U.S. patent application number 14/469278 was filed with the patent office on 2015-02-26 for inflatable water attraction.
The applicant listed for this patent is Douglas Murphy. Invention is credited to Douglas Murphy.
Application Number | 20150057093 14/469278 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52480867 |
Filed Date | 2015-02-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150057093 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Murphy; Douglas |
February 26, 2015 |
INFLATABLE WATER ATTRACTION
Abstract
A water or other amusement or surfing attraction that includes
an inflatable portion or material. A variety of different
waveforms, such as curling waves, may be generated. The inflatable
portion or material may be inflated to different pressures, or
multiple inflatable portions or materials may be coupled with the
attraction such that the shape of a riding surface can be
manipulated by modifying the amount of air or fluid used to inflate
the inflatable portions or materials. Contouring elements that
exhibit a force upon a sliding surface of an attraction may be used
to form a desired contour in the sliding surface. Various riding
configurations may be used as part of the attraction, including
sidewalls that taper inward or flare outward, bowl-shaped riding
surfaces, and half-bowl-shaped riding surfaces. Staircases that are
inflatable or non-inflatable may be used as entry and/or exit
points for riders to interact with the riding surfaces.
Inventors: |
Murphy; Douglas; (Glasgow,
GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Murphy; Douglas |
Glasgow |
|
GB |
|
|
Family ID: |
52480867 |
Appl. No.: |
14/469278 |
Filed: |
August 26, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61869974 |
Aug 26, 2013 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
472/128 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63G 21/18 20130101;
A63G 31/007 20130101; A63G 31/12 20130101; A63B 69/0093 20130101;
E04H 4/0006 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
472/128 |
International
Class: |
A63B 69/00 20060101
A63B069/00; E04H 4/00 20060101 E04H004/00 |
Claims
1. A water attraction comprising: a source of water for providing a
flow of water; a sliding surface configured to direct the flow of
water thereon; a draining surface coupled with the sliding surface
and configured to drain at least a portion of the flow of water
therethrough; and a contouring element disposed adjacent to the
sliding surface, the contouring element configured to be modified
to produce a force upon the sliding surface.
2. The water attraction of claim 1 wherein the contouring element
is inflatable, the contouring element configured to inflate to
produce a force upon the sliding surface.
3. The water attraction of claim 2 wherein the force upon the
sliding surface is configured to create a wave of water in at least
a portion of the flow of water.
4. The water attraction of claim 3 wherein the contouring element
is configured to be inflated to a first pressure or to a second
pressure, the wave of water being different when the contouring
element is inflated to the first pressure compared to the second
pressure.
5. The water attraction of claim 1 further comprising a staircase
coupled with the draining surface, at least a part of the staircase
being made of an inflatable material.
6. The water attraction of claim 1 further comprising: a first
sidewall coupled with a first side of the sliding surface; and a
second sidewall coupled with a second side, opposite the first
side, of the sliding surface, wherein the first sidewall and the
second sidewall form a tapered area therebetween such that the
sliding surface is wider at a first end than at a second end.
7. The water attraction of claim 1 wherein the sliding surface
forms the shape of a half-bowl.
8. The water attraction of claim 1 further comprising a coating
applied to the sliding surface for achieving a desired frictional
coefficient for the sliding surface.
9. The water attraction of claim 1 further comprising a lifting
pallet coupled with the draining surface, the lifting pallet
configured to interface with a fork-lift for portability between
geographic locations.
10. The water attraction of claim 1 wherein the source of water is
a water nozzle or a water jet.
11. The water attraction of claim 1 wherein the sliding surface
comprises a tensioned sheet.
12. A water attraction comprising: a first inflatable bladder; a
sliding surface coupled with the first inflatable bladder and
configured to support a user thereon, the sliding surface having a
first contour if the first inflatable bladder is inflated to a
first pressure; and a source of water configured to provide a flow
of water onto the sheet for a user to ride thereon.
13. The water attraction of claim 12 further comprising a second
inflatable bladder, wherein the sliding surface is coupled with the
second inflatable bladder and having a second contour, different
from the first contour, if both the first inflatable bladder and
the second inflatable bladder are inflated.
14. The water attraction of claim 12 wherein the first inflatable
bladder may be inflated to a second pressure, greater than the
first pressure, to form a second contour for the sliding surface,
the second contour having a higher elevation than the first
contour.
