraction.
SUMMARY
[0011] An amusement attraction and/or ride vehicle using inflatable
materials and/or coatings are disclosed. In one embodiment, an
amusement attraction may include a sliding surface configured to
support a rider thereon, the sliding surface extending from a first
area to a second area and wherein at least a part of the sliding
surface includes an inflatable material, and a first coating
applied to at least a portion of the inflatable material.
[0012] In another embodiment, a water attraction may include a
sliding surface configured to support a rider thereon, the sliding
surface extending from an entry end to an exit end and wherein at
least a part of the sliding surface is an inflatable material, a
first coating applied to a first portion of the inflatable material
and configured to aid in sliding the rider from the entry end to
the exit end along the sliding surface, and a second coating
applied to a second portion of the inflatable material and
configured to slow the rider after the rider slides along the
sliding surface.
[0013] In still another embodiment, a ride vehicle for a rider to
use on an amusement attraction may include a first material
defining a first surface, at least a portion of the first surface
configured to contact at least a portion of the rider, the first
surface having a front end, a rear end, and a side end, an
inflatable material coupled with the first material and defining a
second surface, at least a portion of the second surface configured
to contact a sliding surface of the amusement attraction, and a
first flexible coating applied to the inflatable material for
lowering a frictional force exerted by the sliding surface of the
water attraction.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the
present invention will be or will become apparent to one with skill
in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed
description. It is intended that all such additional systems,
methods, features, and advantages be included within this
description, be within the scope of the present invention, and be
protected by the accompanying claims. Component parts shown in the
drawings are not necessarily to scale and may be exaggerated to
better illustrate the important features of the present invention.
In the drawings, like reference numerals designate like parts
throughout the different views, wherein:
[0015] FIG. 1 shows a bottom view of a ride vehicle having more
than one type of material with differing coefficients of friction
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 2A shows a top view of a ride vehicle having an
inflatable portion according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0017] FIG. 2B shows a bottom view of the ride vehicle of FIG. 2A
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 2C shows a side view of the ride vehicle of FIG. 2A
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 2D shows a front view of the ride vehicle of FIG. 2A
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a water attraction having
an inflatable portion and side containments according to an
embodiment of the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 4A shows a perspective view of a water attraction
having an inflatable portion and a permanent plantroom structure
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0022] FIG. 4B shows a side view of the water attraction of FIG. 4A
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 4C shows a top view of the water attraction of FIG. 4A
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0024] FIG. 5A shows a perspective view of a water attraction
having an inflatable portion and a permanent plantroom structure
with water nozzles at an upper elevation of the plant room
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 5B shows a top view of the water attraction of FIG. 5A
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0026] FIG. 5C shows a side view of the water attraction of FIG. 5A
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 6A shows a rear perspective view of a water attraction
having an inflatable portion according to an embodiment of the
present invention;
[0028] FIG. 6B shows a front perspective view of the water
attraction of FIG. 6A according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0029] FIG. 6C shows a top view of the water attraction of FIG. 6A
according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0030] FIG. 6D shows a side view of the water attraction of FIG. 6A
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0031] The detailed description of exemplary embodiments herein
makes reference to the accompanying drawings and pictures, which
show the exemplary embodiments by way of illustration and its best
mode. While these exemplary embodiments are described in sufficient
detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the
invention, it should be understood that other embodiments may be
realized and that logical and mechanical changes may be made
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus,
the detailed description herein is presented for purposes of
illustration only and not of limitation. For example, the steps
recited in any of the method or process descriptions may be
executed in any order and are not limited to the order presented.
Moreover, any of the functions or steps may be outsourced to or
performed by one or more third parties. Furthermore, any reference
to singular includes plural embodiments, and any reference to more
than one component may include a singular embodiment.
