Amusement Attraction with Coupled Ride Paths

BACKGROUND

Conventional amusement attractions may include systems in which a rider, alone or on a ride vehicle, slides down a ride surface. Conventional systems provide limited solutions for permitting multiple riders to interact while riding the amusement attraction. For example, multiple riders may be positioned within the same ride vehicle and travel the same ride path. For instances in which the riders are separated onto their own ride surface, the available interaction is substantially reduced. These configurations are essentially limited to riders being positioned side by side on separate ride paths in which the ride paths are duplicate copies of each other. This situation is required so that riders have a chance to see each other along the ride path. There is therefore limited options for different ride paths or other interaction of riders between separate ride paths.

Conventionally there have been problems with connecting ride surfaces and/or positioning one ride surface above or below another ride surface. Generally, each ride surface requires its own support structure and ride surface infrastructure to independently retain and hold and support riders on a ride surface. Even if ride surfaces are able to cross over each other, they conventionally are separated by a substantial distance in order to permit the ride surfaces to be independently supported. Accordingly, viewability and/or other communication between the ride surfaces is essentially eliminated.

Making any sort of connection between one ride path to another is also generally difficult as the environments of the amusement attractions are typically very dynamic. For example, the atmospheric temperatures of areas that have water attractions can vary greatly throughout a day, and may include very high daytime temperatures. The water used on a ride surface may be much cooler and change the temperature of a ride surface. The variability of temperature in the ride surface and/or ride component parts can result in substantial variability in the expansion and/or contraction of surfaces. Accordingly, it may be difficult to provide a direct attachment of one ride surface to another.

DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates and exemplary embodiment of combinations of ride connections, positions, orientations, and combinations thereof according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary embodiment in which two ride surfaces are directly coupled together in a twisted configuration.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary close of the connection between exemplary ride surfaces.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary embodiment in which two ride surfaces are directly coupled together in a straight, side-by-side configuration.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary embodiment in which two ride surfaces are directly coupled tougher in a straight, top-bottom, configuration.

FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary embodiment in which the two ride surfaces are directly coupled and may include curvatures therein.

DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description illustrates by way of example, not by way of limitation, the principles of the invention. This description will clearly enable one skilled in the art to make and use the invention, and describes several embodiments, adaptations, variations, alternatives and uses of the invention, including what is presently believed to be the best mode of carrying out the invention. It should be understood that the drawings are diagrammatic and schematic representations of exemplary embodiments of the invention, and are not limiting of the present invention nor are they necessarily drawn to scale.

Exemplary embodiments include systems and methods for separating ride paths with a material that permits visualization there through (such as semi-transparent or transparent) that can support the weight of a rider and/or vehicle. The connection between the ride surfaces may increase interaction between riders on separate ride paths. The system may be configured to permit sound to pass there through, such that riders may hear each other along their ride path. The system may be configured to provide visual effects. The system may have interactive or other engagement features. The system may have responsive elements that respond to activation by the interactive or other engagement features.

In an exemplary embodiment, the attraction includes two or more ride surfaces so that riders can traverse the ride surface along their own and individual ride path. The ride surfaces defining the two or more ride paths may be inter-connected. The inter-connection may be through a connection element. The connection element may be a separation element.

In an exemplary embodiment, the connection element may permit and/or allow for the relative expansion and/or contraction of the ride surfaces relative to each other. In an exemplary embodiment, the ride surface comprise fiberglass. The connection element may comprise acrylic. Although fiberglass and/or acrylic are disclosed herein, exemplary materials may be used that permit the relative expansion at different rates between the ride surface, while being sufficiently strong and rigid to support the rider and/or ride vehicle. Exemplary materials may also be transparent and/or translucent (semi-transparent) to permit viewing there through. Exemplary materials may permit the transmission of acoustic waves and/or sounds.

In an exemplary embodiment, the connection element may be transparent so that riders may see through the connection element, and a rider on one side of the connection element on a first ride surface defining a first ride path can see through the connection element to a second ride surface defining a second ride path on an opposite side of the connection element. Other portions of the ride surface may alternatively, and/or additionally be transparent or semi-transparent to permit viewing between positions on the ride surfaces.

In an exemplary embodiment, the connection element may permit transmission of sound there through. The system may be configured to permit the sound from one rider riding a first ride path on the first ride surface to be heard by a rider on riding a second ride path on the second rise surface.

Exemplary embodiments may permit different ride surfaces to create relative ride path positions, configurations, orientations, directions, and combinations thereof along the respective ride paths. One ride surface may be positioned relative to another ride surface in a side-by-side orientation, vertical one on top of the other orientation, any angular orientation of one ride surface positioned relative to another ride surface, and any other relative position there between. In an exemplary embodiment, the attraction may include two or more relative positions of the ride surfaces with respect to each other to create different ride paths. The ride attraction may include relative transitions to transition the two ride surfaces from a first orientation relative to each other to a second orientation relative to each other. In an exemplary embodiment, the attraction may be twisted such that two or more ride surfaces are orientated around each other.

