Aquatic Patents (Class 472/128)
  • Patent number: 7854662
    Abstract: Water slide with a chute which opens into a discharge area and has an initial section and a discharge section opening into the discharge area, characterized in that at least one loop section is provided between the initial section and the discharge section, the loop section having an angle at circumference of at least 270° and, at least between a starting point and an apex point of the loop section, being inclined by 5° to 80° in relation to a vertical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Aquarena Freizeitanlagen GmbH
    Inventors: Rainer Braun, Manfred Schmudermayer
  • Patent number: 7828667
    Abstract: A water transportation system and method are described, generally related to water amusement attractions and rides. 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, a floating water park positioned in a body of water is described, as well as, a floating marine park. A floating marine/water park may include one or more floating containers positioned in a body of a first fluid. One or more of the floating containers may function to hold a second fluid, marine life, and/or participants in water amusement activities. A floating container may include an access point functioning to allow participants to enter/exit one or more of the floating containers. The access point may include a gradually sloping beach portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7815514
    Abstract: An amusement ride system and method are described. In some embodiments, an amusement ride system may be 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 more involved in a water attraction. An amusement ride system may include a system for conveying a participant from a first source of water to a second source of water. A system for conveying a participant from a first source of water to a second source of water may include a belt and a belt movement system. A system for conveying a participant from a first source of water to a second source of water may include one or more barriers configured to inhibit participants from leaving the belt as the participants are conveyed along the belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7811177
    Abstract: A water transportation system and method are described, generally related to water amusement attractions and rides. 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, a floating water park positioned in a body of water is described, as well as, a floating marine park. A floating marine/water park may include one or more floating containers positioned in a body of a first fluid. One or more of the floating containers may function to hold a second fluid, marine life, and/or participants in water amusement activities. At least a portion of a floating marine park may be coupled to at least a water amusement ride.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7785207
    Abstract: A water amusement system may include a composite tree and an elevated structure. A composite tree may include a base having an artificial trunk portion. The base may be coupled to the surface. Living plants may be coupled to the base. Portions of the living plants may form branches of the composite tree. In some embodiments, the living plants are living trees. The system may include at least one structure coupled to the base. At least one of the structures may function to contain one or more persons above the surface. The water amusement system may include a water amusement ride coupled to the base. The water amusement ride may include an access point configured to allow participants to access the water amusement ride from the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7780536
    Abstract: A water transportation system and method are described, generally related to water amusement attractions and rides. 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, a floating water park positioned in a body of water is described, as well as, a floating marine park. A floating marine/water park may include one or more floating containers positioned in a body of a first fluid. One or more of the floating containers may function to hold a second fluid, marine life, and/or participants in water amusement activities. A floating marine park may include one or more convertible roofs functioning to substantially cover at least a portion of one or more of the floating containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7780537
    Abstract: An annular-shaped waterslide bowl for use as an element of a waterslide apparatus serves to slow a rider down and bring him or her to a stop at the end of the waterslide ride. The bowl has a bowl wall with a rider entry port through which a rider slides from a flume into the bowl. The bottom wall of the bowl has an opening at its center and a low circumferential wall around the opening extends upwardly from the bottom wall. The rider comes to a stop in the bowl and can step over the circumferential wall into the opening. A staircase located within the opening provides means for the rider to exit the bowl. The waterslide bowl provides a compact structure for slowing and stopping the rider and is particularly suitable for waterslide installations having limited space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Whitewater West Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Marvin R. Hlynka
  • Patent number: 7775895
    Abstract: A water amusement ride system is disclosed. The system may include a first channel of water. The first channel may function to convey participants in a first direction. The system may include a second channel of water. The second channel may function to convey participants in a second direction. The second direction may be different from the first direction. The system may include a first adjustable flow controller positioned in the first channel of water. The system may include a third channel coupling the first channel, upstream of the first adjustable flow controller, to the second channel. The first adjustable flow controller may function at least in part to control the flow of water through the third channel. The system may be part of a continuous water ride.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7775894
