Enclosed programmably controlled looping swing

Abstract

An exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes an entertainment apparatus including an enclosure; and a ride placed within the enclosure where the ride is a programmably controlled ride that can position a passenger to observe a show experience. The programmably controlled ride can vary a show experience. The programmably controlled ride can be programmed to vary the show experience by, e.g., intensifying, moderating, lengthening, shortening, providing variable ratings to, or providing variable age categorization to the ride. The ride can include a looping swing ride including two vertical supports, each including top portions, two parallel swing arm outriggers including first and second ends, the parallel swing arm outriggers journaled in rotatable fashion about a first axis proximate the top portions of the two vertical supports, and a passenger gondola suspended by pendulum arms from the first ends of the parallel swing arm outriggers to rotate about a swing axis; where the programmably controlled ride is programmable to start rotation and stop rotation at a plurality of rotational position locations of the parallel swing arm outriggers of the looping swing ride relative to the two vertical supports of the looping swing ride about the first axis, and to start and stop rotation at a plurality of rotational positions of the passenger gondola relative to the parallel swing arm outriggers about the swing axis, in synchronization with one or more theatrical elements.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to an amusement park ride. More particularly, the invention relates to indoor amusement park rides. Even more particularly, the invention relates to an indoor amusement park ride with theatrical entertainment elements.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Amusement parks or theme parks include various types of rides such as, e.g., roller coasters. One conventional amusement park type ride is a looping swing ride. A conventional looping swing ride is disclosed in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 5,188,566, (“the '566 patent”) the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The looping swing ride of the '566 patent is available from HUSS Maschinenfabrik GmbH & Co., KG, of Bremen, Germany and is marketed under the trademark TOPSPIN. The looping swing of the '566 patent includes a passenger gondola that is suspended at its ends in pendulum (swinging) fashion between two parallel outriggers which, in turn, are journaled in rotatable fashion and capable of being driven in motorized fashion about an axis running between two vertical supports disposed on a frame, with the passenger gondola carrying two rows of passenger seats that run parallel to the axis of the outriggers in a side by side arrangement. A looping swing ride of the type of the '566 patent was also previously disclosed in German Patent Application DE-A-33 21 599.

[0003] The looping swing of the '566 patent includes a locking device for fixing the passenger gondola in a particular angular position relative to the outriggers. In particular, the locking device in the '566 patent consists of a brake arranged in the outrigger concentrically to a brake drum mounted on a gondola-side bearing part. The brake enables not only locking the gondola relative to the outriggers in any arbitrary angular position, but also enables an influencing of the swinging movement of the passenger gondola when such would be desired or required.

[0004] There are numerous entertainment rides around the world enclosed in facilities. So-called “dark rides” have existed at least as early as the 1980's. Traditionally, a dark ride includes a vehicle or connected vehicles, such as a roller coaster, on a track or in a water trough, that is propelled through a series of scenes to tell a story. The scenes are usually enhanced by theatrical lighting, animation, special effects, and theatrical painting to create a stimulating visual experience.

[0005] A subsequent wave of indoor attractions incorporated films working in conjunction with moving seats, or platforms with seats attached to them. One of these moving seat type platforms is often generally referred to as a “simulator,” since this moving seat type platform was first developed for use in flight simulation/training systems. Simulator attractions generally include projection of film images taken from the point of view (POV) of the viewer. Generally, these films incorporate chase scenes, or the like, that take the viewer visually through a variety of environments while seat movements are programmed to emulate in a synchronized fashion the forces experienced by the subject on screen.

[0006] Examples of conventional dark rides include, e.g., “SPACE MOUNTAIN” and the “OUTER LIMITS” attractions. SPACE MOUNTAIN is an attraction of the Walt Disney Company at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla. USA. SPACE MOUNTAIN uses a roller coaster inside a building, with lighting and sound effects to enhance the entertainment experience. The OUTER LIMITS is an attraction of the Paramount Parks of Charlotte, N.C. USA, a division of Viacom Corporation. The OUTER LIMITS attractions are located at Paramount Kings Island in Cincinnati, Ohio USA and Paramount Kings Dominion in Richmond, Va. USA. The OUTER LIMITS attractions include a linear induction launch type ride. Other hybrid rides have also followed such as, e.g., “SPIDERMAN” and “MEN IN BLACK” of Universal Studios Theme Park in Orlando, Fla. USA.

