Abstract: A playstation includes a downhill slide and a water slide. The water slide includes a sliding surface and an entry end. The entry end of the water slide is configured to be positioned adjacent to the lower end of the downhill slide so that the sliding surface of the water slide and the sliding surface of the downhill slide form a continuous sliding surface. The water slide is adapted to hold a supply of water over substantially the entire sliding surface. Positioning a water supply over the entire sliding surface facilitates the water-sliding action as a child slides through the water slide. In one aspect of the invention, the water slide includes a drain that extends through the sliding surface of the slide. The drain permits easy replacement of unclean water with fresh water.

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.

Abstract: The invention provides an improved water flume ride having one or more slide effects for presenting multiple random flume paths to riders. In one embodiment, a water flume comprises a primary flume portion, an uphill embankment culminating in a crest, and two or more adjoining secondary flume portions. The secondary flume portions provide mutually exclusive ride paths which are selected according to the particular kinetic energy and/or momentum possessed by a rider ascending toward the crest of the uphill embankment.

Abstract: A kayaking simulation device for use with a water body. The water body has a water surface. The kayaking simulation device comprises a hydraulic hole mechanism for introducing a predetermined amount of water into the water body and creating a hydraulic hole in the water surface of the water body.

Abstract: Slide apparatus includes at least one trough and a switchback trough or a switchback connected to the trough. The switchback is oriented and configured for changing the direction of travel or a user or a passenger, such as a user seated in an inner tube, from a first direction into a second direction. Multiple troughs and switchback elements may be provided so as to maximize the length of time during which a user slides, yet without increasing water usage, energy requirements, and space requirements. A switchback element may be configured for reversing the direction of travel of the user from more than 0° to 180° or more. The switchback element may be configured for directing passengers in different directions along different paths, and yet, without a dividing wall therebetween, thanks to the configuration of the switchback elements.

Abstract: A recreation system resembling a jungle scene is provided with platform elements surrounded by and elevated by support members disguised to look like bamboo rods and tree branches with leaves. The support elements are generally made of pipe materials covered with foam and plastic cable ties so as to resemble bamboo. The tree branch elements are interlocking members designed to appear as tree branches and are changeable to allow for different configurations of tree elements by pulling the present elements apart and then pushing them together in other configurations. The recreation system includes jungle and bird noises and simulated lightning and thunder which are activated during play on the recreation system. The recreation system allows the user to pretend to be in a jungle setting during play.

Abstract: A backyard swimming pool slide includes a 90 degree runway curve, a banked runway rail to offset centrifugal force, and a high volume water diffuser source to enhance the ride. Also disclosed is an integrated ladder, platform and handrail assembly and a center stanchion for cantelever support at the exit end of the slide.

Abstract: A water slide in which the slide surface is not continuously wetted, but is only intermittently wetted (preferably by a water spray). Since the volume of water flowing down the ride is less smaller, riders are not splashed.

Abstract: A water transportation system and method are described, generally related to water amusement attractions and rides. Further, the disclosure generally relates to water-powered rides and to a system and method in which participants may be actively involved in a water attraction. This transportation system comprises at least two water stations and at least one water channel connecting the at least two water stations for the purpose of conveying participants between the at least two water stations. In addition, the water transportation system may include conveyor belt systems and water locks configured to convey participants from a first source of water to a second source of water which may or may not be at a different elevation.

Abstract: A waterslide bowl element has a bottom wall configured to form a throat around a rider exit opening in the bottom of the bowl. The bowl holds an annular ring of water around the throat that slows down and conducts the rider to the exit opening and a flume in which the waterslide ride continues. The waterslide bowl may be used by riders on inner tubes.

Abstract: An inflatable pool and slide apparatus for modifying an existing conventional slide comprising a plastic cover with straps to bind the top end to a slide platform, a slide portion with water supplied by a pair of apertured pipes, a recirculating water supply, a landing cushion, and a horseshoe shaped collecting pool.