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Schooley
  • Patent number: 7775896
    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, a floating water park positioned in a body of water is described, as well as, a floating marine park. A floating marine/water park may include one or more floating containers positioned in a body of a first fluid. One or more of the floating containers may function to hold a second fluid, marine life, and/or participants in water amusement activities. A water transportation system may include a floating marine/water park.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7766753
    Abstract: A water transportation system and method are described, generally related to water amusement attractions and rides. 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, a floating water park positioned in a body of water is described, as well as, a floating marine park. A floating marine/water park may include one or more floating containers positioned in a body of a first fluid. One or more of the floating containers may function to hold a second fluid, marine life, and/or participants in water amusement activities. A floating marine park may include two or more of the floating containers, which may be assembled and used at a first site, dissembled, and then assembled and used at a second site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7762901
    Abstract: A water play structure for children includes an elevated platform having an upper horizontal rail and vertical pickets between the rail and the platform free of any horizontal members so as to reduce the risk that children will climb across the railing and fall from the platform, the structure further including water features such as a canopy supported upon the elevated platform and dimensioned to provide a flow of water that falls downwardly across a portion of the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Inventors: Dean M. Atkinson, Duane A. Atkinson
  • Patent number: 7762900
    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 may include a plurality of covers forming a covering system over at least a portion of the water transportation and/or amusement system. In some embodiments, at least one of the covers may be positionable. 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7762899
    Abstract: An amusement ride system and method are described. In some embodiments, an amusement ride system may be generally related to water amusement attractions and rides. An amusement ride system may include a system for conveying a participant from a first source of water to a second source of water. A system for conveying a participant from a first source of water to a second source of water may include a belt and a belt movement system. A system for conveying a participant from a first source of water to a second source of water may include a support structure which functions to provide support for the belt and belt movement system and/or one or more support elements which functions to support and align the belt as the belt moves between the support structure and the support elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Publication number: 20100184523
    Abstract: A target for use in an underwater target game and a method of the underwater target game are described. The target comprises a body for capturing a volume of gas; and one or more target surfaces positioned to release gas from an impacting vortex ring for capture by the body. A method comprises transitioning a target positioned within a body of water to a hit indication state in response to impact on the target by a vortex ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Inventor: Jeffery M. DAVIS
  • Patent number: 7758435
    Abstract: An interactive water amusement ride may include a water amusement ride, a competition area located in the water amusement ride, and a participant identifier coupled to a participant in the water amusement ride. The participant may participate in a competition in the competition area. An automated system assesses a status of the participant in the competition. In some embodiments, an automated system for an interactive water amusement ride includes sensors coupled to a competition area. The sensors may detect participant identifiers in the competition area. The sensors may be coupled to a control system. The control system may assess a status of each participant individually and/or a status of the teams in the competition area. Status of participants and/or teams in the competition area may be displayed on a display (e.g., a scoreboard) located at or near the competition area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7758434
    Abstract: A portable waterslide device includes a plurality of interconnected pivotal sections situated at an end-to-end pattern. The sinusoidal top surface further includes a plurality of spray valves. The portable waterslide device further includes a plurality of motorized discharge nozzles operably coupled to the plurality of spray valves. The portable waterslide device further includes a plurality of equidistantly spaced egress points and a threaded ingress point in fluid communication with a conduit positioned on a rear surface of the portable waterslide device. The portable waterslide device further includes a vertically adjustable pedestal member directly attached to the sliding board, a vertically adjustable ladder operably coupled to the vertically adjustable pedestal member, and a plurality of sensors communicatively coupled to the plurality of spray valves of the sliding board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Inventor: Ray Johnson
  • Publication number: 20100173717