[0032] Water attractions may incorporate a sliding surface
configured to support a rider thereon, either upon a ride vehicle
or without a ride vehicle, as the rider travels from one end or
area of the water attraction to another. One type of water
attraction is a downward sloped water ride that moves a rider at a
fast speed from one area to another. Another type of water
attraction is a body skimming attraction where a flow of water is
provided over a sliding surface and counteracts the pull of gravity
of a user on the sliding surface such that the user may skim atop
the water, using either their body and/or a ride vehicle. Still
another type of water attraction is a surfing attraction or
simulator that uses a flow of water over a surface that a rider may
skim on top of. These surfing attractions are products may use a
thin (e.g., sheet) flow of water or a deeper (e.g., standing wave)
flow of water. Riders may skim or ride on top of the water using a
boogie board, body board, surfboard, or any other type of riding
vehicle, whether inflatable or not and whether configured to be
stood upon, sat upon, laid upon, or otherwise in contact with a
portion of a body of the rider. Any of these exemplary water
attractions, and other amusement attractions, may incorporate the
concepts discussed in greater detail herein.
[0033] Turning first to FIG. 1, a bottom view of a ride vehicle 100
having more than one type of material is shown. In the embodiment
shown in FIG. 1, the ride vehicle 100 is in the form of a body
board configured to support a rider thereon for use in a water
attraction. Alternative embodiments may utilize modified dimensions
or different shapes, sizes, or configurations other than those
explicitly illustrated in the embodiment of FIG. 1. The ride
vehicle 100 may additionally or alternatively be configured for use
in attractions that use other types of fluid or lubrication for
sliding a rider down a portion of a sliding surface, for example,
snow, air, glycerin, etc.
[0034] The ride vehicle 100 has a front end 102 and a rear end 104.
A rider positions themselves on the ride vehicle 100 with their
head positioned near or adjacent to the front end 102 and their
legs or feet positioned near or adjacent to the rear end 104. A
bottom surface 110 is configured to slide along a sliding surface
of a water attraction while a top surface (not shown) of the ride
vehicle 100 makes contact with one or more parts of the rider's
body and supports the rider as the rider travels along the water
attraction. In an alternative embodiment, the ride vehicle 100 may
be used to support the rider in other positions (e.g., backwards,
sitting down, standing up, etc.).
[0035] The bottom surface 110 of the ride vehicle 100 is made up of
an inflatable material. The bottom surface 110 being made of an
inflatable material may provide a softer and/or more maneuverable
landing to riders if the ride vehicle 100 and the rider go airborne
during travel along a water attraction. The inflatable material may
be any of a variety of types of materials and may make up all or a
portion of the bottom surface 110. In the preferred embodiment, the
inflatable material inflates flat or substantially flat. In one
embodiment, the inflatable material that inflates flat may be a
drop stitch material. In certain embodiments, the inflatable
material may be replaceable on the ride vehicle 100 in order to
allow for repair or replacement when friction due to the sliding
surface of the water attraction wears down the bottom surface 110
to undesirable levels. The bottom surface 110 being an inflatable
portion that can be replaced may reduce cost since only a portion
of the ride vehicle 100 need be replaced due to wear and tear
instead of purchasing an entirely new ride vehicle 100. The
replaceable inflatable portion may additionally allow individuals
or park operators to purchase the ride vehicle 100 and customize it
with more costly decals, paintjobs, etc. than might otherwise be
feasible since the entire ride vehicle 100 need not require
replacement when the bottom surface does. In an alternative
embodiment, the bottom surface 110 need not be inflatable, but may
comprise any other type of cushioned and/or slippery material.
[0036] The bottom surface 110 of the ride vehicle 100 is coated
with a first flexible coating or material 120 and a second flexible
coating or material 130. The first flexible coating or material 120
has a lower coefficient of friction than the second flexible
coating or material 130. The first flexible coating or material 120
is disposed substantially in a center or middle area on the bottom
surface 110 of the ride vehicle 100 for promoting increased speed
when sliding on the sliding surface of the water attraction. The
second flexible coating or material 130 is disposed substantially
along the side or perimeter areas on the bottom surface 110 of the
ride vehicle 100 for promoting increased grip with the sliding
surface of the water attraction and thereby encourages the board to
turn or rotate when in contact with the sliding surface. In an
alternative embodiment, an inflatable portion of a ride vehicle may
only exist in areas of the board where low friction is desired
(e.g., where the first flexible coating or material 120 is to be
disposed).