FIGS. 1A-1D illustrate exemplary embodiments of combinations of ride connections, positions, orientations, and combinations thereof according to embodiments described herein.

Exemplary embodiments described herein include an amusement ride. The amusement ride may be configured according to exemplary embodiments described herein. FIGS. 1A-1D illustrate exemplary portions of an amusement ride according to embodiments described herein. The amusement ride may be configured having any combination of features described herein, including sections having features that correspond to section similar to those described in FIGS. 1A-1D. Exemplary embodiments of the amusement ride may comprise configurations having shapes according to any one or more combinations of the embodiments described herein.

The amusement ride described herein may include an inlet at a first elevation and an exit at a lower elevation. The inlet may be at a higher elevation than the exit so that a rider is moved through the amusement ride from the inlet to the outlet by gravity. The amusement ride 110A, 100B, 100C, 100D may comprise two or more ride surfaces 102, 104 defining two or more separate ride paths, and a separation element 106 between the two or more ride surfaces.

The amusement ride may arrange the two or more ride surfaces 102, 104 relative to each other. A first ride surface 102 may be positioned relative to a second ride surface 104 in a side-by-side orientation (such as illustrated in FIG. 1B), vertical one on top of the other orientation (such as illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1C), any angular orientation of one ride surface positioned relative to another ride surface, and any other relative position there between. In an exemplary embodiment, the attraction may include two or more relative positions of the ride surfaces with respect to each other to create different ride paths. The ride attraction may include relative transitions to transition the two ride surfaces from a first orientation relative to each other to a second orientation relative to each other. In an exemplary embodiment, the attraction may be twisted such that two or more ride surfaces are orientated around each other (such as illustrated in FIG. 1D).

In an exemplary embodiment, the two or more ride surfaces 102, 104 may move together such that the two ride paths defined by the two or more ride surfaces follow generally the same shape, contour, direction, slope, or any combination thereof through a portion of the travel path or throughout the entirety of the travel path from the inlet to the outlet. The two or more ride surfaces 102, 104 may be linear (such as illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B) or may be curved (such as illustrated in FIG. 1C or 1D).

The two or more ride surfaces 102, 104 may be created through any configuration of the amusement ride. For example, as illustrated, the ride surfaces 102, 104 may be a portion of a lumen or a portion of the interior surface of a tubular structure. The ride surfaces 102, 104 may be generated from other structures such as flumes, whether covered or uncovered. In an exemplary embodiment a first tube defines a first flume for creating the first ride surface, and a second tube defines a second flume for creating the second ride surface.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first tube and the second tube are coupled together. The connection of the first tube and the second tube may be through a separation element 106. The separation element may define a first portion of the interior surface of the first tube and a second portion of the interior surface of the second tube. As illustrated, the separation element may be an element positioned between a first lumen of the first tube and the second lumen of the second tube. The separation element 106 may define part of the interior lumen or portion of the first tube and/or the second tube. The separation element 106 may define part of the ride surface for the first tube and/or the second tube. The separation element may be a connection element to couple the first tube to the second tube. The separation element may integrate the first tube and the second tube such that the first tube and second tube define an integrated body through the separation element.

In an exemplary embodiment, the separation element is transparent or semi-transparent to permit viewing of another rider on an opposite side of the separation element. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular structure outside of the separation element of the first tube and/or the second tube is opaque or semi-transparent. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular structure outside of the separation element of the first tube and/or the second tube is made of fiber glass. In an exemplary embodiment, the separation element is made of acrylic.

Although a circular cross-sectional tube is shown for sake of illustration, other cross sectional shapes are also contemplated herein. The selection of cross sectional shapes may be selected to improve the relationship between the two or more ride surfaces or for improving the experience of riders traveling along the two or more ride paths created by the two or more ride surfaces. For example, ovoid cross sections may be used in which the first tube and second tube are adjoined along edges along the major axis of the avoid to increase the connection diameter between the first tube and the second tube.

FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary embodiment in which two separate ride surfaces are configured to support a rider thereon and permit a rider to travel from an entrance to an exit of the ride attraction. A ride surface 202, 204 generally defines or creates a ride path for the rider from the entrance to the exit. As illustrated, the ride surface 202, 204 is an interior surface of the tubular structure 208, 210. The two tubular structures 208, 210 are created by the direct attachment of the adjacent walls of the two tubular structures. The attachment of the two tubular structures may be with a separation element 206. The separation element may define or maintain a static separation distance between the first tubular structure and the second tubular structure. Other static and/or variable separation distances may also be used and are within the scope of the instant disclosure. The tubular structures and/or separation element may have any configuration or component attributes as described herein with respect to any of the tubular structures and/or separation element.

In an exemplary embodiment, all or portions of the tubular structure(s) and/or all or portions of the separation element are transparent or semi-transparent. Riders on one ride path may therefore see riders on the other ride path.

