Abstract: A ride attraction system includes a tower track and a ride vehicle configured to accommodate one or more riders. The ride vehicle is coupled to and configured to move relative to the tower track and the ride vehicle includes one or more user input devices. The ride attraction system further includes an image system configured to display a ride environment, wherein the user input devices are configured to enable the one or more riders to interact with elements of the ride environment via the one or more user input devices. The ride attraction system further includes a controller communicatively coupled to the ride vehicle and the image system and configured to control movement of the ride vehicle relative to the tower track based on signals from the one or more user input devices.

Abstract: A drive train for a wind tunnel having a nacelle housing with a fan and a fan hub assembly. The drive train comprises: a ratio gear box directly connected to the fan; and a motor disposed remote from the nacelle for powering the fan via a jackshaft and the ratio gearbox. In an embodiment, the wind tunnel has a single fan and single hub assembly. The jackshaft operatively connects the motor and gearbox.

Abstract: A wind tunnel may comprise: a flight chamber; a plurality of diffusers; a plurality of expanding corners, wherein the plurality of expanding corners comprises a first expanding corner and a second expanding corner; and a return, the return configured to have disposed therein a fan operatively coupled with a motor.

Abstract: An amusement ride is provided that moves a rider in a manner that is synchronized with a video image being displayed on a screen visible to the rider. In one embodiment, the ride is comprised of a rider station for supporting a rider, a trolley that supports the station, a tower that vertically guides the trolley, a motor system for vertically moving the trolley along the tower, an actuator system for moving the station relative to the trolley, a projector system, a screen, and a controller for synchronizing the movement of the station and any rider disposed in the station with imagery projected onto the screen. The controller is adapted to position the station using the motor and/or actuator system in a manner that is synchronized with the imagery being displayed on the screen.

Abstract: Described herein is an amusement ride that includes an object that supports a passenger, a carriage that releasably supports the object, a propulsion mechanism that accelerates the carriage and the object releasably supported by the carriage up to a desired velocity, and a braking mechanism that decelerates the carriage to release the object from the carriage at the desired velocity.

Abstract: A recreational device is disclosed that includes a frame, a seat having a user supporting seat portion adapted to support a user to be displaced from the seat upon activation of a target mechanism, with the seat configured to return to a first position under the effect of gravity after the user is displaced from the seat. Embodiments of the device include a seat support configured to maintain the seat in the first position to release the seat allowing the seat to pivot upon activation of the target mechanism to displace the user from the seat The device also includes a target mechanism connected to the seat support by a force transition system configured to transfer a force applied to the target mechanism to the seat support causing the seat support to release the seat and displace a user from the seat.

Abstract: An amusement ride apparatus comprising: a free fall tower having a proximal end hingedly attached to a base platform and a distal end; a lifting assembly connected to the base platform and the free fall tower so that the free fall tower can transition between a loading position and a free fall position; a trolley slideably attached to the free fall tower; a trolley securing assembly attached to the trolley and releasably attached to the distal end of the tower for securing the trolley to the distal end prior to the free fall tower transitioning from the loading position to the free fall position so that the trolley is held at the distal end when the tower is in the free fall position; a braking assembly carried by the base platform for slowing the downward movement of the trolley when the trolley securing member is released; and, a passenger carriage pivotably carried by the trolley allowing the passenger carriage to pivot to maintain a generally upright orientation as the free fall tower transitions from the

Abstract: A controllable launcher for propelling a payload through a predictable and repeatable trajectory to a desired height. The launcher has an energy source for propelling a carriage and a piston in substantially opposing directions and a controller for controlling the trajectory of the propelled payload to enable the payload to land gently at a safe impact distance from the edge of a destination structure.

Abstract: A controllable launcher for propelling a payload through a predictable and repeatable trajectory to a desired height. The launcher has an energy source for propelling a carriage and a piston in substantially opposing directions and a controller for controlling the trajectory of the propelled payload to enable the payload to land gently at a safe impact distance from the edge of a destination structure.

Abstract: An escape and rescue device used in a multistory building during a terrorist threat or a fire to: a) evacuate a person or persons attached to an expandable disc support with an attachment that is lowered from an upper level of a building through a vertical tube, by using a lesser pressure at the top of the tube and a higher pressure at the bottom of the tube, using a door at the top or a door at the bottom to maintain pressure or by artificial air pressure, thereby permitting the fast evacuation of many people in a short time, b) it can be used by firemen in training in its use and benefits, c) also at amusement parks, where there would be a ride that would teach the users about its reliability and safety, and d) to transport firemen in a fast way from the ground to the upper floors without interfering with the evacuation in process at the congested stairways of the building.