[0007] Conventional looping swing rides have some shortcomings. For example, conventionally, looping swing rides have never been placed in an enclosure to provide a dark-ride-like looping swing ride experience. Conventionally, looping swing rides have always been used only in exterior environments. The exterior nature of conventional looping swing rides limits the times of year of operation of the ride in certain extreme temperature climates. Also, conventional looping swing rides have limited seating capacity, i.e., two rows of passengers for a total seating capacity of approximately 40 passengers. The limited seating capacity of conventional looping swing rides limits the passenger throughput of the ride. The limited seating capacity also contributes to the conventional inappropriateness of the looping swing ride to dark ride applications.

[0008] Conventionally, an amusement park ride is designed for a single, specific passenger category. For example, a ride may be designed for riders of at least a specific height, age and maturity level. Conventionally, if a passenger does not fit, for example, the age category for which the ride is designed, then the passenger's ride experience is suboptimal.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes an entertainment apparatus including an enclosure; and a ride placed within the enclosure where the ride is a programmably controlled ride operative to position a passenger to observe a show experience.

[0010] In one exemplary embodiment, the programmably controlled ride can enable varying a show experience. In an exemplary embodiment, the programmably controlled ride is programmable to vary the show experience by, e.g., intensifying, moderating, lengthening, shortening, providing variable ratings to, or providing variable age categorization to the ride.

[0011] Advantageously, the ride experience according to the present invention can be experienced in various ways, i.e., the ride experience is programmable. For example, a ride may run at a slower rate for one passenger group, and at a faster rate for another passenger group. In addition to the ride theatrical elements can be programmably varied to tailor a ride experience for different audience group category types. For example, the ride experience can be tailored for children during afternoon hours, for teens during evening hours, and for adults over 21, for example, after 10 pm.

[0012] In another exemplary embodiment, the programmably controlled ride can further include a looping swing ride. The looping swing ride can include, e.g., two vertical supports, each vertical support including a top portion, two parallel swing arm outriggers including first and second ends, the two parallel swing arm outriggers journaled in rotatable fashion about a first axis proximate the top portions of the two vertical supports, and a gondola for receiving passengers can be suspended by pendulum arms from the first ends of the parallel swing arm outriggers to rotate about a swing axis; where the programmably controlled ride can be programmable to start rotation and stop rotation at a first plurality of rotational position locations of the parallel swing arm outriggers of the looping swing ride relative to the two vertical supports of the looping swing ride about the first axis.

[0013] In one exemplary embodiment, the gondola can have three or more rows of seating to provide for greater passenger throughput than conventionally available.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, the looping swing ride can be programmably controlled to start and stop rotation about the first axis in synchronization with theatrical elements. As noted, the experience can be programmably varied so as to tailor the ride experience to a specific audience group.

[0015] In one exemplary embodiment, the ride can include one or more sensors operative to sense the first plurality of rotational position locations of the parallel swing arm outriggers relative to the two vertical supports about the first axis, one or more motors to start rotation of the parallel swing arm outriggers relative to the two vertical supports about the first axis, and one or more braking mechanisms operative to stop rotation of the parallel swing arm outriggers relative to the two vertical supports about the first axis.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, the entertainment apparatus can further include a software programmable ride control system (“ride control system”) can be provided with a software application programmable interface (API). The ride control system can be coupled via the API to a show software programmable control system (“show control system”). The show control system can control the ride using the ride control system and can control theatrical elements and other ride/show subsystems via other software programmable interfaces. Thus, using the show control system, the ride control system can make the ride start and stop in synchronization with theatrical elements. The ride control system can start movement of the ride by, e.g., energizing one or more motors that can drive rotation of the swing arm outriggers relative to the vertical supports, and/or that can drive rotation of the gondola relative to the swing arm outriggers. The ride control system can use sensors to identify the position of the swing arm outriggers relative to the vertical supports of the ride while in rotation. Similarly, the ride control system can use the sensors to identify the rotational position of the gondola in relation to the swing arm while rotating. The ride control system can then stop the rotation of the swing arm outriggers relative to the vertical supports by using one or more braking mechanisms. The ride control system can similarly use a braking mechanism to stop the rotation of the gondola relative to the swing arm outriggers. It is important to note, that in one exemplary embodiment, the rotation of the gondola can be achieved by the swinging pendulum action of the gondola relative to the rotating swing arm outriggers. Then by locking the gondola in place relative to the swing arm outriggers, the gondola can be driven to rotate from momentum and gravitational force.

[0017] In another exemplary embodiment, the programmably controlled ride can include means for programmably starting and stopping rotation about the first or swing axes in synchronization with theatrical effects including, e.g., music, theatrical scenes, fire, water, smoke, or steam.

