Tortuous Alinement Patents (Class 104/63)
-
Patent number: 11345309Abstract: A restraint system for a ride vehicle includes a rigid restraint configured to extend across a passenger to secure the passenger within a seat of the ride vehicle and a soft restraint coupled to the rigid restraint. The soft restraint includes a pliable material configured to conform to a substantial portion of a torso of the passenger and a haptic feedback system integrated with the soft restraint. The haptic feedback system is configured to generate vibrational forces and impart the vibrational forces to the torso of the passenger.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2019Date of Patent: May 31, 2022Assignee: Universal City Studios LLCInventors: Dante Lamar Bruno, Cameron John Kania
-
Patent number: 10731327Abstract: An entertainment structure includes an offset core, a floor tying assembly and a plurality of floor plate assemblies. The plurality of floor plate assemblies each include a first edge and a second edge. The first edge of each of the plurality of floor plate assemblies is configured to be coupled to the offset core and the second edge of each of the plurality of floor plate assemblies is configured to be coupled to the floor tying assembly.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2017Date of Patent: August 4, 2020Assignee: SkyRise Global, LLCInventors: Jeffrey Berkowitz, Bernardo Fort-Brescia, Ronald Klemencic
-
Patent number: 10357722Abstract: A motion simulator ride assembly including a motion base and a rider support assembly positioned beneath and coupled to the motion base. The rider support assembly includes a plurality of rider support units each including a saddle having a leading end, a tail end, and a superior surface that may support a rider in a facedown position and a restraint system that may secure the rider onto the rider support. The restraint system includes a rotating restraint having an attachment point on the saddle, and the rotating restraint may move relative to the superior surface to move the rotating restraint from an unrestrained configuration to a restrained configuration, and the rotating restraint may abut against a posterior surface of a torso of the rider when the rotating restraint is in the restrained configuration. The motion simulator ride assembly also includes a display screen that may project a simulated environment. The display screen is positioned below the motion base.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2017Date of Patent: July 23, 2019Assignee: Universal City Studios LLCInventors: Nathanael G. White, Ted W. Van Winkle, Daniel Freedman, Justin Michael Schwartz, Dwain South, Michael Tresaugue, Gregory Hall
-
Patent number: 10155171Abstract: A track-based swing ride system providing passengers a unique swinging ride experience. The ride system includes a ride track that supports a moving bogie coupled to the ride track that includes a drive assembly driving the bogie along a ride path defined by the ride track. The ride apparatus includes a pendulum arm pivotally coupled at a first end to the bogie, whereby the pendulum arm is suspended below the ride track and moves along the ride path with the bogie. The ride apparatus includes a passenger vehicle coupled to a second end of the pendulum arm opposite the first end of the pendulum arm. To provide the swinging sensation, the ride apparatus includes a roll driver rotating, concurrently with the drive assembly of the bogie, the pendulum arm about a roll axis extending through the first end of the pendulum arm.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2016Date of Patent: December 18, 2018Assignee: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventors: David W. Crawford, Derek Lee Howard
-
Patent number: 9932046Abstract: Zip track systems and systems for extending zip track systems are provided. An extension mechanism for a zip track system illustratively comprises a crossover unit, configured to attach to a zip track. The crossover unit illustratively comprises a crossover arch and two crossover support poles, wherein each of the support poles connects to an end portion of the crossover arch such that the support poles are configured to stand perpendicular to the zip track. The extension system further illustratively comprises a connection mechanism configured to connect the crossover arch to the zip track system such that the crossover unit distributes the weight of the track through the crossover arch and the crossover support poles.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2014Date of Patent: April 3, 2018Assignee: Landscape Structures Inc.Inventors: Randy G. Watermiller, Steven J. Schaust
-
Patent number: 9751022Abstract: An amusement park ride having a car with seating options above a track, below the track or adjacent to the track such that a rider may experience different thrill levels depending on the position of the car in relation to the track. The car may have a swiveling arm to position the car above, lateral to, or below the track. Alternatively, ride may have multiple cars arranged above, lateral to, or below the track for the rider to choose which position to ride in. In lieu of or in addition to the car seating options, the may have adjustable shoulder restraints that allow the rider to use the shoulder restraints or not. The shoulder restraints may be flexible or rigid, but rotatable from an upright configuration to a sideways configuration.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2016Date of Patent: September 5, 2017Inventor: Eric Fram