Abstract: A water ride attraction is disclosed which utilizes a containerless riding surface to eliminate disadvantageous boundary layer effects. A sheet flow of water is directed up the incline to produce a simulated wave. The configuration and contour of the riding surface and the various flow parameters can be widely varied to produce numerous desirable wave conditions.

Abstract: A participatory water slide play apparatus is disclosed upon which a ride participant can slide from an upper portion to a lower portion. Sensor/actuator devices are positioned on or adjacent the slide at locations intermediate the upper and lower portions thereof and are linked to associated play elements, such as water forming elements, noise making devices, scoring devices, and the like. While traveling down the slide, the ride participant is able to actuate one or more of the sensor/actuator devices to trigger one or more associated play elements and/or effects. Thus, aside from the enjoyment of the ride itself, ride participants can bring about desired effects and/or actively participate or interact with other ride participants located on or around the slide play structure in a fun and exciting manner.

Abstract: The present invention provides a water slide that includes a sliding surface and an entry end. The entry end of the water slide is configured to be positioned adjacent to the lower end of a downhill slide so that the sliding surface of the water slide and the sliding surface of the downhill slide form a continuous sliding surface. The water slide is adapted to hold a supply of water over substantially the entire sliding surface. Positioning a water supply over the entire sliding surface facilitates the water-sliding action as a child slides through the water slide. In another form of the invention, the water slide includes a drain that extends through the sliding surface of the slide. The drain permits easy replacement of unclean water with fresh water.

Abstract: A waterslide bowl element has a bottom wall configured to form a throat around a rider exit opening in the bottom of the bowl. The bowl holds an annular ring of water around the throat that slows down and conducts the rider to the exit opening and a flume in which the waterslide ride continues. The waterslide bowl may be used by riders on inner tubes.

Abstract: A waterfall diversion apparatus is provided consisting of a modified cylinder in which a supply of water which normally cascades over a portion of roller coaster track as a waterfall is temporarily diverted as the passenger carrying cars of the roller coaster pass underneath before the diverter mechanism rotates back to a non-diverter position and the waterfall resumes. The rotating diverter member is a cylinder-like device having a plow like inner divider which when rotated into the path of the water fall diverts the water to the ends of the cylinder where it continues in an outward path to the left and right of the passenger carrying cars of the roller coaster. The modified cylinder is normally obscured from view by the waterfall passing over the exterior surface of the diverter member.

Abstract: The present invention provides a water slide that includes a sliding surface and an entry end. The entry end of the water slide is configured to be positioned adjacent to the lower end of a downhill slide so that the sliding surface of the water slide and the sliding surface of the downhill slide form a continuous sliding surface. The water slide is adapted to hold a supply of water over substantially the entire sliding surface. Positioning a water supply over the entire sliding surface facilitates the water-sliding action as a child slides through the water slide. In another form of the invention, the water slide includes a drain that extends through the sliding surface of the slide. The drain permits easy replacement of unclean water with fresh water.

Abstract: A water ride attraction is disclosed which utilizes a containerless riding surface to eliminate disadvantageous boundary layer effects. A sheet flow of water is directed up the incline to produce a simulated wave. The configuration and contour of the riding surface and the various flow parameters can be widely varied to produce numerous desirable wave conditions.

Abstract: An amusement device for installation in a water park provides a spray or stream of water used to cool play participants. The device includes an elongated generally tubular member secured in a generally upright orientation and a water nozzle positioned towards the uppermost end of the tubular member. The elongated tubular member is characterized by a generally rigid lower portion and a semi-rigid upper portion having a rigidity selected so that the application of a rotational, lateral or vibrational force on the member by a play participant results in the deflection or reciprocal movement of the outlet nozzle so as to alter the pattern of water spray emitted from the nozzle.