[0018] In another exemplary embodiment, the programmably controlled ride can further include means for programmably starting and stopping rotation at a second plurality of rotational position locations of the gondola of the looping swing ride relative to the parallel swing arm outriggers of the looping swing ride about the swing axis.

[0019] In another exemplary embodiment, the ride can include one or more sensors operative to sense the second plurality of rotational position locations of the gondola relative to the parallel swing arm outriggers of the looping swing ride about the swing axis, one or more motors to start rotation of the gondola relative to the parallel swing arm outriggers of the looping swing ride about the swing axis, or one or more braking mechanisms to stop rotation of the gondola relative to the parallel swing arm outriggers of the looping swing ride about the swing axis.

[0020] In another exemplary embodiment, the programmably controlled ride can include means for programmably starting and stopping rotation of the gondola about the swing axis in synchronization with theatrical effects including, e.g., any of music, theatrical scenes, fire, water, smoke, steam, sculpted scenery, lighting effects, audio, visual effects, fog, or video effects.

[0021] In another exemplary embodiment, the ride can include a looping swing ride, where the gondola includes at least three parallel rows of theatrically seated passengers.

[0022] In another exemplary embodiment, an entertainment apparatus can include a looping swing ride. In an exemplary embodiment, the looping swing ride can be programmably controlled to start and stop rotation. The programmably controlled looping swing ride can include one or more motors, one or more braking mechanisms, and one or more sensors. The one or more sensors can be adapted to determine a rotational position about a first axis of two parallel swing arm outriggers of the looping swing ride relative to a position of two vertical supports of the looping swing ride. The one or more sensors can be adapted to determine a rotational position about a swing axis of a gondola relative to a position of the two parallel swing arm outriggers of the looping swing ride.

[0023] In another exemplary embodiment, the ride can further include a retractable loading ramp. The loading ramp can be retracted by a motor or a pneumatic system.

[0024] In another exemplary embodiment, the pneumatically retractable loading ramp can allow tandem loading, simultaneous ingress and egress, simultaneous loading of multiple rows, and/or three (3) parallel paths of entry to the entertainment apparatus.

[0025] In another exemplary embodiment, the ride can further include an article storage compartment. In one exemplary embodiment, the article storage compartment can be external to the ride. In another exemplary embodiment, the article storage compartment can be integrated into the ride. Examples of article storage compartments can include, e.g., bags, nets, receptacles, boxes, lockers, plastic bags, spandex bags, covers, zippered or snapping bags and the like.

[0026] In another exemplary embodiment, the ride can include a pre-show.

[0027] In another exemplary embodiment, the enclosure can include a box, a cylinder, a dome, a hemisphere or a sphere.

[0028] In another exemplary embodiment, the enclosure can be impermeable to light.

[0029] In another exemplary embodiment, the ride can further include a pair of pneumatically retractable loading ramps external to the vertical supports for loading passengers on and unloading passengers off the ride.

[0030] In another exemplary embodiment, the pneumatically retractable loading ramp allows tandem loading, and three (3) parallel paths of entry to the entertainment apparatus.

[0031] In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, a method is set forth for providing a theatrical experience including: a) receiving one or more guests in an enclosure adapted to present a theatrical experience; b) providing seating for the one or more guests; and c)providing a theatrical experience to the one or more guests that is programmably controllable.

[0032] In another exemplary embodiment, the enclosure can include a box, a cylinder, a sphere, a hemisphere, a dome, a rectangular box, or a material impermeable to light.

[0033] In yet another exemplary embodiment, the step (b) can include: i) providing a looping swing in the enclosure as the seating; or ii) providing a pneumatically retractable loading ramp for passenger entry and exit from the seating.

[0034] In another exemplary embodiment, the step (b) (i) can include: A) providing the looping swing including at least one of a motor, a braking mechanism, and at least one sensor to sense location of the looping swing; or B) providing the looping swing including an article storage compartment.

[0035] In another exemplary embodiment, the step (b) (ii) can include: A) providing tandem loading using the pneumatically retractable loading/unloading ramp; or B) providing at least 3 parallel paths for entry into the seating.

[0036] In another exemplary embodiment, the step (c) can include: i) programmably intensifying or moderating the theatrical experience; ii) programmably lengthening or shortening the theatrical experience; iii) programmably adjusting to ratings tiers the theatrical experience; iv) programmably adjusting to age categorizations the theatrical experience; and v) programmably starting and stopping rotation of a looping swing at any of a plurality of predetermined locations.