[0037] An alternative embodiment may use greater or fewer flexible
coatings or materials upon the bottom surface 110 and/or may
include the flexible coatings or materials in alternative positions
or configurations along the bottom surface 110. For example, a
flexible coating or material with a higher coefficient of friction
relative to its surrounding materials may be placed on a rear area
of a bottom surface of a ride vehicle to allow a rider to lean
backwards in an attempt to slow or brake the ride vehicle, such as
at an exiting portion of a water attraction. In another example, a
flexible coating or material with a lower coefficient of friction
relative to its surrounding materials may be placed on a front area
of a bottom surface of a ride vehicle to allow a rider to lean
forwards in an attempt to increase the speed of the ride
vehicle.
[0038] FIG. 2A shows a top view of a ride vehicle 200 having an
inflatable portion. The ride vehicle 200 may include the same or
similar features as previously discussed for FIG. 1. Similar to the
discussion above, the ride vehicle 200 includes a front end 202 and
a rear end 204 and is configured to support a rider in contact
therewith when traveling down a sliding surface of a water
attraction. Alternative embodiments may utilize modified dimensions
or different shapes, sizes, or configurations other than those
explicitly illustrated in the embodiment of FIG. 2A. A top surface
205 of the ride vehicle 200 is configured to make contact with at
least a portion of a rider when used to slide upon a sliding
surface of a water or other amusement attraction. Hand holds (206,
207) are coupled with the top surface 205 of the ride vehicle 200
to help the rider maintain contact and/or maneuver with the ride
vehicle 200 during use. The hand holds (206, 207) may be handlebars
that extend outward from the top surface 205 to allow the rider to
hold onto or may be any other type of hold that allows the rider
improved grip on the ride vehicle 200 (e.g., indentations, pockets,
or cutouts for the rider to insert one or more fingers). Greater or
fewer hand holds may be positioned on the ride vehicle 200 in
alternative embodiments.
[0039] An inflatable portion 209 of the ride vehicle 200 is coupled
or fastened with the top surface 205. In certain embodiments, the
inflatable portion 209 may be integrally formed with the top
surface 205. The inflatable portion 209 extends beneath the top
surface 205 and out to the side, for example around a perimeter of
the top surface 205 as demonstrated in FIGS. 2A-2D. The inflatable
portion 209 may be filled with air or other fluids (e.g., helium,
water, etc.), for example, via an opening 212 that is covered by a
cap 208 after fill in order to maintain the air or other fluid
within the inflatable portion 209. As shown in FIG. 2B, which shows
a bottom view of the ride vehicle 200 of FIG. 2A, at least a part
of the inflatable portion 209 forms a bottom surface 210 of the
ride vehicle 200. The bottom surface 210 is configured to slide
upon a sliding surface of a water or other amusement attraction.
Similar to the previous discussion above for FIG. 1, in a preferred
embodiment, the inflatable portion 209 may inflate flat or
substantially flat, may be a drop stitch material, and may be
replaceable on the ride vehicle 200. An alternative embodiment may
use other materials for the inflatable portion 209.
[0040] FIG. 2C shows a side view of the ride vehicle 200. As
demonstrated, the inflatable portion 209 may make up sidewalls of
the ride vehicle 200 in addition to being disposed along a bottom
of the ride vehicle 200. The front end 202 of the ride vehicle 200
is curved upwards by an angle 225 from the plane 227 that
substantially lies along at least part of the bottom surface 210.