15. The water attraction of claim 12 wherein the first inflatable
bladder is configured to be inflated with air.
16. The water attraction of claim 12 wherein the first inflatable
bladder is formed integrally with the sliding surface.
17. The water attraction of claim 12 wherein the first inflatable
bladder is formed separately from the sliding surface and coupled
beneath the sliding surface.
18. A method of creating a wave of water for riding by a user, the
method comprising the steps of: providing a sliding surface, the
sliding surface configured to support the user thereon; providing
an inflatable element positioned beneath the sliding surface;
inflating the inflatable element to a first pressure; and flowing a
flow of water onto the sliding surface, at least a portion of the
flow of water forming a first wave shape based upon a contour of
the sliding surface due to the inflatable element being inflated to
the first pressure.
19. The method of claim 18, further comprising the steps of:
inflating the inflatable element to a second pressure; and flowing
a flow of water over the sliding surface, at least a portion of the
flow of water forming a second wave shape based upon a contour of
the sliding surface due to the inflatable element being inflated to
the second pressure.
20. The method of claim 18, further comprising the steps of:
providing a second inflatable element positioned beneath the
sliding surface; inflating the second inflatable element; flowing a
flow of water onto the sliding surface, at least a portion of the
flow of water forming a second wave shape, different from the first
wave shape, based upon a contour of the sliding surface due to the
first inflatable element and the second inflatable element being
inflated.
21. A water attraction for riding thereon by a rider comprising: a
source of water for providing a flow of water; a sliding surface
configured to direct the flow of water thereon, the sliding surface
forming the shape of a bowl; a draining surface coupled with the
sliding surface and configured to drain at least a portion of the
flow of water therethrough; and a path extending from a center of
the bowl shape formed by the sliding surface to an area outside of
the bowl shape formed by the sliding surface for allowing the rider
to enter or exit from the sliding surface.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 61/869,974, filed on Aug. 26, 2013,
entitled "INFLATABLE WATER ATTRACTION," which is hereby
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field
[0003] The present invention relates generally to water
attractions, such as wave machines or surfing simulators. More
particularly, the present invention relates to amusement or water
attractions 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, surf boards, 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 an exciting or thrilling
ride 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 sheet or layer of
water over a variety of surfaces and allow 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 (individually and collectively referred
to as a "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 machines 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 sheet flow or standing wave product (collectively
"surfing machine") market becomes more popular, water venues
increasingly look to new surfing machines that can provide novel
experiences to riders. 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 allow for
various kinds of waveforms, to help ensure rider safety, to 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, over the speed, location, orientation, or other
maneuverability characteristic as the rider uses the water
attraction.
SUMMARY
[0011] A water attraction or ride vehicle using inflatable
materials is disclosed. In one embodiment, a water attraction may
include a source of water for providing a flow of water, a sliding
surface configured to support the flow of water thereon, a draining
surface coupled with the sliding surface and configured to drain at
least a portion of the flow of water therethrough, and an
inflatable element disposed beneath the sliding surface, the
inflatable element configured to inflate to produce a force upon
the sliding surface.
[0012] In another embodiment, a water attraction may include a
first inflatable bladder, a sheet disposed on at least a portion of
the first inflatable bladder, wherein the sheet forms a first
contour if the first inflatable bladder is inflated to a first
pressure, and a source of water configured to provide a flow of
water onto the sheet for a user to ride thereon.
[0013] In still another embodiment, a method of creating a wave of
water for riding by a user, may include the steps of providing a
sliding surface, the sliding surface configured to support the user
thereon, providing an inflatable element positioned beneath the
sliding surface, inflating the inflatable element to a first
pressure, and flowing a flow of water onto the sliding surface, at
least a portion of the flow of water forming a first wave shape
based upon a contour of the sliding surface due to the inflatable
element being inflated to the first pressure.