In an exemplary embodiment, the two separate ride surfaces are configured to generally align and/or traverse in generally the same direction. The two separate ride surfaces 202, 204 may deviate from the same direction to permit relative repositioning and/or orientation variations between the two separate ride surfaces. In an exemplary embodiment the two tubes 208, 210 created the separate ride surfaces 202, 204 are maintained within a general proximate distance from each other along a length of the attraction from an inlet to the ride feature to an outlet of the ride feature. In an exemplary embodiment, the ride feature extends from the entrance to the exit of the ride attraction. In an exemplary embodiment, the two separate tubes 208, 210 may be angularly or rotationally offset from one another. The angular or rotational offset may be changed along a length or the entire length of the ride feature. In an exemplary embodiment, the two separate tubes creating the two separate ride surfaces may be angularly positioned relative to each other. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the offset may be changed along a length of the ride feature 200. The two tubes and the corresponding two ride surfaces may be configured to twist about each other. In this case, the two tubular structures may create a spiral configuration or, with the separation element there between, a helical type configuration.

FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary embodiment in which two ride surfaces are directly coupled together in a twisted configuration. The twisting of the slide may be achieved through a mould design.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary close up of the connection between exemplary ride surfaces. As represented in the figures provided herein, the exemplary amusement ride may include an amusement ride feature having two or more ride surfaces 302, 304 defining two or more separate ride paths for different riders to travel simultaneously or sequentially. The amusement ride feature may also include a separation element 306 positioned between the two or more ride surfaces. The separation element may create part of the ride surfaces of either or both of the two or more separate ride paths.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, the separation element may be transparent. The lines of the separation element 306 are removed in FIG. 3 as compared to FIG. 2 to illustrate the unblocked view from one ride surface to another ride surface on the opposite side of the separation element 306. The transparency of the separation element may therefore provide an impression to a rider that the lumen of the first tubular structure is open and traversable to the lumen of the second tubular structure. In an exemplary embodiment, portions of the separation element may be transparent, while other portions may be opaque and/or translucent. Exemplary embodiment may align the opacity of the separation element with a relative position of the ride surfaces. For example, when the ride surfaces are configured such that the ride paths are vertically aligned on top of each other, the opacity of the separation element may be increased to reduce visibility through the separation element. When the ride surfaces are configured such that the ride paths are offset in a horizontal direction (so that the ride paths are not directly vertically aligned on top of each other, the opacity of the separation element may be reduced to permit viewing between the areas of the two ride paths. Other combinations of opacity may also be use between the ride sections.

Sound from one ride section may be heard in another ride section on the other side of the separation element. In an exemplary embodiment, the separation element may be configured to transmit sound. In an exemplary embodiment, the separation element may include apertures there through to transmit sound. In an exemplary embodiment, the material may transmit sound there through. In an exemplary embodiment, a mechanical and/or electronic system may transmit the sound from one ride area to another ride area and/or vice versa. For example, microphones and/or speakers may be used to transmit sound from one ride area to another ride area on the other side of the separation element and vice versa.

As seen in the illustrative figures, the amusement ride may include a shell 312. The shell may define an outer perimeter of the ride structure. The shell may enclose the first and/or second ride surfaces defining the first and second ride paths. In an exemplary embodiment, an interior surface of the shell may create a portion or all of the ride surface(s). In an exemplary embodiment, the separation element may create all or a portion of the ride surface(s). In an exemplary embodiment, the ride surface may include combinations of the interior surface of the shell and the separation element. The shell may include separate interior surfaces that may be configured to define all or part of the two or more separate ride paths. The shell may create a generally circular, oval, ovoid, rectangular, square, or other shape. The shell may comprise a generally FIG. 8 shape. The shell may comprise two lobe shapes with a connection section there between. As used herein, the approximation of the shell to a given shape generally creates the shape when the shape is apparent to a viewer that still permits deviations thereto. For example, if and outer perimeter of the shell along a majority of the outer surface of the first tubular structure and along a majority of the outer surface of the second tubular structure is circular within normal manufacturing tolerances for the structure, then the shell may generally create a circular shape even if the portion between the first tubular structure and the second tubular structure varies from the circular perimeter. FIG. 7 provides an example of such variation while maintaining a generally circular cross section of the shell.

In an exemplary embodiment, the shell may define an outer boundary of the ride structure. The outer boundary may create two generally circular shaped cross sectional areas positioned proximate to each other. Although circular cross sectional areas are shown, other cross sectional areas are also contemplated herein. For example, rectangular, square, quadrilateral, curved, circular, oval, ovoid, or other combination of geometric shapes may be used. Non-geometric shapes may also be used, such as a flattened ovoid. The shell may extend between the two cross sectional areas to define the boundary at a first extension surface 314 and a second extension surface 316 between the two cross sectional areas.

In an exemplary embodiment, the shell may be open between the two generally circular cross sectional areas between the first extension surface 314 and second extension surface 316. The shell may therefore create a single enclosure. The shell defines an open interior within the two generally circular cross sectional areas and a space between the first and second extension surfaces. The shell may be subdivided to generate two separate and independent enclosures within the shell by the separation element.

