Amusement park water lock system and method of use

Information

  • Patent Grant
  • 6475095
  • Patent Number
    6,475,095
  • Date Filed
    Friday, August 6, 1999
    25 years ago
  • Date Issued
    Tuesday, November 5, 2002
    22 years ago
Abstract
A water lock system is described which is configured to convey participants from a first body of water to a second body of water. The water lock system preferably includes a chamber disposed between the first and second bodies of water. A first movable member is preferably formed proximate the first body of water. A second movable member is preferably formed proximate the second body of water. Participants may enter the chamber from the first body of water via the first movable member. The water level in the chamber may be altered transferring the participants from the first body of water to the second body of water. The second movable member is preferably opened and the participants may be transferred to the second body of water.
Description




BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION




1. Field of the Invention




The present disclosure generally relates to water amusement attractions and rides. More particularly, the disclosure generally relates to a system and method for transporting participants from a low elevation body of water to a higher elevation body of water using a lock system.




2. Description of the Relevant Art




The 80's decade has witnessed phenomenal growth in the participatory family water recreation facility, i.e., the waterpark, and in water oriented ride attractions in the traditional themed amusement parks. The current genre of water ride attractions, e.g., waterslides, river rapid rides, and log flumes, require participants to walk or be mechanically lifted to a high point, wherein, gravity enables water, rider(s), and riding vehicle (if appropriate) to slide down a chute or incline to a lower elevation splash pool, whereafter the cycle repeats. Gravity or gravity induced rider momentum is the prime driving force that powers the participant down and through these traditional water ride attractions.




For water rides that involve the use of a flotation device (e.g., an inner tube or floating board) the walk back to the start of a ride may be particularly arduous since the rider must carry the flotation device to the start of the ride. Additionally, many of the more popular waterpark rides may require a substantial waiting period, due to the large number of participants at the park. This waiting period is typically incorporated into the walk from the bottom of the ride back to the top. A series of corrals are typically used to form a meandering line of participants that extends from the starting point of the ride toward the exit point of the ride. The participants waiting in line to reach the starting point may become hot and impatient depending on the length of the wait.




It is therefore desirable to create a system for bringing participants of a water ride from a lower receiving pool back to the start of the ride without requiring the riders to leave the water. This would relieve the riders from the burden of carrying their floatation devices up to the start of a water ride. It would also allow the riders to stay in the water, thus keeping the riders cool while they are transported to the start of the ride.




SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION




A water lock system may be used to allow participants to remain in water while being transported from a first body of water to a second body of water, the bodies of water being at different elevation levels. In one embodiment, the first body of water may be a body of water having an elevation below the second body of water. In an embodiment, the water lock system includes a chamber for holding water coupled to the first body of water and the second body of water. A chamber is herein defined as an at least partially enclosed space. The chamber includes at least one outer wall, or a series of outer walls which together define the outer perimeter of the chamber. The chamber may also be at least partially defined by natural features such as the side of a hill or mountain. The walls may be substantially watertight. The outer wall of the chamber, in one embodiment, extends below an upper surface of the first body of water and above the upper surface of the second body of water. The chamber may have a shape that resembles a figure selected from the group consisting of a square, a rectangle, a circle, a star, a regular polyhedron, a trapezoid, an ellipse, a U-shape, an L-shape, a Y-shape or a figure eight, when seen from an overhead view.




A first movable member may be formed in the outer wall of the chamber. The first movable member may be positioned to allow participants and water to move between the first body of water and the chamber when the first movable member is open during use. A second movable member may be formed in the wall of the chamber. The second movable member may be positioned to allow participants and water to move between the second body of water and the chamber when the second movable member is open during use. The second movable member may be formed in the wall at an elevation that differs from that of the first movable member.




In one embodiment, the first and second movable members may be configured to swing away from the chamber wall when moving from a closed position to an open position during use. In another embodiment, the first and second movable members may be configured to move vertically into a portion of the wall when moving from a closed position to an open position. In another embodiment, the first and second movable members may be configured to move horizontally along a portion of the wall when moving from a closed position to an open position.




A bottom member may also be positioned within the chamber. The bottom member may be configured to float below the upper surface of water within the chamber during use. The bottom member may be configured to rise when the water in the chamber rises during use. In one embodiment, the bottom member is substantially water permeable such that water in the chamber moves freely through the bottom member as the bottom member is moved within the chamber during use. The bottom member may be configured to remain at a substantially constant distance from the upper surface of the water in the chamber during use. The bottom member may include a wall extending from the bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water. The wall may be configured to prevent participants from moving to a position below the bottom member. A floatation member may be positioned upon the wall at a location proximate the upper surface of the water. A ratcheted locking system may couple the bottom member to the inner surface of the chamber wall. The ratcheted locking system may be configured to inhibit the bottom member from sinking when water is suddenly released from the chamber. The ratcheted locking system may also include a motor to allow the bottom member to be moved vertically within the chamber.




The lock system may also include a substantially vertical first ladder coupled to the wall of the bottom member and a substantially vertical second ladder coupled to a wall of the chamber. The first and second ladders, in one embodiment, are positioned such that the ladders remain substantially aligned as the bottom member moves vertically within the chamber. The second ladder may extend to the top of the outer wall of the chamber. The ladders may allow participants to exit from the chamber if the lock system is not working properly.




In one embodiment, water may be transferred into and out of the water lock system via the movable members formed within the chamber wall. Opening of the movable members may allow water to flow into the chamber from the upper body of water or out of the chamber into the lower body of water.




In another embodiment, a first conduit may be coupled to the chamber for conducting water to the chamber during use. A first water control system may be positioned along the first conduit. The first water control system may be configured to control the flow of water through the first conduit during use. In one embodiment, the water control system may include a valve. The valve may be used to control the flow of water from a water source into the chamber. In one embodiment, the water source may be the first or second bodies of water. In another embodiment, the water control system includes a valve and a pump. The valve may be configured to inhibit flow of water through the conduit during use. The pump may be configured to pump water through the conduit during use.




In one embodiment, the first conduit may be coupled to the second body of water. In this embodiment, the first conduit may be configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use. In another embodiment, the first conduit may be coupled to the first body of water. In this embodiment the first conduit may be configured to transfer water between the first body of water and the chamber during use. The first water control system may include a pump for pumping water from the first body of water to the chamber.




The lock system may also include a second conduit and a second water control system. The second conduit may be preferably coupled to the chamber for conducting water out of the chamber during use. The second water control system may be positioned along the second conduit to control flow of water through the second conduit during use.




The lock system may also include a controller for operating the system. The automatic controller may be a computer, programmable logic controller, or any other control device. The controller may be coupled to the first movable member, the second movable member, and the first water control system. The controller may allow manual, semi-automatic, or automatic control of the lock system.




In one embodiment, the participants may be floating in water during the entire transfer from the lower body of water to the upper body of water. The participants may be swimming in the water or floating upon a flotation device. Preferably, the participants are floating on an inner tube, a flotation board, raft, or other flotation devices used by riders on water rides.




In another embodiment, the lock system may include multiple movable members formed within the outer wall of the chamber. These movable members may lead to multiple bodies of water coupled to the chamber. The additional movable members may be formed at the same elevational level or at different elevations.




While described as having only a single chamber coupled to two bodies of water, it should be understood that multiple chambers may be interlocked to couple two or more bodies of water. By using multiple chambers, a series of smaller chambers may be built rather than a single large chamber. In some situations it may be easier to build a series of chambers rather than a single chamber. For example, use of a series of smaller chambers may better match the slope of an existing hill.




The participants may be transferred from the first body of water to the second body of water by entering the chamber and altering the level of water within the chamber. The first movable member, coupled to the first body of water is opened to allow the participants to move into the chamber. The participants may propel themselves or be propelled by a current moving from the lower body of water toward the chamber. The current may be generated using water jets positioned along the inner surface of the chamber. Alternatively, a current may be generated by altering the level of water in the first body of water. For example, by raising the level of water in the first body of water a flow of water from the first body of water into the chamber may occur.




After the participants have entered the chamber, the first movable member is closed and the level of water in the chamber is altered. The level may be raised or lowered, depending on the elevation level of the second body of water with respect to the first body of water. If the second body of water is higher than the first body of water, the water level is raised. If the first body of water is at a higher elevation than the second body of water, the water level is lowered. As the water level in the chamber is altered, the participants are moved to a level commensurate with the upper surface of the second body of water. While the water level is altered within the chamber, the participants remain floating proximate the surface of the water. A bottom member preferably moves with the upper surface of the water in the chamber to reduce the risk of participants drowning. The water level in the chamber, in one embodiment, is altered until the water level in the chamber is substantially equal the water level of the second body of water. The second movable member may now be opened, allowing the participants to move from the chamber to the second body of water. In one embodiment, a current may be generated by filling the chamber with additional water after the level of water in the chamber is substantially equal to the level of water outside the chamber. As the water is pumped in the chamber, the resulting increase in water volume within the chamber may cause a current to be formed flowing from the chamber to the body of water. When the movable member is open, the formed current may be used to propel the participants from the chamber to a body of water. Thus, the participants may be transferred from a first body of water to a second body of water without having to leave the water. The participants are thus relieved of having to walk up a hill. The participants may also be relieved from carrying any flotation devices necessary for the waterpark rides.




The water lock system may be incorporated into a waterpark or amusement park to allow participants to move easily from lower bodies of water to upper bodies of water. In one embodiment, the water lock system may be positioned adjacent to one or more water rides. The water rides carry the participants from upper bodies of water to lower bodies of water. These upper and lower bodies of water may be coupled to the centrally disposed water lock system to carry the participants from the lower bodies of water to the upper bodies of water. In this manner, the participants may be able to remain in water during their use of multiple water rides.











BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS




Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon reference to the accompanying drawings in which:




FIG.


1


. depicts a cross-sectional side view of a water lock system with one chamber and a conduit coupling the upper body of water to the chamber.





FIG. 2

depicts an overhead view of a rectangular lock system.





FIG. 3

depicts an overhead view of a U-shaped lock system.





FIG. 4

depicts an overhead view of a circular lock system.





FIG. 5

depicts an overhead view of an L-shaped lock system.





FIG. 6

depicts a perspective view of a lock system which includes swinging door movable member.





FIG. 7

depicts a perspective view of a lock system which includes a vertically movable member with the movable member in a closed position.





FIG. 8

depicts a perspective view of a vertically movable member moving to an open position.





FIG. 9

depicts a perspective view of a lock system which includes a vertically movable member with the movable member in an open position.





FIG. 10

depicts a perspective view of a lock system which includes a horizontally movable member with the movable member in a closed position.





FIG. 11

depicts a perspective view of a lock system which includes a horizontally movable member with the movable member in an open position.





FIG. 12

depicts a perspective view of a lock system which includes a bottom member.





FIG. 13

depicts a cross sectional side view of a bottom member disposed within a chamber of a lock system.





FIG. 14

depicts a perspective view of a ladder coupled to the wall and the bottom member.





FIG. 15

depicts a perspective view of a ratcheted locking mechanism.





FIG. 16

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water control system.





FIG. 17

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system which includes one chamber and two conduits coupling an upper body of water to the chamber.





FIG. 18

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system which includes one chamber and a conduit coupling a lower body of water to the chamber.





FIG. 19

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system which includes one chamber and two conduits coupling a lower body of water to the chamber.





FIG. 20

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system which includes a chamber, a first conduit coupling an upper body of water to the chamber, and a second conduit coupling a lower body of water to the chamber.





FIG. 21

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system which includes a chamber, a first conduit coupling an upper body of water to the chamber, a second conduit coupling a lower body of water to the chamber, and a third conduit coupling the lower body of water to the upper body of water.





FIG. 22

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system in which participants are being transferred from a lower body of water to a chamber.





FIG. 23

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system in which the chamber is filled with water.





FIG. 24

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system in which participants are being transferred from the chamber to an upper body of water.





FIG. 25

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system which includes two chambers, a first conduit coupling an upper body of water to the first chamber, and a second conduit coupling the upper body of water to the second chamber.





FIG. 26

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system which includes two chambers, a first conduit coupling a lower body of water to the first chamber, and a second conduit coupling the lower body of water to the second chamber.





FIG. 27

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system which includes two chambers, a first conduit coupling an upper body of water to the second chamber, a second conduit coupling the second chamber to the first chamber, a third conduit coupling the second chamber to a lower body of water, and a fourth conduit coupling the lower body of water to the upper body of water.





FIG. 28

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system which includes two chambers, a first conduit coupling an upper body of water to the first chamber, a second conduit coupling the upper body of water to the second chamber, a third conduit coupling a lower body of water to the first chamber, a fourth conduit coupling a lower body of water to the second chamber, and a fifth conduit coupling the lower body of water to the upper body of water.





FIG. 29

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system in which participants are being transferred from a lower body of water to a first chamber.





FIG. 30

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system in which the first chamber is filled with water.





FIG. 31

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system in which participants are being transferred from the first chamber to a second chamber.





FIG. 32

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system in which the second chamber is filled with water.





FIG. 33

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system in which participants are being transferred from the second chamber to the upper body of water.





FIG. 34

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system in which participants are being transferred from the second chamber to the upper body of water and from the lower body of water to the first chamber.





FIG. 35

depicts an overhead view of a water park system which includes a lock system.





FIG. 36

depicts a cross sectional side view of a water lock system in which includes a chamber and three movable members, each movable member being at a different elevation.











While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawing and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the drawings and detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.




DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION





FIG. 1

depicts a water lock system for conveying a person or a group of people (i.e., the participants) from a lower body of water


10


to an upper body of water


20


. It should be understood that while a system and method of transferring the participants from the lower body of water to the upper body of water is herein described, the lock system may also be used to transfer participants from an upper body to a lower body, by reversing the operation of the lock system. The upper and lower bodies of water may be receiving pools (i.e., pools positioned at the end of a water ride), entry pools (i.e., pools positioned to at the entrance of a water ride), another chamber of a water lock system, or a natural body of water (e.g., a lake, river, reservoir, pond, etc.). The water lock system, in one embodiment, includes at least one chamber


30


coupled to the upper and lower bodies of water. First movable member


40


and second movable member


50


may be formed in an outer wall


32


of the chamber. First movable member


40


may be coupled to lower body of water


10


such that the participants may enter chamber


30


from the lower body of water while the water


35


in the chamber is at level


37


substantially equal to upper surface


12


of the lower body of water. After the participants have entered chamber


30


, the level of water within the chamber may be raised to a height


39


substantially equal to upper surface


22


of upper body of water


20


. Second movable member


50


may be coupled to upper body of water


20


such that the participants may move from chamber


30


to the upper body of water after the level of water in the chamber is raised to the appropriate height.




Outer wall


32


of chamber


30


may be coupled to both lower body of water


10


and upper body of water


20


. Outer wall


32


may extend from a point below upper surface


12


of lower body of water


10


to a point above upper surface


22


of upper body of water


20


. Outer wall


32


may be formed in a number of different shapes, as depicted in

FIGS. 2-5

. Outer wall


32


of the chamber may, when see from an overhead view, be in a rectangular shape (FIG.


2


), a U-shape (FIG.


3


), a circle (FIG.


4


), an L-shape (FIG.


5


), as well as a number of other shapes not depicted, including, but not limited to, a square, a star, other regular polygons (e.g., a pentagon, hexagon, octagon, etc.), a trapezoid, an ellipse, a Y-shape, a T-shape, or a figure eight.




Returning to

FIG. 1

, first movable member


40


may be in contact with lower body of water


10


. First movable member


40


may extend from a position below upper surface


12


of lower body of water


10


to a point above upper surface


12


. First movable member


40


may extend from a position below the upper surface of lower body of water


10


to the top


17


of outer wall


32


. First movable member


40


may be formed in a portion of outer wall


32


which is substantially shorter then the vertical length of the wall. In one embodiment, first movable member


40


extends to a depth below upper surface


12


such that participants may easily enter the chamber without contacting the lower surface


42


of the first movable member. If participants are to be able to walk into the chamber, first movable member


40


may extend to the bottom


34


of chamber


30


. Thus, participants may enter the chamber without tripping over a portion of outer wall


32


. In one embodiment, the participants will enter the chamber while floating at or proximate the upper surface


12


of the water. The lower surface


42


of first movable member


40


may be positioned at a depth of between about 1 foot to about 10 feet below upper surface


12


of lower body of water


10


, more preferably at a depth of between about 2 feet to about 6 feet from upper surface


12


, and more preferably still at a depth of between about 3 feet to about 4 feet from upper surface


12


. As the participants float from lower body of water


10


into chamber


30


, they may pass over lower surface


42


of first movable member


40


with little or no contact with the lower surface of the movable member.




Second movable member


50


may be in contact with upper body of water


20


. Second movable member


50


may extend from a position below upper surface


22


of upper body of water


20


to a point above upper surface


22


. Second movable member


50


may extend from a position above upper surface


22


of lower body of water


20


to the bottom


34


of chamber


30


. Second movable member


50


may be formed in a portion of outer wall


32


which is substantially shorter then the vertical length of the wall. Second movable member


50


may be formed at a position in outer wall


32


such that participants may move from chamber


30


to upper body of water


20


, when water


35


within the chamber is at the appropriate level. In one embodiment, second movable member


50


extends to a depth below upper surface


22


of upper body of water


20


to allow participants to enter the upper body of water without contacting lower surface


52


of the second movable member. The participants may enter the upper body of water while floating at or proximate the upper surface


39


of the water within the chamber


30


. The lower surface


52


of second movable member


50


may be positioned at a depth of between about 1 foot to about 10 feet from upper surface


22


of upper body of water


20


, more preferably at a depth of between about 2 feet to about 6 feet from upper surface


22


, and more preferably still at a depth of between about 3 feet to about 4 feet from upper surface


22


. As the participants float from chamber


30


to upper body of water


20


, they may pass over lower surface


52


of second movable member


50


with little or no contact.




In one embodiment, water may be transferred into and out of chamber


30


via movable members


40


and


50


formed within outer wall


32


. Opening of the movable members


40


and


50


may allow water to flow into chamber


30


from the upper body of water


20


or out of the chamber into lower body of water


10


. Control of the movable members


40


and


50


may allow chamber


30


to be filled and lowered as needed.




In another embodiment, a conduit


60


may be coupled to chamber


30


. Conduit


60


may be configured to introduce water from a water source into chamber


30


. A water control system


62


may be positioned along conduit


60


to control flow of water through the conduit. Water control system


62


may be a valve which is configured to control the flow of water from a pressurized water source to chamber


30


during use. Water control system


62


may also include a pump, as described later, for increasing the flow rate of water flowing through conduit


60


.




In one embodiment, conduit


60


may be coupled to upper body of water


20


. Conduit


60


may be configured to allow water from upper body of water


20


to be transferred to chamber


30


. Water control system


62


may be used to control the transfer of water from upper body of water


20


to chamber


30


. In one embodiment, conduit


60


is positioned such that an outlet


64


of the conduit enters chamber


30


at a position below upper body of water


20


. In this manner, upper body of water


20


may act as a pressurized water source for the supplying water to chamber


30


. In this embodiment, the water control system


62


may be a simple two way valve. To fill chamber


30


, the valve may be adjusted to an open position, allowing water from upper body of water


20


to enter the chamber. When a desired amount of water has entered chamber


30


, the valve may be closed to inhibit further passage of water from upper body of water


20


to the chamber.




A bottom member


70


may be positioned within chamber


30


. Bottom member


70


may be configured to float at a position below upper surface


37


of water


35


in chamber


30


. As chamber


30


is filled with water, bottom member


70


will rise toward the top of the chamber. In one embodiment, bottom member


70


remains at a substantially constant distance from upper surface


37


of water


35


as the water rises within chamber


30


. Bottom member


70


may remain at a distance of less than about 6 feet from upper surface


37


of water


35


, preferably at a distance of less than about 4 feet from upper surface


37


, and more preferably at a distance of less than about 3 feet from upper surface


37


.




During operation, chamber


30


is filled with water to elevate the participants to a level commensurate with the level of water in upper body of water


20


. As the level of water


35


in chamber


30


increases, some participants may become apprehensive or upset once the level of water passes a depth which is over the participants' heads. This may especially be true for younger or less experienced swimmers. To assuage the fears of these participants, bottom member


70


may be positioned at a depth below the surface of the water such that most or all of the participants may easily stand upon the bottom member as the water begins to rise. In this manner, the participants will be lifted by the incoming water, while feeling confident that if they should tire or fall off a flotation device they may rest upon bottom member


70


. Bottom member


70


may also reduce the risk of participants drowning. If a participant becomes fatigued or separated from their flotation device, the position of bottom member


70


will ensure that the participant will always be able to stand with their head above or near upper surface


37


of water


35


if desired.




An automatic control system


80


may be coupled to the water lock system. The controller


80


may be a computer, programmable logic controller, or any of other known controller systems known in the art. The controller may be coupled to water control system


62


, first movable member


40


, and second movable member


50


. The controller may control the operation of the first and second movable members and the operation of the water control system. A first movable member operating mechanism


41


may be coupled to first movable member


40


to allow automatic opening and closing of the first movable member. The controller may send signals to first movable member operating mechanism


41


to open first movable member


40


, while maintaining second movable member


50


and water control system


62


in closed positions. After the participants have entered the chamber, the controller may signal first movable member operating mechanism


41


to close first movable member


40


and signal water control system


62


to allow water to enter chamber


30


. The controller may be configured to allow the water to flow into chamber


30


for a predetermined amount of time. Alternatively, sensors


38


for determining the level of the water


35


within chamber


30


may be positioned on an inner surface of outer wall


32


. In one embodiment, sensors


38


are positioned at various heights along outer wall


32


. When water


35


within chamber


30


reaches sensors


38


, the sensors may produce a signal to automatic controller


80


which indicate the current height of the water within the chamber. A second movable member operating mechanism


51


may be coupled to second movable member


50


to allow automatic opening and closing of the second movable member. After the water has reached the desired level, automatic controller


80


may be configured to signal water control system


62


to stop the flow of water to chamber


30


and second movable member operating mechanism


51


to open second movable member


50


allowing the participants to move to upper body of water


20


.




First movable member


40


and/or second movable member


50


may be a swinging door, as depicted in FIG.


6


. The movable members may include a single door, or, preferably a pair of doors


53


a and


53


b. The doors may be coupled to outer wall


32


by a hinge


54


. Hinge


54


allows the doors to swing away from outer wall


32


when moving from a closed to an open position. An “open position” is a position which allows water and/or participants to be transferred through the movable member. A “closed position” is a position which inhibits passage of water and/or participants through the movable member. The doors


53




a/b


may swing into chamber


30


or away from chamber


30


. If two doors are used a divider


55


may be positioned between the two doors


53




a/b


. Divider


55


may serve as a support to help maintain doors


53




a/b


in a closed position. A hydraulic movable member operating system


51


(see

FIG. 1

) may be coupled to doors


53




a/b


to facilitate opening and closing of the doors during use. Doors


53




a/b


may have a length which is substantially equal to the vertical length of outer walls


32


. Doors


53




a/b


may have a vertical length of between about 3 to about 6 feet, preferably a vertical length of between about 3 feet to about 4 feet.




In another embodiment, depicted in

FIGS. 7-9

, first movable member


40


and/or second movable member


50


may be a door


43


configured to move vertically into a portion of outer wall


32


. As depicted in

FIG. 8

, when door


43


moves from a closed position (See

FIG. 7

) to an open position (see

FIG. 9

) the door may be moved into a cavity


44


formed in outer wall


32


. In

FIG. 8

, door


43


is configured to move down into cavity


44


when moving into an open position. A hydraulic movable member operating system


41


(see FIG.


1


), or similar devices, may be positioned within outer wall


32


to move the door up or down. The door preferably has a vertical length of between about 3 feet to about 6 feet, more preferably a vertical length of between about 3 feet to about 5 feet.




When a movable member, is positioned near an upper body of water, the movable member may be lowered into the wall (as depicted in FIGS.


7


-


9


). When a movable member is positioned near a lower body of water the door of the movable member may be formed in the middle of the wall, or near the bottom of the wall. In this case, the movable member may be moved from a closed position to an open position by moving the movable member in an upward or downward direction.




In another embodiment, depicted in

FIGS. 10-11

, the movable members may be a single door, or, as depicted, a pair of doors


47


, configured to move horizontally into a cavity


48


formed in outer wall


32


. When doors


47


move from a closed position (depicted in

FIG. 10

) to an open position (depicted in

FIG. 11

) the doors may be moved into cavity


48


. As depicted in

FIG. 11

, the doors may be configured to move away from a central portion of the movable member along outer wall


32


, when moving into an open position. A hydraulic system, or similar system, may be positioned within cavity


48


or upon outer wall


32


to move the door. The door may have a vertical length of between about 3 feet to about 6 feet, more preferably a vertical length of between about 3 feet to about 5 feet.




Referring to

FIG. 11

, the horizontally movable doors


47


are depicted near the lower body of water. Doors


47


are depicted in an open position. While in this position, the doors may reside in cavity


48


, leaving opening


49


through which the participants may pass from lower body of water


10


to chamber


30


or from chamber


30


to lower body of water


10


. When the participants are to be moved to an upper body of water, doors


47


may be moved into a closed position, as depicted in FIG.


10


and the chamber may be filled with water.




The movable members may be any combination of sliding or swinging doors. For example, all of the movable members may be vertically sliding doors. Alternatively, the lower movable member may be horizontally sliding doors while the upper movable member may be vertically sliding doors. An advantage to using sliding doors or small hinged doors is that the amount of power necessary to move such doors may be minimized. In a typical lock system, such as those used to move ships, the entire wall of the lock system is typically used as the movable member. Thus, a hydraulic system which is capable of opening a massive movable member may be required. Such systems tend to be relatively slow and may require large amounts of power to operate. For the purposes of moving people, the doors only need to be large enough to comfortably move a person from one body of water to the next. Thus, much smaller doors may be used. A further advantage of sliding doors is that the movement of the doors (either horizontally or vertically) is not significantly inhibited by water resistance. The sliding doors may also be safer than swinging doors, since a swinging door may swing into a participant during the opening or closing of the movable member.




Turning to

FIG. 12

, a substantially water permeable bottom member


70


is depicted. By making bottom member


70


water permeable, water may flow through the bottom member with little resistance, thus allowing the bottom member to easily move through the water in chamber


30


. In one embodiment, a number of openings are formed in bottom member


70


to allow water to pass through the bottom member. The openings may be in any shape, including, but not limited to a square, circular, rectangular, regular polygon, star, or an oval. In one embodiment, the openings have a shape and size that allows water to freely move through the openings, while inhibiting the participants from moving through the openings.




In one embodiment, bottom member


70


is composed of a grid of elongated members as depicted in FIG.


12


. The spacing of the elongated members is such that participants, as well as the arms, legs, hands, feet, heads, etc. of the participants, are inhibited from passing through any of the openings formed by the grid.