Abstract: A controllable launcher for propelling a payload through a predictable and repeatable trajectory to a desired height. The launcher has an energy source for propelling a carriage and a piston in substantially opposing directions and a controller for controlling the trajectory of the propelled payload to enable the payload to land gently at a safe impact distance from the edge of a destination structure.

Abstract: An amusement ride (10) involving riders (17) being conveyed through the air. The amusement ride (10) comprises a tower (11) having a column (23), typically of a height of at least 30 meters. A hub structure (33) is supported on the column (23) for rotation with respect thereto and for displacement therealong. A first drive means (51) is provided for rotating the hub structure (33) with respect to the column (23). A second drive means (61) is provided for displacing the hub structure (33) along the column (23). Rider carriers (81) are suspended from the hub structure (33) to undergo motion in response to movement of the hub structure (33) with respect to the column (23), involving the riders (17) being conveyed along a path around the column (23), with the elevation of the riders changing during the ride through displacement of the hub structure (33) along the column (23). The amusement ride (10) is of a design which is conducive to construction on a large scale.

Abstract: A structure used to raise persons by use of air jets (currents), includes several flight positions (3). Each flight position is associated with a device (1) that generates a vertical air flow, whose flow rate and intensity are constantly monitored from a control room (9) provided with an alphanumeric display. The device (1) includes a variable pitch propeller (6) driven by an electric motor whose rpm is adjusted using an inverter. An electric signal from a balance (7) is processed in order to determine what frequency the motor supply current should have to raise a participant of this weight up to a maximum height which is preferably about 2.5 to 3 meters.

Abstract: A combined human catapult and safety landing apparatus which is a pneumatically controlled human catapult for launching a person in a repeatable flight path in conjunction with a cooperating safety landing apparatus that eliminates the need for less safe water, net or mat landings. An air cylinder that is supplied with a predetermined quantity of gas based upon the passenger's weight is the controllable energy means for launching a passenger a predetermined distance. Having the throw distance controllable allows a safe, repeatable landing within the parameters of the safety landing apparatus. Within the landing apparatus area, the passenger is seated in the catapult that is positioned between an elongate pair of post elevated wires encircled by slidable rings. In flight, the rings which are tethered to the passenger, slide along the wires being pulled by the passenger which, at the same time, provides a controlled flight path and landing similar to sport skydiving but at much lower speeds and heights.

Abstract: Braking and motion-arrest apparatus for braking the arrival of a zipline cable rider at a landing platform and arresting the rider's motion to retain the rider at the platform. A frame is mounted on the cable to allow longitudinal rolling movement of the frame along the cable. A self-closing one-way latch is provided at the forward end of the frame. The latch includes a pair of capture plates which are normally inwardly biased toward one another, on opposite sides of the cable. The rider is tethered to a pulley block which rolls along the cable and collides with the latch. The collision force drives the plates laterally away from the cable, allowing the pulley block to roll through the latch. After the pulley block rolls past the latch, the plates' normal biasing closes the latch, preventing the pulley block from rolling back through the latch.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a ride for providing an upward boost to a participant jumping up and down. The flexible rods of this disclosure may be articulated by a base thereby imparting tension in the flexible rods, and providing an upward force to a participant jumping up and down. Additionally, elastic pods may be provided, allowing participants to bounce upward in a addition to the lift provided by the flexible members, thereby enhancing the participant's experience.

Abstract: A vertical wind tunnel flight simulator comprises a flight chamber wherein a flier may experience a freefall simulation. Airflow to support the flier is induced by fans connected above the flight chamber through a duct. A staging area having openings to the flight chamber is adjacent to the flight chamber. One or two return air ducts are used to return air from the fans outlet to the fans inlet. Opposed louvers are included on at least one duct segment thereby regulating the temperature via forcing ambient air into the simulator. The use of many duct segments having diverging walls adds commercial value to the system by lowering the height. Mounting components on the roof and behind walls creates a spectacular pedestrian viewing scene of people in flight.