This curvature may help increase the speed that the ride vehicle
200 can travel down a water attraction or may increase rider
comfort by helping eliminate splashes of water from hitting the
rider's eyes or face. The angle 225 can be any desired angle from
the plane 227. In alternative embodiments, no angle 225 from the
plane 227 may be used (e.g., 0 deg.).
[0041] FIG. 2D shows a front view of the ride vehicle 200 and
demonstrates the inflatable portion 209 coupled to the top surface
205 to make up the bottom surface 210 and sidewalls of the ride
vehicle 200. In addition to the curvature of the inflatable portion
209 at the front end 202, as shown and discussed above for FIG. 2C,
the inflatable portion 209 may also be curved upward at the sides
by angles (235, 237) with respect to the plane 227 that
substantially lies along at least part of the bottom surface 210.
Angles (235, 237) may be equal to each other or may be different
from one another. Angles (235, 237) may be constant or may change
along the curvature (e.g., the inflatable portion 209 may be formed
with an increasing curvature). These curvatures that form a rounded
underside may help in the maneuverability or steerability of the
ride vehicle 200 by the rider, for example, when the rider pulls or
pushes on one or more of the hand holds (206, 207).
[0042] A coating may be disposed upon all or some of the inflatable
portion 209, for example, the bottom surface 210. The coating may
be a flexible coating that is applied to the inflatable portion
209, for example, to aid in obtaining a low friction ride surface
on the bottom surface 210 of the ride vehicle and/or to help cover
seams or joints that may be present on the ride vehicle 200.
Preferably, the coating bonds or keys properly to the inflatable
portion 209 while accommodating movement. In a preferred
embodiment, the flexible coating may be a polymer coating and/or
aliphatic compounds that is applied to the inflatable portion
209.
[0043] The application of the coating may be performed by any of a
number of techniques, including spraying on the coating, rolling on
the coating, brushing on the coating, etc. In one embodiment, the
coating may be applied to the inflatable portion 209 that is fully
inflated or substantially inflated and is allowed to cure prior to
substantial deflation of the inflatable portion 209. The coating
may additionally or alternatively be applied to areas of the ride
vehicle 200 that are not inflatable. In still other embodiments,
the coating may be applied to a sliding surface of the water
attraction itself. In a preferred embodiment, the coating will be
resistant to chlorine or otherwise compatible with the chlorine
levels that are typical or expected in a water attraction where the
ride vehicle 200 will be used. The coating may additionally or
alternatively be resistant to ultraviolet ("UV") damage from the
sun.
[0044] Turning next to FIG. 3, a perspective view of a water
attraction 300 having an inflatable portion and side containments
is shown. The water attraction 300 includes an entry or starting
area 302, an exit area 304, and a sliding surface 310 disposed
therebetween. In one embodiment, the sliding surface 310 may be
approximately 6 meters in width W. The exit area 304 may merely be
a surface positioned at the end of the sliding surface 310 for
allowing a rider to stand and walk away (e.g., may have a lower
frictional coefficient than the sliding surface 310) from the
sliding surface 310 or may be any of a variety of other exiting
designs (e.g., a splash pool, a beach, etc.). In use, a rider
enters the water attraction 300 via the entry area 302, travels
along the sliding surface 310 towards the exit area 304, and
subsequently exits via the exit area 304. The water attraction 310
may be ridden by a rider using their body alone or by incorporating
a ride vehicle (e.g., the ride vehicle 100 or the ride vehicle 200
previously discussed in FIGS. 1-2D.
[0045] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the entry area 302
is positioned at a higher elevation than the exit area 304, such
that the sliding surface 310 is sloped downward from the entry area
302 to the exit area 304. Alternative embodiments may position an
entry area lower than the exit area, or at the same level as the
exit area. One or more nozzles 312 are positioned near or adjacent
to the entry area 302 for supplying a flow of water onto the
sliding surface 310. The flow of water travels from the nozzles 312
and along the sliding surface 310. Thus, the movement of water
and/or gravity acts to transfer a rider on the water attraction 300
from the entry area 302 to the exit area 304. Any number of nozzles
312 may be used in a particular embodiment (e.g., one or more
nozzles). Any of a variety of devices or means may be used in
addition to or in replacement of the nozzles 312 for providing
water onto the sliding surface 310, for example, a sluice, water
jets, water pumps, etc. The nozzles 312 may be directional nozzles
that are positioned to direct water flow in a specific, desired
direction or orientation along the sliding surface 310.