Bottom member


70


, in one embodiment, includes a wall


71


formed along the perimeter of the bottom member. Wall


71


may extend from the bottom member toward the top of chamber


30


. Wall


71


may extend above the surface of the water


35


in the chamber during use. The wall may be configured to extend to a height such that the participants are inhibited from moving to a position below bottom member


70


. In this configuration, bottom member


70


may act as a “basket” which ensures that the participants remain at or near the upper surface of the water


35


in chamber


30


at all times. Wall


71


may extend above the surface of the water by a distance of between about 2 to about 6 feet, preferably by a distance of between about 2½ to about 5 feet, and more preferably by a distance of between about 3 to 4 feet.




Movable members


72


and


73


may be formed in wall


71


of bottom member


70


. Movable members


72


and


73


may be formed at a location in wall


71


such that they correspond with the position of the first movable member


40


and the second movable member


50


formed in outer wall


32


of the chamber, when the bottom member is at a level proximate one of the first or second movable members. For example, as depicted in

FIG. 12

, movable member


72


of the bottom member is positioned in wall


71


of the bottom member at a level approximately equal to the second movable member


50


, when water


35


in chamber


30


is substantially equal to the water level in upper body of water


20


. This may allow participants to easily exit through wall


71


, via movable member


72


and through second movable member


50


when moving from chamber


30


to upper body of water


20


. In a similar manner, movable member


73


may be positioned at a level approximately equal to first movable member


40


, when water


35


in the chamber is lowered. Movable members


72


/


73


may extend over the entire vertical length of wall


71


of the bottom member. In one embodiment, movable members


72


/


73


extend from about 1 to 3 feet below the surface of the water to 1 to 3 feet above the surface of the water, preferably from about 1½ to about 2 feet above and below the upper surface of the water.




Bottom member


70


may be configured to remain at a substantially constant distance from the upper surface


37


of the water in chamber


30


as the water level is adjusted within the chamber. In one embodiment, depicted in

FIG. 13

, flotation members


75


may be placed on wall


71


to provide buoyancy to bottom member


70


. By placing floatation members


75


at a location between the bottom member


70


and the top of wall


71


the level at which the bottom member remains below the surface may be maintained. For example, by placing flotation members


75


at a position approximately three feet from the bottom of wall


71


, bottom member


70


may be maintained at a position of at least about 3 feet below the surface of the water. In one embodiment, flotation members


75


are placed on wall


71


at a position such that the bottom member remains about 3 feet below the upper surface of the water and such that wall


71


extends about 3 feet above the surface of the water.




Turning to

FIG. 14

, bottom member


70


may also include a ladder


76


extending along a vertical portion of wall


71


of the bottom member. Ladder


76


may extend from the bottom member (not shown) to the top of wall


71


. A complimentary ladder


78


may be formed on an inner surface of the outer wall


32


of the chamber. The complementary ladder


78


may extend the entire vertical height of the chamber and is substantially aligned with the ladder


76


of the bottom member. As the bottom member is raised or lowered ladder


76


and ladder


78


may remain substantially aligned such that at any give time participants may exit the chamber by climbing up the ladders


76


and


78


. In the event that the chamber cannot be properly filled, the ladders


76


and


78


may allow the participants to exit the chamber. Thus, the ladder system may act help to prevent participants from becoming trapped within the chamber in the event of a breakdown of the lock system.




In an embodiment, bottom member


70


is preferably coupled to outer wall


32


by at least one guide rail


80


formed on the inner surface of the outer wall, as depicted in FIG.


15


. An engaging member


82


may couple bottom member


70


to guide rail


80


. Engaging member


82


may substantially surround a portion of guide rail


80


such that the engaging member is free to move vertically along the guide rail, but is substantially inhibited from becoming detached from the guide rail. The coupling of bottom member


70


to guide rail


80


may reduce the bobbing movement of the bottom member while the bottom member is floating within the chamber. The engaging member


82


may also include a motor configured to move the bottom member vertically within the chamber. The use of a motor to move the bottom member, allows the bottom member to be moved without floating the bottom member.




A ratcheted locking system


84


may also be incorporated onto bottom member


70


. Ratchet locking system


84


includes a locking member


85


which is configured to fit into grooves


86


formed in the inner surface of outer wall


32


. Locking member


85


may include a protrusion


87


extending from the main body


88


configured to fit into grooves


85


. The main body


88


may include a ratchet system


89


which forces protrusion


85


against outer wall


32


. A ratchet system may allow locking member


85


to rotate relatively freely in one direction, while allowing only a constrained rotation in the opposite direction. As depicted in

FIG. 15

, the locking member may be configured such that rotation in a clockwise direction is constrained. As bottom member


70


moves along up the wall the protrusion may be forced into one of the grooves


86


when aligned with a groove. As the bottom member


70


is forced up by the rising water, protrusion


87


may slide out of one groove


86


and into another groove. Protrusion


87


may extend from main body


88


of locking member


85


at an angle to facilitate removal of the protrusion from a groove


86


as bottom member


70


moves upward.




When the bottom member


70


moves in a downward direction, locking system


85


may inhibit the downward movement of the bottom member. As bottom member


70


moves downward, protrusion


87


may extend into one of grooves


86


. The locking member


85


, as described above, may only rotate for a limited distance in a clockwise direction. Thus, once protrusion


87


is extended into a groove


86


, the protrusion may lock bottom member


70


at that position, preventing further movement of the bottom member in a downward direction. The bottom member may be unlocked by raising the bottom member or via a release mechanism which is incorporated into the ratchet system


89


.




After a group of participants have moved to an upper body of water, the water level of the chamber, along with bottom member


70


may be lowered to pick up additional participants. To lower the bottom member, a release system may be incorporated into the ratchet system


89


. The release system may be configured to allow the locking system


85


to be moved into a position such that protrusion


87


no longer makes contact with the grooves


86


. This may allow the bottom member to be moved in a downward direction. In one embodiment, a flexible member


90


(e.g., a chain, rope, wire, etc.) may be attached to locking member


85


. To allow bottom member


70


to be lowered, flexible member


90


may be pulled such that the protrusion


87


is moved away from grooves


86


(i.e., the locking member is rotated in a counterclockwise direction, as depicted in FIG.


15


). Flexible member


90


may be manually or automatically operated.




A number of configurations may be used to control the input of water to the chamber, and the output of water from the chamber. Referring back to

FIG. 1

, a conduit


60


may be coupled to upper body of water


20


such that water from the upper body of water may be transferred into chamber


30


. The water may be removed by opening the first movable member


20


(either partially or fully) to remove the water from the chamber. Alternatively, water control system


62


may include a pump for pumping the water back to upper body of water


20


. As depicted in

FIG. 16

, a water control system may include a pump


64


and a diverter valve


66


. Conduit


63


may be coupled to the upper body of water, while conduit


65


may be coupled to the chamber. Diverter valve


66


may be a three way valve which allows water to pass through pump


64


or a bypass conduit


67


. When the chamber is to be filled diverter valve


66


may be set to allow water to pass through bypass conduit


67


and into the chamber. Alternatively, the valve may be switched to allow the pump


64


to increase the rate of water flow into the chamber. The water may be flowed through the conduit until the upper level of the water in the chamber is substantially equal to the upper level of the water in the upper body of water.




To lower the water level in the chamber, the diverter valve


66


may be switched to allow water to flow to pump


64


. The water may be pumped from the chamber back to the upper body of water until the level of the water in the chamber and the lower body of water are substantially equal. In the case when pump


64


is used to increase flow of water to the chamber and also to pump water back to the upper body of water, pump


64


may be a reversible pump. Alternatively, two separate pumps may be used to pump water in each direction. In this manner, water may be transferred from the chamber to the upper body of water and from the upper body of water to the chamber using the same conduit. In this embodiment, the amount of water transferred from the upper body of water to the lower body of water during multiple cycles of the lock system may be negligible.




Alternatively, two conduits may be used to transfer the water to and from the chamber, as depicted in

FIG. 17. A

first conduit


160


may be coupled to an upper body of water


120


and a chamber


130


. First conduit


160


may include a first water control system


162


. The first water control system


162


may be a two-way valve. A second conduit


164


may also be coupled to upper body of water


120


and chamber


130


. The second conduit may include a second water control system


166


. The second water control system


166


may include a pump and a valve. To fill chamber


130


with water, the first water control system


162


may be set to allow water to flow from upper body of water


120


to chamber


130


. To lower the water level in chamber


130


, second water control system


166


may be opened, while closing first water control system


162


, such that the pump of the second water control system pumps water from the chamber back to upper body of water


120


.




These embodiments, where the water is transferred from and to the upper body of water may have an advantage when the upper and lower body of water require a preset amount of water to be maintained within the bodies of water during use. If excess water is transferred from the upper body of water to the lower body of water, the upper body of water may become depleted of water while the lower body of water may become overfilled. The transfer of the water from the upper body of water to the chamber and then back to the upper body of water from the chamber may alleviate this problem by maintaining both the upper and lower bodies of water at a substantially constant level over multiple cycles of the lock system.




In another embodiment, depicted in

FIG. 18

, the lower body of water


110


may be used to supply water into the chamber. A conduit


160


may be coupled to chamber


130


such that water from lower body of water


110


may be introduced into chamber


130


. A water control system


162


may be positioned along conduit


160


. Water control system


162


may include a diverter valve and a pump (e.g., as depicted in FIG.


16


). When chamber


130


is to be filled, the diverter valve of water control system


162


may be adjusted to allow water to be pulled through the pump and into chamber


130


. The pump may fill chamber


130


with water by transferring water from lower body of water


110


to the chamber. To lower the water level in chamber


130


, the diverter valve may be coupled to a bypass conduit (see FIG.


16


). The water is then forced through the bypass conduit by the water pressure differential between the chamber water and the lower body of water, until the level of water in chamber


130


is substantially equal to the level of water in lower body of water


110


.




Alternatively, two conduits may be used to transfer the water between the chamber


130


and the lower body of water


110


, as depicted in

FIG. 19. A

first conduit


160


may be coupled to lower body of water


110


and chamber


130


. A first water control system


162


may be positioned along the first conduit


160


. First water control system


162


may include a pump and a valve (e.g., as depicted in FIG.


16


). A second conduit


164


may also be coupled to the lower body of water


110


and the chamber


130


. A second water control system


166


may be positioned along the second conduit


164


. Second water control system


166


may include a valve. To fill chamber


130


, first water control system


162


may be adjusted to allow water to be pumped from lower body of water


110


into chamber


130


, while second water control system


166


is in a closed position. To lower the water level in chamber


130


, second water control system


166


may be opened, while closing first water control system


162


, such that the water from chamber


130


is transferred to the lower body of water


110


.




In another embodiment, two conduits may be used to fill and empty the chamber, as depicted in

FIG. 20. A

first conduit


160


may be coupled to upper body of water


120


and chamber


130


. A second conduit


164


may be coupled to lower body of water


110


and chamber


130


. A first water control system


162


may be positioned along first conduit


160


. A second water control system


166


may be positioned along second conduit


164


. First water control system


162


may be a valve or a valve/pump system (see FIG.


16


). To fill chamber


130


, first water control system


162


may be opened such that water flows from upper body of water


120


to chamber


130


. Second water control system


166


may be adjusted such that water is inhibited from flowing from chamber


130


to lower body of water


110


. In one embodiment, the water pressure differential between upper body of water


120


and the water in chamber


130


may be used to force water from the upper body of water into the chamber. When the level of the water in chamber


130


is substantially equal to the level of water in upper body of water


120


, the water pressure differential will become nearly zero. Thus, the water may stop flowing into chamber


130


without having to close or adjust water control system


162


. Alternatively, a pump may be incorporated into water control system


162


and water may be pumped from upper body of water


120


to chamber


130


.




To empty chamber


130


, first water control system


162


may be adjusted such that water flow from upper body of water


120


to the chamber is inhibited. Second water control system


166


may be adjusted so that water in chamber


130


now flows through second conduit


164


and into lower body of water


110


. By relying on a water pressure differential, the water may automatically stop flowing into lower body of water


110


when the water level in chamber


130


is substantially equal to the water level in the lower body of water. Alternatively, water control system


166


may include a pump to increase the rate of water transfer from chamber


130


to lower body of water


110


.




An advantage of using two conduits in this manner to transfer water to and from the chamber is that there may be no need to use water level monitoring devices. Since the flow of water will automatically stop when the water level is at the desired level, no water monitoring devices may be necessary. This may allow a much simpler system to be built. Such a system may include water control devices which are simply two way valves to allow or inhibit the flow of water thorough the conduits. Such a system may be easily run manually, semi-automatically, or automatically. Semi-automatically is defined to mean when a human operator informs the automatic control devices when to open/close the valves.




A disadvantage of this two conduit system is that water is being transferred from upper body of water


120


to lower body of water


110


. After repeated cycles, the lower body of water may become overfilled with water while the upper body of water may become depleted of water. To prevent this from occurring a third conduit may be added to the system. As depicted in

FIG. 21

, a lock system may include a first conduit


160


for transferring water from an upper body of water


120


to a chamber


130


, a second conduit


164


for transferring water from the chamber to a lower body of water


110


, and a third conduit


168


for transferring water from the lower body of water to the upper body of water. The first, second and third conduits may include first, second, and third water control systems


162


,


166


, and


170


. First and second water control systems may be similar in function to the water control systems described above. Third water control system


170


may include a pump for pumping water from lower body of water


110


to upper body of water


120


. During use first conduit


160


may be used to transfer water from upper body of water


120


to chamber


130


. To lower the level of the water in chamber


130


, water may be transferred from chamber


130


to lower body of water


110


via second conduit


164


. As described above, such a system may alter the level of water in the two bodies of water after repeated cycles. Once this situation occurs, the third conduit may be used to transfer water from lower body of water


110


to upper body of water


120


. The transfer of water from the lower to the upper body of water may occur at anytime during the cycle. In one embodiment, the transfer occurs as the water from chamber


130


is being transferred to lower body of water


110


. Thus, the level of water in both the upper and lower bodies of water may remain substantially constant over repeated cycles of the lock system.