Abstract: An amusement ride and fall apparatus includes a track having a discharge point below which there is a substantial drop. A passenger is propelled along the track to the discharge point and discharged therefrom with a horizontal component of motion. The passenger then free falls. An elastic tie having a second first end and free second end connected directly or indirectly to the passenger limits the free fall and, together with the horizontal component of motion imparted to the passenger, causes the passenger to swing and bounce for a period of time at the end of the free fall. At the end of the ride and fall the passenger is released safely. The invention therefore provides a trill similar to that of a bungee jump but with enhancements.

Abstract: An inflatable game incorporating a flexible, inflated structure filled with gas, suitable for users to jump and bounce thereupon and a suspended structure that permits users to be suspended above the inflatable structure. The suspended structure may be a zip line, a bridge, or the like. The suspended structure allows users to move from one elevated position on the inflatable structure to another elevated position. The inflatable structures used in conjunction with suspended features provide an added variety of activities to the user. For example, users can hang in midair, drop onto the inflatable structure from elevated heights, engage in competitive activities.

Abstract: The invention relates to a free-fall tower for a roller coaster, comprising an approximately or a precisely vertical rail system for a passenger unit, which moves from the lower end to the upper end of said tower, from where the passenger unit can freely fall down to subsequently reach said roller coaster course. In the region of the upper end of said tower, the fixedly secured passenger unit is rotated around an approximately or a precisely vertical axis to allow the passenger unit to freely fall down on another rail of said tower. This results, in combination with a roller coaster course, particularly in combination with a second tower of similar construction, in new, eventful ride effects.

Abstract: An amusement device comprising at least one holder for a person and a securing device for detachably securing a person in the holder. The holder comprises at least a seat and a backrest. The securing device includes at least two straps, first ends of which are positioned near a part of the backrest remote from the seat and second ends of which are positioned near the seat. The straps are each fitted with a lock plate between said first and said second ends, which lock plates can be detachably locked together. The straps furthermore each include at least one spring element, wherein the straps can be moved towards the holder against spring force.

Abstract: Bungy jumping apparatus which includes one or more cables (5), means for securing the cable or cables (5) above a jump cavity (2) so as to extend across the jump cavity, a jumping platform (6) supported on one of the cables (5) and securable in a predetermined position on the cable, a bungy securable to the jumping platform (6), and transporting means for carrying jumpers from one edge of the jump cavity (2) to the jumping platform (6) along the cable (5).

Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for the production of a levitational wind comprising a flight chamber defining a levitation area, a blower unit including a plurality of blowers connected in parallel so as to provide their combined flow to the air inlet of the flight chamber, each of the blowers being disposed outside of the levitation area, with the blower unit having an axis essentially perpendicular to the vertical axis of the flight chamber, and an air coupler interposed between the air inlet of the flight chamber and the blower unit, the air coupler including a substantially 90° bend between the blower unit and the air inlet of the flight chamber, and wherein each of the plurality of blowers includes a delivery element for removable connection to the air coupler.

Abstract: A beach sling-jump amusement device for ejecting occupants into the air, featuring a pair of bows intersected by a brace secured on a support frame. An ejection seat having portions defining a trampoline for receiving an occupant. The trampoline is supported centrally in place by drawstrings laced to the bow arching arms. Unlike a conventional bow, the drawstrings with the seat are retracted to a drawn position in opposite direction toward the bow arch, enabling unobstructed ejection of an occupant into a free-flight and safe landing in water. The seat is retracted into a ready position by a winch mounted on the frame. An optional projectile capsule is provided, which is essentially a hollow ball made from a resilient material having a receiving cavity for an occupant. The capsule, adapted and sized for accommodating an occupant, is loosely positioned on the trampoline ring.

Abstract: A mechanism for linearizing an open, vertically directed, high-speed air flow, generated by a propeller rotating about a vertical axis, includes a vertical cylindrical element mounted above and coaxially with the rotating propeller and a plurality of radially oriented vertically planar guide vanes supported at their radially outside ends in such a manner that ambient air can flow radially inward below and above the propeller. For large cross-section air-flows and improved elimination of swirl components from the flow, a second set of shorter radial guide vanes is provided in alternation with the vanes that are connected to the cylindrical element. A net structure is disposed above the guide vane structure for use of the invention in a system for producing a relatively large cross-section linearized flow to enable free-fall simulation exercises by one or more participants, to enable trainers to stand close to the free-falling participants.