    Abstract: An amusement ride vehicle for maneuvering over a travel surface having a cushion of water includes a vehicle body defining a vehicle undersurface disposed for travel generally along the travel surface and at least one drive assembly housed by the vehicle body. The at least one drive assembly comprises a driven wheel disposed for selective engagement with the travel surface to maneuver the vehicle generally along the travel surface. The at least one drive assembly operates between a neutral state having the driven wheel disengaged from the travel surface, a forward drive state having the driven wheel engaged with the travel surface and driven in a forward direction, and a reverse drive state having the driven wheel engaged with the travel surface and driven in a reverse direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Applicant: StarFlight Amusement Rides, LLC
    Inventor: Lance Yule
  • Publication number: 20100160054
    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 at least two of the water stations for the purpose of conveying participants between at least two of the 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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventor: Jeffery Wayne Henry
  • Patent number: 7740542
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery W. Henry, John Schooley
  • Patent number: 7731595
    Abstract: A slide (104) supports and directs a user along a predetermined path. A conveyor system (102) is coupled to the slide to accelerate the user along the predetermined path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: White Water West Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Marvin R Hlynka
  • Patent number: 7727077
    Abstract: A water amusement ride system is disclosed. The system may include a device or apparatus, including a water bypass channel in fluid communication with a channel of water. The water bypass channel may include a water entrance, a water exit, and an adjustable valve. The water entrance is in fluid communication with water upstream of the apparatus. The water exit is in fluid communication with water downstream of the apparatus. The adjustable valve may be located between the water entrance and the water exit. The adjustable valve may be adjusted to control an amount of water exiting the water bypass channel. The water bypass channel may increase the flow rate of water between the water entrance and the water exit of the water bypass channel. The water bypass channel may assist in controlling a water effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7722290
    Abstract: A transportable module for use in generating waves in a body of water, having a tubular chamber with a predetermined length and width equal to or less than the maximum length permitted for transportation on a predetermined type of road. The chamber includes a rear valve located at the rear end to permit flow into the chamber and substantially block flow out of the chamber and a gas port proximate to the rear end for the admission of compressed gas into the chamber. The module includes an anchoring system, such as an integrated ballast tank, a connecting system mounted on the outer surface of the module by which the module may be detachably connected in parallel with other such modules in a side to side manner to form a barge or scalable wave generator. Individually, the modules are is capable of being transported by road to a desired body of water for use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Inventor: Garrett T. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7722291
    Abstract: A wave forming apparatus has a channel for containing a flow of water, the channel having an inlet end connected to a water supply for supplying a flowing stream of water, a base, and spaced side walls, and at least one oblique foil member adjustably mounted in the base of the channel. The oblique foil member has a leading face extending at an oblique angle to the water stream in the channel, and a trailing, venturi face with a leading portion facing one of the side walls to form a venturi or constricted pass between the side wall and leading portion of the venturi face. The leading face, venturi face, and venturi pass together are adapted to form a standing barreling wave at the venturi pass. The orientation of the oblique foil member relative to the base of the channel is adjustable in order to vary the barreling wave formation, and may be adjusted during wave formation in order move the barreling wave across the leading face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Inventor: Bruce C. McFarland
  • Patent number: 7717645
    Abstract: An adjustable physical structure for producing hydraulic formations for whitewater recreationalists includes a control structure, and an adjustable lip located downstream of the control structure. The control structure can include a crest and a ramp. The crest constricts and/or elevates (dams) the flow water to increase it's energy and focus the flow of water. Downstream of the crest, the ramp routes the flow of the water to the adjustable lip. The ramp can have varying and non-linear slopes and plan configurations. Additionally, the ramp can be static or adjustable to elevate the flow of water and vary the velocity and energy of the supercritical flow as it is passed to the adjustable lip. An adjustable invert physical structure comprises a shaped structure configured for placement on the invert of the channel. The adjustable invert physical structure can be moved or adjusted in horizontal and/or vertical directions to shape the flow of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: McLaughlin Consulting Company
    Inventor: Richard Evan McLaughlin
  • Patent number: 7713134
    Abstract: A flume ride is provided having a funnel-shaped slide feature having a relatively larger entry end and a relatively smaller exit end, the funnel-shaped slide feature being configured and arranged such that a rider enters at the wider end with a predetermined expected velocity and swings back and forth and/or spins around the inner surface of the funnel before safely draining through the smaller end. Optionally, the wider end of the slide feature may be covered so as to darken its interior, and/or the slide feature may be configured such that the rider swings above a vertical portion of the inner surface. Additionally, a flume ride is provided having a plurality of such slide features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Proslide Technology Inc.