The lock systems described above may be used to transfer participants from a lower body of water to an upper body of water while the participants remain in the water. The participants may be swimming in the water or may be floating upon the surface of the water with a flotation device. Examples of flotation devices include, but are not limited to inner tubes, floating boards, life jackets, life preservers, water mattresses, rafts and small boats.




As depicted in

FIG. 22

, a lock system, in one embodiment, includes a chamber


130


which is coupled to a lower body of water


110


and an upper body of water


120


. The level of water in chamber


130


is initially set to be substantially equal to the level of water in lower body of water


110


. A first movable member


140


may be positioned in outer wall


132


of chamber


130


proximate the upper surface of water in the lower body of water. First movable member


140


is initially in an open position to allow participants to move from lower body of water


110


into chamber


130


. The participants may swim or propel their flotation device into chamber


130


via first movable member. In another embodiment, a water propulsion system


190


may be set up within lower body of water


110


to cause a current (denoted by the curved lines


192


) to be produced. The current may propel the participants toward movable member


140


from lower body of water


110


.




After the participants have entered chamber


130


, first movable member


140


may be closed, as depicted in

FIG. 23

Water may be transferred from a water source into chamber


130


causing the water level within the chamber to rise. The water source may be lower body of water


110


, upper body of water


120


, and/or an alternate water supply source (e.g., a nearby water reservoir, river, lake, ocean, etc.). The water, in one embodiment, may be transferred into chamber


130


until the upper surface


137


of the water in the chamber is substantially equal to the upper surface of the water in upper body of water


120


. Thus, the participants may be raised from a lower level to an upper level as water is transferred into the chamber. A bottom member


170


, as described above, may also be raised as the water enters the chamber.




After the water in the chamber has reached a level substantially equal to the level of water in upper body of water


120


, the second movable member


150


may be opened as depicted in FIG.


24


. Participants may then move from chamber


120


into upper body of water


130


. The participants may move using their own power or be propelled by a water propulsion system


194


incorporated on outer wall


132


.




In another embodiment, a current may be generated by continuing to fill chamber


130


with water after the level of water in the chamber is substantially equal to the level of water in upper body of water


120


. In an embodiment, second movable member


150


is opened when the level of water between the chamber


130


and the upper body of water


120


are substantially equal. Additional water may be introduced into the chamber


130


such that the level of water in the chamber begins to rise above the level of water in the upper body of water


120


. As the water is pumped into the chamber


120


, the resulting increase in water volume may cause a water current to be formed flowing from the chamber to the upper body of water. The formed current may be used to propel the participants from the chamber to the upper body of water.




Overall, the participants may be moved from lower body of water


110


to upper body of water


120


while remaining in water during the entire transfer period. An advantage of this method of transfer is that the participants do not have to leave the water, thus allowing the participants to remain cool on hot days. The participants will no longer have to carry their flotation devices. Inner tubes and boards may be difficult for some younger riders to carry. By transferring people with a lock system, the need to carry flotation devices to the start of a water ride may be eliminated.




After the participants have been transferred to the upper body of water, the water level may be lowered by removing water from the chamber. The water may be removed until the water level is substantially equal to the water in the lower body of water. The first movable member may then be reopened to allow more participants to be transferred to the upper body of water. It should be understood that after a group of participants have been transferred to the upper body of water, another group may enter the lock system and be transferred to the lower body as the water within the chamber is lowered. It should also be understood that any of the previously described embodiments of the water lock system may be used to transfer participants between any number of bodies of water having different elevations.




In another embodiment, multiple chambers may be linked together to transfer participants from a lower body of water to an upper body of water.

FIG. 25

depicts a water lock system


200


that, in one embodiment, includes two chambers for transferring participants from a lower body of water


205


to an upper body of water


210


. It should be understood that while only two chambers are depicted, additional chambers may be positioned between the bodies of water and the following description would be applicable to such systems. A first chamber


220


may be coupled to lower body of water


205


. A portion of first chamber


220


may extend below the upper surface of lower body of water


205


. A second chamber


230


may be coupled to first chamber


220


and upper body of water


210


. A portion of outer wall


222


of first chamber


220


may also form a portion of the outer wall of second chamber


230


. Bottom members


270


and


272


, as previously described, may be positioned within the first and second chambers respectively.




A first movable member


240


may be formed adjacent to lower body of water


205


. First movable member


240


may extend from a position below the upper surface of lower body of water


205


to a point above the upper surface of the lower body of water. First movable member


240


may extend over the entire vertical length of the outer wall


222


of first chamber


220


. In one embodiment, first movable member


240


is formed in a portion of outer wall


222


that is substantially shorter than the vertical length of the outer wall. The first movable member may be a swinging movable member or a sliding movable member as previously described.




A second movable member


245


may be formed in outer wall


224


of first chamber


220


adjacent to second chamber


230


. Second movable member


220


may extend from a point above the bottom member of second chamber


230


toward the top of first chamber wall


224


. Second movable member


245


may be positioned to allow participants to enter second chamber


230


from first chamber


220


, while the water level is elevated within the first chamber. Second movable member


245


may be a swinging movable member or a sliding movable member as previously described.




A third movable member


250


may be formed adjacent upper body of water


210


. Third movable member


250


may extend from a position below the upper surface of upper body of water


210


to a point above the upper surface. Third movable member


250


may be formed in a portion of outer wall


232


which is substantially shorter then the vertical length of the wall. Third movable member


250


may be formed at a position in outer wall


232


such that participants may move from second chamber


230


to upper body of water


210


when the water within the second chamber is substantially level with the water in the upper body of water. Third movable member


250


may extend to a depth below the upper surface of upper body of water


210


to allow participants to easily enter the upper body of water without contacting the lower surface of the third movable member.




Conduits


260


and


262


may be positioned to introduce water into first chamber


220


and second chamber


230


, respectively. Water control systems


262


and


266


may be positioned along conduits


260


and


264


, respectively, to control flow of water through the conduits. Water control systems


262


and


266


may include a valve which is configured to control the flow of water from a pressurized water source to the chamber. Water control systems


262


and


266


may also include a pump for increasing the flow rate of water through the conduits.




An automatic controller


280


may be coupled to the lock system. The controller may be a computer, programmable logic controller, or any other known controller system. The controller may be coupled to water control systems


262


and


266


and movable members


240


,


245


, and


250


. The operation of the movable members and the water control systems may be coordinated by the controller such that the proper timing of events occurs. Sensors


290


and


292


may be positioned on the inner surface of the first chamber


220


and the second chamber


230


, respectively, to relay the level of water within the chambers back to control system


280


.




In one embodiment, first conduit


260


and second conduit


264


may be coupled to upper body of water


210


. The first and second conduits,


260


and


264


may be configured to allow water from upper body of water


210


to be transferred to first chamber


220


and second chamber


230


respectively. First water control system


262


may be used to control the transfer of water from upper body of water


210


to first chamber


220


. Second water control system


266


may be used to control flow of water from upper body of water


210


to second chamber


230


. The water control systems


262


and


266


may include a pump, a valve and a bypass conduit, as depicted in FIG.


16


. The operation of this type of water control system has been previously described.




To lower the water level in either of the chambers, the water control systems


262


and


266


may include a pump for pumping water from the first chamber


220


and the second chamber


230


respectively. The water may be pumped from the chambers back to upper body of water


210


during use. In this manner, each of conduits


260


and


264


may allow the water to be transferred from upper body of water


210


to the chambers


220


and


230


, respectively, and from the chambers back to the upper body of water. An advantage of these embodiments is that the water level in both the upper and lower bodies of water remains substantially constant over multiple cycles of the water lock system.




In another embodiment, depicted in

FIG. 26

, lower body of water


205


may be used to supply water into the first and second chambers


220


and


230


. The first conduit


260


and second conduit


264


may be coupled to chambers


220


and


230


such that water from lower body of water


205


may be introduced into the chambers. Water control systems


262


and


266


(e.g., as depicted in FIG.


16


), are positioned along conduits


260


and


264


, respectively. Each of water control systems


262


and


266


may include a pump. When a chamber is to be filled, the appropriate water control system may direct water from lower body of water


210


to a pump. The pump may fill the chamber with water by pumping water from lower body of water


210


to the chamber. To lower the water level in a chamber, the water control system may be adjusted to allow water to flow back into the lower body of water.




In another embodiment, three conduits may be used to transfer water between the upper body of water


310


, the chambers


320


and


330


, and the lower body of water


305


, as depicted in

FIG. 27. A

first conduit


364


may be coupled to first chamber


320


and second chamber


330


. A first water control system


366


may be positioned along first conduit


364


. First conduit


364


may be configured to transfer water from second chamber


330


to first chamber


320


. A second conduit


360


may be coupled to upper body of water


310


and second chamber


330


. Second conduit


360


may include a second water control system


362


. Second conduit


360


may be configured to transfer water from upper body of water


310


to second chamber


330


. A third conduit


361


may be coupled to first chamber


320


and lower body of water


305


. Third conduit


361


may include a third water control system


363


. Third conduit


361


may be configured to transfer water from first chamber


320


to lower body of water


305


. The first, second, and thirds water control systems may include a valve or a pump/valve system (e.g., the system of FIG.


16


).




As noted before, a disadvantage of this type of lock system is that water is being transferred from the upper body of water to the lower body of water. After repeated cycles the lower body of water may become overfilled while the upper body of water may become depleted. In an embodiment, a fourth conduit may be added to the system to transfer water from the lower body of water back to the upper body of water. Fourth conduit


365


may include a fourth water control system


367


. Fourth water control system


367


may include a pump for pumping water from lower body of water


305


to upper body of water


310


. The transfer of water from lower body of water


305


to upper body of water


310


may occur at anytime during the cycle. The transfer of water from the lower body of water to the upper body of water may occur as water from first chamber


320


is being transferred to lower body of water


305


. Thus, the level of water in both the upper and lower bodies of water may remain substantially constant over repeated cycles of the lock system.




In another embodiment, four conduits may be used to fill and empty the chambers, as depicted in

FIG. 28. A

first conduit


460


may be coupled to upper body of water


410


and to first chamber


420


. A second conduit


464


may be coupled to upper body of water


410


and second chamber


430


. The first and second conduits may be configured to allow transfer of water from upper body of water


410


to the first and second chambers, respectively. First and second water control system


462


and


466


may be positioned along the first and second conduits, respectively. A third conduit


461


may be coupled to first chamber


420


and lower body of water


405


. A fourth conduit


465


may be coupled to lower body of water


405


and second chamber


430


. The third and fourth conduits may be configured to allow the transfer of water from the first and second chambers respectively to the lower body of water. Third and fourth water control systems


463


and


467


may be positioned along the third and fourth conduits respectively. The water control systems may include a valve or a valve/pump system (e.g., as depicted in FIG.


16


). An advantage of this type of system is that the first and second chambers may be independently emptied or filled.




A fifth conduit


468


may be added to the system. Fifth conduit


468


may include a fifth water control system


469


. Fifth water control system


469


may include a pump for pumping water from lower body of water


405


to upper body of water


410


. The transfer of water from lower body of water


405


to upper body of water


410


may occur at anytime during the cycle. The transfer of water from the lower body of water to the upper body of water may occur as water from first chamber


420


is being transferred to lower body of water


405


. Thus, the level of water in both the upper and lower bodies of water may remain substantially constant over repeated cycles of the lock system.




The multiple lock systems described above may be used to transfer participants from a lower body of water to an upper body of water in stages while the participants remain in the water. The participants may be swimming in the water or may be floating upon the surface of the water with a flotation device. Examples of flotation devices include, but are not limited to inner tubes, floating boards, life jackets, life preservers, and air mattresses and small boats. By using multiple chambers, a series of smaller chambers may be built rather than a single large chamber. For example, if an elevation change of 100 feet is required a single 100 foot chamber may be built or four coupled 25 foot chambers may be built. In some situations it may be easier to build a series of chambers rather than a single chamber. For example, use of a series of smaller chambers may better match the slope of an existing hill than a large single chamber. Additionally, the chambers may be formed independently of each other. For example, a series of chambers may be used, with a channel or canal connecting each of the chambers, rather than the chambers being integrally formed as depicted in the embodiments above.




A method of using a multiple chamber system is described below. As depicted in

FIG. 29

, a lock system may include a first chamber


220


which is coupled to a lower body of water


205


and a second chamber


230


coupled to the first chamber and an upper body of water


210


. While only two chambers are shown it should be understood that additional chambers may be positioned between the first and second chambers and that the below described method would be applicable to such multiple chamber systems. The level of water in first chamber


220


may be initially set to be substantially equal to the level of water in lower body of water


205


. A first movable member


240


may be formed in outer wall


222


of first chamber


220


proximate the upper surface of lower body of water


205


. First movable member


240


may, initially, be in an open position to allow participants to move from lower body of water


205


into the first chamber. The participants may swim or propel their flotation device into the chamber via the first movable member. Alternatively, a water current, as previously described, may be produced to push the participants toward the first chamber from the lower body of water.




After the participants have entered first chamber


220


, first movable member


240


may be closed, as depicted in FIG.


30


. Water may be transferred from a water source into first chamber


220


causing the water level within the first chamber to rise. The water source may be the lower body of water, the upper body of water, and/or an alternate water supply source (e.g., a nearby water reservoir, river, lake, ocean, etc.). The water may be transferred into first chamber


220


until the water level in the chamber is substantially equal to the level of water in second chamber


230


. Second movable member


245


may be positioned at a level above the bottom of second chamber


230


. Second chamber


230


may be filled with water to a level equal to a portion of second movable member


245


. Thus, the participants may be raised from lower body of water


205


to an intermediate level as water is transferred into the first chamber. A bottom member


270


, as described above, may also be raised as the water enters the chamber.