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. 1A shows a perspective view of an inflatable standing
wave water attraction for a rider to surf thereon according to an
embodiment of the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 1B shows a top view of a sliding surface of the
inflatable standing wave water attraction with an inflatable
bladder for modifying a shape of a wave formed from a flow of water
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0017] FIG. 1C shows a top view of a sliding surface of the
inflatable standing wave water attraction with a plurality of
inflatable bladders for modifying a shape of a wave formed from a
flow of water according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0018] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of an inflatable water
attraction configured to generate a curling wave for a rider to
surf thereon according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0019] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an inflatable water
attraction having curved and tapering sidewalls to generate a
sliding surface for a rider to surf thereon according to an
embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of an inflatable water
attraction having curved and flaring sidewalls to generate a
sliding surface for a rider to surf thereon according to an
embodiment of the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 5 shows a top view of an inflatable water attraction
having a bowl-shaped sidewall to generate a sliding surface for a
rider to surf thereon according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0022] FIG. 6 shows a top view of an inflatable water attraction
having a half-bowl-shaped sidewall to generate a sliding surface
for a rider to surf thereon according to an embodiment of the
present invention;
[0023] FIG. 7A shows a side view of an inflatable water attraction
utilizing a connected plant room or equipment room and an
integrated nozzle;
[0024] FIG. 7B shows a side view of an inflatable water attraction
utilizing a submerged pump and an integrated nozzle;
[0025] FIG. 8A shows a side view of an inflatable water attraction
with a variable ride surface and constant positioned dewatering
area; and
[0026] FIG. 8B shows a side view of an inflatable water attraction
with a variable ride surface and variable dewatering area.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] 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.
[0028] Turning first to FIG. 1 a perspective view of a water
attraction 100 is shown that incorporates inflatable areas or
materials. The water attraction 100 is formed of a structure that
utilizes one or more inflatable elements (e.g., walls 140, 142).
The inflatable elements may be walls, for example, as shown, that
are configured to couple with one another and/or to other
components of the water attraction 100 in order to form a stable
base capable of supporting a flow of water upon certain surfaces of
the water attraction 100. A rider may therefore ride or surf upon
such surfaces, as discussed in greater detail herein. A coating may
be sprayed, painted, or otherwise applied to a surface of the
inflatable elements or non-inflatable elements of the water
attraction 100, for example, to vary the smoothness or frictional
coefficient of the underlying elements, as desired.
[0029] As illustrated, a source of water, such as one or more
nozzles or jets 130 are connected at one end of the water
attraction 100 and are configured to spray, flow, or otherwise
provide a volume or flow 135 of water upon certain surfaces of the
water attraction 100. For example, a first surface 101 disposed
immediately adjacent to the nozzles or jets 130 may be
substantially planar in nature. A second surface 102 may be
disposed at a tilted or inclined orientation (e.g., curved or
planar) and coupled with the first surface 101, with a lower
elevation disposed closer to the nozzles or jets 130. In one
embodiment, the first surface 101 and the second surface 102 may be
formed of the same material or same component. In an alternative
embodiment, the first surface 101 and the second surface 102 may be
made of different materials or components.
[0030] A third surface 104 is connected with the second surface 102
and allows for water to be drained from the third surface 104
(e.g., via a grating, grille, mesh, etc. or other porous
configuration or material making up the third surface 104). Thus,
the flow of water from the nozzles 130 flows onto the first surface
101, then onto the second surface 102, and finally onto the third
surface 104 where the water is drained to a water reservoir 110
located, for example, underneath the first surface 101, the second
surface 102, and/or the third surface 104. One or more lower
dewatering surfaces 105 and/or 106 may be positioned adjacent to
the nozzles 130 and/or at lower elevation surfaces, for example, to
drain water from the water attraction 100 when the water attraction
is not powered or operating.
[0031] A plant room 115 for containing mechanical and/or electrical
components that interface with the nozzles 130 is disposed adjacent
to the nozzles 130. For example, a pump 145 may communicate with
water in the water reservoir 110 and may be configured to pump at
least some of the water in the water reservoir 110 back to the
nozzles 130 so that the water can be recirculated and flow again
over the first, second, and third surfaces (101, 102, 104). The
plant room 115 may be designed as a permanent structure, or may be
a temporary structure (e.g., an inflatable and/or a mobile
fiberglass structure) that is configured to be transported as part
of a mobile water attraction. In some embodiments, the plant room
115 may feature an integrated or built in nozzle for the flowing of
water onto the first, second, and/or third surfaces (101, 102,
104). Thus, in one embodiment, the water attraction 100 may be an
inflatable standing wave ride that is connected to a separate
fiberglass pump and/or plant room. In another embodiment, a pump
may be located within a portion or area of the waterslide
attraction 100, for example, within the water reservoir, for the
purposes of water recirculation.
