U.S. patent application number 17/680461 was filed with the patent office on 2022-06-16 for water ride.
This patent application is currently assigned to PROSLIDE TECHNOLOGY INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is PROSLIDE TECHNOLOGY INC.. Invention is credited to Richard D. HUNTER.
Application Number | 20220184511 17/680461 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006171712 |
Filed Date | 2022-06-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220184511 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
HUNTER; Richard D. |
June 16, 2022 |
WATER RIDE
Abstract
A slide feature for an amusement ride adapted to carry a rider
or ride vehicle sliding thereon, and a water slide comprising said
slide feature are provided. The slide feature has an inrun
permitting ingress of the rider or ride vehicle, an outrun
permitting egress, and a sliding surface in communication with the
inrun and the outrun. The sliding surface may comprise a surface
substantially in the shape of a sector of a closed curve and/or may
be substantially planar. The slide feature may also include an
outer lip and provide that the rider or ride vehicle, at least
partially urged by gravity, slides along the sliding surface from
the inrun to the outrun in an arcuate path at least partially
bounded by the outer lip. The sliding surface may be oriented so an
elevation of the rider or ride vehicle increases then decreases
along the arcuate path.
Inventors: |
HUNTER; Richard D.; (Ottawa,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
PROSLIDE TECHNOLOGY INC. |
Ottawa |
|
CA |
|
|
Assignee: |
PROSLIDE TECHNOLOGY INC.
Ottawa
CA
|
Family ID: |
1000006171712 |
Appl. No.: |
17/680461 |
Filed: |
February 25, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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16920862 |
Jul 6, 2020 |
11260309 |
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17680461 |
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16569870 |
Sep 13, 2019 |
10702783 |
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16920862 |
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15318202 |
Dec 12, 2016 |
10500508 |
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PCT/CA2015/050159 |
Mar 3, 2015 |
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16569870 |
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62011898 |
Jun 13, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63G 21/10 20130101;
A63G 21/18 20130101; A63G 21/14 20130101; A63G 31/007 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63G 21/18 20060101
A63G021/18; A63G 21/14 20060101 A63G021/14; A63G 21/10 20060101
A63G021/10; A63G 31/00 20060101 A63G031/00 |
Claims
1. A slide feature for an amusement ride adapted to carry a rider
or ride vehicle sliding thereon, the slide feature comprising: an
inrun permitting ingress of the rider or ride vehicle at a first
elevation; an outrun permitting egress of the rider or ride vehicle
at a second elevation, wherein the first elevation is higher than
the second elevation; a sliding surface in communication with the
inrun and the outrun; wherein the slide feature is oriented at a
roll angle around a roll axis, the roll angle being nonzero when
measured relative to a horizontal plane, and wherein the slide
feature defines a sliding path for the rider or ride vehicle from
the inrun to the outrun, the sliding path being a substantially
circular arc in a plane oriented at the roll angle relative to the
horizontal plane.
2. The slide feature of claim 1, wherein the slide feature provides
that the rider or ride vehicle, at least partially urged by
gravity, slides along the sliding surface from the inrun to the
outrun in an arc of at least 45 degrees.
3. The slide feature of claim 1, wherein the sliding surface
comprises a planar surface portion.
4. The slide feature of claim 1, further comprising a curved inner
lip extending from the inrun to the outrun, the inner lip defining
an inner boundary of the sliding surface.
5. The slide feature of claim 4, further comprising an inner core
portion defining the inner lip.
6. The slide feature of claim 5, wherein the sliding surface
extends around the inner core portion in an arc of at least 45
degrees.
7. The slide feature of claim 1, further comprising a curved outer
lip extending from the inrun to the outrun, the outer lip defining
an outer boundary of the sliding surface, wherein the outer lip has
a height with respect to the sliding surface, and an inner core
portion defining an inner boundary of the sliding surface from the
inrun to the outrun, the inner core portion having a top surface,
wherein at least a portion of the top surface has a height with
respect to the sliding surface that is less than the height of the
outer lip.
8. A slide feature for an amusement ride adapted to carry a rider
or ride vehicle sliding thereon, the slide feature comprising: an
inrun permitting ingress of the rider or ride vehicle at a first
elevation; an outrun permitting egress of the rider or ride vehicle
at a second elevation, wherein the first and second elevations are
different; a sliding surface in communication with the inrun and
the outrun, wherein the sliding surface is defined by arced inner
and outer boundaries, each of the inner and outer boundaries
extending from the inrun to the outrun, and wherein the sliding
surface comprises an at least partially helical profile; a curved
outer lip extending from the inrun to the outrun, the outer lip
defining the outer boundary of the sliding surface; and an inner
lip extending from the inrun to the outrun, the inner lip being
spaced from the inner boundary of the sliding surface.
9. The slide feature of claim 8, wherein a distance between the
inner lip and the inner boundary of the sliding surface increases
continuously along a first portion of the inner boundary beginning
where the sliding surface meets the inrun.
10. The slide feature of claim 9, wherein the distance between the
inner lip and the inner boundary decreases continuously along a
second portion of the inner boundary until the sliding surface
meets the outrun.
11. The slide feature of claim 9, wherein the distance increases
continuously until a maximum distance, the maximum distance being
substantially midway along the inner boundary between inrun and
outrun.
12. The slide feature of claim 8, wherein one or both of the inrun
and the outrun comprise at least one of an at least partially
concave shape and an at least partially helical shape.
13. The slide feature of claim 8, wherein the sliding surface
defines an arcuate sliding path from the inrun to the outrun of at
least 60 degrees.
14. The slide feature of claim 8, wherein the inrun is connected to
an entry chute and the outrun is connected to an exit chute, one of
the entry chute and the exit chute crossing over the other of the
entry chute and the exit chute at a cross over point.
15. The slide feature of claim 14, wherein a rider or ride vehicle
travelling from the cross-over point in the entry chute to the
cross-over point in the exit chute travels along an arcuate path of
at least 180 degrees.
16. The slide feature of claim 8, wherein the sliding surface
comprises a substantially planar surface portion.
17. A slide feature for an amusement ride adapted to carry a rider
or ride vehicle sliding thereon, the slide feature comprising: an
inrun permitting ingress of the rider or ride vehicle at a first
elevation; an outrun permitting egress of the rider or ride vehicle
at a second elevation, wherein the first and second elevations are
different; an outer lip extending from the inrun to the outrun, the
outer lip defining an outer boundary of the slide feature; an inner
lip extending from inrun to the outrun, the inner lip defining an
inner boundary of the slide feature; a sliding surface in
communication with the inrun and the outrun, an apex of the sliding
surface being at a higher elevation than the first and second
elevations, wherein the inrun is connected to an entry chute and
the outrun is connected to an exit chute, one of the entry chute
and the exit chute crossing over the other of the entry chute and
the exit chute at a cross over point, and wherein a rider or ride
vehicle travelling from the cross over point in the entry chute to
the cross over point in the exit chute travels along an arcuate
path of at least 180 degrees.
18. The slide feature of claim 17, wherein the sliding surface
comprises a planar surface portion.
19. The slide feature of claim 17, wherein the arcuate path is at
least 270 degrees.
20. The slide feature of claim 17, wherein the arcuate path is at
least partially bounded by the outer lip.
21. The slide feature of claim 17, wherein the sliding surface is
oriented at a pitch angle around a pitch axis, the pitch angle
being measured relative to a horizontal plane, wherein the sliding
surface is oriented at a roll angle around a roll axis, the roll
angle being measured relative to the horizontal plane, and wherein
the pitch axis and the roll axis are mutually perpendicular and at
least one of the pitch angle and the roll angle is nonzero.
22. The slide feature of claim 21, wherein the pitch angle and the
roll angle are selected so that an elevation of the rider or ride
vehicle increases along a first portion of the arcuate path and
decreases along a second portion of the arcuate path.
23. The slide feature of claim 22, wherein an edge of the sliding
surface is curved to provide a smooth transition to the outer
lip.
24. The slide feature of claim 22, wherein a radius of the entry
chute and/or inrun reduces leading into the slide feature.
Description
FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to amusement rides,
and more specifically to water slide rides and portions
thereof.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The amusement park industry is competitive and evolving.
Park operators strive to offer new, innovative rides to provide
exciting and thrilling experiences for patrons.
[0003] Some slide-based rides are known. For example, in
conventional water slides, patrons enter the ride at a high
elevation and travel to a terminal destination at a lower elevation
by sliding along a chute or flume. To facilitate sliding, portions
of a water slide may be lubricated with a volume of water.