Abstract: Method an apparatus for providing a thrilling amusement ride to a passenger stemming predominantly from the inducement of a feeling of dropping through the air and falling from the ride's supporting chair. The method includes positioning a passenger in a passenger support or chair of an amusement ride in a forward facing orientation. The passenger support is located at a drop position in a pre-fall orientation. This drop position may be an origination position, or may be a position to which the support is raised. The passenger support, together with the passenger, is tilted forward into a falling orientation which is at a predetermined tilt-angle to the pre-fall orientation. The passenger support, together with the passenger, is dropped from the drop position to a lower position while the passenger support and the passenger are in the forward tilted falling orientation thereby providing a thrilling amusement ride to the passenger.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for providing a thrilling amusement ride to a passenger stemming predominantly from the inducement of a feeling of being propelled downward toward the ground and from the inducement of a feeling of falling from the ride's supporting chair. The method includes positioning a passenger in a passenger support or chair of an amusement ride in a forward facing orientation. The passenger support is located at a drop position in a pre-fall orientation. This drop position may be an origination position, or may be a position to which the support is raised. The passenger support, together with the passenger, is tilted forward into a falling orientation which is at a predetermined tilt-angle to the pre-fall orientation. The passenger support, together with the passenger, is dropped and/or propelled from the drop position to a lower position while the passenger support and the passenger are in the forward tilted falling orientation thereby providing a thrilling amusement ride to the passenger.

Abstract: The present invention is a vertical wind tunnel amusement device. The device comprises a flight chamber wherein a user may experience a freefall through the atmosphere from the safety of an enclosed flight chamber. Airflow sufficient to fully support a user within the flight chamber is induced by a plurality of fans connected above the flight chamber through a duct. A staging area having openings to the flight chamber is adjacent to the flight chamber. A user may enter or retreat from the flight chamber at will through the staging area openings without significantly adjusting the airflow velocity in the flight chamber. A control room is adjacent to the fight chamber whereby an operator may observe a user or users within the flight chamber and thereby safely control the operation of the fans. A projection room is also adjacent to the flight chamber whereby a video of a skydiving experience may be displayed to a user within the flight chamber.

Abstract: An amusement facility having a frame with a passenger carrier movably mounted on the frame and a drive connected to the passenger carrier for moving the passenger carrier on the frame. The drive includes a cylinder and a piston with a tension member connecting the passenger carrier to the piston. The piston is movable in the cylinder between a top dead center position and a bottom dead center position. Also the cylinder preferably has ends which are closable, and a lateral fluid inlet and outlet for fluid, preferably air, to move the piston in the cylinder. The fluid outlet is positioned between the top dead center position and the bottom dead center position of the piston.

Abstract: A falling amusement ride which is capable of letting a player enjoy a thrill of dropping to the same extent as in a conventional equipment in spite of its height restrained low is provided. The falling amusement ride has a seat supported so as to go up and down to be dropped, and illusion giving device for giving an illusion regarding a sense of height to the player sitting on the seat.

Abstract: An aerodynamic tunnel particularly suited for entertainment purposes is disclosed. The aerodynamic tunnel includes a converging section and a diffuser system having one or more vertical diffusers all of which cooperate with each other to efficiently produce a vertical column of air that allows a person, positioned within the air column, to experience a state of weightlessness.

Abstract: A device for accelerating and decelerating objects by introducing compressed gas into the bore of a housing. A piston is slidably mounted in the bore and has attached to it a cable which proceeds along the bore, through a first aperture near the first end of the housing, around a first pulley, along the exterior of the housing, around a second pulley, through a second aperture near the second end of the housing, and along the bore again before entering the piston and having the second end of the cable connected to the first end of the cable. A carrier is attached to the cable so that the carrier is near the second end of the housing when the piston is near the first end of the housing. Compressed gas can be introduced into the bore near the first end of the housing or near the second end of the housing.

Abstract: A pneumatic device for accelerating and decelerating one or more objects by introducing compressed gas through an injection valve into the bore of a housing. A piston is slidably mounted in the bore and has a cable attached to one side. The cable travels through an aperture near one end of the housing before passing over a first pulley and then connecting to a carrier which hold the object or objects. The cable is selected to be of a length such that the piston will not exit the open end of the bore, which is opposite to the end near where the aperture is located. This creates the possibility of operating the pneumatic device in two different modes. In the first mode, the pressure of the introduced gas is insufficient to propel the objects past the side of the first pulley that is opposite to the initial location of the objects.