[0046] A plurality of side containments 330 are positioned along
outer edges of the sliding surface 310 and define a plurality of
auxiliary exit locations (320, 321, 322, 323) at the sides of the
water attraction 300. The side containments 330 may be any of a
variety of heights in order to help keep the rider within a desired
riding area along the sliding surface 310 and prevent the rider
from unintentionally falling off the side of the water attraction
300. The side containments 330 may define greater or fewer exit
locations (or may be continuous along outer edges of the sliding
surface so as not to define any exit locations) in an alternative
embodiment.
[0047] The sliding surface 310 incorporates a plurality of humps or
hills (340, 342, 344). The first hill 340 has a first elevation H1
that may be 3 meters in one embodiment. The second hill 342 has a
second elevation H2 that may be 2 meters in one embodiment. The
third hill 344 has a third elevation H3 that may be 1.5 meters in
one embodiment. Thus, a rider on the sliding surface 310 will
experience a series of rises and drops as they travel down the
sliding surface 310 from the entry area 302 to the exit end 304. In
an alternative embodiment, any number of humps or hills with
varying elevations may be used or no humps or hills may be
incorporated. In certain embodiments, additional nozzles may be
placed along the sliding surface 310 to move or direct a rider in
varying directions. For example, in one embodiment, one or more
nozzles may be placed near or adjacent to the exit area 304 for
moving or directing a rider back towards the entry area 302 and/or
for allowing a rider to remain near one of the heights (H1, H2, H3)
and skim laterally along the sliding surface 310. In another
example embodiment, one or more nozzles may be placed adjacent to
the sides to move or direct the rider in alternative directions
along the rider's travel from the entry area 302 to the exit area
304 in order to provide a more thrilling or enjoyable ride
experience.
[0048] All or a portion of the sliding surface 310 may be formed
using an inflatable structure or material that is covered with a
coating, the features of which are the same or similar to the
inflatable features and coatings as previously discussed for FIGS.
1-2D. In a preferred embodiment, the inflatable structure or
material will inflate substantially flat (e.g., may comprise a drop
stitch material) and may be 50 mm in thickness when inflated. In
certain embodiments, the entry area 302 and/or the exit area 304
may also comprise an inflatable structure or material that is
covered with a coating. In one example, a coating with a higher
frictional coefficient may be used on the entry area 302 and/or the
exit area 304 when compared with the coating used on the sliding
surface 310 in order to lessen the risk of slipping or falling of
riders as they attempt to enter or exit the ride. Moreover,
portions of the sliding surface 310 may have applied coatings with
varying frictional coefficients (e.g., a higher frictional
coefficient near, on, or adjacent to the exit locations (320, 321,
322, 323) and/or the side containments 330 to help slow down riders
that get undesirably close to the side edges of the sliding surface
310. In addition, areas of the sliding surface 310 near or adjacent
to the exit area 304 may have applied a coating with a higher
frictional coefficient to similarly reduce the speed of a rider
traveling on the sliding surface 310 as they near the exit area
304.
[0049] Turning next to FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C a perspective view, a
side view and a top view, respectively, of a water attraction 400
having an inflatable portion and without side containments is
shown. The water attraction 400 may include the same or similar
features as previously discussed. The water attraction 400 is shown
without side containments and includes a water reservoir 460 (see
FIG. 4B) disposed beneath at least a part of an entry area 402, an
exit area 404, and a sliding surface 410. Similar to the water
attraction 300, the water attraction 400 flows 405 water or another
fluid (e.g., via nozzles or another water delivery method) along
the surface of the sliding surface 410. In one embodiment, the flow
405 should be sufficiently fast to reach the exit area 404.