[0004] In some water slides, patrons may sit or lie on a vehicle
designed to contact the ride surface. In some water slides, patrons
may slide along the ride without a vehicle, with their bodies in
contact with the ride surface.
[0005] In U.S. Pat. No. 7,854,662 B2 to Braun et al., a water slide
having at least one loop section is described. One problem with the
water slide described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,854,662 B2 is that, due to
the use of the loop, there is a need for an evacuation platform at
the valley and as well as the apex of the loop. In addition,
confining riders to such a loop may decrease the thrill of the
ride.
[0006] In some commercially available water slides, such as rides
sold by ProSlide Technology Inc. under the trademarks
CannonBOWL.TM., BulletBOWL.TM., ProBOWL.TM., and BehemothBOWL.TM.,
riders are deposited from a chute into a round,
horizontally-oriented bowl. Riders enter the bowl along the wall of
the bowl and exit from the bottom center of the bowl.
[0007] There is a need for water rides that address the problems
and disadvantages of previous rides while providing more exciting
experiences for riders.
SUMMARY
[0008] According to an aspect, there is provided a slide feature
for an amusement ride adapted to carry a rider or ride vehicle
sliding thereon, the slide feature comprising: an inrun permitting
ingress of the rider or ride vehicle, an outrun permitting egress
of the rider or ride vehicle, a substantially planar sliding
surface in communication with the inrun and the outrun, wherein the
sliding surface comprises a surface substantially in the shape of a
sector of a closed curve; and an outer lip extending from the inrun
to the outrun, wherein the slide feature provides that the rider or
ride vehicle, at least partially urged by gravity, slides along the
sliding surface from the inrun to the outrun in an arcuate path at
least partially bounded by the outer lip.
[0009] Optionally, the sliding surface is substantially planar.
[0010] Optionally, the sliding surface is oriented at a pitch angle
around a pitch axis, the pitch angle being measured relative to a
horizontal plane; the sliding surface is oriented at a roll angle
around a roll axis, the roll angle being measured relative to the
horizontal plane, the pitch axis and the roll axis are mutually
perpendicular, and at least one of the pitch angle and the roll
angle is nonzero.
[0011] Optionally, the pitch angle and the roll angle are selected
so that an elevation of the rider or ride vehicle increases along a
first portion of the arcuate path and decreases along a second
portion of the arcuate path.
[0012] Optionally, each of the pitch angle and the roll angle is
less than 45.degree..
[0013] Optionally, at least one of the pitch angle and the roll
angle is 11.25.degree..
[0014] Optionally, each of the pitch angle and the roll angle are
between 15.degree. and 18.degree..
[0015] Optionally, the roll angle is 11.25.degree. and the pitch
angle is 22.5.degree..
[0016] Optionally, a diameter of the slide feature is between 15
feet to 25 feet.
[0017] Optionally, a radius of the sliding surface is continuously
reduced from the inrun to the outrun.
[0018] Optionally, the radius of the sliding surface at the outrun
is 75% of the radius of the sliding surface at the inrun.
[0019] Optionally, a radius of the sliding surface is constant from
the inrun to the outrun.
[0020] Optionally, the sliding surface is uncovered.
[0021] Optionally, the slide feature comprises a cover over the
sliding surface.
[0022] Optionally, the cover has at least one of a hemispherical or
domed shape.
[0023] Optionally, the slide feature is adapted to carry a ride
vehicle and the ride vehicle comprises a raft for seating one human
or a raft for seating two humans in an inline configuration.
[0024] Optionally, a shape of the inrun and a shape of the outrun
each are adapted to interface with water slide chutes having a
circular or semi-circular cross-section.
[0025] Optionally, the sliding surface comprises a groove for
guiding the path of the rider.
[0026] Optionally, the sliding surface comprises a flexible
material with a textured surface.
[0027] Optionally, the outer lip has a substantially flat
cross-section perpendicular to the sliding surface.
[0028] Optionally, the outer lip has a curved cross-section.
[0029] Optionally, an edge of the sliding surface is curved to
provide a smooth transition to the outer lip.
[0030] Optionally, an edge of the sliding surface is angled to meet
the outer lip.
[0031] Optionally, the edge of the sliding surface is angled at an
angle between 10.degree. and 45.degree. relative to a central part
of the sliding surface.
[0032] According to another aspect, there is provided a slide
feature for an amusement ride adapted to carry a rider or ride
vehicle sliding thereon, the slide feature comprising: an inrun
permitting ingress of the rider or ride vehicle, an outrun
permitting egress of the rider or ride vehicle, a sliding surface
in communication with the inrun and the outrun, wherein the sliding
surface is substantially planar; and an outer lip extending from
the inrun to the outrun, wherein the slide feature provides that
the rider or ride vehicle, at least partially urged by gravity,
slides along the sliding surface from the inrun to the outrun in an
arcuate path at least partially bounded by the outer lip, and
wherein the sliding surface is oriented so that an elevation of the
rider or ride vehicle increases along a first portion of the
arcuate path and decreases along a second portion of the arcuate
path.
[0033] Optionally, the sliding surface is oriented at a pitch angle
around a pitch axis, the pitch angle being measured relative to a
horizontal plane; the sliding surface is oriented at a roll angle
around a roll axis, the roll angle being measured relative to the
horizontal plane, the pitch axis and the roll axis are mutually
perpendicular, and both the pitch angle and the roll angle are
nonzero.
[0034] According to still another aspect, there is provided a slide
feature for an amusement ride adapted to carry a rider or ride
vehicle sliding thereon, the slide feature comprising: an inrun
permitting ingress of the rider or ride vehicle, an outrun
permitting egress of the rider or ride vehicle, a sliding surface
in communication with the inrun and the outrun, wherein the sliding
surface comprises a substantially circular or substantially
elliptical surface; and an outer lip extending from the inrun to
the outrun, wherein the slide feature provides that the rider or
ride vehicle, at least partially urged by gravity, slides along the
sliding surface from the inrun to the outrun in an arcuate path at
least partially bounded by the outer lip.
[0035] According to yet another aspect, there is provided a water
slide comprising a slide feature as described above.
[0036] Optionally, the water slide comprises a support structure
supporting the slide feature, wherein the support structure is
configured to dynamically impart movement to the slide feature.
[0037] Various aspects and features of the disclosure are described
in further detail below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0038] Examples of embodiments will now be described in greater
detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0039] FIGS. 1A-1D show a first embodiment of the slide feature
coupled to entry and exit chutes;
[0040] FIGS. 2A-2D show another embodiment of the slide feature
coupled to entry and exit chutes;
[0041] FIGS. 3A-3D show a variation of the slide feature of FIGS.
2A-2D in which the sliding surface is covered;
[0042] FIGS. 4A-4C show another embodiment of a slide feature
coupled to entry and exit chutes in which the entry and exit chutes
do not cross over each other;
[0043] FIGS. 5A-5J show alternative embodiments of the slide
feature including associated structural supports and/or
coverings;
[0044] FIGS. 6A-6B show alternative embodiments of the slide
feature;
[0045] FIG. 7 shows another embodiment of the slide feature in
wireframe perspective view;
[0046] FIG. 8 shows another embodiment of the slide feature in
wireframe plan view;
[0047] FIGS. 9A-9C show an embodiment of a water slide comprising
multiple slide features;
[0048] FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of the slide feature in
wireframe perspective view;
[0049] FIGS. 11A-11B show another embodiment of the slide feature
coupled to entry and exit chutes in which there is a reduced angle
between the entry and exit chutes;
[0050] FIGS. 12A-12C show another embodiment of the slide feature
having an increased size to accommodate larger ride vehicles and a
roll angle of approximately 33.75.degree.;
[0051] FIG. 13 shows in wireframe elevational view another
embodiment of the slide feature mounted for testing purposes;
[0052] FIGS. 14A-14C show another embodiment of the slide feature
having a compounded outer radius;
[0053] FIGS. 15A-15D show another embodiment of the slide feature
having smooth guide surfaces proximal to the inrun and outrun;
[0054] FIGS. 16A-16C show another embodiment of the slide feature
for accommodating larger ride vehicles; and
[0055] FIGS. 17A-17D show an embodiment of a water slide comprising
two slide features.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0056] FIGS. 1A-1D illustrate a first embodiment of a slide feature
102 for a water slide 100, the slide feature 102 being coupled to
entry chute 104 and exit chute 106 of the water slide 100. The
entry chute 104 and exit chute 106 illustrated each have a closed,
circular cross-section, but it should be understood that
embodiments of the slide feature 102 may be used with other known
water slide chutes, for example chutes having an open,
semi-circular cross-section, and/or other known entry and exit
features, such as funnels and vertical drops.