[0032] A staircase 150 is positioned on one side of the water
attraction 100 and extends from a ground level to the third surface
104 for allowing entry and/or exit access for riders wishing to use
the water attraction 100. In an alternative embodiment, different
locations along the water attraction 100 for a staircase may be
used (e.g., alternative sides of the ride) and/or multiple
staircases may be used (e.g., two staircases, one on each side of
the ride). The staircase 150 includes steps 152 and side rails 154.
The side rails 154 may help ensure safety of riders using the steps
152 so that they do not fall off of the staircase 150 in the case
of a loss of footing. Either or both of the steps 152 and/or side
rails 154 may be inflatable. Similarly, perimeter protection
bumpers 120 or other handrails, guardrails, footholds, handholds,
etc. may be disposed along an outer edge of the water attraction
100 (or at other locations along its surfaces) for increased safety
and/or containment of riders and/or water flowing on the water
attraction 100. In one embodiment, the perimeter protection bumpers
120 may be inflatable.
[0033] In one embodiment, one or more inflatable elements of the
water attraction 100 may be inflated to differing pressures in
order to raise/lower or otherwise adjust a shape of a wave formed
by the flow of water upon its surfaces (e.g., the second surface
102). For example, the second surface 102 may be a fabric, sheet or
other material that is stretched (e.g., tensioned) or positioned
over one or more inflatable elements (e.g., bladders) located
beneath the second surface 102. In another embodiment, the
inflatable elements may be formed integrally as part of the second
surface 102. In such an embodiment, a rider may ride upon the
inflatable or other contouring elements themselves (e.g., if the
inflatable or other contouring elements are positioned on a top
side of the sliding surface). Alternatively, an integrally formed
inflatable or contouring element may be contained within an
interior area of a fabric, sheet, or other material that is used
for the second surface 102.
[0034] As certain of those inflatable elements are inflated or the
pressures of certain of those inflatable elements are adjusted, the
shape of the second surface 102 may be modified as the inflatable
elements act to raise or otherwise adjust the shape of the second
surface 102. When water flows over the second surface 102, the
shape of the second surface 102 may cause the water to form
different types of wave shapes (e.g., curling waves to the left or
to the right, barreling waves to the left or to the right,
etc.).
[0035] In another embodiment, one or more inflatable elements of
the water attraction 100 may be inflated to differing pressures in
order to maintain stability of the water attraction 100 while also
providing safe and/or comfortable impact surfaces for riders (e.g.,
riders that fall off of their board or other ride vehicle). For
example, impact or riding areas of the water attraction 100 may
have the one or more inflatable elements in or associated with
those areas inflated to a lower pressure while access and/or
structural areas of the water attraction 100 may have the one or
more inflatable elements in or associated with those areas inflated
to a higher pressure. In another embodiment, one or more of the
first surface 101, the second surface 102, and/or the third surface
104 may have an adjustable gradient for the riding slope. For
example, such a configuration may be used to direct water flow in a
particular direction from a higher slope elevation to a lower slope
elevation.
[0036] FIG. 1B shows one exemplary method or manner of obtaining a
desired waveform or shape on the water attraction 100 of FIG. IA.
An inflatable portion or bladder 160 is disposed on or otherwise
coupled with (e.g., located beneath) the second surface 102 of the
water attraction 100. As increased amount of air or other fluid is
provided to or in the bladder 160, the bladder 160 inflates and
presses against the second surface 102, causing the second surface
102 to extend upward in a predetermined shape. For example, the
concave portion 162 of the bladder 160 may form a curling wave when
a flow of water flows 164 across the second surface 102. Any of a
variety of shapes may be formed via bladders coupled with the
second surface 102 in an alternative embodiment. In one example,
the bladder 160 may extend to the full width and/or length of the
sliding surface 102 and/or the water attraction 100. Certain
embodiments may utilize additional inflatable elements configured
to be positioned below and/or secured on top of the second surface
102 in order to generate a desired wave shape.
[0037] FIG. 1C shows another exemplary method of obtaining a
desired waveform or shape on the water attraction 100. A plurality
of inflatable portions or bladders 170 are disposed on or otherwise
coupled with (e.g., located beneath) the second surface 102 of the
water attraction 100. Similar to the discussion above, one or more
of the inflatable portions or bladders 170 may be inflated so as to
direct the flow of water that flows 164 across the second surface
102 in a desired or predetermined direction, thus creating waves
having a certain shape or configuration. In addition or in the
alternative, the bladders 170 may be manipulated so as to control
the flow of water without changing a shape of a wave to be ridden
by a rider (e.g., certain bladders 170 may be inflated in order to
direct the flow of water to a drainage area).