-
Patent number: 9603450Abstract: A supplemental restraint system that is mountable to the frame of a stationary structure, such as a police station or other building, to secure a prisoner in a seated position. The supplemental restraint system includes a restraint bar that is pivotally supported on the mounting plate for movement between a raised inoperative position and a lowered operative position. A locking mechanism secures the restraint bar in any selected lowered position and includes an actuation lever for selectively releasing the locking mechanism to permit the restraint bar to be raised for release of the prisoner. A spring mechanism biases the restraint bar toward a raised position so that the restraint bar can be moved upwardly while the police officer is outside of the police vehicle. Mounting plates can be utilized to secure the supplemental restraint system to the floor structure and an adjacent wall structure.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2016Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Inventor: Matthew J. Planer
-
Patent number: 9586159Abstract: A portable inflatable race track comprising a base, at least one wall, and a race surface, wherein the base is at least partially inflatable from a collapsed position to an inflated position, the race surface is inclined relative to horizontal and includes at least one lane configured to accept a vehicle comprising wheels, wherein at least gravity causes the vehicle to travel down the race surface. The race track may include a starting section, a sloped section, a finish section, and a stopping section. The race track may be configured to allow two or more vehicles to simultaneously race down the race surface.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2014Date of Patent: March 7, 2017Inventor: Russell Coleman
-
Patent number: 8943975Abstract: A roller coaster ride system comprising a first track section which is adapted to guide a passenger car and a second track section which extends in a first plane. The roller coaster ride system is characterized in that the second track section is attached to a platform which is moveably guided on a frame in a second plane that is inclined in relation to the first plane, in particular perpendicular thereto, and that the second track section can be coupled in a first position to the first track section in order to transfer a passenger car from the first track section to the second track section, and can be in a second position is spatially offset along the second plane relative to the first position.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2012Date of Patent: February 3, 2015Assignee: Zierer Karussell-und Spezialmaschinenbau GmbHInventors: Roland Gmeinwieser, Walter Steininger, Rupert Koeckeis
-
Publication number: 20130305953Abstract: A tower ride is disclosed with suspended cars mounted on rails that that forms track that is a complete double helix path for the car without having to turn the car or switch tracks. The car is suspended from a four truss track, riding on the two bottom rails for stability. Another embodiment is a roller coaster track mounted on a tower.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 22, 2013Publication date: November 21, 2013Inventor: William J Kitchen
-
Patent number: 8490550Abstract: A roller coaster with seats articulated between vertical and reclined positions. The roller coaster includes a track with a load/unload portion and a ride portion. The coaster includes a vehicle with a body supported on the track and a passenger seat positioned in the body mounted for articulation between a first position and a second position. The roller coaster includes a seat positioning mechanism coupled to the passenger seat operating while the vehicle is in the load/unload portion to articulate the seat into the first position and operating, prior to the vehicle traveling into the ride portion of the ride path, to articulate the seat into the second position. The passenger seat includes a seat back that is substantially vertical in the first position and is at an obtuse angle in the second position or horizontal position, such that a passenger has an upward point of view during the ride.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2011Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: David W. Crawford, Thomas Fitzgerald, Derek Howard, David A. Durham, James H. Shull
-
Patent number: 8453578Abstract: A coaster according to the invention includes a track (10) and a vehicle (20). The track (10) includes a first support rail (11) and a second support rail (12). The first support rail (11) and the second support rail (12) are disposed vertically below the passenger receiver of the vehicle (20). Each of the bogies (23) and (24) includes a plurality of first rollers (25) and second rollers (26), wherein the second rollers (26) contact the second support rail (12) and prevent a lateral tilting of the vehicle relative to the plane (E) defined by the first support rail (11) and the second support rail (12). The first support element (11) and the second support element (12) are configured tubular.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2010Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Inventor: Jörg Beutler
-