[0057] The slide feature 102 is adapted to carry a rider or a ride
vehicle sliding thereon. In some embodiments, the slide feature 102
may be adapted to carry one or more riders and/or one or more ride
vehicles sliding thereon simultaneously.
[0058] Although entry chute 104 and exit chute 106 are illustrated
as having a certain length, it should be understood that entry
chute 104 and exit chute 106 may continue for a shorter or a longer
distance than shown and/or interface with another slide feature
(not shown) or another portion of water slide 100 (also not shown).
In some embodiments, riders or ride vehicles may exit the water
slide through exit chute opening 108 and tumble into a pool of
water (not shown) below the slide feature 102.
[0059] To facilitate sliding, the slide feature 102 may be
lubricated with water. In some embodiments, a stream of water may
enter the slide feature 102 from entry chute 104, the stream of
water being supplied by a start tub (not shown) of the water slide.
In some embodiments, the start tub may supply water at a rate of
approximately 2500 U.S. gallons per minute. In other embodiments,
the start tub may supply water at a rate of approximately 3000 U.S.
gallons per minute. In still other embodiments, the start tub may
supply water at other rates. In some embodiments, the slide feature
102 may be fitted with water jets and/or other means of supplying
water, for example as an alternative to water from a start tub
and/or to provide sliding surface lubrication in areas where water
supplied by the start tub does not adequately lubricate the slide
feature 102. In some embodiments, water may exit the slide feature
102 via exit chute 106. In other embodiments, water may be
evacuated through an opening (not shown) in the slide feature 102,
or other means of evacuating water that would be known to a person
skilled in the art may be provided. In other embodiments, the slide
feature 102 may be lubricated with other substances and/or may be
formed with a material that does not require lubrication, for
example a low friction material.
[0060] With reference to FIG. 1A, the slide feature 102 is depicted
in plan view. The slide feature 102 comprises an inrun 110 and
outrun 112, as well as a sliding surface 120 between the inrun 110
and the outrun 112. In FIG. 1A, line 111 has been drawn to define
in general terms where inrun 110 transitions to sliding surface
120, and line 113 has been drawn to define in general terms where
sliding surface 120 transitions to outrun 112. However, it should
be understood that lines 111 and 113 could be drawn in other
locations and that the transitions between inrun 110, sliding
surface 120, and outrun 112 may be smooth and not apparent to
riders. In the depicted embodiment, the obtuse central angle 105
between line 111 and line 113 is 240.degree..
[0061] In the embodiment depicted, the entry chute 104 and the exit
chute 106 have a cross over point 180 where the entry chute 104 and
the exit chute 106 are in proximity and cross over each other when
the slide feature 102 is viewed from above.
[0062] In some embodiments, the inrun 110 may have a concave,
partly concave, and/or partly helical shape, where a low point
along the concave, partly concave, and/or partly helical shape of
the inrun 110 may assist in guiding riders or ride vehicles
entering the slide feature 102 towards an outer lip 122 of the
slide feature 102. In some embodiments, the outrun 112 may have a
convex or partly convex shape whose edges are tangential to, or
intersect with, the exit chute 106, where a raised portion of the
convex or partly convex shape may assist in guiding riders or ride
vehicles exiting the slide feature 102 towards exit chute 106. In
other embodiments, the inrun 110 may have a convex or partly convex
shape. In other embodiments, the outrun 112 may have a concave,
partly concave, and/or partly helical shape. More generally, the
inrun 110 and outrun 112 may have other shapes for interfacing with
the entry chute and exit chute. In some embodiments, the lowest
point of the inrun 110 and/or outrun 112 may be located so that a
person who stops moving or who exits a vehicle being ridden may be
flushed out by water circulated within the slide feature 102.
[0063] In some embodiments, the location at which a rider or ride
vehicle's path transitions between the inrun 110 and the sliding
surface 120 occurs proximal to a floor 126 of the sliding surface
120 (i.e., proximal to the plane of the sliding surface 120). In
other embodiments, the location at which a rider or ride vehicle's
path transitions between the inrun 110 and the sliding surface 120
may occur proximal to an outer lip 122 of the slide feature. Outer
lip 122, described in additional detail further below, may serve to
partially bound the sliding surface 120.
[0064] In some embodiments, riders or ride vehicles may enter the
inrun 110 at speeds of between 16 to 18 feet per second. In other
embodiments, for example, embodiments in which the entry chute 104
may be designed to provide acceleration, riders or ride vehicles
may enter the inrun 110 at higher speeds than 18 feet per second.
For instance, in some example embodiments, riders or ride vehicles
may enter the inrun 110 at between 22 to 24 feet per second. It
should be understood, however, that other embodiments may be
configured so that riders or ride vehicles may enter the inrun 110
at other speeds.
[0065] The sliding surface 120 may be in a shape that is
substantially based on, or derived from, a sector of a closed
curve. For example, the sliding surface 120 may be in the shape of
a sector of a circle (also referred to as a circular sector) or of
a sector of an ellipse (also referred to as an elliptical sector).
A sector of a closed curve may be defined by the area formed by two
line segments drawn between the centroid or geometric center of a
closed curve and the perimeter of the closed curve. Although the
sliding surface 120 may in some embodiments comprise a surface
substantially in the shape of a sector of a smooth closed curve to
facilitate a comfortable ride experience for riders, in other
embodiments, the sliding surface 120 may comprise a surface
substantially in the shape of a sector of a closed curve having
some non-smooth portions. For example, the sliding surface 120 may
comprise a surface substantially in the shape of a sector of a
piecewise smooth closed curve, where a piecewise smooth closed
curve is defined as a closed curve consisting of the union of
several individual smooth curves, where the areas in which the
individual smooth curves meet may not be smooth.
[0066] In alternative embodiments, the sliding surface 120 may be
based on, or derived from, other shapes. In some embodiments, the
sliding surface 120 may comprise a substantially circular or
substantially elliptical surface. In some embodiments, it may be
desirable that the sliding surface 120 and/or the slide feature 102
as a whole has a shape that visually suggests to riders and/or
other viewers the idea of a dinner saucer and/or of an unidentified
flying object (UFO). In some embodiments, for example embodiments
where the sliding surface 120 comprises a surface substantially in
the shape of a sector of a closed curve, to facilitate providing a
shape for the slide feature 102 that may suggest a dinner saucer
and/or a UFO, the sliding surface 120 may have one or more portions
that extend beyond a portion of the sliding surface 120
substantially in the shape of a sector of a closed curve. In other
embodiments where the sliding surface 120 comprises a surface
substantially in the shape of a sector of a closed curve, the
surface substantially in the shape of a sector of a closed curve
may be adjacent to surfaces of the slide feature 102 that are
primarily decorative rather than being intended for sliding. In
some embodiments, the surfaces of the slide feature 102 that are
primarily decorative may be located between the inrun 110 and the
outrun 112 and opposite the outer lip 122.
[0067] In some embodiments, the shape of the sliding surface 120
may not include a portion of the center of a closed curve. That is,
a central portion of the slide feature 102 may have an open
aperture towards the center of the sliding surface 120. In some
embodiments, an opening or openings may also be located in other
areas of the sliding surface 120.
[0068] The embodiment depicted in FIG. 1A has a substantially
planar sliding surface 120. However, it should be understood that
other sliding surfaces are contemplated in other embodiments,
including sliding surfaces that are not substantially planar. For
example, the sliding surface 120 may have a curved or wave-like
cross-section. In some embodiments, the sliding surface 120 may
have a substantially or partially helical profile. In some
embodiments, the sliding surface 120 may have an uneven or textured
surface. In some embodiments, sliding surface 120 may be convex or
concave, in whole or in part.
[0069] In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1A, located along an
outer circumferential edge of the slide feature 102 is an outer lip
122 extending from the inrun 110 to the outrun 112. Outer lip 122
is described in additional detail further below.