[0050] The sliding surface 410 is formed of an inflatable structure
or material and coated with a flexible coating and includes a
plurality of humps or hills (440, 442, 444) at a variety of heights
(e.g., 3 meters, 2 meters, and 1.5 meters, respectively). In one
embodiment, one or more of the humps or hills (440, 442, 444) may
be an individual section or component such that they can be removed
or replaced, for example with other sections or components, such as
obstacles, while the remainder of the ride remains intact. Using
the exit area 404 as the base elevation (e.g., 0 meters), the entry
area 402 may be at a respective 3 meter height and the water
reservoir 460 may extend 0.5 meters lower than the exit area 404.
In an alternative embodiment, any of a variety of differing
dimensions may be used.
[0051] A plantroom 480 is housed beneath, near, or adjacent to the
entry area 402 for housing water pumps, piping, or other assorted
equipment used for transporting the water or other fluid from the
water reservoir 460 to the sliding surface 410. The plantroom 480
may be a permanent concrete structure in one embodiment, the top or
roof of which serves as the entry area 402 of the water attraction
400. In this fashion, sealing problems of the plantroom 480 and/or
improved energy efficiency in supplying water by equipment in the
plantroom 480 may be minimized, as discussed in greater detail for
FIGS. 5A-5C. A plurality of exit locations (420, 421, 422, 423,
424, 425) (see FIG. 4C) (e.g., at a 0 meter height with respect to
the exit end 404) are positioned along the sides of the sliding
surface 410.
[0052] FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C show a perspective view, a top view and
a side view, respectively, of a water attraction 500 having an
inflatable portion with side containments and a plantroom
structure. The water attraction 500 may include the same or similar
features as previously discussed. The water attraction 500 is shown
with an option for side containments 595 (e.g., walls, railings,
and/or other barriers) that operate to help keep a rider on a
sliding surface 510. In one embodiment, the side containments may
be 500 meters high. A water reservoir 560 is disposed beneath at
least a part of an entry area 502, an exit area 504, and the
sliding surface 510. Similar to the water attractions 300 and/or
400 (see FIGS. 3-4C), the water attraction 500 flows 505 water or
another fluid along the sliding surface 510. Water nozzles 512 or
another type of water delivery mechanism may be used to provide the
flow 505 in a desired direction or path along the water attraction
500. In one embodiment, the flow 505 should be sufficiently fast to
reach the exit area 504 without substantially spilling or draining
of the sides of the sliding surface 510.
[0053] Similar to the previous discussions, the sliding surface 510
is formed of an inflatable structure or material and coated with a
flexible coating and includes a plurality of humps or hills (540,
542, 544) of a variety of heights (e.g., 3 meters, 2 meters, and
1.5 meters, respectively). An alternative embodiment may use
different dimensions. Located at the base of one or more of the
hills are side exits (520, 521, 522, 523, 524, 525) that allow a
rider to exit from the sliding surface at those locations prior to
traveling all the way to the exit end 504. A grated surface or
drain (e.g., constructed of fiberglass) covering may be used at the
side exits (520, 521, 522, 523, 524, 525) and/or the exit area 504
to help drain water that drips from an exiting rider or that spills
off from the flow 505 on the sliding surface 510 into the water
reservoir 560. This may help reduce the amount of water depleted
from the ride during operation and/or help increase ride safety by
making the side exits (520, 521, 522, 523, 524, 525) and/or the
exit area 504 less slippery for riders walking thereon. Greater or
fewer side exits may be utilized in an alternative embodiment. In
one embodiment, one or more of the humps or hills (540, 542, 544)
may be an individual section or component such that they can be
removed or replaced, for example with other sections or components,
such as obstacles, while the remainder of the ride remains
intact.