[0037] In another exemplary embodiment, the step (c) (v) can include: A) positioning parallel swing arm outriggers at one of a plurality of first predetermined locations, where the first predetermined locations are of the parallel swing arm outriggers relative to vertical supports of a platform of the looping swing; B) positioning the gondola at one of the plurality of second predetermined locations, where the second predetermined locations are of the gondola relative to the parallel swing arm outriggers of the mechanical looping swing; or C) positioning in synchronism with, e.g., music, effects, theatrical elements, sculpted scenery, lighting effects, audio, visual effects, fog, video effects and/or theatrical scenes.

[0038] In another exemplary embodiment, the method can further include: d) receiving an article from the at least one guest into an article storage compartment. The compartment can be part of a ride, or separate from the ride. The compartment can include, e.g., a bag, a plastic bag, a net, a spandex bag, a box, a locker or a cover, snapped or zippered.

[0039] Further features and advantages of the invention, as well as the structure and operation of various embodiments of the invention, are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] The foregoing and other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following, more particular description of a preferred embodiment of the invention, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and/or structurally similar elements. The left most digits in the corresponding reference number indicate the drawing in which an element first appears:

[0041] FIG. 1 depicts a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a looping swing ride in passenger entry/exit position;

[0042] FIG. 2 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a side view of the looping swing ride of FIG. 1;

[0043] FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a top view of the looping swing ride of FIG. 1;

[0044] FIG. 4 depicts a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a front view of the looping swing ride in an exemplary embodiment of an enclosure according to the present invention including exemplary pneumatically retractable loading ramps;

[0045] FIG. 5 depicts a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a schematic representation of the course of a looping swing ride cycle through an exemplary theatrical experience including a plurality of theatrical elements including one or more revolutions of two swing arm outriggers relative to vertical supports and including one or more revolutions of the gondola relative to the swing arm outriggers of the looping swing ride;

[0046] FIG. 6 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a top view of the exemplary enclosure of FIG. 4, also illustrating an exemplary pre-show theatre, anterooms, and exemplary queuing access tunnel; and

[0047] FIG. 7 depicts an exemplary storage compartment for articles of passengers.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0048] A preferred embodiment of the invention appears below. While exemplary embodiments are discussed below, it should be understood that this is done for illustration purposes only. A person skilled in the relevant art will recognize that other components and configurations can be used without parting from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein should be understood to only be representative and that the scope of the present invention should be limited only by the elements of the claims set forth herein and their equivalents.

[0049] FIG. 1 depicts a front view 100 of an exemplary embodiment of a looping swing 101 as can be integrated as part of the present invention. FIG. 1 depicts front view 100 of looping swing 101 including two vertical supports 102a and 102b. Journaled at upper ends 104a, 104b of the vertical supports 102a, 102b are hubs 106a, 106b of parallel swing arm outriggers 108a, 108b, which can be driven in a direction-of-rotation-reversing manner and with regulated speed of rotation by one or more motors 10a-d (collectively 110). Motors 110 can be electric. In one exemplary embodiment, swing arm outriggers 108a, 108b can be coupled at the substantial midpoints of outriggers 108a, 108b, by a shaft (not shown), at axis 112 of rotation. In another exemplary embodiment, the outriggers 108a, 108b are not coupled together by a shaft.

[0050] In an exemplary embodiment, opposite the hubs 106a, 106b, the outriggers 108a, 108b can include counter pieces 108c, 108d on which can be coupled counterweights 114a, 114b. The counterweights 114a, 114b can be of a dimension such that the total weight of counterweights 114a, 114b corresponds to the total weight of passenger gondola 116 with approximately half occupancy. The passenger gondola 116 can be journaled in swinging fashion at pendulum arms 118a, 118b in the free ends of the outriggers 108a, 108b, respectively, about an axis 119 extending parallel to the axis 112. The pendulum arms 118a, 118b are short in comparison with the outriggers 108a, 108b. Rotation of passenger gondola 116 about axis 119 with respect to outriggers 108a, 108b can be driven by one or more motors 120a, 120b, 120c, and 120d. Brakes 122a, 122b such as, e.g., disc brakes with calipers can be included in an exemplary embodiment. Brake 122a can be used to influence the rotation of outriggers 108a, 108b about axis 112. In one exemplary embodiment, brake 122a in combination with one or more location sensors 124a (not shown) and/or motors 110 can be used to programmably control stopping and starting rotation of outriggers 108a, 108b at any position of rotation about the axis 112. Brake 122b can be used, associated with hubs 106a, 106b and 106c, bearings 124a, 124b to influence the rotating movement of the passenger gondola 116 about axis 119. The brake 122b can be used to lock the pendulum arms 118a, 118b at a predetermined angular position relative to the outriggers 108a, 108b. Brake 122b, in combination with one or more sensors (not shown) and/or motors 110,120 can be used to programmatically control stopping and starting rotation of the passenger gondola 116 relative to outriggers 108a, 108b about axis 119. Three rows 126 of seats 128 for seating, e.g., approximately 70 or more passengers can be arranged at different heights in theatrical terrace fashion in the passenger gondola 116.