[0070] Also identified in FIG. 1A are a roll axis 130 and a pitch
axis 132, the roll axis 130 and the pitch axis 132 being mutually
perpendicular. Each of the roll axis 130 and pitch axis 132 is
illustrated surrounded by arrows indicating the direction in which
a positive rotation along each axis would tilt the slide feature
102. In the depicted embodiment, each of the roll axis 130 and
pitch axis 132 lies along a horizontal plane 190 (not shown in FIG.
1A; depicted in FIGS. 1B-1D) passing through a portion of the
sliding surface 120, the horizontal plane 190 being parallel to a
ground surface (not shown) beneath the slide feature 102. However,
in some embodiments, each of the roll axis 130 and pitch axis 132
may have a different location, thereby permitting the sliding
surface 120 to have any orientation in three-dimensional space
relative to the ground surface beneath the slide feature 102.
Further, in the depicted embodiment, the intersection point of the
roll axis 130 and the pitch axis 132 is shown located at a point
136 proximal to a center portion of the slide feature. In some
embodiments, the intersection point of the roll axis 130 and the
pitch axis 132 may have another location.
[0071] It should be understood that the words "roll axis" and
"pitch axis" are arbitrary identifiers, and that other names could
be applied to these axes. For example, the identifiers "roll axis"
and "pitch axis" could be switched. That is, the words "roll axis"
could be used to refer to the pitch axis 132, and the words "pitch
axis" could be used to refer to the roll axis 130.
[0072] An apex 140 is labeled in FIG. 1A indicating a location at
which riders or ride vehicles may, in the depicted embodiment,
reach a highest elevation while sliding around the slide feature
102. In some embodiments, the apex may have another location or may
not be defined. For example, the apex may be undefined in
embodiments where the sliding surface 120 is oriented parallel to
the horizontal plane 190, or in embodiments where the sliding
surface 120 is oriented so that riders or ride vehicles have a
continuously decreasing elevation while sliding around the slide
feature 102.
[0073] An optional inner lip 150 is depicted extending between the
inrun 110 and the outrun 112 opposite the outer lip 122 as a safety
feature for preventing riders or ride vehicles from sliding out of
the slide feature 102. Alternatively, railings, nets, or other
structures may be provided in place of, or in addition to, the
optional inner lip 150 to prevent riders or ride vehicles from
sliding out of the slide feature 102.
[0074] In some embodiments, the slide feature 102 may be configured
so that a rider or ride vehicle traveling down the water slide 100
enters the slide feature 102 from the entry chute 104 via the inrun
110. At least partially urged by gravity, the rider or ride vehicle
slides along the sliding surface 120 from the inrun 110 to the
outrun 112 in an arcuate path at least partially bounded by the
outer lip 122, and then exits the slide feature 102 via the exit
chute 106. In some embodiments, the arcuate path may be a
substantially circular arc.
[0075] In some embodiments, because the arcuate path traveled by
riders or ride vehicles (including the apex 140 of the arcuate path
and a lowest point, or valley, of the arcuate path) is located
within the boundaries of a slide feature 102 having a sliding
surface 120 comprising a surface that is substantially in the shape
of a sector of a closed curve, no evacuation platform or other
evacuation provision, for the evacuation of water and/or dirt
and/or for the evacuation of riders, may be required in order to
safely use the slide feature 102 as part of a water slide 100.
[0076] To control the ride path of a rider or ride vehicle so that
the rider or ride vehicle slides along the sliding surface 120 from
the inrun 110 to the outrun 112 in an arcuate path, the radius of
the sliding surface may be continuously reduced from the inrun 110
to the outrun 112. (The radius of the sliding surface may be
measured relative to a point 136 proximal to a center portion of
the slide feature 102, where this center portion may be a geometric
center of the slide feature 102, a radial center of an arcuate path
traveled by a rider or ride vehicle, or another centrally located
portion of the slide feature 102.) Such a continuously reducing
radius may cause centripetal or centrifugal forces to urge the
rider or ride vehicle towards the outer lip 122. In some
embodiments, the radius of the sliding surface at line 113 where
the sliding surface 120 meets the outrun 112 may be approximately
75% of the radius of the sliding surface at line 111 where the
inrun 110 meets the sliding surface 120. Other embodiments may
provide for the sliding surface 120 to have a constant or expanding
radius from the inrun 110 to the outrun 112.
[0077] In some embodiments, it may be desirable that the inrun 110
compounds (i.e., transitions) from a large radius to a smaller
radius relative to point 136 in order to urge the rider or ride
vehicle towards the outer lip 122 as the rider or ride vehicle
enters the slide feature 102. In some embodiments, it may be
desirable that the outrun 112 compounds in a similar manner in
order to urge the rider or ride vehicle into the exit chute 108. In
some embodiments, the inrun 110 and/or the outrun 112 may compound
in the opposite manner, namely from a smaller radius to a large
radius relative to point 136.
[0078] In some embodiments, it may be desirable to increase or
maximize the centripetal forces acting upon a rider or ride vehicle
by gradually reducing radii (measured relative to point 136) of
parts of entry chute 104 and/or inrun 110 leading into the slide
feature 102. Such a configuration may affect the speed at which
riders begin traveling along sliding surface 120. In other
embodiments, it may be desirable to gradually increase radii
(measured relative to point 136) of parts of exit chute 106 and/or
outrun 112 leading out of the slide feature 102. Such a
configuration may affect the speed at which riders exit the slide
feature 102. In some embodiments, designs such as these may
facilitate providing a fast, sweeping experience for riders.
[0079] FIGS. 1B-1D depict the slide feature 102 of FIG. 1A from
three side elevational views. The slide feature 102 is shown
inclined relative to horizontal plane 190 and vertical axis 192. In
FIGS. 1B and 1C, the sliding surface 120 is depicted inclined at a
pitch angle 194 relative to the horizontal plane 190 (i.e., in each
of FIGS. 1B and 1C, the pitch axis 132, not shown in these figures,
is parallel to the viewing direction from which these figures are
drawn). Also illustrated is an angle 195 measured between vertical
axis 192 and a right angle taken from pitch angle 194. In FIG. 1D,
the sliding surface 120 is depicted inclined at a roll angle 196
relative to the horizontal plane 190 (i.e., in FIG. 1D, the roll
axis 130, not shown in this figure, is parallel to the viewing
direction from which this figure is drawn). Also illustrated is an
angle 199 measured between vertical axis 192 and a right angle
taken between vertical axis 192 and a right angle taken from roll
angle 196. Also illustrated is an angle 197 measured between the
horizontal plane 190 and a right angle taken from angle 199. In the
embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1B-1D, both of the roll angle 196 and
the pitch angle 194 are equal and measure 11.25.degree.. However,
it should be understood that the roll angle 196 and the pitch angle
194 illustrated in FIGS. 1B-1D are intended to depict an example
embodiment and that other roll and pitch angles may be selected.
For example, in some embodiments, the roll angle 196 and the pitch
angle 194 may not be equal.
[0080] In some embodiments, the roll angle 196 and the pitch angle
194 may be selected so that an elevation of the rider or ride
vehicle sliding along the sliding surface 120 increases along a
first portion of the rider or ride vehicle's path and decreases
along a second portion of the rider or ride vehicle's path. Apex
140 may be the point at which the first portion of the rider or
ride vehicle's path ends and the second portion of the rider or
ride vehicle's path begins. Riders may experience a zero-gravity
sensation along at least one axis in the vicinity of the apex 140.
This zero-gravity sensation may be due to the rider or ride
vehicle's elevation increasing along the first portion of the rider
or ride vehicle's path and then decreasing along the second portion
of the rider or ride vehicle's path.
[0081] In some embodiments, the roll angle 196 and the pitch angle
194 may be selected so that an elevation of the rider or ride
vehicle sliding along the sliding surface 120 remains substantially
constant. In some embodiments, at least one of the roll angle 196
or the pitch angle 194 may be zero relative to the horizontal plane
190. In some embodiments, either a portion of the sliding surface
120 or the entirety of the sliding surface 120 may be substantially
parallel to the horizontal plane 190.
[0082] In some embodiments, the roll angle 196 and the pitch angle
194 may be selected so that an elevation of the rider or ride
vehicle sliding along the sliding surface 120 either continuously
decreases or is continuously nonincreasing along the length of the
rider or ride vehicle's path. In some embodiments, at least one of
the roll angle 196 or the pitch angle 194 may be negative (i.e.,
angled downwards) when measured relative to the horizontal plane
190.