    Inventor: Richard D Hunter
  • Patent number: 7682259
    Abstract: The water park assembly includes a plurality of couplings with fittings for connection with an external water system. A box is matable with a waterline for connecting a thru-wall skimmer thereto, and an outlet is formed within one of the couplings. Fittings are formed within an inner wall of the coupling, and water jet nozzles are anchored thereto. Light illuminating sources are anchored within the fittings. Selected couplings have a handle attached thereto. At least one wheel is connected to an associated one of the couplings. Each of the couplings includes holes for anchoring coupling arches. The ends of the couplings have vertical grooves and attachment holes formed therein for receiving supports, wheels, handles and waterfall decorations. A slot is formed in the couplings for a rupture gate. The gate includes cross bars supporting the gate to an associated one of the couplings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Inventor: Andrew Edwards
  • Patent number: 7674184
    Abstract: A system of interactive game play is provided wherein the gaming is carried out within a pool, water park or water attraction. The game utilizes electronically identifiable objects, such as waterproof wands, cards, bands, tags and/or the like, to provide an interactive game play experience generally simulative of a computer adventure game. Play participants are challenged to work and cooperate with other play participants to find and use identified objects, clues or other information to solve various puzzles or problems that present encumbrances inhibiting participants' advancement in the game. Each play participant may possess a unique RFID wand, band, card or the like, that electronically identifies the play participant and enables the play system to award and track points or other rewards to successful play participants individually or working with other play participants as a team.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Creative Kingdoms, LLC
    Inventors: Rick A. Briggs, Denise Chapman Weston
  • Patent number: 7666104
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Light Wave, Ltd.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld
  • Patent number: 7658571
    Abstract: A wave forming apparatus has a channel for containing a flow of water, the channel having an inlet end connected to a water supply for supplying a flowing stream of water, a base, and spaced side walls, and at least one oblique foil member in the channel. The oblique foil member has a leading face extending at an oblique angle to the water stream in the channel, and a trailing, venturi face with a leading portion facing one of the side walls to form a venturi or constricted pass between the side wall and leading portion of the venturi face. The leading face, venturi face, and venturi pass together are adapted to form a standing barreling wave at the venturi pass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: American Wave Machines, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce C. McFarland
  • Publication number: 20100016092
    Abstract: A water based entertainment device in accordance with an embodiment of the present application is connected to a garden hose to provide smooth walls of water that define an enclosed dry that is substantially free of water spray.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventor: Alan Amron
  • Publication number: 20090305799
    Abstract: An interactive play structure is provided for facilitating team-oriented and/or group play to achieve a desired effect. The play structure includes play elements disposed at various locations and elevations throughout the play structure. Each play element can be activated or operated by one or more play participants to complete steps in a chain of triggering events. The overall completion of the chain of events results in a desired result or effect, such as a domino-like cascade of various mechanisms, balls, water the like. In one example, the effect includes the release of a cannonball from the top of a vertical structure. As the cannonball reaches the end of its descent, it causes water to be radially dispersed from a pool, such as onto nearby play participants. The cannonball is then advantageously returned to the top of the vertical structure through the use of one or more return conduits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: CREATIVE KINGDOMS, LLC
    Inventors: Denise C. Weston, Rick A. Briggs
  • Publication number: 20090280915
    Abstract: Disclosed is a whitewater park and whitewater park systems. A recreational waterfall system for traversal by watercraft that includes at least one headgate to produce a surge of water over a waterfall and to limit access to the waterfall by watercraft. A recreational watercraft launch that accelerates a watercraft while traversing said waterfall and a downstream crest a variable exit geometry causes the watercraft to be directed in an upward direction. A recreational waterfall has water flowing over a crest with variable cantilever determining a distance from the edge that the water flowing over the crest impacts water in the pool. A whitewater park has multiple routes of varying difficulties between pools.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Inventor: Scott Richmond Shipley
  • Publication number: 20090275416
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a half-pipe water ride for use by a rider. The half-pipe water ride includes an activity section with a substantially flat middle section, a first curved sidewall, and a second curved sidewall opposite the first curved sidewall. Water flows from a water delivery section through the middle section to a dewatering section. The rider can ride on the half-pipe water ride substantially perpendicular to the water flow from the first curved sidewall across the middle section to the second curved sidewall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventor: Douglas Murphy