Patent number: 8453576Abstract: A roller coaster amusement device adapted to provide for the passengers a ride wherein the passengers experience at least a portion of the ride in a racing position, the amusement device wherein an endless guide structure at least including multiple curves, one or more carriages displaceable along the guide structure, a passenger assembly associated with a carriage, said passenger assembly being adapted to accommodate at least one passenger such that said passenger experiences at least a portion of the ride in a racing position, a station along said guide structure allowing the passenger to board the passenger assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2008Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Vekoma Rides Engineering B.V.Inventors: Joop Roodenburg, Petrus Joseph Hubertus Clerx
-
Patent number: 8393275Abstract: A roller coaster or amusement ride providing a unique free-floating sensation by extending the passenger vehicles out on either side of the central frame structure. The passenger vehicles (48, 50) are supported between two cushioned cantilevered vehicle support arms {34, 36) that pivot while being supported between air bags (30, 32} or springs. The air pressure in the air bags or the tension in the springs can be adjusted to provide a soft, free-floating sensation to the ride. Additional passenger vehicle motions are achieved by the omni-directional ball-swivel joints (38, 40) on the ends of the support arms. The off-center location of the passenger vehicles (48, 50) and the weight of the passengers enable the passenger vehicles to remain in the up right position even when the central frame structure rotates around the track system. No additional drive systems or passenger controls are required on this unique roller coaster ride.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2008Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Assignee: S & S Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Timothy R. Jacobi, Stanley J. Checketts
-
Patent number: 8371227Abstract: A ride system with crossing ride paths. A first omnimover assembly is provided that includes a continuous vehicle chain movable along a first ride path and includes vehicles vertically supported above the track at a first height. A second omnimover assembly is provided with a continuous vehicle chain movable along a second ride path that differs from the first ride path and crosses over the first ride path when viewed in plan view. The second omnimover assembly includes vehicles vertically supported below the upper vehicle track at a second height, which may be the same as the first height such that passengers perceive a risk of a collision at the path intersections. The upper track is at a higher elevation than the lower track such that cross overs occur without interference. A synchronization mechanism is provided that synchronizes the movement of the upper and lower vehicle chains.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2011Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Edward A. Nemeth, David W. Crawford
-
Publication number: 20130025492Abstract: A roller coaster with seats articulated between vertical and reclined positions. The roller coaster includes a track with a load/unload portion and a ride portion. The coaster includes a vehicle with a body supported on the track and a passenger seat positioned in the body mounted for articulation between a first position and a second position. The roller coaster includes a seat positioning mechanism coupled to the passenger seat operating while the vehicle is in the load/unload portion to articulate the seat into the first position and operating, prior to the vehicle traveling into the ride portion of the ride path, to articulate the seat into the second position. The passenger seat includes a seat back that is substantially vertical in the first position and is at an obtuse angle in the second position or horizontal position, such that a passenger has an upward point of view during the ride.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2011Publication date: January 31, 2013Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventors: DAVID W. CRAWFORD, THOMAS FITZGERALD, DEREK HOWARD, DAVID A. DURHAM, JAMES H. SHULL
-
Patent number: 8241133Abstract: Systems, devices, apparatus and methods of using a simulator cabin module with an interior space which replicates a space ship, where the simulator module is mounted in a real aircraft, as a real airborne simulator. The aircraft lifts off to provide airborne maneuvers such as parabolic flight paths to cause G force and zero gravity effects to passengers in the cabin module. The cabin module includes rows of seats where passengers experience realistic sounds, lights, different temperatures, and physical effects (vibrations) of space ship liftoffs and space travel by having realistic simulation effects distributed over the seated passengers. Passengers can be seated in special reclinable seats with 5 point harnesses and pilot helmets with operable wireless communications and uniforms to add to the realistic simulation effects. Simulator modules can also be mounted in other moving vehicles, such as but not limited to submersibles, ships, and the like.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2009Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Communications Concepts, Inc.Inventors: James C. Lewis, Nick A. Mascia
-