[0054] A plantroom 580 makes up at least a part of the entry area
502 and is used for housing water pumps, piping, and other assorted
equipment used for transporting the water or other fluid from the
water reservoir 560 to the sliding surface 510. The plantroom 580
may be a permanent concrete structure in one embodiment, the top or
roof of which serves as the entry area 502 of the water attraction
500. As shown, the nozzles 512 are attached onto or are adjacent,
but not attached, to the roof of the plant room 580 and direct the
flow 505 away from the plant room 580 and onto the sliding surface
510, thus providing reduced sealing problems from the plant room
580 since little to no water will be present on the roof of the
plant room 580.
[0055] A cover or flap 590 extends over a portion of the sliding
surface 510 near the entry area 502 and extends to and/or attaches
to the plant room 580 (e.g. to the concrete roof of the plant room
580) in front of the nozzles 512 in order to provide a smooth
and/or safe surface connecting the entry area 502 to the sliding
surface 510. In an alternative embodiment, the cover or flap 590
may extend over all or a portion of the nozzles 512 to prevent
rider interference with the nozzles 512.
[0056] The plant room 580 is configured to contain equipment (e.g.,
water pumps, piping, etc.) for providing water from the water
reservoir 560 to the nozzles 512. In one embodiment, one water pump
596 may be used for operating five nozzles 512. In an alternative
embodiment, two smaller water pumps may be used. With the nozzles
512 located on or adjacent to the roof of the plant room 580 and
directing water immediately downward or horizontally onto the
sliding surface 510, and not up in upwardly sloping direction, the
necessary water velocity when exiting the nozzles 512 may be
reduced or lower than would otherwise be required, thus providing
energy savings during ride operation. The height 562 (see FIG. 5C)
of the water reservoir 560 depends upon the suction head and/or
sizing of the water pump 596 and may be adjusted as desired in
different embodiments. For example, in one embodiment, if greater
suction head is desired, the height 562 of the water reservoir 560
may be increased at only the side of the reservoir 560 that is near
or adjacent to the plantroom 580.
[0057] FIGS. 6A-6D illustrate an alternative embodiment of a water
attraction 600 using an inflatable structure or material, the same
or similar as previously discussed. The water attraction 600,
however, is configured to provide water uphill over an inflatable
structure, for example, for surfing upon the flow of water on an
inclined area. FIG. 6A shows a rear perspective view of the water
attraction 600 and includes a ride surface 605, sidewalls 610,
access areas 615, and a dewatering zone 620. Similar to previous
discussions, the ride surface 605 may be formed, at least in part,
by an inflatable material (e.g., a drop stitch or drop thread
material). The sidewalls 610 may also be formed, at least in part,
via the inflatable material. A lacing cover 630 is coupled between
the ride surface 605 and the sidewalls 610 for covering the seam
and/or joints at the perimeter of the ride surface 605. In an
alternative embodiment, a coating or other barrier may be provided
in addition to or in replacement of the lacing cover 630. The
sidewalls 610 at the access areas 615 are lowered to support ease
of access onto or off of the ride surface 605. The dewatering zone
620 may be formed by a high tensile mesh material, for example, to
allow water to flow or drain through the surface at the dewatering
zone 620 and into a reservoir or piping system below (e.g., a
reservoir disposed beneath the ride surface 605).
[0058] A tensioning tube 630 or other mechanism for tightening or
tautening the ride surface 605 may be provided, either along an
exterior of the water attraction 600 or contained within an
interior of the water attraction 600 (e.g., within a reservoir
disposed beneath the ride surface 605). As seen in FIG. 6B, which
demonstrates a front perspective view of the water attraction 600,
water pump connections 640 are provided for connecting the water
pump, nozzle, and/or jet system to the water attraction 600. The
water pump connections 640 may be standardized across a product
line in order to support a variety of water flows (e.g., faster or
slower, greater volume or less volume, etc.) upon the ride surface
605 based on the size or capability of the water pumps, nozzles,
and/or jets that are connected.