  • Publication number: 20090264211
    Abstract: A ride is formed comprising a channel forming a closed loop. The channel is able to receive water. Wave forming means are provided operable to create a wave, when the channel contains water, such that the wave will progress around the channel. The wave is of sufficient size to enable aquatic pastimes to be performed on the wave.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: Stephen Francis SMYTHE
  • Patent number: 7597630
    Abstract: An amusement ride system and method are described. In some embodiments, an amusement ride system may be 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 more involved in a water attraction. An amusement ride system may include system for conveying a participant from a first source of water to a second source of water. The system may include one or more fluid jets. The fluid jets may function to produce a fluid stream having a predetermined velocity which is selectively greater, less than, or the same as a velocity of a participant at each of the fluid jet locations and are oriented tangentially with respect to the surface of the source of water so as to contact a participant and/or participant vehicle. An amusement ride system may include a system for controlling a participant flow rate through a multi path water amusement ride system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffery Wayne Henry
  • Patent number: 7572191
    Abstract: An interactive play structure is provided for facilitating team-oriented and/or group play to achieve a desired effect. The play structure includes play elements disposed at various locations and elevations throughout the play structure. Each play element can be activated or operated by one or more play participants to complete steps in a chain of triggering events. The overall completion of the chain of events results in a desired result or effect, such as a domino-like cascade of various mechanisms, balls, water the like. In one example, the effect includes the release of a cannonball from the top of a vertical structure. As the cannonball reaches the end of its descent, it causes water to be radially dispersed from a pool, such as onto nearby play participants. The cannonball is then advantageously returned to the top of the vertical structure through the use of one or more return conduits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Creative Kingdoms, LLC
    Inventors: Denise C. Weston, Rick A. Briggs
  • Publication number: 20090176588
    Abstract: The invention relates to a portable water ride having a trailer with a water catch basin built therein, wherein at least two pivoting supports are provided which can be deployed to an expanded position and stowed to a vertical position. When the supports are deployed, a flexible ride surface can be stretched between said supports to form an inclined ride surface upon which a sheet flow of water from a nozzle housing can be provided upon which water skimming maneuvers can be performed. A walkway on either side of the ride surface, as well as an entrance platform at the top of the ride surface, and other grated platforms, railings, etc., can also be provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld
  • Patent number: 7547255
    Abstract: A ride surface for water ride attractions and the like is provided. The ride surface is fabricated from a reinforced membrane material tensioned over a supporting framework. The tensioned membrane ride surface serves the dual role of providing structural support for water flow and riders thereon while at the same time providing an impact safe surface that is non-injurious to riders who may fall thereon. The tensioned membrane can be adjusted actively and/or passively in order to accommodate different and varied ride experiences. Optionally, the shape of the membrane ride surface can be changed either dynamically or passively by special tensioning techniques and/or by using auxiliary support structures such as air bladders, pressure/suction, foam supports or/or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Assignee: Light Wave, Ltd.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld
  • Publication number: 20090118024
    Abstract: An amusement ride system includes an amusement ride infrastructure defining a travel surface, with at least one vehicle having a vehicle body defining a vehicle undersurface disposed for travel generally along the travel surface. A plurality of valves are disposed to selectively deliver a pressurized flow of water through the travel surface, into a confined region defined between the vehicle undersurface and the travel surface, the pressurized flow of water into and through the confined region creating a cushion of water to separate the vehicle undersurface from the travel surface. The vehicle is configured to convey at least one passenger generally along the travel surface upon the cushion of water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2007
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Applicant: STARFLIGHT AMUSEMENT RIDES LLC
    Inventor: Lance Yule
  • Patent number: 7524246
    Abstract: A method of competitive game play is provided utilizing a plurality of balls or other discrete play media. Balls may be tagged or otherwise identified with a differentiating color, size, weight, printed code or other identification/tracking means, as desired. The game is configured such that individual play participants or groups of play participants (e.g., boys vs. girls) can effectively compete with other players or groups of players within the same game based on interactions with various game inputs distributed throughout the game system. The game inputs advantageously enable players to selectively control or direct ball movement and/or other play media movement to various desired collection areas, scoring areas, targets and/or the like. Play participants competitively play and interact with the gaming system and/or with one another to achieve desired goals and/or produce desired effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Creative Kingdoms, LLC