Patent number: 8132513Abstract: An amusement park ride with one or more evacuation zones. The ride includes a track with a rail defining a ride path. The ride path includes at least one evacuation zone along a first length of the track at a first height and a non-evacuation zone along a second length of the track with one or more portions at a second height greater than the first height. The track is sloped in the non-evacuation zone toward the evacuation zone. The ride includes a vehicle supported on the rail via roller elements such as load bearing wheels. The ride includes a drive assembly that provides a driving force to selectively move the vehicle along the ride path. The drive assembly is adapted to automatically disengage from the vehicle upon loss of power. The vehicle is free rolling upon loss of power to travel to the evacuation zone based on gravity.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2009Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: David W. Crawford, Edward A. Nemeth, Derek Lee Howard
-
Patent number: 7980181Abstract: A drag racing roller coaster amusement ride has at least two sets running rails, each set having at least one running rail and an embark point. At least two carriers (109) are arranged to carry at least one rider on a respective set of running rails with the rider(s) in a substantially prone position. Each carrier is arranged to slidingly engage with the respective set of running rails to enable the carriers to traverse the ride. The ride has an indicator (109) to provide a ride commencement indication. A launch system is configured to provide a powered initial motion to each carrier. Each carrier has a ride activator controllable by a rider of the carrier to trigger the launch system to commence the ride for the carrier following the ride commencement indication. Launch systems are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2006Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Assignee: Manchester Securities LimitedInventors: Christopher James Heaslip, Robert Cummins
-
Patent number: 7914384Abstract: An amusement device has an elongated track along which one or more amusement device seat assemblies adapted to carry the one or more passengers are moveable. Each seat assembly has a seat with a seating surface and a back support with a back support surface. The seat assembly further includes a bar construction attached to a pivot mechanism. This bar construction has a hip bar and one or more pivot arms integral with the hip bar, which bar construction is pivotable about the pivot axis from a raised position in which the hip bar is raised from the seating surface to allow a passenger to sit down in the amusement device seat assembly, to a lowered position. No part of the bar construction takes away the view of the person and limits the movements of the arms of the person, allowing the passenger to experience a great sense of freedom.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2007Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Assignee: Vekoma Rides Engineering B.V.Inventors: Joop Roodenburg, Johan Willem Philippen
-
Patent number: 7610859Abstract: An improved roller coaster system having one or more tracks that may exist in differing orientations on one support spine or equivalent supporting structure. Passengers may be rotated independently of the orientation of the tracks an essentially unlimited amount of times in either direction about predetermined axes utilizing inertia as the motive force. If multiple tracks are used, each may run separately from the others in portions of the circuit to provide unique track elements for each set of riders. Furthermore, each track may have its orientation and position relative to the support system exchanged with other tracks in the system.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2007Date of Patent: November 3, 2009Inventor: Jordan Reder Dietrich
-
Patent number: 7594473Abstract: A rail assembly is built from three parallel cylindrical members, wherein a first rail provides support for a large wheel. The large wheel has an axle protruding from each side, wherein the outbound side has a frame attached to the axle and a seat attached to the frame. The rail side of the axle connects to a second rail acting as a pilot/guide for the travel of the large wheel. A third rail and interconnections provide structural rigidity for the rail assembly. The riders fly through a roller coaster layout sitting only in a seat, facing the passing environment head on at high speeds, thereby experiencing a free flight sensation. A people mover embodiment adds a motor to the wheel to move the wheel along a relatively flat layout. An optional flip means functions to selectively engage the axle with the rotating large wheel (nominally via a reduction gear) to flip the riders 360°. Optionally a group of large wheels can be coupled together to form a train.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2006Date of Patent: September 29, 2009Inventors: William J. Kitchen, John H. Chance
-
Publication number: 20090031913Abstract: A drag racing roller coaster amusement ride has at least two sets running rails, each set having at least one running rail and an embark point. At least two carriers (109) are arranged to carry at least one rider on a respective set of running rails with the rider(s) in a substantially prone position. Each carrier is arranged to slidingly engage with the respective set of running rails to enable the carriers to traverse the ride. The ride has an indicator (109) to provide a ride commencement indication. A launch system is configured to provide a powered initial motion to each carrier. Each carrier has a ride activator controllable by a rider of the carrier to trigger the launch system to commence the ride for the carrier following the ride commencement indication. Launch systems are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2006Publication date: February 5, 2009Inventors: Christopher James Heaslip, Robert Cummins