[0083] Each of the roll angle 196 and the pitch angle 194 may be
adjusted to provide a more or less thrilling ride experience. In
some typical embodiments, each of the roll angle 196 and the pitch
angle 194 may be less than or equal to 45.degree.. In some typical
embodiments, each of the roll angle 196 and the pitch angle 194 may
be in the range of 15.degree. to 18.degree.. In other typical
embodiments, each of the roll angle 196 and the pitch angle 194 may
be in the range of 20.degree. to 25.degree.. In an exemplary
embodiment, each of the roll angle 196 and the pitch angle 194 may
be 11.25.degree.. In another exemplary embodiment, the roll angle
196 may be 11.25.degree. and the pitch angle 194 may be
22.5.degree.. In another exemplary embodiment, each of the roll
angle 196 and the pitch angle 194 may be less than 5.degree.. In
some conceivable embodiments, each of the roll angle 196 and the
pitch angle 194 may be less than or equal to 80.degree..
[0084] The diameter of the slide feature 102 may also be adjusted
to provide a more or less thrilling ride experience. In some
typical embodiments, the diameter of the slide feature 102, as
measured at the widest point across the sliding surface 120, may be
in the range of 15 feet to 25 feet. In other embodiments, the
diameter of the slide feature 102 may be larger than 25 feet. In
some conceivable embodiments, the diameter of the slide feature 102
may be smaller than 15 feet.
[0085] In an embodiment, human riders may travel through the slide
feature 102 while sitting atop, or lying down upon, mobile ride
vehicles. Some contemplated ride vehicles include rafts designed to
seat or otherwise accommodate one or more riders, tubes designed to
seat a single rider, and double inline tubes designed to seat two
riders. Other amusement vehicles that would be known to a person
skilled in the art, including tubes capable of accommodating more
than two riders, are also contemplated. In some embodiments, riders
may travel through the slide feature 102 without a ride vehicle and
with their bodies in contact with the sliding surface 120.
[0086] In some embodiments, riders or ride vehicles may be urged
through the slide feature 102 by the influence of gravitational
forces. In alternative embodiments, the movement of riders or ride
vehicles through the slide feature 102 may be at least partially
assisted by other acting forces, including but not limited to
forces created by water jets or forces applied to, and/or applied
by, a ride vehicle. For example, in some embodiments a linear
induction motor may be used to accelerate a ride vehicle through
portions of the slide feature 102.
[0087] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1D, the outer lip
122 has a curved cross-section. In an embodiment, the curved
cross-section of the outer lip 122 may be based on the
cross-section of a 54 inch diameter flume. In some embodiments, the
outer edge 124 of the sliding surface 120 is curved to provide a
smooth transition between the sliding surface 120 and the outer lip
122. In such embodiments, a rider or ride vehicle may at least
partially slide along some portions of the sliding surface 120 that
are curved to meet the outer lip 122. In other embodiments, the
outer edge 124 of the sliding surface 120 may be angled upwards (or
banked upwards) relative to the central part of the sliding surface
120 to meet the outer lip 122. In such embodiments, a rider or ride
vehicle may at least partially slide along some of the angled
portions of the sliding surface 120. In some embodiments where the
outer edge 124 of the sliding surface 120 is banked upwards, the
outer edge 124 may be banked upwards at an angle between 10.degree.
and 45.degree. relative to the central part of the sliding surface
120. In some embodiments, the outer lip 122 may have a
substantially flat cross-section perpendicular to the sliding
surface 120, thereby preventing a rider or ride vehicle from riding
up on any portion of the outer lip 122. Alternatively, in some
embodiments, a rider or ride vehicle may ride completely or
primarily along the surface of outer lip 122 (as opposed to riding
along sliding surface 120), for either a portion or the entirety of
the rider or ride vehicle's travel through slide feature 102. In
some embodiments, a smooth transition between outer lip 122 and the
outer edge 124 of the sliding surface 120 may facilitate the rider
or ride vehicle transitioning from traveling along portions of the
sliding surface 120 to traveling along outer lip 122, or
transitioning from traveling along outer lip 122 to traveling along
portions of the sliding surface 120.
[0088] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1D, the
substantially planar sliding surface 120 has a generally flat
surface. Some riders or ride vehicles which do not enter the slide
feature 102 with sufficient momentum, or riders or ride vehicles
which exceed a body weight threshold or a particular range of body
weights, may slide across an interior portion of the sliding
surface 120 rather than traveling from the inrun 110 to the outrun
112 in an arcuate path proximal to the length of the outer lip 122.
In some embodiments, the slide feature 102 may be configured with
means for causing riders or ride vehicles to slide across an
interior portion of the sliding surface 120 rather than traveling
from the inrun 110 to the outrun 112 in an arcuate path proximal to
the length of the outer lip 122. For example, in some embodiments,
water jets and/or linear induction motors may be mounted to the
slide feature 102 that, when activated, create a force or forces
whose action urges riders or ride vehicles away from the outer lip
122 and/or towards an interior portion of the sliding surface
120.
[0089] In some embodiments, the substantially planar sliding
surface 120 may have a shaped groove for at least partially guiding
the path of riders or ride vehicles from the inrun 110 to the
outrun 112.
[0090] In some embodiments, single human riders weighing between 50
and 375 pounds sitting atop a ride vehicle and/or a pair of human
riders weighing between 100 and 600 pounds combined sitting atop a
ride vehicle may slide along the sliding surface 120 from the inrun
110 to the outrun 112 as contemplated, i.e., in an arcuate path at
least partially bounded by the outer lip 122. However, it should be
understood that other embodiments capable of accommodating
differing configurations of riders and/or ride vehicles having
different weight parameters are also contemplated.
[0091] FIGS. 2A-2D illustrate another embodiment of a slide feature
202 for a water slide 200, the slide feature 202 being coupled to
entry chute 204 and exit chute 206 of the water slide 200 and
having a sliding surface 220 inclined at a greater pitch angle than
the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1A-1D. The embodiment depicted in
FIGS. 2A-2D also differs from the embodiment depicted in FIGS.
1A-1D in that, for example, sliding surface 220 is more generally
elliptical in shape than sliding surface 120, and a cross-section
of outer lip 222 has a greater degree of curvature than outer lip
122.
[0092] With reference to FIG. 2A, the slide feature 202 is depicted
in plan view. The slide feature comprises an inrun 210 and outrun
212, the outer lip 222, and the sliding surface 220 between the
inrun 210 and the outrun 212. In the embodiment depicted, the entry
chute 204 and the exit chute 206 have a cross over point 280 where
the entry chute 104 and the exit chute 206 are in proximity and
cross over each other when the slide feature 202 is viewed from
above.
[0093] FIG. 2B depicts the slide feature 202 of FIG. 2A from a
front elevational view. FIGS. 2C and 2D depict the slide feature
202 of FIG. 2A from two side elevational views.
[0094] FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate a variation 302 of the slide feature
of FIGS. 2A-2D for a waterslide 300 comprising a cover 370 over the
sliding surface. In the embodiment shown, the cover 370 has a
gently curved domed shape and fully encloses the interior of the
slide feature 302. However, it should be understood that other
cover shapes and profiles are contemplated. In some embodiments, a
cover 370 may be provided that may not fully enclose the interior
of the slide feature 302.
[0095] FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate another embodiment of a slide feature
402 for a water slide 400, the slide feature 402 being coupled to
entry chute 404 and exit chute 406 of the water slide. In the
embodiment shown, riders or ride vehicles travel in a roughly 180
degree arc around the interior of the slide feature 402.
[0096] With reference to FIG. 4A, the slide feature 402 is depicted
in front elevational view. In the embodiment depicted, the entry
chute 404 and exit chute 406 are not proximal to each other. In the
embodiment shown, there is also no cross over point in which entry
chute 404 crosses over exit chute 406. Riders or ride vehicles may
exit the water slide 400 through exit chute opening 408 and tumble
into a pool of water below (not shown). In other embodiments, exit
chute 406 may continue for some distance and/or interface with
another slide feature or another portion of water slide 400.
[0097] FIGS. 4B and 4C depict the slide feature 402 of FIG. 4A from
two side elevational views.
[0098] FIGS. 5A-5J illustrate embodiments of a slide feature
including associated structural supports and/or coverings.