[0051] In one exemplary embodiment, if gondola 116 is hung in a swinging pendulum rotatable fashion with relation to the swing arm outriggers 108a, 108b, then a motor 110 giving rotation to the swing arm outriggers 108a, 108b will also cause the gondola to rotate relative to the swing arm outriggers. By using a braking mechanism to hold a position of the gondola 116, relative to the swing arm outriggers 108a, 108b, and then rotating the swing arm outriggers 108a, 108b, then the gondola 116 can be made to rotate relative to the swing arm outriggers 108a, 108b by effect of gravitational force as described at length in the '566 patent discussed above, the contents of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Thus, a motor 110 driving the rotation of the swing arm outriggers 108a, 108b can in effect also be driving rotation of the gondola 116. In another exemplary embodiment, a separate motor 120 can be used to cause rotation about the swing axis 119 by gondola 116.

[0052] FIG. 2 depicts a side view 200 of the looping swing 101 of FIG. 1. The arrangement of the seats 128 relative to the axis 119 of the swing is shown in FIG. 2. The seats 128 of the back row of seats 128 can include head rests 202. The head rests 204 of the second row of seats 128 can be arranged somewhat lower, can be staggered and can lie correspondingly lower than the back row and directly under the axis 119 of the swing. The head rests 206 of the front tow can lie similarly in front and below the second row of seats 128, and can lie in front of axis 119.

[0053] FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a top view 300 of the looping swing 101 of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary staggered layout of passenger seating. The staggered layout allows each passenger to clearly view the theatrical entertainment that can be displayed before the passenger according to the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 4 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a front view 400 illustrating a cross-section of an exemplary enclosure 401 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention enclosing the looping swing ride 101 in an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 4 also depicts an exemplary pre-show theatre 402 with a door 404 for providing entrance to the looping swing ride 101 completely enclosed within enclosure 401. The door can enable the enclosure to be fully impermeable to light during operation of the looping swing ride 101. Additional doors, (not labeled) can be used to exit the enclosure 401. FIG. 4 further depicts, in an exemplary embodiment, pneumatically retractable loading ramps 406a, 406b for providing passenger entry to and exit from, respectively, the looping swing ride 101. In the exemplary embodiment of looping swing ride 101 shown in FIG. 4, entrance to the ride is external to the ride, and is separate from exit from the ride to allow simultaneous exit and entrance by previous and new passengers, respectively. In the exemplary embodiment shown, enclosure 401 can include a slanted or tilted roof for ease of drainage of the enclosure 401. The enclosure 401 can be of substantially cubic, spherical, cylindrical or other boxed shape. However, other shapes could also be used such as, e.g., a sphere, hemisphere, a cylinder, half cylinder, a rectangular box, or dome. The enclosure 401 can also be made impermeable to external light. In an exemplary embodiment of enclosure 401, the enclosure 401 can include one or more theatrical scenes through which the passenger can be moved via riding the looping swing 101.

[0055] FIG. 5 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a side view 500 of a programmably controlled theatrical experience where looping swing 101 travels starting and stopping in rotation in a programmably controlled manner from position A502 through position L524. The looping swing ride 101 can move through the positions A502-L524 by rotating the swing arm outriggers 108 about first axis 112 and/or by rotating passenger gondola 116 about swing axis 119, in synchronization with theatrical elements. Exemplary theatrical elements include theatrical scenes including, e.g., elements 526, 528, and 530 which can include, e.g., any combinations of special effects such as, e.g., lights, lasers, sounds, video, content, animation, music, audio, smoke, steam, fire, water, other liquids and other gases.