After the water in first chamber


220


has reached a level substantially equal to the water in second chamber


230


, second movable member


245


may be opened as depicted in FIG.


31


. Participants may move from first chamber


220


into second chamber


230


. The participants may move into second chamber


230


using their own power or be propelled by a water current.




After the participants have entered second chamber


230


, second movable member


245


may be closed, as depicted in FIG.


32


. Water may be transferred from a water source into second chamber


230


causing the water level within the second chamber to rise. The water may be transferred into the chamber until the water level in second chamber


230


is substantially equal to the level of water in upper body of water


210


. Thus, the participants may be further raised from an intermediate level to upper body of water


210


as water is transferred into second chamber


230


. A bottom member


272


, as described above, may also be raised as the water enters the second chamber.




After the water in second chamber


230


has reached a level substantially equal to the water in upper body of water


210


, third movable member


250


may be opened as depicted in FIG.


33


. Participants may then move from second chamber


230


into upper body of water


210


. The participants may move using their own power or be propelled by a water current into upper body of water


210


. Overall, the participants may be moved from a lower body of water to an upper body of water while remaining in water during the entire transfer period.




After the participants are transferred to upper body of water


210


, the water level in the both chambers may be lowered. In one embodiment, the water in both chambers may be lowered at the same time. This allows both chambers to be reset to the original starting water levels (e.g., as depicted in FIG.


29


). The water within first chamber


220


may be set at a level about equal to lower body of water


205


. The water within second chamber


230


may be set at a level proximate second movable member


245


. After the water level is reduced, first movable member


240


may be reopened to allow more participants to be transferred into the lock system.




Alternatively, the filling and emptying of the chambers may be offset to allow a more efficient usage of a multiple chamber system. After participants have moved from first chamber


220


to second chamber


230


, the first chamber may be emptied while the second chamber is filled, as depicted in FIG.


34


. After second chamber


230


is filled, third movable member


250


is opened and the participants may move into upper body of water


210


. While the participants are being transferred to upper body of water


210


, additional participants may enter first chamber


220


. Once the participants have entered first chamber


220


and left second chamber


230


, the water level in the first chamber may be raised while the water in the second chamber is lowered (see FIG.


31


). The system may thereafter be cycled between the states depicted in

FIGS. 31 and 34

to continually transfer participants from the lower body of water to the upper body of water. It should be understood that while a method of transferring the participants from the lower body of water to the upper body of water is described, the lock system may also be used to transfer participants from an upper body to a lower body. Thus, after a group of participants have been transferred to the upper body, another group may enter the lock system and be transferred to the lower body as the water within the chambers is lowered.




Referring back to

FIGS. 3-5

it should be appreciated that multiple movable members may be formed in the chamber.

FIG. 3

, for example, depicts a U-shaped chamber which includes three movable members. The movable members may lead to three separate bodies of water or three locations of the same upper body of water.

FIGS. 4 and 5

also depict chambers having multiple movable members. In this manner, the chamber may be used to transfer participants from a receiving pool to multiple water rides.





FIG. 35

depicts an overhead view of a water park, in which two water rides are depicted which start at different locations. A first water ride


580


is configured to convey participants from a first upper body of water


570


to a receiving pool


505


. A second water ride


590


is configured to convey participants from a second upper body of water


560


to receiving pool


505


. Receiving pool


505


may be positioned at an elevation below the first and second upper bodies of water. A water lock system


500


preferably couples receiving pool


505


to first and second upper bodies of water


560


and


570


. Participants exiting either water ride will preferably enter receiving pool


505


. The participants may propel themselves, or be propelled, through the water of the receiving pool over to movable member


510


. When movable member


510


is open, participants may enter chamber


550


of water lock system


500


. After entering chamber


550


, the chamber may be filled with water to a level which is substantially equal to the upper bodies of water. As the chamber is filled participants may propel themselves, or be propelled to either of the two upper movable members


520


and


530


. After the chamber is filled, movable members


520


and


530


may be opened allowing the participants to move to the start of either water ride. Thus, a centrally disposed water lock system


500


may allow the participants to enjoy a variety of water rides without having to leave the water. Any of the previously described water lock systems may be incorporated into the water park system.




It should be understood that the additional movable members do not need to be at the same vertical height along the chamber wall. As depicted in

FIG. 36

some water rides may have starting points at different elevations. To accommodate these different elevations, movable members may be formed at different heights within the chamber, each elevation corresponding to a ride or series of rides which have starting points at about that elevational height. As depicted in

FIG. 36

, three bodies of water may be coupled by a water lock system


600


. A receiving pool


610


is formed at the base of the water lock system


600


. Receiving pool


610


may be positioned to receive participants exiting from various water rides. A first movable member


650


may be formed proximate receiving pool


610


to allow participants from the receiving pool to enter chamber


640


. After the participants enter chamber


640


, the chamber may be filled with water. The water level may be raised until the water level is at a level substantially equal to the water level of a first upper body of water


620


. Participants which desire to ride water rides which are coupled to first upper body of water


620


may now leave chamber


640


via movable member


660


. Other riders who wish to ride water rides coupled to a second, higher elevation body of water


630


may remain in chamber


640


. After some of the participants have been transferred to first upper body of water


660


, the water level of the chamber may be further raised to a level substantially equal to the water level of second upper body of water


630


. The remaining participants may now enter second upper body of water


630


via movable member


670


. In this way the water lock system may accommodate water rides starting at different elevational levels. While only two upper bodies of water are depicted, it should be understood that additional movable members at additional heights may be disposed in the walls of the chamber to allow additional water rides to be coupled to a centrally disposed water lock system.




Further modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of this description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only and is for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the general manner of carrying out the invention. It is to be understood that the forms of the invention shown and described herein are to be taken as the presently preferred embodiments. Elements and materials may be substituted for those illustrated and described herein, parts and processes may be reversed, and certain features of the invention may be utilized independently, all as would be apparent to one skilled in the art after having the benefit of this description of the invention. Changes may be made in the elements described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as described in the following claims.