Abstract: A personal water slide has a first series of tubes which cushion the impact of a user launching her/himself onto the extended plastic surface. A second series of tubes each having a diameter at least twice the diameter of the tubes in the first series are positioned along the lateral periphery and help reduce the tendency to slip off the sides of the water slide. An optional third series of tubes permit a hose to be connected thereto and pin hole openings in these tubes form an arched spray which wets the surface of the slide. A flap may extend from each end of the extended plastic surface to permit attachment of two lengths of water slide and attachment of various accessories.

Abstract: A water amusement system is described which includes a number of different water park rides. The water amusement system may include a water fountain system. The water fountain system includes a roof configured to turn in response to directing a stream of water at the roof. The water amusement system may include a water carousel. The water carousel is a carousel which is configured to float on a body of water. The water amusement system may include a musical fountain system. The musical fountain system is configured to spray water, play music and/or provide visual effects. The water amusement system may include a water powered Ferris wheel. The water amusement system may include a water powered bumper vehicle system. The water powered bumper vehicle system is configured such that the vehicles are preferably propelled by streams of water produced by water nozzles arranged about the water bumper vehicle system. The water system may include a boat ride system.

Abstract: A slide (10) with a pair of suspension cables (12) and flexible material (14) connected to the cables (12). At least one lift (16) and one fall (18) is provided in the slide (10) from beginning to end. In the preferred embodiments, slide (10) includes lifts (16), falls (18), tunnels, loops and curves. Additionally, in a preferred embodiment, free hanging spreader bars (70) are provided to hold suspension cables (12) and flexible material (14) in their original spaced apart hanging position.

Abstract: Submersible life saving platforms are disclosed having a central platform, two support legs disengageably connected to the each bottom front side of the central platform, and two rear support legs connected to the bottom side of the central platform. The bottom central platform is covered in a non-skid surface. The support bottom two legs include a mounting hole by which a pin secures them to the base, while an anchor strap holds the unit firmly in place.

Abstract: A participatory water slide play apparatus is disclosed upon which a ride participant can slide from an upper portion to a lower portion. Sensor/actuator devices are positioned on or adjacent the slide at locations intermediate the upper and lower portions thereof and are linked to associated play elements, such as water forming elements, noise making devices, scoring devices, and the like. While traveling down the slide, the ride participant is able to actuate one or more of the sensor/actuator devices to trigger one or more associated play elements and/or effects. Thus, aside from the enjoyment of the ride itself, ride participants can bring about desired effects and/or actively participate or interact with other ride participants located on or around the slide play structure in a fun and exciting manner.

Abstract: A water slide system for easily converting a conventional backyard slide into a water slide. The inventive device includes an upper sheet formed to fit within the backyard slide, a pair of securing straps secured to the upper sheet for securing to the backyard slide, a pair of water tubes having a plurality of nozzles secured to opposing edges of the upper sheet for dispensing water upon the upper sheet, a transition member having a downwardly angled side, and a lower sheet. The lower portion of the upper sheet is securable to the transition member by a plurality of lengths of fasteners such as hook and loop fasteners. A plurality of gripping members are also provided for being secured to the steps of the ladder for preventing an individual from slipping within the wet environment. A plurality of securing loops are attached to the transition member and the lower sheet for receiving a plurality of stakes that are engageable within the ground surface.

Abstract: A water ride attraction is disclosed which utilizes a containerless riding surface to eliminate disadvantageous boundary layer effects. A sheet flow of water is directed up the incline to produce a simulated wave. The configuration and contour of the riding surface and the various flow parameters can be widely varied to produce numerous desirable wave conditions.

Abstract: A slide or chute having an elongate bedway with a longitudinal portion on which a person slides is provided with at least one longitudinally extending tubular channel having an opening at an upper end and an opening at a lower end through which objects and materials may be passed from the upper end and discharged from the lower end. The tubular channels may be formed integral with the slide or chute or may be provided as separate members for attachment to existing slides, chutes, and support columns. The tubular channels may be disposed on an underside of the bedway, on laterally opposed sides of the bedway, and on curved hood portions with a pair of elongate tubular channels extending therefrom along laterally opposed sides of the bedway each having an opening at a lower end. Longitudinal tubular channels may also be connected with the elevated deck support structure from which the upper end of the slide or chute is supported.