    Inventors: Rick A. Briggs, Jonathan A. Barney, Denise Chapman Weston, Edward J. Frantz
  • Publication number: 20090105003
    Abstract: A water ride for transporting ride participants between portions of a water attraction disposed at different heights, for example, pools situated at various levels in a water leisure park, includes an outer support tube within which a hollow spiral coil (screw) is constructed internally of the tube and securable to the tube. Advantageously, the manner of securement permits removal of at least a portion of the spiral coil as necessary or desirable for performing maintenance and/or replacement. The spiral coil sufficiently engages the inside of the tube, thereby creating at least a restriction to the passage of water between adjacent pockets contained between the thread pitch defined by the spiral coil. Ride participants are moved along with water pockets trapped between the pitch of the internal profile presented by the combination of spiral coil and tube from one end of the tube/spiral coil combination to the other end by rotation of the tube in an appropriate direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2007
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventors: Alexander Stuart, Douglas Murphy
  • Patent number: 7497784
    Abstract: An amusement ride system and method are described. In some embodiments, an amusement ride system may be 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 more involved in a water attraction. In some embodiments, an amusement ride system may include a rollable carrier. The rollable carrier may include an exterior rollable surface and an inner area. The inner area may include a participant container. In some embodiments, an amusement ride system may include a water path system. The water path system may function to substantially contain the rollable carrier such that the rollable carrier will remain in the water path system while rolling. In some embodiments, a rollable carrier may function to roll in a water path system while containing a participant in the participant container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffery Wayne Henry
  • Patent number: 7491128
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: NBGS International, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery W. Henry, John Schooley
  • Publication number: 20080268971
    Abstract: A recreational toy is provided for simulating a car wash assembly. The toy car wash assembly has a mat for water sliding, and includes one or more free standing members which are capable of being inflated. One member represents a scrubbing assembly, a second a side cleaner assembly (e.g., a paddle assembly), and a third functions as a rinse and wiping assembly. A bumper may be provided with the mat. A method for water sliding on a recreational toy is provided. A person slides on a water-supporting mat, through and out of a toy car wash assembly, and subsequently contacts a bumper assembly which stops the person from sliding further on the mat. Further provided is a collapsed toy-car wash assembly. The collapsed toy-car wash assembly comprises a mat and three collapsed free standing members, all of which are capable of being stored and transported in one or more boxes. A bumper may also be collapsed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2007
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventors: James Douglas Deasy, Stuart Karten, Eric Schmid
  • Patent number: 7371183
    Abstract: An amusement ride system and method are described. In some embodiments, an amusement ride system may be 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 more involved in a water attraction. An amusement ride system may include an elevation system for conveying a participant from a first source of water to a second source of water. An elevation system may assist in adjusting and/or controlling a participant flow rate through at least a portion of a water amusement park. An elevation system may include two or more conveyor belt systems. An elevation system for adjusting a participant flow rate may include one or more floating queue lines. An elevation system may include a control system. A control system may be automated, semi-automated, or manual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Henry, Schooley & Associates, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7371182
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: NBGS International, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery W. Henry, John Schooley
  • Patent number: 7361096
    Abstract: A slide is provided with a sliding surface along which a person may slide. The slide includes a bridging structure spanning the sliding surface and a valve mounted to the bridging structure and coupled to a source of water. A spray nozzle is selectively coupled through the valve to the water source. The spray nozzle is mounted to the bridging structure to spray water toward the sliding surface when the valve couples the nozzle to the water source. A trigger hangs from the bridging structure adjacent the sliding surface and controls the valve to direct water to the spray nozzle when the trigger is contacted and displaced by the user. The nozzle sprays water onto the user as the user activates the trigger by sliding under the bridging structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: Wham-O, Inc.
    Inventor: Terry Sanchez
  • Patent number: 7285053
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: NBGS International, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery W. Henry, John Schooley
  • Patent number: 7229359
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Assignee: Henry, Schooley & Associates, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Schooley