[0038] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a water attraction 200
that generates a curling wave 210 that may be ridden or otherwise
interacted with by a rider. The water attraction 200 may include
features that are the same as or similar to those previously
discussed. Thus, the water attraction 200 may utilize inflatable
elements or portions and/or coatings for achieving a desired
frictional coefficient such that a rider can ride upon a flow of
water upon a sliding surface 202 and surf on or in a part of the
curling wave 210. Any of a variety of wave shapes or types may be
generated in an alternative embodiment. In an alternative
embodiment, multiple waves (e.g., curling waves) may be generated
upon a sliding surface of a water attraction.
[0039] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a water attraction 300
with curved sidewalls that taper from a front end 360 to a rear end
370 of the water attraction 300. The water attraction 300 may
include features that are the same as or similar to those
previously discussed. Thus, the water attraction 300 may utilize
inflatable elements or portions and/or coatings for achieving a
desired frictional coefficient such that a rider can ride upon a
flow of water upon a sliding surface 310.
[0040] A first curved sidewall 320 is disposed along a first edge
of the sliding surface 310. A second curved sidewall 322 is
disposed along a second and opposite edge of the sliding surface
310. A flow of water 340 is provided onto the sliding surface 310
by one or more nozzles 350 or other jets. After flowing over the
sliding surface, the flow of water may drain through a drainage
surface or portion 330, the same as or similar to the previous
discussion. In certain embodiments, additional drainage surfaces or
portions 332 and/or 334, located at a top of each of the curved
sidewalls 320 and/or 322 may be used. A rider may slide or surf
upon the sliding surface 310 on the flow of water 340 and also
slide or carve up all or a portion of the first curved sidewall 320
and/or the second curved sidewall 322. Although the sidewalls (320,
322) are shown in a tapered configuration from the front end 360 to
the rear end 370 of the water attraction 300, in an alternative
embodiment, the sidewalls (320, 322) may not taper and instead may
be parallel or substantially parallel to one another or be oriented
in a different configuration.
[0041] Similar to FIG. 3, a perspective view of a water attraction
400 is shown in FIG. 4. However, the water attraction 400 is shown
with curved sidewalls that flare from a front end 460 to a rear end
470. The water attraction 400 may include features that are the
same as or similar to those previously discussed. Thus, the water
attraction 400 may utilize inflatable elements or portions and/or
coatings for achieving a desired frictional coefficient such that a
rider can ride upon a flow of water upon a sliding surface 410.
[0042] A first curved sidewall 420 is disposed along a first edge
of the sliding surface 410. A second curved sidewall 422 is
disposed along a second and opposite edge of the sliding surface
410. A flow of water 440 is provided onto the sliding surface 410
by one or more nozzles 450 or other jets. In certain embodiments,
additional or alternative nozzles or jets may be placed in other
locations of the water attraction 400, for example, atop or beneath
one or both of the curved sidewalls (420, 422) and directed onto
one of both of the curved sidewalls (420, 422) in order to better
wet the surfaces of the curved sidewalls (420, 422). After flowing
over the sliding surface 410, the flow of water may drain through a
drainage surface or portion 430, the same as or similar to the
previous discussion. Similar to previously discussed, in certain
embodiments, additional drainage surfaces or portions 432 and/or
434, located at a top of each of the curved sidewalls 420 and/or
422 may be used. A rider may slide or surf upon the sliding surface
410 upon the flow of water 440 and also slide or carve up all or a
portion of the first curved sidewall 420 and/or the second curved
sidewall 422. Although the sidewalls (420, 422) are shown in a
flared configuration from the front end 460 to the rear end 470 of
the water attraction 400, in an alternative embodiment, the
sidewalls (420, 422) may not flare and instead may be parallel or
substantially parallel to one another or be oriented in a different
configuration.
[0043] Turning next to FIG. 5, a water attraction 500 is shown from
a top perspective. The water attraction 500 may include features
that are the same as or similar to those previously discussed. For
example, the water attraction 500 may include inflatable portions
or elements that can be inflated to provide a riding surface or
that can be inflated to provide a stable base or structure for
coupling with a riding surface, such as a fabric sheet (e.g.,
flexible and/or with a low coefficient of friction), for enabling
surfing or other riding by a rider.