Abstract: A combination water slide and pool including an inflatable elongated sliding sheet. An elevation ramp is secured to a lower surface of the sliding sheet inwardly of a short inner edge thereof. The elevation ramp has its apex at the short inner edge of the sliding sheet. A pool portion is secured to the short inner edge of the sliding sheet. The pool portion is comprised of a peripheral side wall.

Abstract: A water play area having a plurality of water devices and actuators for controlling those devices located outside of the play area for selective activation by spectators observing participants within the play area. The play area is preferably laid out like a giant pinball machine in which participants are placed in groups or individually within tubes representing the balls of the pinball machine. Movement of the tubes along the play area plane can be influenced by movement inducing devices such as flippers, spinners, stationary bumpers, guides and Dutchman's Dikes. Also included within the play area are water devices, such as whipping snakes, geysers, rain drops, shower sprayers, whirly-birds and water bomb launchers that can either be on continuously or be selectively activated to drench participants within the play area.

Abstract: An amusement water ride is provided including a water course for carrying one or more circular water rafts. The water course is provided with at least one downhill section for accelerating the water rafts into a splash point. A spin mechanism is provided near the top of the downhill section for imparting a spin to the water rafts as they move past the spin mechanism. The spin mechanism includes a movement retarding surface along one wall of the water course and a movement expediting surface along an opposite wall of the water course. The movement retarding surface is provided with a high friction coating which retards sliding movement in a downstream direction of the surface of the raft which contacts the movement retarding surface, and induces rotation of the raft and movement towards the opposite wall.

Abstract: A new sport of skill, SurfSliding having an open pipe ramp system covered in artificial turf and a lubricating means. SurfSliding allows a participant to glide downhill by gravity and kinetic energy while maneuvering a lawnboard strapped to the participants feet. The new sport provides for a sport similar to surfing while executing movements similar to skateboarding and snowboarding.

Abstract: A water sprayer is combined with a play slide to form a water slide for amusement. The sprayer includes a straight tubular portion mounted to an upper end of the slide and having multiple groups of spray openings. Openings in a first group are aligned with an upper end of a slide surface to spray water thereon and openings in a second group are spaced or angled above the first group to spray water onto the users of the slide. A supply portion, extending normal with the straight portion and parallel with the first group of openings, includes a flow control and shutoff valve which is mounted to a side of the slide to align the first group of spray openings with the slide surface. Corrosion free pressure resistant plastic material, garden hose attachment and clamp mounting accommodating thermal expansion are among other features of the sprayer and its combination with a slide.

Abstract: A water game that periodically releases a volume of water. The game includes a trough that is pivotally connected to a stand. The trough is in fluid communication with a source of water such as a garden hose that is attached to the stand. The hose provides water that fills the trough. The water trough has a cavity that is offset from the stand so that the trough pivots about the stand and releases a volume of water when the water reaches a certain level. The trough rotates back into an upright position and again becomes filled with water, wherein the process is repeated. The stand can support the trough above a mat. A game participant can slide across the mat as the trough releases water to simulate a "riding of a wave".

Abstract: A participatory water play system is provided incorporating a plurality of water play elements for creating various desired water effects. The participatory water play system comprises a plurality of multiple-order water effects. A first participatory water play element may be manipulated to create a first-order water effect. A second participatory water play element receives water from the first water effect to create a second-order water effect. Thus, play participants can observe and experiment with various cause-and-effect reactions involving multiple-order water effects.