Claims
  • 1. A water lock system for conveying a person from a first body of water to a second body of water, the first and second bodies of water being at different elevational levels, the water lock system comprising:a chamber for holding water, the chamber being coupled to the first body of water and the second body of water; a first movable member formed in a wall of the chamber, the first movable member being positioned to allow the person and water to move between the first body of water and the chamber when the first movable member is open during use; a second movable member formed in the wall of the chamber, the second movable member being positioned to allow the person and water to move between the second body of water and the chamber when the second movable member is open during use; a bottom member positioned within the chamber, wherein the bottom member is positionable below the upper surface of water within the chamber during use; a first conduit coupled to the chamber for conducting water to the chamber during use; and a first water control system positioned along the first conduit, the first water control system being configured to control the flow of the water through the first conduit during use.
  • 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the chamber has a shape that resembles a figure selected from the group consisting of a square, a rectangle, a circle, a star, a regular polyhedron, a trapezoid, an ellipse, a U-shape, an L-shape, a Y-shape or a figure eight, when seen from an overhead view.
  • 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to swing away from the chamber wall when moving from a closed position to an open position during use.
  • 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to move vertically into a portion of the wall when moving from a closed position to an open position.
  • 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to move horizontally along a portion of the wall when moving from a closed position to an open position.
  • 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the bottom member is substantially water permeable such that water in the chamber moves freely through the bottom member as the bottom member is moved within the chamber during use.
  • 7. The system of claim 1, wherein a distance between the bottom member and the upper surface of the water in the chamber is substantially constant during use.
  • 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the bottom member comprises a wall extending from the bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water.
  • 9. The system of claim 1, wherein the bottom member is floating within the chamber.
  • 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the bottom member comprises a wall and a floatation member, the bottom member wall encircling the bottom member and extending from the bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water, the floatation member being positioned upon the bottom member wall at a location proximate the upper surface of the water.
  • 11. The system of claim 10, further comprising a substantially vertical first ladder coupled to the bottom member wall and a substantially vertical second ladder coupled to the wall of the chamber, wherein the first and second ladders are substantially aligned.
  • 12. The system of claim 1, wherein the bottom member comprises a wall extending from the bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water, wherein the bottom member wall is configured to inhibit the person from moving to a position below the bottom member.
  • 13. The system of claim 1, wherein the bottom member comprises a locking system coupling the bottom member to the inner surface of the chamber wall, wherein the locking system is configured to inhibit the bottom member from sinking when water is released from the chamber.
  • 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the locking system is a ratcheted locking system.
  • 15. The system of claim 1, wherein the water control system comprises a valve configured to control flow of water through the first conduit.
  • 16. The system of claim 1, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use.
  • 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the first water control system comprises a valve and a pump, wherein the valve is configured to control flow of water through the first conduit, and wherein the pump is configured to pump water between the chamber and the second body of water during use.
  • 18. The system of claim 1, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the first body of water and the chamber during use.
  • 19. The system of claim 18, wherein the first water control system comprises a pump positioned along the first conduit for pumping water between the first body of water and the chamber during use.
  • 20. The system of claim 1, further comprising a second conduit and a second water control system, the second conduit being coupled to the chamber for conducting water out of the chamber during use, the second water control system being positioned along the second conduit to control flow of water through the second conduit during use.
  • 21. The system of claim 20, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the first body of water during use.
  • 22. The system of claim 20, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the second body of water during use, and wherein the second water control system comprises a pump for pumping water between the chamber and the second body of water during use.
  • 23. The system of claim 20, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the first body of water during use, and further comprising a third conduit and a third water control system, the third conduit being coupled to the second body of water and the first body of water, the third water control system being positioned along the third conduit, and wherein the third water control system comprises a pump configured to pump water between the first body of water and the second body of water during use.
  • 24. The system of claim 1, wherein the first movable member, the second movable member, and the first water control system are coupled to a controller, and wherein the controller is configured to control operation of the first movable member, the second movable member, and the first water control system during use.
  • 25. The system of claim 1, further comprising a flotation device for supporting the person, wherein the system is further configured to convey the person supported by the flotation device.
  • 26. The system of claim 1, further comprising additional movable members formed in the wall, and wherein the additional movable members allow participants to enter and exit the chamber to and from additional bodies of water positioned adjacent the chamber.
  • 27. The system of claim 26, wherein the additional movable members are formed at different vertical positions along the chamber.
  • 28. A system for conveying a person from a first body of water to a second body of water, the first and second bodies of water being at different elevation levels, comprising:a first chamber coupled to the first body of water; a first movable member formed in a wall of the first chamber, the first movable member positioned to allow the person and water to move between the first body of water and the first chamber when the first movable member is open; a second chamber coupled to the second body of water and the first chamber such that an outer surface of a portion of the first chamber wall forms a portion of the inner surface of a second chamber wall; a second movable member formed in the portion of the first chamber wall dividing the first chamber from the second chamber, wherein the second movable member is configured to allow the person and water to move between the first chamber and the second chamber when the second movable member is open; a third movable member formed in the wall of the second chamber, the third movable member positioned to allow the person and water to move between the second body of water and the second chamber when the third movable member is open; a first bottom member positioned within the first chamber, wherein the first bottom member is positionable below the upper surface of water within the first chamber during use; a second bottom member positioned within the second chamber, wherein the second bottom member is positionable below the upper surface of water within the second chamber during use; a first conduit coupled to the first chamber for conducting water to the first chamber during use; a first water control system positioned along the first conduit, the first water control system being configured to control the flow of water through the first conduit during use; a second conduit coupled to the second chamber for conducting water to the second chamber during use; and a second water control system positioned along the second conduit, the second water control system being configured to control the flow of water through the second conduit during use.
  • 29. The system of claim 28, wherein the first chamber and the second chamber have a shape that resembles a figure selected from the group consisting of a square, a rectangle, a circle, a star, a regular polyhedron, a trapezoid, an ellipse or a figure eight, when seen from an overhead view.
  • 30. The system of claim 28, wherein the first and second chambers have different shapes.
  • 31. The system of claim 28, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to swing away from the first chamber wall when moving from a closed position to an open position during use, and wherein the third movable member is configured to swing away from the second chamber wall when moving from a closed position to an open position during use.
  • 32. The system of claim 28, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to move vertically into a portion of the first chamber wall when moving from a closed position to an open position, and wherein the third movable member is configured to move vertically into a portion of the second chamber wall when moving from a closed position to an open position.
  • 33. The system of claim 28, wherein the first bottom member is substantially water permeable such that water in the first chamber moves freely through the first bottom member as the first bottom member is moved within the first chamber during use, and wherein the second bottom member is substantially water permeable such that water in the second chamber moves freely through the second bottom member as the second bottom member is moved within the second chamber during use.
  • 34. The system of claim 28, wherein the first bottom member comprises a wall extending from the first bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water in the first chamber, and wherein the second bottom member comprises a wall extending from the second bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water in the second chamber.
  • 35. The system of claim 28, wherein the first bottom member is configured to float within the chamber, and wherein the second bottom member is configured to float within the chamber.
  • 36. The system of claim 35, wherein the first bottom member comprises a first wall and a first floatation member, the first wall extending from the first bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water in the first chamber, the first floatation member being positioned upon the first wall at a location near the upper surface of the water in the first chamber, and wherein the second bottom member comprises a second wall and a second floatation member, the second wall extending from the second bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water in the second chamber, the second floatation member being positioned upon the second wall at a location near the upper surface of the water in the second chamber.
  • 37. The system of claim 28, wherein the first bottom member comprises a first wall extending from the first bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water in the first chamber, and wherein the first wall is coupled to the first bottom member such that the first wall inhibits the person from moving to a position below the first bottom member, and wherein the second bottom member comprises a second wall extending from the second bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water in the second chamber, and wherein the second wall is coupled to the second bottom member such that the second wall inhibits the person from moving to a position below the second bottom member.
  • 38. The system of claim 28, wherein the first bottom member comprises a first ratcheted locking system coupling the first bottom member to the inner surface of the first chamber wall, and wherein the first ratcheted locking system is configured to inhibit the first bottom member from sinking when water is released from the first chamber, and wherein the second bottom member comprises a second ratcheted locking system coupling the second bottom member to the inner surface of the second chamber walls, and wherein the second ratcheted locking system is configured to inhibit the second bottom member from sinking when water is released from the second chamber.
  • 39. The system of claim 28, wherein the first and second conduits are further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the first chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the second chamber during use.
  • 40. The system of claim 28, wherein the first and second conduits are further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the first body of water and the first chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the first body of water and the second chamber during use.
  • 41. The system of claim 40, wherein the first water control systems comprises a first pump, and wherein the second water control system comprises a second pump, the first pump being positioned along the first conduit for pumping water between the first body of water and the first chamber during use, the second pump being positioned along the second conduit for pumping water between the first body of water and the second chamber during use.
  • 42. The system of claim 28, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second chamber, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second chamber and the first chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the second chamber during use.
  • 43. The system of claim 42, further comprising:a third conduit coupled to the first chamber for conducting water out of the first chamber during use; and a third water control system positioned along the third conduit, the third valve being configured to control flow of water through the third conduit during use.
  • 44. The system of claim 28, further comprising:a third conduit coupled to the first chamber for conducting water out of the first chamber during use; a third water control system positioned along the third conduit, the third valve being configured to control the flow of water through the third conduit during use; a fourth conduit coupled to the second chamber for conducting water out of the second chamber during use; and a fourth water control system positioned along the fourth conduit, the fourth valve being configured to control the flow of water through the fourth conduit during use.
  • 45. The system of claim 44, wherein the first and second conduits are further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the first chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water to the second chamber during use, and wherein the third and fourth conduits are further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the third conduit is configured to transfer water between the first chamber and the first body of water during use, and wherein the fourth conduit is configured to transfer water between the second chamber and the first body of water during use.
  • 46. The system of claim 28, further comprising a third conduit and a third water control system, the third conduit being coupled to the second body of water and the first body of water, the third water control system being positioned along the third conduit, wherein the third water control system comprises a pump configured to pump water between the first body of water and the second body of water during use.
  • 47. The system of claim 28, wherein the first movable member, the second movable member, the third movable member, the first water control system, and the second water control system are coupled to a controller, and wherein the controller is configured to operate the first, second, and third movable members during use, and wherein the controller is configured to operate the first and second water control systems during use.
  • 48. A method for transferring a person from a first body of water to a second body of water, the first and second bodies of water being at different elevational levels, comprising:transferring the person from the first body of water into a water lock system, the water lock system comprising: a chamber for holding water coupled to the first body of water and the second body of water; a first movable member formed in the wall of the chamber, the first movable member being positioned to allow the person and water to move between the first body of water and the first chamber when the first movable member is open during use; a second movable member formed in the wall of the chamber, the second movable member being positioned to allow the person and water to move between the second body of water and the chamber when the second movable member is open during use; a bottom member positioned within the chamber, wherein the bottom member is positionable below the upper surface of water within the chamber during use; a first conduit coupled to the chamber for conducting water to the chamber during use; and a first water control system positioned along the first conduit, the first water control system being configured to control the flow of water through the first conduit during use; wherein transferring the person to the water lock system comprises moving the person from the first body of water into the chamber through the first movable member; closing the first movable member; altering the level of water within the chamber with water such that the upper surface of the water in the chamber is substantially equal to the upper surface of the water in the second body of water; opening the second movable member; and transferring the person from the chamber to the second body of water through the second movable member.
  • 49. The method of claim 48, further comprises altering the level of the water within the chamber such that an upper surface of the water in the chamber is substantially equal to the upper surface of the water in the first body of water prior to transferring the person from the first body of water to the lock system.
  • 50. The method of claim 48, further comprising placing the person on a flotation device prior to transferring the person to the chamber.
  • 51. The method of claim 48, wherein transferring the person to the water lock system comprises generating a current of water flowing from the first body of water toward the water lock system and positioning the person within the current of water, and wherein the current of water carries the person into the chamber of the water lock system.
  • 52. The method of claim 48, wherein transferring the person from the chamber to the second body of water comprises generating a current of water flowing from the chamber toward the second body of water and positioning the person within the current of water, and wherein the current of water carries the person into the second body of water.
  • 53. The method of claim 52, wherein generating a current comprises filling the chamber with water while the second movable member is open.
  • 54. The method of claim 48, wherein the first movable member is configured to swing away from the chamber wall, wherein the second movable member is configured to swing away from the chamber wall during use, wherein closing the first movable member comprises swinging the first movable member toward the chamber wall, and wherein opening the second movable member comprises swinging the second movable member away from the chamber wall.
  • 55. The method of claim 48, wherein the first movable member is configured to move vertically into a portion of the chamber wall, wherein the second movable member is configured to move vertically into a portion of the chamber wall during use, wherein closing the first movable member comprises moving the first movable member out of the chamber wall, and wherein opening the second movable member comprises moving the second movable member into the chamber wall.
  • 56. The method of claim 48, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein altering the level of the water in the chamber comprises transferring water between the second body of water and the chamber through the first conduit.
  • 57. The method of claim 48, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein altering the level of the water in the chamber comprises transferring water between the first body of water and the chamber through the conduit.
  • 58. The method of claim 48, further comprises altering the level of the water in the chamber until the upper surface of the water in the chamber is substantially equal to the upper surface of the water in the first body of water subsequent to transferring the person the second body of water.
  • 59. The method of claim 48, wherein the water lock system further comprises a second conduit and a second water control system, the second conduit being coupled to the chamber for conducting water out of the chamber during use.
  • 60. The method of claim 59 further comprising a second water control system positioned along the second conduit, the second water control system comprising a pump for pumping water along the second conduit.
  • 61. The method of claim 59, wherein the water lock system further comprises a third conduit and a third water control system, the third conduit being coupled to the second body of water and the first body of water, the third water control system comprising a pump positioned along the third conduit, and wherein the pump is configured to pump water between the first body of water and the second body of water, the method further comprising transferring water between the first body of water and the second body of water.
  • 62. A method for transferring a person from a first body of water to a second body of water, the first and second bodies of water being at different elevational heights, comprising:transferring the person from the first body of water into a water lock system, the water lock system comprising: a first chamber coupled to the first body of water; a first movable member formed in a wall of the first chamber, the first movable member positioned to allow the person and water to move between the first body of water and the first chamber when the first movable member is open; a second chamber coupled to the second body of water and the first chamber, wherein an outer surface of a portion of the first chamber wall forms a portion of the inner surface of a second chamber wall; a second movable member formed in the portion of the first chamber wall dividing the first chamber from the second chamber, wherein the second movable member is configured to allow the person and water to move between the first chamber and the second chamber when the second movable member is open; a third movable member formed in the wall of the second chamber, the third movable member positioned to allow the person and water to move between the second chamber and the second body of water when the third movable member is open; a first bottom member positioned within the first chamber, wherein the first bottom member is positionable below the upper surface of water within the first chamber during use; a second bottom member positioned within the second chamber, wherein the second bottom member is positionable below the upper surface of water within the second chamber during use; a first conduit coupled to the first chamber for conducting water to the first chamber during use; a first water control system positioned along the first conduit, the first water control system being configured to control the flow of water through the first conduit during use; a second conduit coupled to the second chamber for conducting water to the second chamber during use; and a second water control system positioned along the second conduit, the second water control system being configured to control the flow of water through the second conduit during use; wherein transferring the person to the water lock system comprises moving the person from the first body of water into the first chamber through the first movable member; closing the first movable member; altering the level of water in the first chamber such that the upper surface of the water in the first chamber is substantially equal to a portion of the second movable member; altering the level of water in the second chamber such that the upper surface of the water in the second chamber is substantially equal to a portion of the second movable member; opening the second movable member; transferring the person from the first chamber to the second chamber through the second movable member; closing the second movable member; altering the level of water in the second chamber with water such that the upper surface of the water in the second chamber is substantially equal to the upper surface of the water of the second body of water; opening the third movable member; and transferring the person from the second chamber to the second body of water.