In an exemplary embodiment, the separation element 306 is positioned within the shell 312. The separation element may be positioned between the first and second extension surfaces. The connection and/or position of the separation element within the shell may permit relative expansion and/or contraction of different portions of the attraction relative to other portions of the attraction.

In an exemplary embodiment, the shell is shaped to have opposing indentations that extend inward toward the middle of a cavity of the shell. The interior surface of the shell therefore creates protrusions into the interior of the cavity. The separation element may have corresponding indentations on opposing sides of the separation element. The separation element may therefore matingly engage with the interior surface of the shell. The separation element may slide into the cavity of the shell. The separation element may have portions that extend on opposing sides of the protrusions on the interior of the cavity, such that the separation is maintained in a desired position within the interior cavity. The engagement may permit expansion and/or contraction of the shell relative to the separation element.

In an exemplary embodiment, the shell may be created from two separately enclosed tubular structures in which a portion of the exterior wall of the tube is either removed or missing creating a gap in the tube structure. The separation element may be positioned within the respective gaps of the tubular structures. The separation element may be attached to the tube structure, thereby joining the tube structures there between. The exposed, terminal ends of the separation element may define the extension surface of the shell. The terminal ends of the separation element may also be coated or otherwise support a covering material to act as the extension surface(s).

Although embodiments described herein include an extension surface extending between the curved surfaces of the cross sectional areas enclosing the ride surfaces, other configurations are also contemplated herein. For example, the shell may be in the shape of two circular (or other cross sectional shape) that intersect such that there is no extension surface between the surfaces of the cross sectional shape.

FIGS. 4-6 illustrate different exemplary embodiments of ride features 400, 500, 600 relative positions of the two tubular structures 402/404, 502/504, 602/604 that may be used by a rider to travel along a ride path. Each of the ride features 400, 500, 600 may include any combination of features as described herein, including two or more tubular structures 402/404, 502/504, 602/604 that define two or more separate ride surfaces for creating two or more separate ride paths; separation element 406, 506, 606; shell 412, 512, 612; or extension surfaces 414/416, 514/516, 614/616.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary embodiment in which two tubular structures defining two ride surfaces are directly coupled together in a straight, side-by-side configuration. FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary embodiment in which two tubular structures defining two ride surfaces are directly coupled in a straight, top-bottom configuration. Any rotationally offset between the two tubular structures and associated ride surfaces are contemplated herein. The relative rotational offsets between the two ride surfaces may be the same along a portion of the ride path. The relative rotational offset between the two ride surfaces may change along all, or a portion of, the ride path. For example, a portion of the ride path may have the two ride surfaces side by side, while a second portion of the ride path has the two ride surfaces positioned on top of each other, a transition between the first and second portions of the ride path may have a third portion of the ride path in which the two ride surfaces are twisted around each other. The two ride surfaces may twist around each other in a full revolution, multiple full revolution, a partial revolution, or a combination thereof.

FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary embodiment in which the two tubular structures defining the two ride surfaces are directly coupled and may include curvatures therein. As illustrated, the relative rotational offset of the illustrated embodiment has the two ride surfaces positioned on top of each other. However, any exemplary relative position may include a curvature as shown and described herein. The two ride surfaces may have a micro-scale ride path based on the relative offset of the two ride surfaces and changes to the offset along the ride path. The two ride surfaces may have a macro-scale ride path based on the overall direction of the shell and/or joined ride structure. The macro-scale ride path may be linear, curved, spiralled, undulating, and any combination thereof. The actual ride path of a rider is a combination of the macro-scale ride path with the perturbations or variations of the micro-scale ride path thereto.

Exemplary embodiments shown and described herein include enclosed tubular elements. However, the disclosure is not so limited. Exemplary embodiments may include openings in the tubular element. The openings may be along a top portion of the tubular element so that a slide structure or section is formed. Other openings may be included, such as windows. Any combination of openings may be included such that different ride configurations may be created.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary embodiment in which the two tubular structures defining the two ride surfaces are directly coupled and may include curvatures therein. As illustrated, a first tubular structure 702 and a second tubular structure 404 are coupled through a separation element 706. The ride element 700 may also include support structures 718 to provide structural support for the ride element 700, including the first tubular structure 702, the second tubular structure 704, and the separation element 706. As illustrated, the support structure 718 may be a flange extending radially outward on the outer surface of the first tubular structure 702 and/or the second tubular structure 704. The support structure 718 may be separated from the tubular structure and encircle the tubular structures or may be integrated into the tubular structure. The support structure 718 my provide a connection element to couple sections of the longitudinal tubular sections together in series to create the final elongated ride element. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the terminal end of the tubular element comprises a support structure in the form of a flange extending radially outward from the exterior perimeter of the element. The next piece of the tubular element may have a similar flange so that the flanges may be aligned and bolted or otherwise attached together to create a longer tubular element.