[0056] The entertainment experience of the present invention can include, in an exemplary embodiment, a software programmable master show control system (“show control system”) which can be interfaced to any of various software programmable subsystem control systems to allow programmably controlling the ride experience. An exemplary a subsystem could include the looping swing ride 101 which can include a software programmable ride control system (“ride control system”). The ride control system can be accessed by the show control system to, e.g., enable programmably synchronizing ride rotations of the looping swing ride 101 with other theatrical elements being controlled by the show control system. In an exemplary embodiment, the ride control system can include a programmable software application programmable interface (API). The ride control system can be coupled via the API to the show control system. The show control system can control the ride using the ride control system and can control other subsystems including, e.g., theatrical elements and other ride/show subsystems via other software programmable interfaces. Thus, using the show control system, an administrator can program the looping swing ride 101 using the ride control system. For example, the administrator can make the ride start and stop in synchronization with theatrical elements. As programmed by the show control system, the ride control system can start movement of the ride by, e.g., energizing motors that can drive rotation of the swing arm outriggers relative to the vertical supports, or that can drive rotation of the gondola relative to the swing arm outriggers. The ride control system can use sensors to identify the position of the swing arm outriggers relative to the vertical supports of the ride while in rotation. Similarly, the ride control system can use the sensors to identify the rotational position of the gondola in relation to the swing arm while rotating. The ride control system can then stop the rotation of the swing arm outriggers relative to the vertical supports by using one or more braking mechanisms. The ride control system can similarly use a braking mechanism to start or stop the rotation of the gondola relative to the swing arm outriggers.

[0057] The programmable show control system allows varying a passenger's ride experience. Advantageously, this allows for example the ride experience to be varied in such ways as, e.g., age categorization, rating tiers, intensity, length, and moderation. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the ride experience can be programmably controlled to run in a variety of fashions or modes including, e.g., a G-rated fashion, a PG-rated fashion, and/or an R-rated fashion. For example, a ride may run at a slower rate for one passenger group, and at a faster rate for another passenger group. In addition to the ride, theatrical elements can be programmably varied to tailor a ride experience for different audience group category types. For example, the ride experience can vary so as to be be tailored for children during afternoon hours, for teens during evening hours, and for adults over 21, for example, after 10 pm. In the children's ride experience, for example, special effects and water elements might be eliminated, i.e., moderating the experience in comparison to a normal operating mode, while for the teenager's experience the special effects and water elements could, e.g., be increased and a fire element could be added, i.e. intensifying the experience.

[0058] As an exemplary embodiment of the ride cycle begins at position A502, the ride can lurch forward to position B504 with, e.g., sounds of grinding metal as, e.g., sparks fall from above in front of the guests. The ride vertical rotation can then begin a slow rise until the looping swing ride 101 and the gondola 116 are locked into position C506 to face, e.g., a (searching eyes) light source at approximately 8 O'clock about axis 112. The gondola 116 can then suddenly release and the rotation can lurch forward into, e.g., two (2) 360 degree. rotations about axis 112, and optionally one or more rotations of gondola 116 about axis 119 until gondola 116 comes to a screeching halt at position D508 at approximately 11 O'clock, with the gondola 116 locked in an astro position F512 to, e.g., “almost impale” guests into ice stalactites at element 528. After a few seconds, the ride can again rocket forward for a couple rotations such as, e.g., shown at position G514 and then can lock in position at position H516 for the position of the gondola 116 as shown at approximately 3 O'clock at position 1518 with the gondola 116 upside down over, e.g., bursts of fire, lava, (e.g., backlit steam) coming from a volcano (theatrical set) as shown by element 530. The gondola 116 can then release and can be locked at 90 degrees relative to the swing arm outriggers vertical, while the ride can slowly lower the guests to position J520 into erupting streams of hot, bubbling lava of the element 530 (e.g., steam, fire, lighted pool, or water jets). Guests can get wet in varied degrees depending on, e.g., the ride program and seating positions, the ride can let loose with one or more other 360 degree rotations and the gondola 116 can be allowed to freely spin about swing axis 119. The ride can stop at 5 O'clock at position K522 and can lower into place at position L524 to allow guests to exit. The entrance and exit of guests can be by way of loading ramps that can be retractably positioned for entry and exit from the looping swing ride 101.

[0059] The entire experience can include synchronized programmed music, audio, special sound effects, animation, video, effects and lighting with each movement of the ride, locking and gondola positions. Each movement of the ride can be carefully choreographed to match the show scenes, action, audio, video, theatrical and special effects elements and lighting. The show control system can allow for the ride (via interface to the ride control system) and show elements to be programmed to intensify, lengthen, shorten, and/or moderate the experience. Thus, the ride experience can be tailored and varied, e.g., ad hoc in real time, or by a schedule, so as to provide up to an infinite variety of different audience experiences tailored for different audience groups.