[0099] With reference to FIG. 5A, an embodiment of a slide feature
supported by structural supports 502 is illustrated in a
perspective view. The structural supports 502 may be constructed
from painted galvanized steel. In the illustrated embodiment, the
entry chute, slide feature, and exit chute include portholes 504,
which are windows integrated into the surface of the entry chute,
slide feature, and exit chute. In the illustrated embodiment, some
portholes 504 are circular in shape and other portholes 504 are
semi-circular in shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the
semi-circular portholes 504 are located along an outer lip of the
slide feature, and the circular portholes 504 are located along the
surface of the entry chute and exit chute. It should be understood
however that other locations for the portholes 504 and other
porthole shapes are possible. In the illustrated embodiment, the
slide feature also includes a base disc 506, which is a disc-shaped
window integrated into a central portion of a bottom surface of the
slide feature. It should be understood however that one or more
windows having other shapes and/or locations may be substituted for
base disc 506.
[0100] The portholes 504 and/or base disc 506 may, in some
embodiments, be made of acrylic or Lexan.RTM., although it should
be understood that other materials are also contemplated. The
portholes and/or base disc may, in some embodiments, be
transparent, translucent, and/or illuminated at certain times, for
example at dusk and/or at night. In some embodiments, illumination
may be provided via light emitting diodes (LEDs). In some
embodiments, the illumination sources may be solar powered. In some
embodiments, open apertures may be substituted for some or all
portholes 504 and/or for base disc 506. An interior lip, wall,
railing, net, or other structure around such an open aperture may
be provided to prevent riders or ride vehicles from exiting the
slide feature via the open aperture.
[0101] FIGS. 5B and 5C are two perspective views of another
embodiment of a slide feature. The slide feature is supported by a
full space frame 512, which is a truss-like rigid structure
constructed from interlocking struts in a geometric pattern. In
some embodiments, the space frame may be a Triodetic.RTM. space
frame manufactured by Triodetic Corporation. In some embodiments,
some portions of the space frame 512 may optionally be replaced by
struts 514.
[0102] FIG. 5D is a perspective view of an embodiment of a slide
feature supported by structural supports 522 and comprising a cover
524 over the sliding surface. In the illustrated embodiment, the
cover 524 has a hemispherical shape above the sliding surface and
includes windows 526 disposed around the circumference of the cover
524. Windows 526 may have properties similar to the portholes
discussed earlier with respect to the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 5A. In other embodiments, the cover 524 may have a different
shape and/or may not include windows 526.
[0103] FIG. 5E is a perspective view on an embodiment of a slide
feature supported by structural supports 532 and comprising a mesh
cover 534 over the sliding surface. In the illustrated embodiment,
the mesh cover has a domed shape. In other embodiments, the mesh
cover may be optional or may have a different shape. In the
embodiment depicted, the structural supports 532 have a physical
design that bears some resemblance to supports for a gyroscope, but
it should be understood that a variety of other physical designs
for providing structural support to the slide feature are also
contemplated.
[0104] FIG. 5F is a perspective view of an embodiment of a slide
feature surrounded by a cover 542 having a spherical shape shown in
schematic. In some embodiments, cover 542 may be opaque, and in
other embodiments cover 542 may be transparent, translucent, and/or
include non-opaque surfaces, for example windows. Due to the
spherical shape of cover 542, the slide feature may visually appear
to an exterior viewer to permit riders and/or ride vehicles to
travel around the interior of a sphere, although the path taken by
riders and/or ride vehicles when travelling through the slide
feature is determined by the shape of the slide feature.
[0105] FIG. 5G is a perspective view of an embodiment of a slide
feature in which structural supports 552 supporting the slide
feature may pivot around a joint 556. The structural supports are
also connected to hydraulic pistons 558. In some embodiments, the
hydraulic pistons may be configured to dynamically impart movement
to the slide feature. In some embodiments, the joint 556 and/or
hydraulic pistons 558 may be configured to dynamically impart
movement to the slide feature and the hydraulic pistons 558 may
also function as movement dampeners. Dynamic movements imparted by
the joint 556 and/or the hydraulic pistons 558 may be software
driven. Embodiments making use of dynamic movements may in some
cases be referred to as "animatronic", "dynamic", or "full-motion"
embodiments. Also shown in FIG. 5G is an extended (or riser)
portion 554 of the outer lip, which extends above a portion of the
outer lip and may, in some embodiments, provide an additional
margin of safety for riders or ride vehicles. More specifically,
the extended portion 554 may, in some circumstances, help to guard
against the possibility that some sliding motions of riders or ride
vehicles may cause the riders or ride vehicles to exit the interior
of the slide feature. In some embodiments, the extended portion 554
may allow for the outer lip of the slide feature to have a lesser
radius of curvature than if the extended portion 554 was not
present.
[0106] FIGS. 5H and 5I are perspective views of embodiments of the
slide feature supported by differing types of structural supports
562, 564. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5H, the structural
supports 562 comprise a central vertical support having a
cylindrical shape and struts extending from the central vertical
support. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5I, the structural
supports 564 comprise a central vertical support having a
cylindrical shape and additional cylindrical supports extending
from the central vertical support. It should be understood that the
illustrated structural supports 562, 564 are examples, and that
other types of structural supports are possible.
[0107] FIG. 5J is a perspective view of an embodiment of the slide
feature supported by structural supports 572 of the type
illustrated in FIG. 5H, the slide feature having a semi-circular
exit chute 574 and semi-circular portholes 576 disposed around the
circumference of the slide feature.
[0108] Referring now to FIGS. 6A and 6B, depicted are two
embodiments of the slide feature 602, 604 shown in perspective
views. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6A, the sliding
surface 610 is generally flat. In the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 6B, the sliding surface 612, while still substantially planar,
has a partially helical profile.
[0109] FIG. 7 illustrates in wireframe perspective view another
embodiment of a slide feature 700.
[0110] FIG. 8 illustrates in wireframe plan view still another
embodiment of a slide feature 800. As illustrated, sliding surface
802 between inrun 804 and outrun 806 is substantially shaped as a
circular sector, but the obtuse central angle 805 of this circular
sector is more acute than, for example, the obtuse central angle
105 of the embodiment of a slide feature illustrated in FIG. 1A.
Circular base disc 808 may, in some embodiments, be transparent,
translucent, and/or illuminated at certain times. In some
embodiments, an open aperture may be substituted for base disc 808.
As illustrated, walls 810 and 812 function to prevent riders or
ride vehicles from exiting the slide feature except via outrun 806.
In some embodiments, walls 810 and 812 may not be present or may be
substituted with other barriers.
[0111] Referring now to FIGS. 9A-9C, illustrated is an embodiment
of a water slide 900 comprising multiple slide features 902, 904,
906 connected by flumes. FIG. 9A shows water slide 900 in plan
view, FIG. 9B shows water slide 900 in front elevational view, and
FIG. 9C shows water slide 900 in side elevational view. In the
embodiment depicted, riders or ride vehicles exit each slide
feature 902, 904, 906 in a generally similar direction to the
direction in which they entered the slide feature 902, 904, 906.
Alternatively, in some embodiments, a slide feature may be
configured so that riders or ride vehicles exit a slide feature
902, 904, 906 in a direction independent from the direction in
which they enter the slide feature 902, 904, 906. In some
embodiments, the direction at which riders or ride vehicles exit a
slide feature 902, 904, 906 relative to the direction at which
riders or ride vehicles enter the slide feature 902, 904, 906 may
be controlled by altering the shape(s) of the inrun and/or outrun.
In some embodiments, multiple slide features 902, 904, 906 may be
connected without intervening flumes.
[0112] FIG. 10 illustrates in wireframe perspective view yet
another embodiment of a slide feature 1000, in which the sliding
surface is inclined at a greater pitch angle 1019 relative to a
horizontal plane 1009 than the embodiment of a slide feature
illustrated in FIG. 1B.
[0113] Referring now to FIGS. 11A and 11B, illustrated is another
embodiment of a slide feature 1102 for a water slide 1100, the
slide feature 1102 being coupled to entry chute 1104 and exit chute
1106 of the water slide 1100, and the slide feature 1102 having a
reduced angle between the entry chute 1104 and exit chute 1106.
[0114] With reference to FIG. 11A, the slide feature 1102 is
depicted in plan view. The slide feature 1102 comprises an inrun
1110 and outrun 1112, an outer lip 1122, and a sliding surface 1120
between the inrun 1110 and the outrun 1112. When viewed in plan
view, there is a point 1180 where the entry chute 1104 and the exit
chute 1106 visually, but not physically, intersect. In the
embodiment depicted, the obtuse angle 1182 between a line 1184
tangent to the entry chute 1104 at point 1180 and a line 1186
tangent to the exit chute 1106 at point 1180 is 249.50.degree..