-
Patent number: 7430966Abstract: A roller coaster installation comprising a stretch of water, along which runs a train of vehicles (104) provided laterally with hydrodynamic brakes comprising a fin (102) or a nozzle, becoming immersed in the mass of water (A) and discharging this in the form of rising sprays (B).Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2005Date of Patent: October 7, 2008Assignee: Bolliger & Mabillard Ingenieurs Conseils S.A.Inventors: Claude Mabillard, Walter Bolliger
-
Publication number: 20080143158Abstract: An amusement device, in particular a roller coaster, for providing a sense of excitement to one or more passengers using the amusement device. The amusement device has an elongated track along which one or more amusement device seat assemblies adapted to carry the one or more passengers are moveable. Each seat assembly has a seat with a seating surface and a back support with a back support surface. The seat assembly further includes a bar construction attached to a pivot mechanism. This bar construction has a hip bar and one or more pivot arms integral with the hip bar, which bar construction is pivotable about the pivot axis from a raised position in which the hip bar is raised from the seating surface to allow a passenger to sit down in the amusement device seat assembly, to a lowered position. The bar construction is such that no part of the bar construction takes away the view of the person and limits the movements of the arms of the person, allowing the passenger to experience a great sense of freedom.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2007Publication date: June 19, 2008Applicant: VEKOMA RIDES ENGINEERING B.V.Inventors: Joop Roodenburg, Willem Johan Philippen
-
Patent number: 7357727Abstract: A racetrack designed to accommodate various types of auto racing class including Indy, CART, Formula 1 etc. is disclosed. The race track of the present invention is a continuous closed circuit track with at least two loops which loop about a common center area and with track passing over itself at least once by a nonlevel crossing such as an overpass so that the track does not have a level crossover and thereby allowing a vehicle making an entire circuit of the track the option of only making turns in one direction and not passing over any portion of the track more than once is a single circuit of the track.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2002Date of Patent: April 15, 2008Inventor: Brian Back
-
Patent number: 7351154Abstract: A fun-ride more particularly for amusement parks, fairs and the like comprises at least one rail vehicle 1 and a guide lap for the vehicle 1. In a lateral projection a lap section 2 of the guide lap essentially constitutes a loop, the lap section 2 comprising a first uphill section 3 and a second downhill section 4 and the top ends of the sections are connected together. At least in the uphill section 3 the means 5 for engagement with the vehicle 1 is arranged. This means may for example be a holding brake or a coupling device. It is preferably operated when the vehicle 1 comes to a halt after a downward movement owing to the action of gravity on the vehicle 1.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2005Date of Patent: April 1, 2008Assignee: Maurer Sohne GmbH & Co., KGInventors: Alfred Müller, Jörg Beutler
-
Patent number: 7192010Abstract: A winch system, typically used in a roller coaster system, includes a hydraulic pump, a variable speed motor connected to the hydraulic pump, a first pipe connected to the hydraulic pump; a second pipe connected to the hydraulic pump comprising a second pressurized fluid; an accumulator system connected the pipes; a motor connected to the accumulator system; and a winch drum connected to the motor.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2004Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Assignee: Vekoma Rides Engineering B.V.Inventors: Joop Roodenburg, Peter De Vin
-
Patent number: 7159520Abstract: An amusement ride vehicle includes a first vehicle section, a second vehicle section, and an articulation joint connecting, and providing rotational movement between, the first and second vehicle sections. The articulation joint comprises a first shaft for bearing loads during normal operation of the joint, and a second shaft within the first shaft for bearing loads when the first shaft is inoperable. A test element, such as a lever, is attached to the second shaft. The second shaft is rotatable via the test element during normal operation of the joint. When the first shaft is inoperable, the second shaft handles loads acting on the articulation joint, and is not rotatable via the test element, thus indicating a failure of the first shaft.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2004Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Assignee: Universal City Studios LLPInventors: Joseph Casey, Cindy Emerick, Ben Lovelace, Frank Weigand, Bill Whitcomb, Jim Seay, Glen Hartung
-
Patent number: 6758144Abstract: An amusement vehicle for a bob or toboggan run. A basic vehicle frame has arranged thereon rollers and/or slide members for movement of the vehicle, as well as a second frame for accommodation of one or several persons. The second frame is movable essentially perpendicular to the driving direction of the basic vehicle frame. The invention also includes a bob, toboggan or roller coaster run for such an amusement vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2002Date of Patent: July 6, 2004Inventor: Peter Raidt
-