As illustrated, a gap 720 may be created between the first tubular structure 702 and the second tubular structure 704. The gap may be defined or created by the separation element 706. The separation element may span the distance or gap between the first tubular structure and the second tubular structure. As illustrated herein the first tubular structure and the second tubular are in direct contact through the separation element that defines part of each of the first tubular structure and the second tubular structure. However, as described herein, the first tubular structure and the second tubular structure is described as having a gap there between. It is understood that the tubular structure is defined by the tubular shape outside of the separation element, and then the extension of the rest of the tubular element as if the separation element was not present. The separation element therefore creates part of the tubular element, but the entirety of the separation element is not considered part of the tubular element, even though it may be physically integrated into the tubular element. For example, referring back to FIGS. 1A-1D, the tubular elements are considered the circular cross sectional tubular elements, while the separation element, even though creating part of the circular structure, also includes the extension pieces between the outside surface of the tubular element. In other words, as illustrated in FIG. 1B, the tubular structure would be considered as using the dotted line part of the separation element 106, while the separation element also includes the space between the dotted lines, but which is not considered part of the tubular elements. The entirety of the tubular structures, the separation element, the support structure, and any combination thereof, however, may still be created as an integrated unit.

In an exemplary embodiment, the separation element 706 may be exposed on an exterior surface of the ride element. As described herein, the separation element 706 may be transparent or semi-transparent. The separation element 706 may therefore permit light to enter the interior of the ride area from an exterior of the ride element. The exterior side of the separation element may also be coated, covered, painted, or otherwise fabricated to reduce or prevent the passage of light there through. The separation element may provide light effects on the interior of the ride element through a combination of transparent, semi-transparent, and opaque characteristics of the separation element at the exterior surface and/or at the gap between the tubular elements 720. For example, sections of the separation element may be covered, while other sections left uncovered to create a blinking effect as riders travel the ride path enter and leave areas in which light is permitted to pass through the separation element. As described herein, the separation element 706, exterior surface of the separation element 720, and/or the ride element 700 may include other lighting or visual features that may be used to entertain and/or engage a rider during their travel path.

FIG. 7 also provides a combination of micro-scale and macro-scale ride path variations to create a unique ride experience for a user. As illustrated, the micro-scale variation includes a twisting of the first tubular structure 702 with the second tubular structure 704. As illustrated, the relative rotational offset of the illustrated embodiment has the two ride surfaces positioned vertically with one on top of the other, then rotated to be horizontal so that the one is side by side with the other, and then continuously rotated to again be vertically positioned, but with the one under the other. The two ride surfaces may have a micro-scale ride path based on the relative offset of the two ride surfaces and changes to the offset along the ride path. The two ride surfaces may have a macro-scale ride path based on the overall direction of the shell and/or joined ride structure. The macro-scale ride path may be linear, curved, spiralled, undulating, and any combination thereof. As illustrated, the macro-scale ride path may be spiral, helical, or rotate generally about an axis. The rotational radius may be constant, or may be varied to provide different acceleration or deceleration effects on the rider. The actual ride path of a rider is a combination of the macro-scale ride path with the perturbations or variations of the micro-scale ride path thereto.

As illustrated, the tubular structures 702, 704 may have a non-uniform cross-sectional shape. The ride surface, or the portion of the interior surface of the tubular structure in which the rider is intended to contact during the ride path may therefore vary as the tubular structure is oriented and/or positioned. For example, the vertically lower portion of the tubular structure may define a flume in which the rider is intended to be retained during the ride path. The flume may define the ride surface. The shape of the flume may create different rider experiences or permit more or less ride path variability as different riders traverse the flume.

As illustrated, the tubular structure 702, 704 approximates a half circle that is contoured at the edges. In other words, the lumen of the tubular structure appears as a flattened oval or flattened circle. The cross sectional shape of the tubular structure 702, 704 may have only a single axis of symmetry. The axis of symmetry may extend perpendicularly through the separation element 706 (parallel to D2). A width of the lumen of the tubular structure in a first direction, D1, may be greater than or equal to a width of the lumen of the tubular structure in a second direction, D2, perpendicular to the first direction. In an exemplary embodiment, the width in the first direction, D1, is a maximum width of the lumen, and the width in the second direction, D2, is a minimum width of the lumen. As the orientation of the tubular structure changes, such as by twisting, the portion of the lumen of the tubular structure creating the flume for the rider may change. The width of the flume of the rider may change between D1, to D2, or any intermediate width there between as the orientation of the tubular structure changes. In an exemplary embodiment, a portion of the interior surface of the lumen approximates a plane. The planar surface may correspond to the portion of the tubular surface defining the lumen that is created by the separation element. The portion of the interior surface of the lumen may include surface portions that are planar, concave, convex, or complex curved shapes. As illustrated, the full macro-scale shape may create a full revolution, while the micro-scale shape may create a half revolution, a full revolution, or some other partial revolution. For example, for each larger turn of the ride element, the riders in respective tubular structures may flip positions (such as top to bottom or bottom to top or first side to second side or second side to first side) or the riders may return to their original orientation (such as top back to top or bottom back to bottom or first side back to first side or second side back to second side).

FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary embodiment in of FIG. 7 in which portions of the interior surface are illustrated as seen through the exterior surface to illustrate the appearance of the multi lumen structure having a separation element that is transparent. The interior portion of the ride element illustrated in FIG. 8A corresponds to a portion of the ride in which the first and second tubular elements are positioned approximately side by side. The interior portion of the ride element illustrated in FIG. 8B corresponds to a portion of the ride in which a first tubular structure is partially on top of the other tubular structure. As illustrated, a portion of the interior lumen of the first 802 and second tubular structures 804 extend upward to create part of a barrier between the first ride surface of the first tubular structure and the second ride surface of the second tubular structure. The separation element 806 extends upward and creates an extension from the two inside walls of the two tubular structures. Although the separation element 806 is not actually visible in the illustration, as it is transparent, the separation element 806 defines part of the ride surface and supports the rider and/or ride vehicle as illustrated in FIG. 8B. The rider in the second lumen of the second tubular structure 804 can therefore see the interior of the first tubular structure and it appears as though the rider and ride vehicle are flying over the rider in the second tubular structure. In the side by side arrangement, such as illustrated in FIG. 8A, the riders in each tubular structure may be able to see the other rider, and create a racing type experience between the riders.

FIGS. 9A-9E illustrate an amusement ride structure incorporating a ride element according to embodiments described herein. FIG. 9A illustrates a top perspective view of the amusement ride 900 according to embodiments described herein. FIGS. 9B is a top view, and 9C is a side view of the amusement ride structure of FIG. 9A. FIGS. 9D-9E illustrate exemplary interior cross sectional views of portions of the ride element of the amusement ride structure according to embodiments described herein.

With reference to FIGS. 9A-9E, an embodiment of an amusement ride 900 in accordance with the present invention includes an entry platform (not shown) at a high elevation, reachable by mechanisms such as stairs, ramps, lifts, or conveyers, or any combination thereof. The platform may include a recessed entry box into which water is continuously pumped. The entry box is configured so that water overflows downhill to an “inlet slide section” or inlet section 906/908 which, for much of its length, can function as a flume (whether covered in a full tube or uncovered). A user may slide in the flume or ride in a ride vehicle having a plurality of possible shapes, such a donut-shaped, inflated inner tube, or a double “FIG. 8” tube having two cavities for two riders and characteristics such as being at least partially buoyant and resilient. It is to be understood however that many alternative ride vehicles are contemplated for use with this invention. Upright sidewalls define the long, narrow, downhill path of the inlet slide section. The sidewalls may extend around the flume to create a closed tube or may be open.

The upper portion of the inlet section 906/908 may be curved generally downward and may include one or more declined sections for acceleration of the rider and/or ride vehicle. The ride path defined by the inlet section may have different shapes, such as linear, curved (such as 906/908), spiral (such as 910).

In the case of an inlet section 906/908 having an upper portion formed as a flume and carrying a substantial volume of water introduced at the entry box, roller drains can be provided. The inlet section 906/908 may be closed into the transition of the ride element to retain water within the flumes of the water ride attraction. The inlet section 906/908 may be generally contoured and/or may include a narrower or wider transition segment into the slide feature according to embodiments described herein depending upon the speed and directional control desire. As seen from the elevation view of FIG. 9A, the flume can transition into the ride element having a wider diameter flume into the ride element 901.

Although described herein as removing water from the ride surface, exemplary embodiments may include water along an entirety of a ride surface. Exemplary embodiments may also include reduced water along all or part of the ride surface. In this case, water misters may be used to provide a slippery surface for the ride vehicle to travel upon. Exemplary embodiments may include a ride surface that is wet or dry.

Exemplary embodiments may include coatings or surfaces on the ride surface and/or vehicle that may enhance the ride experience. The coatings and/or surfaces may be configured to reduce or increase friction between the ride surface and the ride vehicle. The reduction or addition of friction between the ride surface and the vehicle may be used to change a speed of the rider, change a direction, change the orientation, impart a new motion to the ride vehicle or combinations thereof.

By the time the rider reaches the bottom of the inlet section 906/908, the rider may be traveling at a high rate of speed along the slippery bottom surface of the flume. In an exemplary embodiment, the slippery characteristics of the inlet section may be maintained by misting in the embodiment or through retention of a substantial amount of the water introduced from the entry box into the ride element 901. The inlet section 906/908 or ride element 901 may also include other direction and speed control mechanisms. For example, the inlet section may include variable inducing mechanisms, such as conveyors, nozzles, contours, and/or combinations. The variable inducing mechanisms may be used to increase the rate of speed to a rider and/or ride vehicle entering the ride element 901 and/or may change or control a direction of the rider and/or ride vehicle entering the ride element 901.