[0044] The water attraction 500 is formed in the shape of a bowl.
At a center area of the bowl is a plurality of nozzles 504
configured in a radial orientation such that they are capable of
spraying or flowing 506 water in substantially 360 degrees. In an
alternative embodiment, the plurality of nozzles 504 may be a
single nozzle and/or may be capable of flowing water in less than
360 degrees. A sliding surface 502 in the shape of a bowl is
positioned adjacent to the plurality of nozzles 504. Thus, similar
to previous embodiments, a rider may ride upon a flow of water from
the plurality of nozzles 504 that flows over the sliding surface
502, thus surfing or skimming on the water along an interior
surface of the bowl shape. The bowl shape may allow for greater
numbers of riders to concurrently use the water attraction 500.
[0045] A drainage surface 510 is positioned adjacent to the sliding
surface 502. In an exemplary embodiment, the drainage surface is
coupled with or otherwise meets with an upper edge of the sliding
surface 502 such that the flow of water from the plurality of
nozzles 504 travels onto the drainage surface 510 after flowing
over the sliding surface 502. Thus, the water flowed 506 from the
plurality of nozzles 504 flows first onto the sliding surface 502
in a direction towards the drainage surface 510. When the water
encounters the drainage surface 510, the water is drained to a
water reservoir, for example, a tank or volume of space positioned
beneath the drainage surface. In one embodiment, the water
reservoir may be disposed around at least part of a perimeter of
the bowl shape formed by the sliding surface 502. In an alternative
embodiment, the water reservoir may be of any shape and located at
any of a variety of positions, for example, interfacing with the
water drained through the drainage surface 510 via a piping system
to transport the water.
[0046] The same or similar methods or manners previously discussed,
utilizing pumps, motors, and/or other mechanical and/or electrical
equipment, may be used for pumping or otherwise recirculating the
water in the water reservoir back to the plurality of nozzles 504
so that it can be reused and flowed again over the sliding surface
502. Riders may enter upon the sliding surface 502 of the water
attraction 500 via the drainage surface 510 or, in an alternative
embodiment, another path, entrance, or exit means may be provided
(e.g., a staircase may extend to a center of the bowl from outside
the bowl, a portion of the bowl may be cut-away to allow riders to
enter into the center of the bowl, etc.).
[0047] FIG. 6 shows a water attraction 600 in the form of a
half-bowl from a top view. The water attraction 600 may include
features that are the same as or similar to those previously
discussed. For example, the water attraction 600 may include
inflatable portions or elements that can be inflated to provide a
riding surface or that can be inflated to provide a stable base or
structure for coupling with a riding surface, such as a fabric
sheet with a low coefficient of friction, for enabling surfing or
other riding by a rider.
[0048] The water attraction 600 is formed in the shape of a
half-bowl. At a lower area or position of the half-bowl is a
plurality of nozzles 604 configured in a radial orientation such
that they are capable of spraying or flowing 606 water in an
outward direction onto the half-bowl shape (e.g., substantially 180
degrees). In an alternative embodiment, the plurality of nozzles
604 may be a single nozzle and/or may be capable of flowing water
in less than or greater than 180 degrees. A sliding surface 602 in
the shape of a half-bowl is positioned adjacent to the plurality of
nozzles 604. Thus, similar to previous embodiments, a rider may
ride upon a flow of water from the plurality of nozzles 604 that
flows over the sliding surface 602, thus surfing or skimming on the
water along an interior surface of the half-bowl shape.
[0049] A drainage surface 610 is positioned adjacent to the sliding
surface 602. In an exemplary embodiment, the drainage surface is
coupled with or otherwise meets with an upper edge of the sliding
surface 602 such that the flow of water from the plurality of
nozzles 604 travels onto the drainage surface 610 after flowing
over the sliding surface 602. Thus, the water flowed 606 from the
plurality of nozzles 604 flows first onto the sliding surface 602
in a direction towards the drainage surface 610. When the water
encounters the drainage surface 610, the water is drained to a
water reservoir, for example, a tank or volume of space positioned
beneath the drainage surface 610. In one embodiment, the water
reservoir may be disposed around at least part of a perimeter of
the half-bowl shape formed by the sliding surface 602. In an
alternative embodiment, the water reservoir may be of any shape and
located at any of a variety of positions, for example, interfacing
with the water drained through the drainage surface 610 via a
piping system to transport the water.