However, it should be understood that obtuse angle 1182 is intended
to be illustrative and that other angles are contemplated. In
particular, in some exemplary embodiments, the angle 1182 may be
less than 249.50.degree.. In other exemplary embodiments, the angle
1182 may be between approximately 250.degree. and 265.degree.. In
other embodiments, the angle 1182 may be greater than
265.degree..
[0115] For the purpose of describing the relationship between how a
rider or ride vehicle enters and exits the slide feature 1102, it
may also be appropriate to utilize different points of reference
other than point 1180. For example, it may be convenient and/or
instructive to refer to the obtuse angle between a line tangent to
the inrun 1110 and a line tangent to the outrun 1112. In some
embodiments, such an angle may be 249.50.degree.. In other
embodiments, such an angle may be less than or greater than
249.50.degree..
[0116] FIG. 11B depicts the slide feature 1102 of FIG. 11A from a
side elevational view. The slide feature 1102 is shown inclined
relative to horizontal plane 1190. In particular, in the
illustrated embodiment, pitch angle 1194 relative to the horizontal
plane 1190 is 5.degree.. That is, from the viewing direction of
FIG. 11B, an angle between a line segment 1192 taken along the
sliding surface 1120 of the slide feature 1102 and the horizontal
plane 1190 is 5.degree.. However, it should be understood that
other pitch angles are contemplated, for example as set out earlier
in this specification.
[0117] Referring now to FIGS. 12A to 12C, illustrated is another
embodiment of a slide feature 1202 for a water slide 1200, the
slide feature 1202 being coupled to entry chute 1204 and exit chute
1206 of the water slide.
[0118] With reference to FIG. 12A, the slide feature 1202 is
depicted from a side elevational view. The slide feature 1202
comprises an inrun 1210 and outrun 1212, an outer lip 1222, and a
sliding surface 1220 between the inrun 1210 and the outrun 1212. In
the illustrated embodiment, relative dimensions of the slide
feature 1202, including the width of inrun 1210, the width of
outrun 1212, the radius of sliding surface 1220, and the height of
outer lip 1222 have been increased relative to the embodiment
depicted in FIGS. 1A-1D to accommodate larger ride vehicles.
[0119] FIGS. 12B and 12C depict the slide feature 1202 of FIG. 12A
from two other side elevational views. In FIG. 12B, the slide
feature 1202 is shown inclined relative to horizontal plane 1290.
In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, roll angle 1296
relative to the horizontal plane 1290 is approximately
33.75.degree.. That is, from the viewing direction of FIG. 12B, an
angle 1296 between a line segment 1292 taken along the sliding
surface of the slide feature 1202 and the horizontal plane 1290 is
approximately 33.75.degree.. However, it should be understood that
other roll angles are contemplated, for example as set out earlier
in this specification. It can also be seen from FIG. 12B that, in
the depicted embodiment, entry chute 1204 and exit chute 1206 are
not in proximity to each other. Additionally, in the embodiment
shown in FIGS. 12A to 12C, entry chute 1204 and exit chute 1206 do
not cross over each other. In alternate possible embodiments (not
shown) where entry chute 1204 and/or exit chute 1206 may be
extended in length, depending on the manner and configuration in
which entry chute 1204 and/or exit chute 1206 would have their
lengths extended through three-dimensional space, entry chute 1204
and/or exit chute 1206 may or may not cross over each other when
the slide feature 1202 is viewed in plan view.
[0120] FIG. 13 illustrates in wireframe elevational view another
embodiment of a slide feature 1302 for a water slide 1300, the
slide feature being coupled to entry chute 1304 and exit chute 1306
of the water slide. In the embodiment shown, the slide feature 1302
has been mounted in a testing configuration, in which entry chute
1304 is secured to start platform 1350 via securing means 1352.
Start platform 1350 is supported above ground by a supporting
structure (not shown). For testing purposes, riders, dummy replicas
of riders, and/or ride vehicles may enter the water slide 1300 from
start platform 1350 via entry chute opening 1318, travel through
the water slide 1300, including through slide feature 1302, and
then exit via exit chute opening 1308. Although a configuration
intended for testing purposes is depicted in FIG. 13, it should be
understood that the depicted slide feature 1302 could also be
installed in a water park for use by water park patrons.
[0121] Referring now to FIGS. 14A to 14C, illustrated is another
embodiment of a slide feature 1402, the slide feature 1402 having a
compounding outer radius.
[0122] With reference to FIG. 14A, the slide feature 1402 is
depicted in plan view. The slide feature 1402 comprises an inrun
1410 and an outrun 1412, an outer lip 1422 extending from the inrun
1410 to the outrun 1412, and a sliding surface 1420 between the
inrun 1410 and the outrun 1412.
[0123] An inner lip 1450 also extends from the inrun 1410 to the
outrun 1412 on the side of the slide feature opposite the outer lip
1422. Between sliding surface 1420 and inner lip 1450 is an inner
core portion 1452.
[0124] In the embodiment depicted, the outer lip 1422 has a
compounding outer radius with respect to a point 1436 proximal to a
center portion of the slide feature 1402. A compounding outer
radius, unlike a constant outer radius, varies in length around the
outer lip 1422 of the slide feature 1402. The outer radius may be
longest proximal to the inrun 1410 and to the outrun 1412, and may
be shortest halfway along the outer lip 1422 between the inrun 1410
and the outrun 1412, with smooth transitions inbetween. Although
FIG. 14A is not drawn to scale, in a typical embodiment, the outer
radius measured at each of points 1482a, 1482b, 1482c, 1482d,
1482e, and 1483f may be 30 feet, 20 feet, 15 feet, 15 feet, 20
feet, and 30 feet, respectively. It should be understood that other
dimensions are possible, and that in some embodiments the outer
radius may not compound all the way around the outer lip 1422 of
the slide feature 1402. For example, in some embodiments the outer
radius may compound only proximal to the inrun 1410 and/or proximal
to the outrun 1412. In the configuration depicted in FIG. 14A, the
compounding outer radius may serve to keep riders or ride vehicles
"loaded" along the outer lip 1422 as the riders or ride vehicles
travel through the slide feature 1402. Smooth (rather than abrupt)
transitions in the compounding outer radius may also facilitate
rider comfort as the riders or ride vehicles travel through the
slide feature 1402.
[0125] In some embodiments, an average outer radius of the slide
feature 1402 may be approximately 54, 36, or 27 feet. These
respective sizes may also be expressed as an outer diameter of 108,
72, or 54 feet, respectively. In other embodiments, a maximum or
minimum outer radius of the slide feature 1402 may be approximately
54, 36, or 27 feet.
[0126] In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 14A to 14C, the outer
lip 1422 has a reduced height measured relative to the sliding
surface 1420. For example the, the height of the outer lip 1422 is
reduced relative to the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 11A to 11B
and 12A to 12C. Reducing the height of the outer lip 1422 may
reduce the "flume feel" of the slide feature 1402. That is,
reducing the height of the outer lip 1422 may contribute to, or
accentuate, a sensation experienced by riders as they transition
from traveling within a flume to traveling within the comparatively
open slide feature 1402, thereby potentially adding or contributing
to a psychological thrill factor. In some embodiments, reducing the
height of the outer lip 1422 may assist in ensuring that riders or
ride vehicles travel completely or primarily on the sliding surface
1420, rather than sliding partially or completely along the inner
surface of the outer lip 1422. Although one particular height and
profile for the outer lip 1422 is depicted in FIGS. 14A to 14C, it
should be understood that other heights and profiles of the outer
lip 1422 are possible.
[0127] Also, in the embodiment depicted, the inner lip 1450 and the
inner core portion 1452 have a curved shape revolved around the
point 1436 proximal to the center portion of the slide feature
1402. The curved shape of the inner lip 1450 and inner core portion
1452 may assist in visually emphasizing that the slide feature 1402
as a whole has a shape that may suggest to riders and/or other
viewers the idea of a dinner saucer and/or of an unidentified
flying object (UFO). In some embodiments, inner core portion 1452
may have a shape that is primarily decorative, and may not be
intended for sliding. In the embodiment shown, the height of the
inner lip 1450 is relatively shallow compared to the height of the
outer lip 1422, thereby increasing visibility for riders travelling
within the slide feature 1402. The curved shape of the inner lip
1450 and inner core portion 1452, as well as the shallowness of the
inner lip 1450 may also assist in reducing the "flume feel" of the
slide feature 1402, thereby potentially adding or contributing to a
psychological thrill factor for riders. Although one particular
shape for the inner core portion 1452 and one particular height and
profile for the inner lip 1450 are depicted in FIGS. 14A to 14C, it
should be understood that other shapes, heights, and profiles for
the inner core portion 1452 and the inner lip 1450 are possible. In
some embodiments, inner core portion 1452 and/or the inner lip 1450
may be omitted.