Patent number: 6679182Abstract: An amusement device (1) has one or several vehicles (2). The drive device (13) of the vehicles is configured as a high-performance catapult drive (22) which is provided with one or more hydromotors (24) and a traction mechanism (20) that has to be detachably connected to the vehicle (2) by means of a carrying device (14). The catapult drive is designed as a rotary drive or winding drive.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2002Date of Patent: January 20, 2004Inventors: Patrick Spieldiener, Reinhold Spieldiener, Robert Spieldiener
-
Patent number: 6606953Abstract: A roller coaster ride comprising a carriage adapted for travel along a track in a predetermined direction and a plurality of seats interconnected to and positioned exteriorly from the carriage. The seats are capable of 360 degree rotation about a longitudinal axis which extends perpendicular to the direction of travel. The seats may further be spaced apart from the carriage in a downward direction by a central arm and perpendicular to said direction of travel.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2002Date of Patent: August 19, 2003Assignee: Meteoro Amusement CorporationInventor: John F. Mares
-
Patent number: 6523479Abstract: Amusement rides and methods are described. The amusement rides of the present invention include roller coaster vehicles that have a controlled spin or controlled rotation in a direction or dimension independent from the track of the roller coaster. The controlled rotation or spin is provided by using displacement of the track configuration to power a proportional rotation of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2001Date of Patent: February 25, 2003Assignee: S&S-Arrow, LLCInventors: Alan Schilke, Fred W. Bolingbroke, Joseph Trillo, Alan Camomile, Jan Bruening, Peter Hines, Gary Bird, Gary Iser
-
Patent number: 6513441Abstract: An amusement device comprising a guide structure forming an endless track, along which a vehicle capable of accommodating at least one person can travel, whereby a person present in the vehicle extends substantially parallel to the track during operation. The person present in the vehicle lies with his back towards the track and with his face directed away from the track. The person's view is not impeded by other vehicles and he can only see the track itself when the turns his head.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2000Date of Patent: February 4, 2003Assignee: Vekoma Technology B.V.Inventors: Petrus Joseph Hubertus Clerx, Christiaan Wilhelmus Peeters
-
Patent number: 6439129Abstract: The object of this invention is a launching system for cars running on a track in equipments for amusement parks, such as roller-coasters or the like, including a mechanical launching device where a falling counterweight moves a rope to pull a train of cars with the needed force, and wherein the counterweight is slowly lifted back up at the end of the launch, while the cars complete their track, thus only requiring some low-powered equipment. The system according to the invention is far cheaper to be produced than the known systems, and offers far lower operating costs.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2001Date of Patent: August 27, 2002Inventor: Marco Begotti
-
Patent number: 6405655Abstract: An amusement device comprising a guide construction forming a track, along which a vehicle, in which at least one person can be seated, is movable in a direction of transport. A holder of the vehicle, which accommodates said person, can be tilted about a tilting axis from a first position, in which the person present in the vehicle includes an angle with the track, to a second position, in which the person who is present in the vehicle in use extends substantially parallel to the track, and vice versa. The holder is positioned above the track in said first position, whereby the tilting axis is located on a side remote from said person's head.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2000Date of Patent: June 18, 2002Assignee: Vekoma Technology B.V.Inventors: Petrus Joseph Hubertus Clerx, Christiaan Wilhelmus Preters
-
Patent number: 6402624Abstract: An amusement ride (100) is disclosed which includes first and second vehicles (128, 130) which are supported in a cantilevered manner off cantilever beams (124, 126) from the stationary supporting track (102) to provide the occupants with the impression of being unsupported. The vehicles (128, 130) are floorless to enhance the effect for the passengers. A coaster style floorless amusement ride (150) is provided. A second embodiment of the amusement ride (200) has a floor style vehicle (202, 204). It can also be a coaster style amusement ride (220). A hubless and spokeless Ferris wheel (10) is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 1999Date of Patent: June 11, 2002Assignee: Versa CorporationInventors: Walter F. Larson, Jeffrey P. Novotny
-
Patent number: 6397755Abstract: An amusement ride comprises a hollow launch tube having an inner surface and first and second ends, the first end being open; a passenger vehicle having an outer peripheral surface which forms a substantial seal with the inner surface of the launch tube so as to form a substantially sealed space inside said launch tube from said passenger vehicle to the second end of the launch tube; guidance means for guiding said passenger vehicle along a pre-determined path to exit the launch tube, said guidance means being self-rigid and extending through said open first end along said pre-determined path; and a pressurized gas source for introducing pressurized gas into the substantially sealed space inside said launch tube sufficient to launch the passenger vehicle along said guidance means and out of the launch tube.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2000Date of Patent: June 4, 2002Assignee: Ride Factory IncorporatedInventor: Frank Kamler