  • 63. The method of claim 62, further comprises altering the level of the water in the first chamber such that an upper surface of the water in the first chamber is substantially equal to the upper surface of the water in the first body of water prior to transferring the person from the first body of water to the lock system.
  • 64. The method of claim 62, further comprising placing the person on a floatation device prior to transferring the person to the first chamber.
  • 65. The method of claim 62, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second chamber, wherein altering the level of the water in the first chamber comprises transferring water between the second chamber and the first chamber through the first conduit, and wherein altering the level of the water in the second chamber comprises transferring water between the first chamber and the second chamber through the conduit.
  • 66. The method of claim 62, further comprising altering the level of the water in the first chamber while altering the level of the water in the second chamber.
  • 67. The method of claim 62, further comprising altering the level of the water in the first chamber until the upper surface of the water in the first chamber is substantially equal to the upper surface of the water in the first body of water subsequent to transferring the person to the second chamber.
  • 68. The method of claim 62, further comprising altering the level of the water in the second chamber until the upper surface of the water in the second chamber is substantially equal to a portion of the second movable member subsequent to transferring the person to the second body of water.
  • 69. The method of claim 62, further comprising altering the level of the water in the first chamber until the upper surface of the water in the first chamber is substantially equal to the upper surface of the water in the first body of water subsequent to transferring the person to the second chamber, and further comprising altering the level of the water in the second chamber until the upper surface of the water in the second chamber is substantially equal to a portion of the second movable member subsequent to transferring the person to the second body of water.
  • 70. The method of claim 62, wherein the water lock system further comprises:a third conduit coupled to the first chamber for conducting water out of the first chamber during use; a third water control system positioned along the third conduit, the third water control system being configured to control the flow of water through the third conduit during use; a fourth conduit coupled to the second chamber for conducting water out of the second chamber during use; and a fourth water control system positioned along the fourth conduit, the fourth water control system being configured to control the flow of the water through the fourth conduit during use.
  • 71. The method of claim 62, wherein transferring the person from the first chamber to the second chamber comprises generating a current of water flowing from the first chamber toward the second chamber and positioning the person within the current of water, and wherein the current of water carries the person into the second chamber.
  • 72. The method of claim 62, wherein generating a current comprises filling the first chamber with water while the second movable member is open.
  • 73. The method of claim 62, wherein transferring the person from the second chamber to the second body of water comprises generating a current of water flowing from the second chamber toward the second body of water and positioning the person within the current of water, and wherein the current of water carries the person into the second body of water.
  • 74. The method of claim 73, wherein generating a current comprises filling the second chamber with water while the third movable member is open.
  • 75. An amusement park system, comprising:a water ride configured to convey a person from an upper body of water to a lower body of water; and a water lock system, the water lock system comprising: a chamber for holding water, the chamber being coupled to the lower body of water and the upper body of water; a first movable member formed in the wall of the chamber, the first movable member being positioned to allow the person and water from the first body of water to enter the first chamber when the first movable member is open during use; a second movable member formed in the wall of the chamber, the second movable member being positioned to allow the person and water from the chamber to enter the second body of water when the second movable member is open during use; a bottom member positioned within the chamber, wherein the bottom member is positionable below the upper surface of water within the chamber during use; a first conduit coupled to the chamber for conducting water to the chamber during use; and a first water control system positioned along the first conduit, the first water control system being configured to control the flow of water through the first conduit during use.
  • 76. The system of claim 75, wherein the chamber has a shape that resembles a figure selected from the following group consisting of a square, a rectangle, a circle, a star, a regular polyhedron, a trapezoid, an ellipse, a U-shape, a T-shape, an L-shape, a Y-shape, or a figure eight, when seen from an overhead view.
  • 77. The system of claim 75, wherein the second movable member is formed in the wall at an elevation substantially higher than the first movable member.
  • 78. The system of claim 75, wherein the first and the second movable members are configured to swing away from the chamber wall when moving from a closed position to an open position during use.
  • 79. The system of claim 75, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to move vertically into a portion of the wall when moving from a closed position to an open position.
  • 80. The system of claim 75, wherein the first and the second movable members are configured to move horizontally along a portion of the wall when moving from a closed position to an open position.
  • 81. The system of claim 75, wherein the bottom member is substantially water permeable such that water in the chamber moves freely through the bottom member as the bottom member is moved within the chamber during use.
  • 82. The system of claim 75, wherein the distance between the bottom member and the upper surface of the water in the chamber is substantially constant during use.
  • 83. The system of claim 75, wherein the bottom member comprises a wall extending from the bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water.
  • 84. The system of claim 83, further comprising a substantially vertical first ladder coupled to the bottom member wall and a substantially vertical second ladder coupled to the chamber wall, wherein the first and second ladder are substantially aligned.
  • 85. The system of claim 75, wherein the bottom member is floating within the chamber during use.
  • 86. The system of claim 85, wherein the bottom member comprises a wall and a floatation member, the bottom member wall encircling the bottom member and extending from the bottom member to apposition above the upper surface of the water, the floatation member being positioned upon the bottom member wall at a location proximate the upper surface of the water.
  • 87. The system of claim 75, wherein the bottom member comprises a ratcheted locking system coupling the bottom member to the inner surface of the chamber wall, wherein the ratcheted locking system is configured to inhibit the bottom member from sinking when the water is released from the chamber.
  • 88. The system of claim 75, wherein the water control system comprises a valve and a pump, wherein the valve is configured to control the flow of the water through the conduit, and wherein the pump is configured too pump water through the conduit during use.
  • 89. The system of claim 75, wherein the first movable members, the second movable member, and the first water control system are coupled to a controller, and wherein the controller is configured to control operation of the first movable member, the second movable member, and the first water control system during use.
  • 90. The system of claim 75, wherein the person is riding a flotation device.
  • 91. The system of claim 75, further comprising additional movable members formed in the wall, wherein the additional movable members allow participants to enter and exit the chamber from additional bodies of water positioned adjacent the chamber.
  • 92. The system of claim 91, wherein the additional movable members are formed at different elevational levels.
  • 93. The system of claim 75, further comprising additional movable members and additional water rides, wherein the additional movable members are positioned adjacent to additional bodies of water, wherein the additional bodies of water are coupled to the additional rides, and wherein the movable members allow the person to move from the chamber to the additional bodies of water.
  • 94. The system of claim 93, wherein the additional bodies of water are at different elevational levels.
  • 95. A water lock system for conveying a person from a first body of water to a second body of water, the first and second bodies of water being at different elevational levels, comprising:a chamber for holding water, the chamber coupled to the first body of water and the second body of water; a first movable member formed in a wall of the chamber, the first movable member being positioned to allow the person and water to move between the first body of water and the chamber when the first movable member is open during use; a second movable member formed in the wall of the chamber, the second movable member being positioned to allow the person and water to move between the second body of water and the chamber when the second movable member is open during use; a bottom member positioned within the chamber, wherein the bottom member is positionable below the upper surface of water within the chamber during use, and wherein the bottom member is substantially water permeable such that water in the chamber moves freely through the bottom member as the bottom member is moved within the chamber during use; a first conduit coupled to the chamber for conducting water to the chamber during use; and a first water control system positioned along the first conduit, the first water control system being configured to control the flow of the water through the first conduit during use.
  • 96. The system of claim 95, wherein the chamber has a shape that resembles a figure selected from the group consisting of a square, a rectangle, a circle, a star, a regular polyhedron, a trapezoid, an ellipse, a U-shape, an L-shape, a Y-shape or a figure eight, when seen from an overhead view.
  • 97. The system of claim 95, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to swing away from the chamber wall when moving from a closed position to an open position during use.
  • 98. The system of claim 95, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to move vertically into a portion of the wall when moving from a closed position to an open position.
  • 99. The system of claim 95, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to move horizontally along a portion of the wall when moving from a closed position to an open position.
  • 100. The system of claim 95, wherein a distance between the bottom member and the upper surface of the water in the chamber is substantially constant during use.
  • 101. The system of claim 95, wherein the bottom member comprises a wall extending from the bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water.
  • 102. The system of claim 95, wherein the bottom member is floating within the chamber.
  • 103. The system of claim 102, wherein the bottom member comprises a wall and a floatation member, the bottom member wall encircling the bottom member and extending from the bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water, the floatation member being positioned upon the bottom member wall at a location proximate the upper surface of the water.
  • 104. The system of claim 103, further comprising a substantially vertical first ladder coupled to the bottom member wall and a substantially vertical second ladder coupled to the wall of the chamber, wherein the first and second ladders are substantially aligned.
  • 105. The system of claim 95, wherein the bottom member comprises a wall extending from the bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water, wherein the bottom member wall is configured to inhibit the person from moving to a position below the bottom member.
  • 106. The system of claim 95, wherein the bottom member comprises a locking system coupling the bottom member to the inner surface of the chamber wall, wherein the locking system is configured to inhibit the bottom member from sinking when water is released from the chamber.
  • 107. The system of claim 100, wherein the locking system is a ratcheted locking system.
  • 108. The system of claim 95, wherein the water control system comprises a valve configured to control flow of water through the first conduit.
  • 109. The system of claim 95, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use.
  • 110. The system of claim 109, wherein the first water control system comprises a valve and a pump, wherein the valve is configured to control flow of water through the first conduit, and wherein the pump is configured to pump water between the chamber and the second body of water during use.
  • 111. The system of claim 95, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the first body of water and the chamber during use.
  • 112. The system of claim 111, wherein the first water control system comprises a pump positioned along the first conduit for pumping water between the first body of water and the chamber during use.
  • 113. The system of claim 95, further comprising a second conduit and a second water control system, the second conduit being coupled to the chamber for conducting water out of the chamber during use, the second water control system being positioned along the second conduit to control flow of water through the second conduit during use.
  • 114. The system of claim 113, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the first body of water during use.
  • 115. The system of claim 113, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the second body of water during use, and wherein the second water control system comprises a pump for pumping water between the chamber and the second body of water during use.
  • 116. The system of claim 113, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the first body of water during use, and further comprising a third conduit and a third water control system, the third conduit being coupled to the second body of water and the first body of water, the third water control system being positioned along the third conduit, and wherein the third water control system comprises a pump configured to pump water between the first body of water and the second body of water during use.
  • 117. The system of claim 95, wherein the first movable member, the second movable member, and the first water control system are coupled to a controller, and wherein the controller is configured to control operation of the first movable member, the second movable member, and the first water control system during use.
  • 118. The system of claim 95, further comprising a flotation device for supporting the person, wherein the system is further configured to convey the flotation device without the person dismounting from the flotation device.
  • 119. The system of claim 95, further comprising additional movable members formed in the wall, and wherein the additional movable members allow participants to enter and exit the chamber to and from additional bodies of water positioned adjacent the chamber.
  • 120. The system of claim 119, wherein the additional movable members are formed at different vertical positions along the chamber.
  • 121. A water lock system for conveying a person from a first body of water to a second body of water, the first and second bodies of water being at different elevational levels, comprising:a chamber for holding water, the chamber coupled to the first body of water and the second body of water; a first movable member formed in a wall of the chamber, the first movable member being positioned to allow the person and water to move between the first body of water and the chamber when the first movable member is open during use; a second movable member formed in the wall of the chamber, the second movable member being positioned to allow the person and water to move between the second body of water and the chamber when the second movable member is open during use; a bottom member positioned within the chamber, the bottom member comprising a wall extending from the bottom member, wherein the bottom member is positionable below the upper surface of water within the chamber during use, and wherein the bottom member wall extends to a position above the upper surface of the water; a first conduit coupled to the chamber for conducting water to the chamber during use; and a first water control system positioned along the first conduit, the first water control system being configured to control the flow of the water through the first conduit during use.
  • 122. The system of claim 121, wherein the chamber has a shape that resembles a figure selected from the group consisting of a square, a rectangle, a circle, a star, a regular polyhedron, a trapezoid, an ellipse, a U-shape, an L-shape, a Y-shape or a figure eight, when seen from an overhead view.
  • 123. The system of claim 121, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to swing away from the chamber wall when moving from a closed position to an open position during use.
  • 124. The system of claim 121, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to move vertically into a portion of the wall when moving from a closed position to an open position.
  • 125. The system of claim 121, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to move horizontally along a portion of the wall when moving from a closed position to an open position.
  • 126. The system of claim 121, wherein the bottom member is substantially water permeable such that water in the chamber moves freely through the bottom member as the bottom member is moved within the chamber during use.
  • 127. The system of claim 121, wherein a distance between the bottom member and the upper surface of the water in the chamber is substantially constant during use.
  • 128. The system of claim 121, wherein the bottom member is floating within the chamber.
  • 129. The system of claim 120, wherein the bottom member comprises a floatation member, the floatation member being positioned upon the bottom member wall at a location proximate the upper surface of the water.
  • 130. The system of claim 129, further comprising a substantially vertical first ladder coupled to the bottom member wall and a substantially vertical second ladder coupled to the wall of the chamber, wherein the first and second ladders are substantially aligned.
  • 131. The system of claim 121, wherein the bottom member wall is configured to inhibit the person from moving to a position below the bottom member.
  • 132. The system of claim 121, wherein the bottom member comprises a locking system coupling the bottom member to the inner surface of the chamber wall, wherein the locking system is configured to inhibit the bottom member from sinking when water is released from the chamber.
  • 133. The system of claim 132, wherein the locking system is a ratcheted locking system.
  • 134. The system of claim 121, wherein the water control system comprises a valve configured to control flow of water through the first conduit.
  • 135. The system of claim 121, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use.
  • 136. The system of claim 135, wherein the first water control system comprises a valve and a pump, wherein the valve is configured to control flow of water through the first conduit, and wherein the pump is configured to pump water between the chamber and the second body of water during use.
  • 137. The system of claim 121, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the first body of water and the chamber during use.
  • 138. The system of claim 137, wherein the first water control system comprises a pump positioned along the first conduit for pumping water between the first body of water and the chamber during use.
  • 139. The system of claim 121, further comprising a second conduit and a second water control system, the second conduit being coupled to the chamber for conducting water out of the chamber during use, the second water control system being positioned along the second conduit to control flow of water through the second conduit during use.
  • 140. The system of claim 139, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the first body of water during use.
  • 141. The system of claim 139, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the second body of water during use, and wherein the second water control system comprises a pump for pumping water between the chamber and the second body of water during use.
  • 142. The system of claim 139, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the first body of water during use, and further comprising a third conduit and a third water control system, the third conduit being coupled to the second body of water and the first body of water, the third water control system being positioned along the third conduit, and wherein the third water control system comprises a pump configured to pump water between the first body of water and the second body of water during use.
  • 143. The system of claim 121, wherein the first movable member, the second movable member, and the first water control system are coupled to a controller, and wherein the controller is configured to control operation of the first movable member, the second movable member, and the first water control system during use.
  • 144. The system of claim 121, wherein the person is riding a flotation device, and wherein the system is configured to convey the person and the flotation device without the person dismounting from the flotation device.
  • 145. The system of claim 121, further comprising additional movable members formed in the wall, and wherein the additional movable members allow participants to enter and exit the chamber to and from additional bodies of water positioned adjacent the chamber.
  • 146. The system of claim 145, wherein the additional movable members are formed at different vertical positions along the chamber.
  • 147. A water lock system for conveying a person from a first body of water to a second body of water, the first and second bodies of water being at different elevational levels, comprising:a chamber for holding water, the chamber coupled to the first body of water and the second body of water; a first movable member formed in a wall of the chamber, the first movable member being positioned to allow the person and water to move between the first body of water and the chamber when the first movable member is open during use; a second movable member formed in the wall of the chamber, the second movable member being positioned to allow the person and water to move between the second body of water and the chamber when the second movable member is open during use; a bottom member positioned within the chamber, wherein the bottom member is configured to be floating within the chamber and positionable below the upper surface of water within the chamber during use; a first conduit coupled to the chamber for conducting water to the chamber during use; and a first water control system positioned along the first conduit, the first water control system being configured to control the flow of the water through the first conduit during use.
  • 148. The system of claim 147, wherein the chamber has a shape that resembles a figure selected from the group consisting of a square, a rectangle, a circle, a star, a regular polyhedron, a trapezoid, an ellipse, a U-shape, an L-shape, a Y-shape or a figure eight, when seen from an overhead view.
  • 149. The system of claim 147, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to swing away from the chamber wall when moving from a closed position to an open position during use.