At this point, i.e., the bottom or outlet of the inlet segment (which also is the rider entrance for the next segment), the rider passes to the ride element 901 of a separate slide portion. The ride element 901 then transitions into a segment which also can be referred to as the “exit slide” or outlet section 914/916. As shown in FIGS. 9A-9C, the surface of the outlet sections 914/916 is separate and distinct from the surface of the inlet section 906/908. The outlet section 914/916 may include any outlet design, such as open or closed flumes, other ride structures such as a racer portion 912 or other ride features. In an exemplary embodiment, in addition to or alternative to the use at the transition into the ride element 901, one or more variable inducing mechanisms may be used to assist in controlling the speed and direction of the ride and/or ride vehicle during the transition from the ride element 901 toward the outlet section 914/916. Such variable inducing mechanisms may be located in either the ride element 901 or the outlet section 914/916 or be located in both the ride element 91 and the outlet section 914/916. Such mechanisms include but are not limited to increased or decreased frictional surfaces, chutes, mechanical braking, water jets, rollers, conveyors, nozzles, etc. This mechanism may also be accompanied by auditory or visual signals to capture the riders attention to the transition into, out of, or during traversal of the ride feature 901.

Upon entering the outlet section 914/916, the rider and vehicle decelerate from a high rate of speed as they transition along additional curved and/or straight paths. Along the outlet section, the slippery characteristics of the slide can be maintained by misting or movement of the water introduced at the ride entrance. Nozzles can be spaced along the length of the slide, with some nozzles pointed inward and others more outward to lubricate the entire bottom surface of the slide. The outlet section may provide an end to the ride or may transition to other sections of a ride experiences, such as additional chutes, flumes, slides, or ride features.

Sidewalls (whether open or closed) may be provided to retain the rider and vehicle on the attraction, including, for example along the inlet section, the ride element, and/or the outlet section 106.

As described herein, the transparency or semi-transparency of the separation element permits riders to see each other rider on respective sides of the separation element. The ride element 901 may increase an interaction of the riders as they traverse the ride experience. In an exemplary embodiment, the inlet sections 906/908 may be approximately equal as for their length so that riders enter the ride element 901 at approximately the same time to create a racing experience at the ride element 901. Alternatively, one inlet section 908 may include an additional ride length with an additional ride feature 910 so that the riders are offset as they enter the ride element 901. By offsetting the riders, the viewability between riders may be improved. The riders may therefore not be positioned to race, but may instead experience the thrill or enthusiasm of the other riders through better visualization between the riders.

As described herein, the outlet sections 914/916 may also be approximately equal as for their length so that riders exit the ride attraction at approximately the same time to create a racing experience. Alternatively, the outlet section 914 may have an additional feature that lengthens the ride path so that the riders are offset. Alternatively, if one of the ride paths are lengthened at the inlet section, the same side or other side of the outlet section may be lengthened. In an exemplary embodiment if a first inlet section corresponding to a first tubular structure of the ride element 901 has an additional length, the second outlet section corresponding to a second tubular structure of the ride element 901 has an additional length, so that the overall ride length for the ride path from either of the first tubular structure or second tubular structure is approximately the same. The end of the ride may also include a racer track 912 at the end of the ride once the ride path lengths are approximately aligned, while the ride path lengths are offset of different lengths at or during the ride element 901. Riders may be offset as they traverse the ride element but be approximately equal when they traverse the racer section. Any combination of configurations and lengths of the inlet section and the outlet section may be used such that one ride path length may be shorter, approximately equal to, or longer than the second ride path length at, during, or after the ride element 901 and/or at, during, or after the racer element 912.

As illustrated the ride attraction 900 includes a racer element 918. The racer element 918 positioned flumes of the first ride path and the second ride path is adjacent to each other. The racer element may be open and/or may include a transparent and/or semi-transparent top and/or side such that riders in one ride path can be seen by and/or see riders on the second ride path.

FIG. 9E-9E illustrates a cross section of different portions of the ride element 901 illustrating the lumen 902 of the first tubular structure and the lumen 904 of the second tubular structure, wherein the lumens 902,904 are separated by a separation element 906. As illustrated, the width of the flumes of the lumen 902/904 may have variable width depending on the orientation of the lumen based on the macro-scale and/or micro-scale shape of the ride element.

Exemplary embodiments described herein may be used to provide a sustained shared experience between riders. Slides that only briefly pass by each other, or are separated by a substantial amount of distance limit the shared experience between riders. Although exemplary embodiments described herein include integrated structures defining two or more passages within a single formed housing, embodiments described herein are not so limited. In exemplary embodiments, separate tubular structures or flumes may be used that are positioned adjacent or in close proximity to each other while maintaining separation there between. The separate tubular structures or flumes may be in contact and/or out of contact. The separate tubular structures may be independently supports and/or may be mechanically connected. The separate tubular structures may still include a separation element that permits viewing there through by providing both (or more) of the separate tubular structures with a separation element as part of the wall structure at corresponding locations along each of the tubular structures so that they align to permit viewing there between.