[0060] The ride can include various theatrical elements that can be integrated and can be programmably controlled by the show control system. For example, the guest can experience various scenes as follows:

[0061] A. Scene Two—The Antechamber—602, 606

[0062] Elements can include, e.g.,: Stone archways, stone monkeys, large medallion, (combination of original movie set pieces, castings from original molds, and sculpt in place rockwork) available from The Weber Group of Louisville, Ky._ U.S.A.;

[0063] programmed lighting, available from Visual Terrain of Los Angeles_, _Calif. U.S.A.; and

[0064] mist and fog, the fog in the space can be provided by a D5 Hazer (smoke), available from Technifex, Inc. of Valencia, Calif., U.S.A.

[0065] B. Scene Three—The Brahma Shrine (pre-show)—402

[0066] Elements can include, e.g.,: Behind us a round stone door grinds shut, trapping us in the Brahma Shrine. This is a large, themed, mechanical door. The action is accompanied with realistic sound effects, available from Technifex, Inc. of Valencia, Calif., U.S.A.;

[0067] Fire pans are up-lit silks animated by mechanical fans, available from Technifex, Inc. of Valencia, Calif., U.S.A.;

[0068] Energy Vortex (front-projection screen) on a scissor lift hidden in the set, and front digital projection, available from Technifex, Inc. of Valencia, Calif., U.S.A.;

[0069] Voiceover(s), sound effects, voiceovers, and audio mix, available from The Bakery of Burbank, Calif. U.S.A.;

[0070] Music composition, score, and edit, available from Rob Pottorf of Charlotte, N.C. U.S.A.; NOTE: Audio throughout the attraction were provided by both Vendors listed above;

[0071] Video Clips were provided by Paramount Pictures of Hollywood, Calif., U.S.A.;

[0072] Video edit, was available from Blue Yonder Pictures of La Crescenta, Calif. U.S.A.; and

[0073] Stone door lifts up to reveal the ride. Themed, mechanical door, available from Technifex of Technifex, Inc. of Valencia, Calif., U.S.A.

[0074] C. Scene Four—Heart of the Tomb (Ride Room)—401

[0075] Elements can include, e.g.,: Ride entry draw-bridge platforms—pneumatically operated steel platforms 406a, 406b, operational specifications provided by Paramount Parks of Charlotte, N.C., of U.S.A., manufactured by and available from Huss Maschinenfabrik GmbH & Co., KG, of Bremen, of Germany;

[0076] Element 526—The Shiva Goddess (a 30′ tall sculpted figure);

[0077] Spray of Sparks—including a continuous-feed spark generator similar to a wire welder, available from Technifex, Inc. of Valencia, Calif., U.S.A.;

[0078] Gondola swings down with a lurch C 506—Huss ride, brake release and programming, available from Huss Maschinenfabrik GmbH & Co., KG, of Bremen, of Germany;

[0079] (sound effects) as above;

[0080] Headlights—Specified by Paramount Parks of Charlotte, N.C., U.S.A., and installed on front of gondola by Huss Maschinenfabrik GmbH & Co., KG, of Bremen, of Germany—used to reveal the bottom front of the Shiva;

[0081] Jewels—3″ acrylic, back-lit jewels, available from Technifex of Technifex, Inc. of Valencia, Calif., U.S.A.;

[0082] Blacklight effects, available from Technifex of Technifex, Inc. of Valencia, Calif., U.S.A.;

[0083] Phosphor-based painting provided by the Weber Group of Louisville, Ky. U.S.A.;

[0084] Searing Beams—High-intensity metal halide light source shines out of the Shiva's eyes and scans audience, available from Technifex of Technifex, Inc. of Valencia, Calif., U.S.A.;

[0085] Strobes, available from Technifex of Technifex, Inc. of Valencia, Calif., U.S.A.; and

[0086] Scene ends, and the Huss looping swing ride can suddenly swing up from A 502 and around the room; programmed to move from A 502, to B 504,to C 506, and D 508.

[0087] Element 526—The Ice Cave:

[0088] Razor Sharp Spikes of Ice; the ice shards are cast acrylic stalactites in a field on the “ceiling” which extends the entire length of the gondola, the spikes available from The Weber Group of Louisville, Ky. U.S.A.;

[0089] the spikes are internally lit with fiber optics, and the effect can be enhanced with, e.g., fine water mist such as, e.g., Mee fog and dripping water, available from Technifex of Technifex, Inc. of Valencia, Calif., U.S.A.; and

[0090] the ride is programmed to thrust the guests as if they would be impaled on the spikes, but stops “just in time” at F 512 and in the correct viewing position from at E 510, programming available from Huss Maschinenfabrik GmbH & Co., KG, of Bremen, of Germany.