[0128] Also identified in FIG. 14A are a roll axis 1430 and a pitch
axis 1432, the roll axis 1430 and the pitch axis 1432 being
mutually perpendicular. Each of the roll axis 1430 and pitch axis
1432 is illustrated surrounded by arrows indicating the direction
in which a positive rotation along each axis would tilt the slide
feature 1402. In the depicted embodiment, each of the roll axis
1430 and pitch axis 1432 lies along a horizontal plane passing
through a portion of the sliding surface 1420, the horizontal plane
being parallel to a ground surface beneath the slide feature 1402.
However, in some embodiments, each of the roll axis 1430 and pitch
axis 1432 may have a different location, thereby permitting the
sliding surface 1420 to have any orientation in three-dimensional
space relative to the ground surface beneath the slide feature
1402. Further, in the depicted embodiment, the intersection point
of the roll axis 1430 and the pitch axis 1432 is shown located at
the point 1436 proximal to a center portion of the slide feature
1402. In some embodiments, the intersection point of the roll axis
1430 and the pitch axis 1432 may have another location.
[0129] Further identified in FIG. 14A is a line 1434 intersecting
with end portions of inrun 1410 and outrun 1412. In the depicted
embodiment, a rider or ride vehicle travels in a 180.degree.
revolution through the slide feature 1402, measured relative to end
portions of inrun 1410 and outrun 1412. It should be understood
that other angles of revolution are possible. In one example
embodiment of the slide feature 1402, the angle of revolution may
be 170.degree..
[0130] FIGS. 14B and 14C depict an example configuration of the
slide feature 1402 of FIG. 14A from two side elevational views. In
FIG. 1B, the roll axis 1430, not shown, is parallel to the viewing
direction from which the figure is drawn. In FIG. 14C, the pitch
axis 1432, not shown, is parallel to the viewing direction from
which the figure is drawn. In FIGS. 14B and 14C, the slide feature
1402 is shown inclined at a roll angle 1496 of 25.degree. relative
to horizontal plane 1490 as measured from a line 1492 parallel to
sliding surface 1420. The slide feature 1402 is shown with no
inclination around the pitch axis 1432, i.e., with a pitch angle of
zero relative to horizontal plane 1490 as measured from a line 1494
along sliding surface 1420. Because the pitch angle is zero,
horizontal plane 1490 and line 1494 are collinear in FIG. 14C.
However, it should be understood that the pitch and roll angles
illustrated in FIGS. 14B and 14C are intended to depict an example
embodiment and that other pitch and roll angles may be
selected.
[0131] Some embodiments having a roll angle only (i.e., a non-zero
roll angle and a pitch angle of zero) may reduce or eliminate
uphill portions of the slide feature 1402, for example reducing or
eliminating portions of the sliding surface 1420 that may have a
negative (uphill) gradient. Configurations of the slide feature
1402 with fewer or no uphill portions may reduce or eliminate a
need to configure the slide feature 1402 with water evacuation
means. Configurations of the slide feature 1402 with fewer or no
uphill portions may also improve the performance of inrun 1410 by
urging riders or ride vehicles entering the slide feature 1402 to
maintain contact with outer lip 1422.
[0132] In particular, embodiments featuring a combination of a roll
angle only with an angle of revolution of 180.degree. or less may
allow uphill portions of the slide feature 1402 to be substantially
eliminated. Such embodiments may substantially eliminate the
possibility of water pooling before, during, or after the slide
feature 1402, thereby substantially eliminating a need to configure
the slide feature 1402 with water evacuation means. It should be
understood, however, that other embodiments of the slide feature
1402 are contemplated which may include water evacuation means that
would be known to a person skilled in the art.
[0133] FIGS. 15A-15D illustrate another embodiment of a slide
feature 1502 for a water slide 1500, the slide feature 1502 being
coupled to entry chute 1504 and exit chute 1506 of the water slide.
The slide feature 1502 comprises an inrun 1510 and an outrun 1512,
an outer lip 1522 extending from the inrun 1510 to the outrun 1512,
and a sliding surface 1520 between the inrun 1510 and the outrun
1512. An inner lip 1550 also extends from the inrun 1510 to the
outrun 1512 on the side of the slide feature 1502 opposite the
outer lip 1522.
[0134] With reference to FIGS. 15A to 15C, the slide feature 1502
is depicted from three different perspective views. In the depicted
embodiment, the slide feature 1502 comprises a smooth, raised guide
surface 1560 proximal to the inrun 1510 and another smooth, raised
guide surface 1562 proximal to the outrun 1512. Guide surface 1560
may facilitate guiding riders or ride vehicles from entry chute
1504 to inrun 1510 and then to sliding surface 1520. Guide surface
1562 may facilitate guiding riders or ride vehicles from sliding
surface 1520 to outrun 1512 and then to exit chute 1506. As
illustrated in FIGS. 15B and 15C, guide surfaces 1560, 1562 may
also extend up and at least partially around the openings of entry
chute 1504 and exit chute 1506, thereby potentially reducing the
likelihood that riders or ride vehicles can come into contact with
ridges or other potentially unsafe surfaces when entering or
exiting the slide feature 1502.
[0135] FIG. 15D is a cross-sectional view of a variation of slide
feature 1502 taken along line 15D-15D in FIG. 15A. In the variation
depicted in FIG. 15D, sprayers 1566 mounted inside indentations
1564 in the outer lip 1522 proximal to the inrun 1510 emit sprays
of water 1568 for lubricating the slide feature 1502. It should be
understood that the illustrated configuration of sprayers 1566 can
be altered as necessary to provide lubrication, for example by
providing a different number of sprayers, placing the sprayers in
different locations, or employing other water delivery means that
would be known to a person skilled in the art.
[0136] FIGS. 16A-16C illustrate in three different perspective
views another embodiment of a slide feature 1602, the slide feature
1602 being configured to accommodate larger ride vehicles. The
slide feature 1602 comprises an inrun 1610 and an outrun 1612, an
outer lip 1622 extending from the inrun 1610 to the outrun 1612,
and a sliding surface 1620 between the inrun 1610 and the outrun
1612. In the illustrated embodiment, dimensions of some portions of
the slide feature 1602 have been enlarged compared to some
embodiments discussed previously, for example in comparison to the
embodiment of FIG. 15A. The depicted embodiment may be capable of
accommodating ride vehicles consisting of 4 to 6 person rafts. It
should be understood, however, that other dimensions of slide
feature 1602 are possible in order to accommodate other types of
ride vehicles and/or other sizes and weights of riders.
[0137] Referring now to FIGS. 17A-17D, illustrated is an embodiment
of a water slide 1700 comprising two slide features 1702, 1704.
FIG. 17A shows water slide 1700 in plan view, FIG. 17B shows water
slide 1700 in side elevational view, and FIGS. 17C and 17D show
water slide 1700 in perspective views. In the embodiment depicted,
start tub 1750 is connected via a first flume 1780 to a first slide
feature 1702. The first slide feature 1702 is connected via a
second flume 1782 to a second slide feature 1704. An outrun of the
second slide feature 1704 is connected to a third flume 1784. A
portion of the third flume 1784 is closed and another portion of
the third flume 1784 has an open top. Ride vehicles 1760 travel
from start tub 1750 through the length of the water slide 1700 and
then exit the water slide 1700 into a pool of water (not shown)
through an exit opening 1758 of the third flume. It should be
understood that many variations of water slide 1700 are possible.
For example, some embodiments of water slide 1700 may comprise a
different number of slide features or a different configuration of
flumes. In some embodiments, slide features may be connected
without intervening flumes, such as without intervening second
flume 1782.
[0138] The previous description of some embodiments is provided to
enable any person skilled in the art to make or use an apparatus,
method, or processor readable medium according to the present
disclosure. Various modifications to these embodiments will be
readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic
principles of the methods and devices described herein may be
applied to other embodiments. Thus, the present disclosure is not
intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein but is to be
accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel
features disclosed herein.
* * * * *