Abstract: For managing water flow in a waterslide, drains are provided at one or more points between a top and bottom of a course, coupled to conduits providing gravity flow paths bypassing portions of the course. The course is defined by a sluice with a generally downhill gradient and can have at least one point of relatively lower elevation leading into a subsequent uphill run. A water supply is provided to the top of the course and optionally to other points along the course, for example being pumped from a lowermost splashdown pool. The water flows downward toward low points, flowing in the direction of waterslide riders or opposite thereto. The water is collected at one or more of the drains and fed to a lower elevation water emitter in the sluice of the same course or another course, especially at a slope leading or trailing a peak. This reduces pumping requirements because the water is used more than once along the course, and can be used to prevent intermediate pools that would reduce the riders' speed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a water ride comprising a channel of water connected to a beach area, wherein a torrential flow of water can be released into the channel, to create a swell that travels through the channel, and then turns into a solitary tidal wave that spills and breaks onto the beach. The water in the channel can also be made to flow in a uniform direction, due to the momentum and energy transferred from repeatedly releasing the torrential flow of water into the channel. The curvature and orientation of the beach area relative to the channel causes the waves breaking onto the beach to travel radially outward in an arc-shape, causing the waves to spill over and break, as they make their way around the beach.

Abstract: Sheet wave generators have recently been hailed as the new generation of simulated wave generating water rides. The present invention relates to a sheet wave generator with a riding surface appended to a single container of water, i.e., a swimming pool, wave pool, or any existing or new water facility. Because the riding surface of the present invention is contained along its outer periphery, the water ride can be compact so that is suitable for placement in a relatively small area of land. The ride surface itself has an inclined surface, a transition turn area, and a downward declining surface which feeds back into the pool. This butterfly configuration is relatively compact, and can be situated such that the flow of water comes from and returns to the pool area. In one embodiment, the invention also has a unique nozzle outlet area which is at or slightly below the elevation of the water surface in the pool, so that riders may skim over the nozzle area and onto the riding surface directly from the pool area.

Abstract: An angle adjustable tubular waterslide comprises a tube slide formed in a hollow generally cylindrical configuration with an interior surface, an exterior surface and two open ends, the tube slide having a diameter sufficiently large to comfortably receive a child therein, the tube including a water spray device coupled thereto, the water spray device permitting the introduction of water into the interior of the tube, the water reducing the frictional forces encountered by children while sliding down the tube slide; and a frame comprised of a plurality of poles, the frame including support means coupled to the frame and the tube, the support means permitting the user to pitch the tube slide at varying angles to allow gravitational forces to act on a child positioned within the higher end of the tube, the child easily sliding down the angled water treated interior of the tube.

Abstract: A slide or chute having an elongate bedway is provided with a handrail adjacent to each lateral side of the bedway. Each handrail has a longitudinally extending channel with an opening configured to receive the hand or fingers of a person using the slide or chute for protecting the hands and fingers of the user. The handrails may be formed integral with the slide or chute or may be provided as separate members for attachment to existing slides and chutes. Objects may also be passed through the longitudinal channels of the handrails from the top end to the bottom end of the slide or chute for amusement.

Abstract: Improved composite slide for children having two pairs of modular parts (1) and (2) and a single part (3) made of a molded material. Parts (1) are parallel and inclined, forming the sides of the slide, and are interconnected by parts (2) through a conjugated connection existing in both; and parts (2) form the rungs leading to the upper portion of the single part (3), which makes up the slide as such, the upper portion being linked to the upper areas of the sides, through the conjugated connection integrated therein.

Abstract: A water ride includes a flume (10) defining a ride path. Patrons of the ride travel in rafts (24) along the flume (10) with the rafts riding on a thin layer of water introduced into the flume. To induce the rafts (24) to spin at desired locations in a controlled fashion, the rafts each include raft features (30) located on a bottom surface (32) of the raft. Flume features (34) are positioned at desired locations along the ride path in position to make contact with the raft features (30). This contact between the raft features (30) and the flume features (34) induces a controlled spin to the raft (24). The raft features (30) preferably include projections (36) extending downwardly from the bottom surface (32) of the raft at locations offset from a raft center of rotation. The flume features (34) preferably comprise alternating depressions (38) and ridges (40) extending transversely to the ride path along one side of the flume (10).