Abstract: An amusement ride according to the present invention includes a vertical tower having one or more sides. Along each side of the tower, passengers are strapped into separate vehicles which are lifted vertically to the top of the tower, from where the vehicles are released. The vehicles free fall until slowed and stopped by a braking system. Vertical guides attached to the tower control the direction of the vehicles.

Abstract: A vertical free fall system is proposed where a capsule with human beings is raised pneumatically in a tube, then is released to fall down in a free fall mode inside of the tube. The capsule has some means of controlling the air flow passing across the capsule so that the rate of deceleration is controlled. In this way the capsule is able to free fall then to be decelerated to the bottom of the tube. Also the tube has means to control the flowing air by this being possible to control the deceleration of the said capsule.

Abstract: A mobile, transportable ground level skydiving simulator apparatus is provided that includes a collapsible air containment unit for directing air upwardly therethrough to enable a user or users to be supported by the airstream in simulating skydiving activities. The air containment unit is provided on a movable platform, such as a flatbed trailer, with all or substantially all components of the apparatus being mounted thereon or capable of being stored thereon in transit. The various elements, but in particular the air containment unit, are of a design that enables quick and efficient breakdown or disassembly of the components for transport with the apparatus on roads and highways, and which enables quick and efficient assembly of the components into an operable structure at successive locations.

Abstract: A bungy jumping tower (10) is disclosed having an elongated boom (11) arranged at an inclined angle relative to the ground, The boom (11) has at least one guide (45). A carriage (29) provides a platform from which a jumper may launch himself. The carriage is driven along the guide for movement between a raised and a lowered position.

Abstract: An amusement ride for slingshotting and bouncing humans with bungee cords. The ride is similar to a bungee jump, except that two separate bungee cords are used, and the jumper (rider) starts on the ground. The ride keeps most of the thrilling sensations of bungee jumping, but reduces or eliminates many of the dangers, including hitting the ground, swinging into a tower, and getting tangled in the cords. The slingshot ride consists of two elevated supports (10). In between the two elevated supports is a carrier (24). Two spring members (12) connect the carrier to the top of both supports (picture the letter "M"). A rider is strapped into the carrier that is secured to the ground with a release mechanism (28). The two springs are stretched with a tensioning mechanism (22). The release mechanism is triggered by the operator, and the rider is shot up into the air. The strapped-in rider bounces up and down about four times before being lowered to the ground.

Abstract: An air driven amusement ride propels a passenger vehicle upward along a guide cable out of an acceleration tube by a blast of pressurized air within the tube under the vehicle. Passengers experience a feeling of weightlessness and free fall from the time the vehicle exits the tube until it later re-enters, which can exceed ten seconds. The source of pressurized gas for the tube preferably includes a gas reservoir, a pump that raises the gas pressure in the reservoir at a predetermined pump rate, and a release that allows gas to flow from the reservoir into the tube at a rate substantially faster than the pump rate.

Abstract: An apparatus for simulating a lower gravity environment. The invention allows individuals to experience a simulated reduction in the gravity of Earth. A large balloon provides a buoyant upward force. The balloon is attached to a sturdy frame which is secured to a harness for anchoring the individual to the apparatus. The frame is attached to the balloon with a rotating hinge, allowing for horizontal rotation of the individual. The frame may also attach to the harness with a rotating hinge allowing for vertical rotation of the individual.

Abstract: The present invention is a vertical wind tunnel amusement device. The device comprises a flight chamber wherein a user may experience a freefall through the atmosphere from the safety of an enclosed flight chamber. Airflow sufficient to fully support a user within the flight chamber is induced by a plurality of fans connected above the flight chamber through a duct. A staging area having openings to the flight chamber is adjacent to the flight chamber. A user may enter or retreat from the flight chamber at will through the staging area openings without significantly adjusting the airflow velocity in the flight chamber. A control room is adjacent to the fight chamber whereby an operator may observe a user or users within the flight chamber and thereby safely control the operation of the fans. A projection room is also adjacent to the flight chamber whereby a video of a skydiving experience may be displayed to a user within the flight chamber.