[0050] The same or similar methods or manners previously discussed,
utilizing pumps, motors, and/or other mechanical and/or electrical
equipment, may be used for pumping or otherwise recirculating the
water in the water reservoir back to the plurality of nozzles 604
so that it can be reused and flowed again over the sliding surface
602. Riders may enter upon the sliding surface 602 of the water
attraction 600 via the drainage surface 610 or, in an alternative
embodiment, other entrance means may be provided (e.g., riders may
enter the sliding surface 602 from a side of the half-bowl shape
without having to first step onto the drainage surface 610).
[0051] FIG. 7A shows a side view of an inflatable water attraction
700 utilizing a connected plantroom or equipment room. The water
attraction 700 may include features that are the same as or similar
to those previously discussed. The water attraction 700 has an
inflatable base 702 upon which a sliding surface 706 is integral or
attached thereto. A rider may surf or otherwise slide, either with
or without a ride vehicle, upon a flow of water directed upon the
sliding surface 706. Similar to embodiments previously discussed, a
drainage or dewatering area 708 is integral with the inflatable
base 702 or is attached or formed thereon (e.g., via mesh, grating,
grilles, etc.) and allows the flow of water to drain through the
drainage or dewatering area 708 after the flow of water has
traveled across the sliding surface 706 into a water reservoir 710.
As illustrated, the water reservoir 710 may be located beneath the
sliding surface 706 and/or drainage or dewatering area 708 and
contained by at least a part of the inflatable base 702.
[0052] The inflatable base 702 includes a first set of a plurality
of fixings 720 disposed along a surface of the inflatable base 702
(e.g., an underside) and are configured to attach or otherwise
couple with a ground or floor surface to help maintain stability
for the water attraction 700. A separate plantroom 730 is located
adjacent to the inflatable base 702 for the containment of various
pieces of equipment used for proper operation of the water
attraction 700 (e.g., filtration units, dosing units, controls,
pumps, air blowers, nozzles, etc.). A second set of a plurality of
fixings 722 are disposed on the plantroom 730 and/or on the
inflatable base 702 for connecting the inflatable base 702 to the
plantroom 730. In one embodiment, securing the inflatable base 702
to the plantroom 730 (e.g., a heavier structure) may help keep the
inflatable base 702 in a desired position, for example, during
erection, during times when it is empty of water (such as during
inspection or servicing), and/or when the inflatable base 702 is
otherwise deflated of air or fluid.
[0053] The plantroom 730 includes a variety of pieces of equipment
therein. For example, one or more pumps 750 is provided for pumping
water from the water reservoir 710 to one or more nozzles 740. A
section inlet 780 may be provided within the water reservoir 710
and connected with the one or more pumps 750. The suction inlet 780
may be positioned near the ground or floor such that water is
enabled to be pumped from the bottom of the water reservoir 710.
The one or more nozzles 740 is connected with the suction inlet 780
and/or the one or more pumps 750 via a filtration unit and/or
dosing unit and/or manifold 770. The one or more nozzles 740 are
directly connected with the inflatable base 702 and are configured
to spray water received from the water reservoir 710 back onto the
sliding surface 706 of the water attraction 700. In certain
embodiments, the plantroom 730 may also include equipment for
inflating one or more of the inflatable portions or surfaces of the
water attraction 700 (e.g., air blowers).
[0054] FIG. 7B shows a side view of an inflatable water attraction
780. The water attraction 780 has a base or structure 782 (e.g.,
inflatable) that forms or supports a sliding surface 781 for a
rider to ride or surf thereon and a dewatering area 783 for
draining water into a water reservoir 784 located beneath the
sliding surface 781 and/or the dewatering area 783. The water
attraction 780 may include features that are the same as or similar
to those previously discussed, for example, in FIG. 7A. However,
the water attraction 780 utilizes a submerged pump 786, located at
least partially within the water reservoir 784 for pumping water
from the water reservoir 784 to one or more nozzles 792. The one or
more nozzles 792 and associated piping or plumbing may be located
within a nozzle area 790 (e.g., a connected plant room or equipment
room). The nozzle area 790 may be a dry or wet area. The one or
more nozzles 792 may be directly connected with the base or
structure 782 and are configured to spray water received from the
water reservoir 784 back onto the sliding surface 781 of the water
attraction 780.