-
Patent number: 6397756Abstract: To move a rail-borne vehicle (2) over a preferably ascending partial section, a finite chain section (8) is pulled in a stationary guide (13) in parallel to the rail (23) using a cable (9). The vehicle (2) engages the chain section (8) via a chain hook (19). The two ends (35), (36) of the cable (9) are connected to the leading end (34) of the chain section (8). The vehicles (2) can be moved rapidly with this cost-saving arrangement. It is also possible to overcome steeper uphill sections than in the state of the art (pull-up devices of roller-coasters).Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2001Date of Patent: June 4, 2002Inventors: Alfons Saiko, Reinhold Spieldiener, Robert Spieldiener, Patrick Spieldiener
-
Patent number: 6328500Abstract: A kit is provided for assembling a closed-loop toy simulation of a roadway comprising at least four curved road segments and at least two straight road segments, each road segment having an upper non-skid surface and at least one marking on such surface that simulates roadway lane markings. A method is provided for constructing a closed-loop toy roadway of a desired shape and length. The method comprises positioning two road segments so they are in substantial longitudinal alignment, connecting the adjacent road segments together by engaging a plurality of loops on one segment with a plurality of hooks on an adjacent segment, and repeating such steps until the desired closed-loop play roadway has been configured. Also provided is a segment for constructing a closed-loop play roadway having a desired shape and length and having on its non-skid upper surface at least one marking that simulates a roadway marking.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2000Date of Patent: December 11, 2001Inventor: Tamara L. Rubio
-
Publication number: 20010023649Abstract: The object of this invention is a launching system for cars running on a track in equipments for amusement parks, such as roller-coasters or the like, including a mechanical launching device where a falling counterweight moves a rope to pull a train of cars with the needed force, and wherein the counterweight is slowly lifted back up at the end of the launch, while the cars complete their track, thus only requiring some low-powered equipment. The system according to the invention is far cheaper to be produced than the known systems, and offers far lower operating costs.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 21, 2001Publication date: September 27, 2001Inventor: Marco Begotti
-
Patent number: 6269749Abstract: An amusement ride includes a lower track structure operably connected with and variably spaced from an upper track structure to define a path of travel for a ride vehicle supported remote from the track structure. A motion translation arrangement is located between the track structure and the ride vehicle for separately or simultaneously varying the distance and angular position of the ride vehicle relative to the track structure in response to at least one of the changing track roll angle and changing gauge of the track structure over a travel path. A drive mechanism is provided for moving the motion translation arrangement and the ride vehicle relative to the track structure.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 1999Date of Patent: August 7, 2001Inventor: John J Hogg
-
Patent number: 6269750Abstract: A novel truss track assembly for use in transporting passenger vehicles provides two sets of tracks for supporting two passenger vehicles concurrently. The truss track assembly includes four running rails for mounting passenger vehicles and a central support rail. A series of frame elements are periodically secured to the running rails and the central support rail to support and maintain the parallel relationship of the running rails and the central support rail. The truss track assembly may be “split” into two individual truss track assemblies wherein the individual truss track assemblies each accommodate a passenger vehicle or a train of passenger vehicles. The present invention further provides a novel side-mount vehicle suitable for mounting of the present invention on the truss track assembly.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2000Date of Patent: August 7, 2001Assignee: Setpoint Engineered Systems, Inc.Inventors: Joseph M. Cornwell, Joseph E. VanDenBerghe, Steven E. Nuetzman, Carl G. Wood, Benjamin H. Womack, Reid H. Leland, Bret Crandall
-
Patent number: 6220171Abstract: A roller coaster includes a plurality of ride vehicles that ride along a track. Each vehicle provides seating for at least one passenger. The track is elevated off the ground and includes a variety of hills, curves, loops, rolls, drops, inversions and the like. The vehicles are totally enclosed and preferably designed to represent a space capsule. Sight line controls and a yaw mechanism are used at the load platform to prevent passengers from seeing the other ride vehicles. In addition, the track at the load platform is angled upwards to allow for easy access to the ride vehicles. Portals in the cabin are designed to control sight lines to focus the passengers' attention on show elements that are placed along the track. An on-board audio system enhances the realism of the ride experience. Adjustable restraint systems are provided in each vehicle to keep the passengers in their seats and inside the vehicle during the ride.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 1999Date of Patent: April 24, 2001Assignee: Universal City StudiosInventors: Philip D. Hettema, Cecil D. Magpuri, Aidan J. Bradley, Kevin T. Parent, Edward S. Newquist