Exemplary embodiments described herein include an amusement ride structure having an enclosed tubular structure defining a first passage and a second passage. Each of the first passage and the second passage defining a ride surface thereby creating two or more ride surfaces defining two or more separate ride paths. Each of the passages may be configured as a covered flume. The first passage and the second passage may be enclosed in the same outer housing or shell. The first passage and the second passage may be separated by a separation element. The separation element may be a wall or some other rigid structure separating the first passage from the second passage within an interior of the tubular structure.

In an exemplary embodiment, the separation element is transparent, semi-transparent, opaque, and combinations thereof.

In an exemplary embodiment, the separation element comprises openings, gaps, spaces, indentations, or combinations thereof.

In an exemplary embodiment, the separation element may comprise lights or other visual indicators. The visual indicators may include screens, displays, lights, moveable elements, or other visual attributes that may be stimulating to a rider.

In an exemplary embodiment, the separation element may include interactive elements. The interactive elements may include buttons, sensors, pads, touch screens, switches, touch surface, or combinations thereof. Exemplary embodiments of the amusement ride structure may include interactive elements that activate responsive elements and/or provide input to other interactive elements.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first passage and second passage may be arranged relative to each other to position the first ride surface of the first passage in a desired position relative to the second ride surface of the second passage. For example, the first ride surface may be positioned next to or horizontally adjacent to the second ride surface so that riders on the respective ride surfaces may be positioned side by side. For example, the first ride surface may be positioned above or below or vertically adjacent to the second ride surface so that riders on the respective ride surfaces may be positioned on top of each other. In an exemplary embodiment, the first ride surface changes position relative to the second ride surface. For example, the first ride surface may be positioned next to or horizontally adjacent to the second ride surface so that riders on the respective ride surfaces may be positioned side by side and then transition into a position in which the first ride surface may be positioned above or below or vertically adjacent to the second ride surface so that riders on the respective ride surfaces may be positioned on top of each other. In an exemplary embodiment, the first ride surface spirals circumferentially around or relative to the second ride surface. In an exemplary embodiment the first passage and the second passage are arranged in a spiral or twist. The twisting relationship of the spirals may position the respective ride paths so that riders come into and go out of visual sight of the other passage, other ride path, and/or other rider as the rider travels along the ride path. Exemplary embodiments may include maintaining the relative position of the first ride surface and the second ride surface during a first length or an entirety of the amusement ride structure. Exemplary embodiments may include changing the relative positions of the first ride surface and the second ride surface during a second length or an entirety of the amusement ride structure. The ride structure may include combinations of different relative positions of the first ride surface to the second ride surface.

Exemplary embodiments of the amusement ride structure provide riders a ride surface having different ride paths. The respective ride paths may be different. Each ride path may comprise a different shape and/or slope at a given point along the amusement ride structure. Each ride path may comprise the same shape along the amusement ride structure.

In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular structure may comprise different cross sectional shapes. For example, the outer shell may have a cross sectional shape as a circle, oval, ovoid, rectangle, square, or other geometric shape, or combinations of two or more shapes connecting on enjoining edges. As illustrated herein the tubular structure is defined by two circular or ovoid cross sectional secondary tubular structures connected along a longitudinal length to create an integrated double passage tubular structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the two or more secondary tubular structures are coupled through the separation element. The tubular structure may be defined by a circular or ovoid cross sectional tubular structure having a divider along a longitudinal length to of the tubular structure separating the first and second passages.

Exemplary embodiments described herein can be traversed by a rider alone and/or with a ride vehicle. Exemplary embodiments include pumps, flumes, tubular structures, hoses, and other mechanisms for moving water through one or more passages of the amusement ride structure. A rider may use mats, rafts, inter tubes, or other ride vehicle to slide on the amusement ride structure.

Although embodiments of this invention have been fully described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be noted that various changes and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications are to be understood as being included within the scope of embodiments of this invention as defined by the appended claims. Specifically, exemplary components are described herein. Any combination of these components may be used in any combination. For example, any component, feature, step or part may be integrated, separated, sub-divided, removed, duplicated, added, or used in any combination and remain within the scope of the present disclosure. Embodiments are exemplary only, and provide an illustrative combination of features, but are not limited thereto.

As used herein, the terms “about,” “substantially,” or “approximately” for any numerical values, ranges, shapes, distances, relative relationships, etc. indicate a suitable dimensional tolerance that allows the part or collection of components to function for its intended purpose as described herein. Numerical ranges may also be provided herein. Unless otherwise indicated, each range is intended to include the endpoints, and any quantity within the provided range. Therefore, a range of 2-4, includes 2, 3, 4, and any subdivision between 2 and 4, such as 2.1, 2.01, and 2.001. The range also encompasses any combination of ranges, such that 2-4 includes 2-3 and 3-4.

When used in this specification and claims, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

Amusement Attraction with Coupled Ride Paths

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