[0055] FIG. 8A shows a side view of an inflatable water attraction
800 with a variable ride surface and constant positioned dewatering
area. The water attraction 800 may include features that are the
same as or similar to those previously discussed. The water
attraction 800 has an inflatable base 802 that forms or supports a
riding surface 804. A flow of water 810 (e.g., from nozzles, jets,
a sluice, gravity, etc.) flows over the riding surface 804 and is
evacuated at a dewatering area 806 by draining 820 into a water
reservoir located beneath the riding surface 804 and/or the
dewatering area 806.
[0056] The riding surface 804 may be adjustable or variable, for
example, to generate larger or smaller waves and/or a steeper
surfing or riding portion. In one embodiment, the riding surface
804 may be varied via the use of inflatable bladders positioned
underneath the riding surface 804. Likewise, any other type of
contouring element may be (inflatable or not) to vary the riding
surface 804 (e.g., hydraulic elements, etc.). A first riding
surface configuration 830 (e.g., a beginner configuration) may
provide a rider with a low-elevation and easier surface to surf
thereon. A second riding surface configuration 832 (e.g., a general
use configuration) may provide a rider with a medium-elevation
surface to surf thereon. A third riding surface configuration 834
(e.g., an expert configuration) may provide a rider with a
steep-elevation surface to surf thereon. For each of the
above-described configurations, the dewatering area 806 does not
adjust in elevation. Different wave forms or shapes may be
generated on any of the above-described configurations (e.g., the
third riding surface configuration 834 may incorporate tube or
barreling waves). In an alternative embodiment, greater or fewer
variations to the riding surface 804 may be obtained.
[0057] FIG. 8B shows a side view of a portion of a riding surface
870 of an inflatable water attraction 850 with a variable ride
surface and variable dewatering area. The same as or similar to the
above description for FIG. 8A, the riding surface 870 may be
configured to be in a first riding configuration 860 (e.g., a
beginner configuration), a second riding configuration 862 (e.g., a
general use configuration), and a third riding configuration 864
(e.g., an expert configuration). However, in FIG. 8B, a dewatering
area 880 is configured to also adjust in elevation depending upon
the configuration of the riding surface 870. For example, the
dewatering area 880 may be at a lowest elevation when the riding
surface 870 is in the first riding configuration 860, a middle
elevation when the riding surface 870 is in the second riding
configuration 862, and a highest elevation when the riding surface
870 is in the third riding configuration 864. Similar to the above,
different wave forms or shapes may be generated on any of the
above-described configurations and/or greater or fewer variations
to the riding surface 870 may be obtained in alternative
embodiments.
[0058] 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 locations for a
water ride may differ from those explicitly shown in the
embodiments illustrated. In another example, a water attraction,
such as a curling 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 curling 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 or
drainage 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.
[0059] The inflatable portion or portions may be adjusted to
different pressures and/or different inflation amounts in order to
achieve a variety of different wave forms or riding surface shapes
or configurations. Moreover, alternative embodiments may have
certain inflatable portions filled to greater pressures or amounts
to aid in stability of the ride while other inflatable portions are
filled to lower pressures or amounts to aid in providing a
comfortable surface for riders to make contact with, for example,
when such riders fall or lose their footing. Still other
embodiments may utilize contouring elements or portions that
exhibit a force on a sliding surface in similar fashion to the
described inflatable embodiments, but may utilize hydraulic or
other moving components, as previously discussed. Any of a variety
of coatings may be applied to the surfaces of the inflatable
portions, or other areas, of the water attractions (e.g., to
increase or decrease friction coefficients of certain surfaces with
respect to others). One or more inflatable portions 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. In one example, the inflatable structure may be
completely above ground, completely below ground, or partially
above and partially below ground. In some embodiments, a water
reservoir of the water attraction may be made of the inflatable
material.
[0060] 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 at 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. A lifting pallet (e.g., configured to interface with a
forklift or other equipment designed to couple therewith for
transportation) may be integral, built in, or otherwise attached
with a surface of a water attraction (e.g., on an underside, to the
draining surface, sliding surface, or any other component) in order
to more easily move the water attraction between geographic
locations. Certain embodiments may utilize different colors,
textures, patterns, etc. upon different areas or surfaces of the
water attraction, for example, to help riders distinguish between
queuing/non-riding areas and the riding areas of the attraction.
Certain embodiments, including any of those previously discussed,
may utilize a sheet flow of water or a deep flow of water to
generate a standing wave ride.
[0061] 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.
* * * * *