Abstract: A theme park ride attraction includes a flume path having rafts floating on flowing water. The rafts are elevated and enter into a pipe. First and second pivoting ramps are attached to the pipe and supported by an actuator. As the rafts enter onto the first pivoting ramp, the actuator quickly drops the first ramp down, simulating a waterfall event.

Abstract: A backyard toy includes an elongated slide sheet terminating in a pool. Inflatable side walls on the pool form a serpentine pathway through the pool so that a child sliding on the slide follows a zig zag path through said pool. A sprayer is provided to wet the slide and make the surface slick.

Abstract: A water slide is made from a plurality of plastic sheets welded together to form intercommunicating tubes which may be filled with water. Some of the tubes form the side walls of a pool. Other of the tubes form bumps of graduated height to provide a ramp at the end of a slide. A child runs toward the slide, bellyflops on it, slides over the ramp and splashes down in the pool. The water filled tubes additionally provide a shock absorbing effect.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a water ride in the form of a river loop having a channel, wherein a portion of the channel is shallow and has a supercritical sheet flow of water thereon, and a portion of the flow in the channel is relatively deep and has a subcritical flow thereon, wherein a rider can float on a floating device, such as an inner tube, and can be carried from the deep portion and onto the shallow portion, and then back into the deep portion. The rider can experience the thrill of being accelerated through the channel by the sheet flow, and because the water ride is in the form of a loop, the rider can repeatedly ride the sheet flow of water without having to exit. A hydraulic jump is preferably created, as the supercritical sheet flow meets the subcritical flow, through which riders travel for a thrilling ride experience.

Abstract: An amusement ride includes a vehicle traveling down a chute through a region of water. The vehicle is shaped to minimize splashing and to allow water to flow away from the vehicle. The vehicle flanks are curved to deflect splashing water down and away from the vehicle, and the vehicle bow has upper flanks to deflect water down and away from the vehicle. The vehicle bottom has a concave channel to accommodate water displaced by the vehicle. The vehicle has sets of wheels for traveling, for guiding lateral motion, and for interlocking with floating prevention mechanism. A groove along each side of the vehicle accommodates a splash prevention member on the water chute.

Abstract: A backyard toy includes an elongated slide sheet terminating in a pool. Inflatable side wall is on the pool form a serpentine pathway through the pool so that a child sliding on the slide follows a zig zag path through said pool. A sprayer is provided to wet the slide and make the surface slick.

Abstract: The present invention provides a water slide which includes a device for reducing the impact felt by riders or users when they contact the slower-moving water at the bottom of an incline. Such slower moving water can be particularly injurious to a user who is traveling at relatively high speed (e.g., down a particularly long or steep slope). The device for reducing impact is a section of slide of predetermined length which includes air injection nozzles for reducing the apparent density and viscosity and increasing compressibility of the water to enable the user to slow down more gradually by transitioning from reduced density water to normal density water.

Abstract: A water slide is made from a plurality of plastic sheets welded together to form intercommunicating tubes which may be filled with water. Some of the tubes form the side walls of a pool. Other of the tubes form bumps of graduated height to provide a ramp at the end of a slide. A child runs toward the slide, bellyflops on it, slides over the ramp and splashes down in the pool. The water filled tubes additionally provide a shock absorbing effect.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controllably injecting high velocity jets of water at an elevation at or above water level towards a buoyant object (e.g., a boat or participant in an inner tube) that is floating in a deep water recreation attraction, and causing injected water-to-object momentum transfer and directed buoyant object movement irrespective of the motion of water upon which the buoyant object floats. Structurally, a water conduit is positioned horizontally at or near the surface of a body of water. Adjacent to this conduit is positioned, in parallel corridor like fashion, a second water conduit or a benign retaining structure. The inside width of the corridor is a distance sufficient to permit passage of the buoyant object. An array of water injectors is aligned on the inside of the conduit-formed-corridor at an elevation at or above water level.