-
Patent number: 6158354Abstract: A roller coaster device which can operate a seat together with a car to perform a perpendicular running motion such as vertical descent, vertical ascent, vertical spiral motion and the like, or in such a manner as to run backwards. The device significantly increases thrill and interest levels by creating the sensation that the endless running rail suddenly disappears from the view of the occupants in the roller coaster device. The device can be configured in a small space and in a compact manner. A car (4) is mounted on the endless running rail (1) having a desired length that is provided in a rolling and bending manner through rollers (6) so as to run freely while being held thereto, and seats (11a, 11b) are suspended on the car 4 by mounting members (12a, 12b) so as to rotate freely.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 1998Date of Patent: December 12, 2000Assignee: Hoei Sangyo Co, Ltd.Inventor: Masahide Eiraku
-
Patent number: 5979333Abstract: An amusement device includes a guide structure forming an endless track, along which a vehicle capable of accommodating at least one person can travel, and where a person present in the vehicle extends substantially parallel to the track during operation. The person present in the vehicle lies with his back towards the track and with his face directed away from the track. The person's view is not impeded by other vehicles and he can only see the track itself when he turns his head.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 1998Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Assignee: Verkoma Technology, B.V.Inventors: Jacob H. M. Houben, Petrus J. H. Clerx
-
Patent number: 5433153Abstract: An amusement track ride system comprises a pair of rails forming a track including a spinning section. A car traveling along the rails includes a chassis, a passenger seat on the chassis, and a plurality of wheel portions situated close to the feet of a passenger in a passenger seat. In the spinning section, the rails extend in a helix along an inner surface of an imaginary cylinder having a central axis, the diameter of the imaginary cylinder being set so that the axis of helical rotation of the car traveling in a spin along the rails passes through the car and is substantially in alignment with the central axis of the imaginary cylinder. The holding device has a shoulder retainer provided at the back rest for holding down the shoulders of the passenger in the passenger seat from above. The retainer is guided by a guide mechanism to be movable in the extending direction of the seat back rest, and locked by a locking mechanism in a position where the retainer abuts against the passenger's shoulders.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 1993Date of Patent: July 18, 1995Assignee: Togo Japan Inc.Inventor: Kazuo Yamada
-
Patent number: 5371937Abstract: A method of making a composite material in which a porous preform is produced by spray casting. An appropriate metal or alloy is caused to infiltrate the interconnected pores. This may be accomplished by infiltrating the porous preform with a liquid metal of a melting point lower than the melting point of the porous preform and thereafter solidifying the infiltrated material or the material can be infiltrated by the use of a slurry containing the desired particles and the liquid carrier driven off by baking the infiltrated preform. Alternatively, infiltration may be accomplished by plating of a desired metal or alloy from an appropriate infiltrate electroplating or electro-less plating solution.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 1994Date of Patent: December 13, 1994Assignee: Olin CorporationInventors: William G. Watson, Ronald N. Caron
-
Patent number: 5272984Abstract: The amusement ride comprises at least one seat suspended on a bogie moving along at least one rail. The seat is provided with a harness for the restraint of at least one passenger in the seat. The seat-harness unit is shaped so as to form a restraint imprisoning the passenger's body when the harness is in the closed position, each of the passenger's four limbs emerging from said restraint through a separate opening, so that the passenger is suspended with his legs in mid-air without a wall or a floor around him.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 1992Date of Patent: December 28, 1993Assignee: Bolliger & Mabillard Ingenieurs Conseils S.A.Inventors: Walter Bolliger, Claude Mabillard
-
Patent number: 5218910Abstract: A roller coaster has cars with passenger supports to hold the passengers in a substantially horizontal position within the car during the ride in seats which can be rigidly molded for each new individual passenger to conform to the unique body contours of the passenger, wherein the cars have multiple vertically-tiered levels of passenger support and are supported from above and below on the track, to provide an increased speed and thrill capability for the ride.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 1992Date of Patent: June 15, 1993Inventors: Ethan J. Mesmer, Matthew S. Gray, Milton E. Parrish