  • 150. The system of claim 147, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to move vertically into a portion of the wall when moving from a closed position to an open position.
  • 151. The system of claim 147, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to move horizontally along a portion of the wall when moving from a closed position to an open position.
  • 152. The system of claim 147, wherein a distance between the bottom member and the upper surface of the water in the chamber is substantially constant during use.
  • 153. The system of claim 147, wherein the bottom member comprises a wall extending from the bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water.
  • 154. The system of claim 147, wherein the bottom member comprises a wall and a floatation member, the bottom member wall encircling the bottom member and extending from the bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water, the floatation member being positioned upon the bottom member wall at a location proximate the upper surface of the water.
  • 155. The system of claim 154, further comprising a substantially vertical first ladder coupled to the bottom member wall and a substantially vertical second ladder coupled to the wall of the chamber, wherein the first and second ladders are substantially aligned.
  • 156. The system of claim 147, wherein the bottom member comprises a wall extending from the bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water, wherein the bottom member wall is configured to inhibit the person from moving to a position below the bottom member.
  • 157. The system of claim 147, wherein the bottom member comprises a locking system coupling the bottom member to the inner surface of the chamber wall, wherein the locking system is configured to inhibit the bottom member from sinking when water is released from the chamber.
  • 158. The system of claim 157, wherein the locking system is a ratcheted locking system.
  • 159. The system of claim 147, wherein the water control system comprises a valve configured to control flow of water through the first conduit.
  • 160. The system of claim 147, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use.
  • 161. The system of claim 160, wherein the first water control system comprises a valve and a pump, wherein the valve is configured to control flow of water through the first conduit, and wherein the pump is configured to pump water between the chamber and the second body of water during use.
  • 162. The system of claim 147, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the first body of water and the chamber during use.
  • 163. The system of claim 162, wherein the first water control system comprises a pump positioned along the first conduit for pumping water between the first body of water and the chamber during use.
  • 164. The system of claim 147, further comprising a second conduit and a second water control system, the second conduit being coupled to the chamber for conducting water out of the chamber during use, the second water control system being positioned along the second conduit to control flow of water through the second conduit during use.
  • 165. The system of claim 164, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the first body of water during use.
  • 166. The system of claim 164, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the second body of water during use, and wherein the second water control system comprises a pump for pumping water between the chamber and the second body of water during use.
  • 167. The system of claim 164, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the first body of water during use, and further comprising a third conduit and a third water control system, the third conduit being coupled to the second body of water and the first body of water, the third water control system being positioned along the third conduit, and wherein the third water control system comprises a pump configured to pump water between the first body of water and the second body of water during use.
  • 168. The system of claim 147, wherein the first movable member, the second movable member, and the first water control system are coupled to a controller, and wherein the controller is configured to control operation of the first movable member, the second movable member, and the first water control system during use.
  • 169. The system of claim 147, further comprising a flotation device for supporting the person, wherein the system is further configured to convey the flotation device without the person dismounting from the flotation device.
  • 170. The system of claim 147, further comprising additional movable members formed in the wall, and wherein the additional movable members allow participants to enter and exit the chamber to and from additional bodies of water positioned adjacent the chamber.
  • 171. The system of claim 170, wherein the additional movable members are formed at different vertical positions along the chamber.
  • 172. A water lock system for conveying a person from a first body of water to a second body of water, the first and second bodies of water being at different elevational levels, comprising:a chamber for holding water, the chamber coupled to the first body of water and the second body of water; a first movable member formed in a wall of the chamber, the first movable member being positioned to allow the person and water to move between the first body of water and the chamber when the first movable member is open during use; a second movable member formed in the wall of the chamber, the second movable member being positioned to allow the person and water to move between the second body of water and the chamber when the second movable member is open during use; a bottom member positioned within the chamber and positionable below the upper surface of water within the chamber during use, the bottom member comprising a wall extending from the bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water, wherein the bottom member wall is configured to inhibit the person from moving to a position below the bottom member; a first conduit coupled to the chamber for conducting water to the chamber during use; and a first water control system positioned along the first conduit, the first water control system being configured to control the flow of the water through the first conduit during use.
  • 173. The system of claim 172, wherein the chamber has a shape that resembles a figure selected from the group consisting of a square, a rectangle, a circle, a star, a regular polyhedron, a trapezoid, an ellipse, a U-shape, an L-shape, a Y-shape or a figure eight, when seen from an overhead view.
  • 174. The system of claim 172, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to swing away from the chamber wall when moving from a closed position to an open position during use.
  • 175. The system of claim 172, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to move vertically into a portion of the wall when moving from a closed position to an open position.
  • 176. The system of claim 172, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to move horizontally along a portion of the wall when moving from a closed position to an open position.
  • 177. The system of claim 172, wherein a distance between the bottom member and the upper surface of the water in the chamber is substantially constant during use.
  • 178. The system of claim 172, wherein the bottom member is floating within the chamber.
  • 179. The system of claim 178, wherein the bottom member comprises a floatation member, the floatation member being positioned upon the bottom member wall at a location proximate the upper surface of the water.
  • 180. The system of claim 179, further comprising a substantially vertical first ladder coupled to the bottom member wall and a substantially vertical second ladder coupled to the wall of the chamber, wherein the first and second ladders are substantially aligned.
  • 181. The system of claim 172, wherein the bottom member comprises a locking system coupling the bottom member to the inner surface of the chamber wall, wherein the locking system is configured to inhibit the bottom member from sinking when water is released from the chamber.
  • 182. The system of claim 181, wherein the locking system is a ratcheted locking system.
  • 183. The system of claim 172, wherein the water control system comprises a valve configured to control flow of water through the first conduit.
  • 184. The system of claim 172, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use.
  • 185. The system of claim 184, wherein the first water control system comprises a valve and a pump, wherein the valve is configured to control flow of water through the first conduit, and wherein the pump is configured to pump water between the chamber and the second body of water during use.
  • 186. The system of claim 172, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the first body of water and the chamber during use.
  • 187. The system of claim 186, wherein the first water control system comprises a pump positioned along the first conduit for pumping water between the first body of water and the chamber during use.
  • 188. The system of claim 172, further comprising a second conduit and a second water control system, the second conduit being coupled to the chamber for conducting water out of the chamber during use, the second water control system being positioned along the second conduit to control flow of water through the second conduit during use.
  • 189. The system of claim 188, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the first body of water during use.
  • 190. The system of claim 188, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the second body of water during use, and wherein the second water control system comprises a pump for pumping water between the chamber and the second body of water during use.
  • 191. The system of claim 188, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the first body of water during use, and further comprising a third conduit and a third water control system, the third conduit being coupled to the second body of water and the first body of water, the third water control system being positioned along the third conduit, and wherein the third water control system comprises a pump configured to pump water between the first body of water and the second body of water during use.
  • 192. The system of claim 172, wherein the first movable member, the second movable member, and the first water control system are coupled to a controller, and wherein the controller is configured to control operation of the first movable member, the second movable member, and the first water control system during use.
  • 193. The system of claim 172, wherein the person is riding a flotation device, and wherein the system is configured to convey the person and the flotation device without the person dismounting from the flotation device.
  • 194. The system of claim 172, further comprising additional movable members formed in the wall, and wherein the additional movable members allow participants to enter and exit the chamber to and from additional bodies of water positioned adjacent the chamber.
  • 195. The system of claim 194, wherein the additional movable members are formed at different vertical positions along the chamber.
  • 196. A water lock system for conveying a person from a first body of water to a second body of water, the first and second bodies of water being at different elevational levels, comprising:a chamber for holding water, the chamber coupled to the first body of water and the second body of water; a first movable member formed in a wall of the chamber, the first movable member being positioned to allow the person and water to move between the first body of water and the chamber when the first movable member is open during use; a second movable member formed in the wall of the chamber, the second movable member being positioned to allow the person and water to move between the second body of water and the chamber when the second movable member is open during use; a bottom member positioned within the chamber and positionable below the upper surface of water within the chamber during use, the bottom member comprising a locking system coupling the bottom member to the inner surface of the chamber wall, wherein the locking system is configured to inhibit the bottom member from sinking when water is released from the chamber; a first conduit coupled to the chamber for conducting water to the chamber during use; and a first water control system positioned along the first conduit, the first water control system being configured to control the flow of the water through the first conduit during use.
  • 197. The system of claim 196, wherein the chamber has a shape that resembles a figure selected from the group consisting of a square, a rectangle, a circle, a star, a regular polyhedron, a trapezoid, an ellipse, a U-shape, an L-shape, a Y-shape or a figure eight, when seen from an overhead view.
  • 198. The system of claim 196, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to swing away from the chamber wall when moving from a closed position to an open position during use.
  • 199. The system of claim 196, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to move vertically into a portion of the wall when moving from a closed position to an open position.
  • 200. The system of claim 196, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to move horizontally along a portion of the wall when moving from a closed position to an open position.
  • 201. The system of claim 196, wherein a distance between the bottom member and the upper surface of the water in the chamber is substantially constant during use.
  • 202. The system of claim 196, wherein the bottom member comprises a wall extending from the bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water.
  • 203. The system of claim 196, wherein the bottom member is floating within the chamber.
  • 204. The system of claim 203, wherein the bottom member comprises a wall and a floatation member, the bottom member wall encircling the bottom member and extending from the bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water, the floatation member being positioned upon the bottom member wall at a location proximate the upper surface of the water.
  • 205. The system of claim 204, further comprising a substantially vertical first ladder coupled to the bottom member wall and a substantially vertical second ladder coupled to the wall of the chamber, wherein the first and second ladders are substantially aligned.
  • 206. The system of claim 196, wherein the bottom member comprises a wall extending from the bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water, wherein the bottom member wall is configured to inhibit the person from moving to a position below the bottom member.
  • 207. The system of claim 196, wherein the locking system is a ratcheted locking system.
  • 208. The system of claim 196, wherein the water control system comprises a valve configured to control flow of water through the first conduit.
  • 209. The system of claim 196, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use.
  • 210. The system of claim 209, wherein the first water control system comprises a valve and a pump, wherein the valve is configured to control flow of water through the first conduit, and wherein the pump is configured to pump water between the chamber and the second body of water during use.
  • 211. The system of claim 196, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the first body of water and the chamber during use.
  • 212. The system of claim 211, wherein the first water control system comprises a pump positioned along the first conduit for pumping water between the first body of water and the chamber during use.
  • 213. The system of claim 196, further comprising a second conduit and a second water control system, the second conduit being coupled to the chamber for conducting water out of the chamber during use, the second water control system being positioned along the second conduit to control flow of water through the second conduit during use.
  • 214. The system of claim 213, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the first body of water during use.
  • 215. The system of claim 213, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the second body of water during use, and wherein the second water control system comprises a pump for pumping water between the chamber and the second body of water during use.
  • 216. The system of claim 213, wherein the first conduit is further coupled to the second body of water, and wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use, and wherein the second conduit is further coupled to the first body of water, and wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the first body of water during use, and further comprising a third conduit and a third water control system, the third conduit being coupled to the second body of water and the first body of water, the third water control system being positioned along the third conduit, and wherein the third water control system comprises a pump configured to pump water between the first body of water and the second body of water during use.
  • 217. The system of claim 196, wherein the first movable member, the second movable member, and the first water control system are coupled to a controller, and wherein the controller is configured to control operation of the first movable member, the second movable member, and the first water control system during use.
  • 218. The system of claim 196, wherein the person is riding a flotation device, and wherein the system is configured to convey the person and the flotation device without the person dismounting from the flotation device.
  • 219. The system of claim 196, further comprising additional movable members formed in the wall, and wherein the additional movable members allow participants to enter and exit the chamber to and from additional bodies of water positioned adjacent the chamber.
  • 220. The system of claim 219, wherein the additional movable members are formed at different vertical positions along the chamber.
  • 221. A water lock system for conveying a person from a first body of water to a second body of water, the first and second bodies of water being at different elevational levels, comprising:a chamber for holding water, the chamber coupled to the first body of water and the second body of water; a first movable member formed in a wall of the chamber, the first movable member being positioned to allow the person and water to move between the first body of water and the chamber when the first movable member is open during use; a second movable member formed in the wall of the chamber, the second movable member being positioned to allow the person and water to move between the second body of water and the chamber when the second movable member is open during use; a bottom member positioned within the chamber, wherein the bottom member is positionable below the upper surface of water within the chamber during use; a first conduit coupled to the chamber and the second body of water, wherein the first conduit is configured to transfer water between the second body of water and the chamber during use; a first water control system positioned along the first conduit, the first water control system being configured to control the flow of the water through the first conduit during use; a second conduit being coupled to the chamber and the first body of water, wherein the second conduit is configured to transfer water between the chamber and the first body of water during use; a second water control system positioned along the second conduit to control flow of water through the second conduit during use; a third conduit being coupled to the second body of water and the first body of water, wherein the third conduit is configured to transfer water between the first body of water and the second body of water during use; and a third water control system being positioned along the third conduit, and wherein the third water control system comprises a pump configured to pump water between the first body of water and the second body of water during use.
  • 222. The system of claim 221, wherein the chamber has a shape that resembles a figure selected from the group consisting of a square, a rectangle, a circle, a star, a regular polyhedron, a trapezoid, an ellipse, a U-shape, an L-shape, a Y-shape or a figure eight, when seen from an overhead view.
  • 223. The system of claim 221, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to swing away from the chamber wall when moving from a closed position to an open position during use.
  • 224. The system of claim 221, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to move vertically into a portion of the wall when moving from a closed position to an open position.
  • 225. The system of claim 221, wherein the first and second movable members are configured to move horizontally along a portion of the wall when moving from a closed position to an open position.
  • 226. The system of claim 221, wherein a distance between the bottom member and the upper surface of the water in the chamber is substantially constant during use.
  • 227. The system of claim 221, wherein the bottom member comprises a wall extending from the bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water.
  • 228. The system of claim 221, wherein the bottom member is floating within the chamber.
  • 229. The system of claim 228, wherein the bottom member comprises a wall and a floatation member, the bottom member wall encircling the bottom member and extending from the bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water, the floatation member being positioned upon the bottom member wall at a location proximate the upper surface of the water.
  • 230. The system of claim 229, further comprising a substantially vertical first ladder coupled to the bottom member wall and a substantially vertical second ladder coupled to the wall of the chamber, wherein the first and second ladders are substantially aligned.
  • 231. The system of claim 221, wherein the bottom member comprises a wall extending from the bottom member to a position above the upper surface of the water, wherein the bottom member wall is configured to inhibit the person from moving to a position below the bottom member.
  • 232. The system of claim 221, wherein the bottom member comprises a locking system coupling the bottom member to the inner surface of the chamber wall, wherein the locking system is configured to inhibit the bottom member from sinking when water is released from the chamber.
  • 233. The system of claim 232, wherein the locking system is a ratcheted locking system.
  • 234. The system of claim 221, wherein the first water control system comprises a valve configured to control flow of water through the first conduit.
  • 235. The system of claim 221, wherein the second water control system comprises a valve configured to control flow of water through the second conduit.
  • 236. The system of claim 221, wherein the third water control system comprises a valve configured to control flow of water through the third conduit.
  • 237. The system of claim 221, wherein the first water control system comprises a valve and a pump, wherein the valve is configured to control flow of water through the first conduit, and wherein the pump is configured to pump water between the chamber and the second body of water during use.
  • 238. The system of claim 221, wherein the second water control system comprises a valve and a pump, wherein the valve is configured to control flow of water through the second conduit, and wherein the pump is configured to pump water between the chamber and the first body of water during use.
  • 239. The system of claim 221, wherein the third water control system comprises a valve and a pump, wherein the valve is configured to control flow of water through the third conduit, and wherein the pump is configured to pump water between the first body of water and the second body of water during use.
  • 240. The system of claim 221, wherein the first movable member, the second movable member, and the first water control system are coupled to a controller, and wherein the controller is configured to control operation of the first movable member, the second movable member, and the first water control system during use.
  • 241. The system of claim 221, wherein the person is riding a flotation device, and wherein the system is configured to convey the person and the flotation device without the person dismounting from the flotation device.
  • 242. The system of claim 221, further comprising additional movable members formed in the wall, and wherein the additional movable members allow participants to enter and exit the chamber to and from additional bodies of water positioned adjacent the chamber.
  • 243. The system of claim 242, wherein the additional movable members are formed at different vertical positions along the chamber.
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