[0059] FIGS. 6C and 6D show the water attraction 600 from a top
view and a side view, respectively. As illustrated in the
embodiment shown, the ride surface 605 may have three different
zones, a delivery zone 650 where water is provided onto the ride
surface 605, an entry/exit zone 655 where riders may enter or exit
the ride surface 605, and a riding zone 660 where riders may ride
or maneuver upon the ride surface 605. A structure 670 that houses
or is coupled with water pumps and/or nozzles (681, 682, 683, 684)
is positioned near or adjacent to the delivery zone 650 for the
flowing of water from the water pumps and/or nozzles (681, 682,
683, 684) onto the ride surface 605. The water pumps and/or nozzles
(681, 682, 683, 684) may interface with the water pump connections
640 shown on FIG. 6B. A reservoir 690 for receiving water from the
dewatering zone 620 prior to its provision onto the ride surface
605 via the water pumps and/or nozzles (681, 682, 683, 684) is
located below the ride surface 605.
[0060] Although the embodiments shown and described above feature
water attractions having particular configurations or shapes, an
inflatable portion and/or coating applied to the inflatable portion
may be implemented on any of a variety of water or other
attractions. In one example, entry and/or exit areas or locations
for a water ride may differ from those explicitly shown in the
embodiments illustrated (e.g., an entry location may be above,
below, or at the same level as one or more exit locations). In
another example, a water attraction, such as a standing wave
surfing ride, may have its entire main structure or sliding surface
as an inflatable structure or made from an inflatable material.
Alternatively, a water attraction, such as a standing wave surfing
ride, may only be constructed with partially inflatable structures
(e.g., at the entry and exit points and/or the sliding surface or
riding area). In dewatering areas of a water attraction, such as at
the exit points, an integral netting or grating may be used in
place of, or in conjunction with, the inflatable materials at those
locations.
[0061] The inflatable portion or portions may be used to help
increase rider speed (e.g., via a low coefficient of friction
coating applied to the inflatable portion), reduce rider speed
(e.g., via a high coefficient of friction coating applied to the
inflatable portion), or aid in changing the orientation of a rider
or ride vehicle (e.g., via a combination of a low coefficient of
friction coating and a high coefficient of friction coating applied
to the inflatable portion in proximity to one another). In an
alternative embodiment, instead or in addition to a coating applied
to the inflatable material, a separate material or surface (e.g., a
polyvinyl chloride ("PVC") sheet) may be coupled or fastened on top
of the inflatable material. Materials or surfaces other than PVC
may be used in an alternative embodiment. The inflatable portion
may be positioned at any desired location along the water
attraction, for example, to provide a less rigid surface for more
comfortably supporting riding thereon and/or to absorb an impact of
the rider or a ride vehicle. For example, the inflatable structure
may be completely above ground, completely below ground, or
partially above and below ground. In some embodiments, a water
reservoir of the water attraction may be made of the inflatable
material.
[0062] A water attraction using an inflatable portion or portions
may be modular in nature such that it may be more easily
manufactured, transportable, and/or constructed on a given
location. For example, a water attraction using an inflatable
portion or portions may be designed to be portable such that it is
intended to be used at a given geographic location for a short
period and then deflated and/or deconstructed and shipped to a new
location.
[0063] The previous description of the disclosed examples is
provided to enable any person of ordinary skill in the art to make
or use the disclosed methods and apparatus. Accordingly, the
terminology employed throughout should be read in a non-limiting
manner. Various modifications to these examples will be readily
apparent to those skilled in the art, and the principles defined
herein may be applied to other examples without departing from the
spirit or scope of the disclosed method and apparatus. The
described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as
illustrative and not restrictive and the scope of the invention is,
therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the
foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning
and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within
their scope. Skilled artisans may implement the described
functionality in varying ways for each particular application, but
such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing
a departure from the scope of the disclosed apparatus and methods.
The steps of the method or algorithm may also be performed in an
alternate order from those provided in the examples.
* * * * *