[0091] Element 530—The Lava Pit:

[0092] Backlit from below with red and orange, steam jets (appear to be fire) erupt all around the guests, as if to totally engulf them, available from Technifex of Technifex, Inc. of Valencia, Calif., U.S.A.;

[0093] Volcano is carved rockwork, available from The Weber Group of Louisville, Ky. U.S.A.;

[0094] Lava Pit can be a pool of water lit with red and orange from below, could include fire, and could be covered with, e.g., fine water mist, such as, e.g., Mee Fog;

[0095] the lava spits can be water jets, mist, steam, or flames, and can lit to appear to be lava and programmed to increase in height at exactly the right moment, available from Technifex of Technifex, Inc. of Valencia, Calif., U.S.A.; and

[0096] proper, programmable ride positioning from G 514 to H 516, I 518, and J 520 (location and in synchronism with theatrical elements and effects) in these scenes is crucial to a successful show—programming available from Huss Maschinenfabrik GmbH & Co., KG, of Bremen, of Germany.

[0097] The Finale K522:

[0098] “all hell can break loose” as the ride accelerates and the gondola swings freely; and

[0099] all of the previously-described effects can go on continuous loop, and additional lighting effects can erupt to a crescendo of booming sound effects and music.

[0100] FIG. 6 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a top view 600 of enclosure 401 and pre-show theatre room 402. FIG. 6 includes a tunnel 602 leading up to pre-show 402. FIG. 6 also includes an exit room 604 which can be used to allow exit from the ride into an area that can prevent the enclosure 401 from being lit up by outside light while guests exit the ride 101. FIG. 6 also depicts an exemplary ante room 606. In other exemplary embodiments of the present invention, more or less rooms or enclosures can be included.

[0101] FIG. 7 depicts an exemplary illustration 700 of an exemplary storage compartment 702 for storing passenger articles. In an exemplary embodiment, the compartment 702 can be separate from the looping swing ride 101. In another exemplary embodiment (not shown) the storage compartment 702 can be integrated into the looping swing ride 101. It is again noted that the above-described embodiments are exemplary and are not meant to limit the scope of the present invention. In one exemplary embodiment, the article storage compartment 702 can include a door 704.

[0102] While the present invention has been described in connection with an exemplary embodiment, it will be understood that many modifications will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and this application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations thereof. For example, different ride components, mechanisms, hardware, software and methods may be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. While various exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should instead be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An entertainment apparatus comprising:

an enclosure;

a ride placed within said enclosure;

wherein said ride comprises a programmably controlled ride operative to position a passenger to observe a show experience.

2. The entertainment apparatus of claim 1, wherein said programmably controlled ride is programmable to vary said show experience.

3. The entertainment apparatus of claim 2, wherein said programmably controlled ride is programmable to vary said show experience by at least one of: intensifying, moderating, lengthening, shortening, providing variable ratings to, and providing variable age categorization to said ride.

4. The entertainment apparatus of claim 2, wherein said programmably controlled ride comprises:

a looping swing ride comprising:

two vertical supports, each including top portions,

two parallel swing arm outriggers including first and second ends, said parallel swing arm outriggers journaled in rotatable fashion about a first axis proximate the top portions of said two vertical supports, and

a gondola suspended by pendulum arms from the first ends of said parallel swing arm outriggers to rotate about a swing axis; and

wherein said programmably controlled ride is programmable to start rotation and stop rotation at a first plurality of rotational position locations of said parallel swing arm outriggers of said looping swing ride relative to said two vertical supports of said looping swing ride about said first axis.

5. The entertainment apparatus of claim 4, wherein said ride comprises at least one of:

at least one sensor operative to sense said first plurality of rotational position locations of said parallel swing arm outriggers relative to said two vertical supports about said first axis,

at least one motor to start rotation of said parallel swing arm outriggers relative to said two vertical supports about said first axis, and

at least one braking mechanism operative to stop rotation of said parallel swing arm outriggers relative to said two vertical supports about said first axis.

6. The entertainment apparatus of claim 4, wherein said programmably controlled ride comprises means for programmably starting and stopping rotation about at least one of said axes in synchronization with theatrical effects including at least one of:

music,

sculpted scenery,

lighting effects,

audio,

visual effects,

fog,

video effects,

theatrical scenes,

fire,

water,

smoke, and

steam.

7. The entertainment apparatus of claim 4, wherein said programmably controlled ride, further comprises means for programmably starting and stopping rotation at a second plurality of rotational position locations of said gondola of said looping swing ride relative to said parallel swing arm outriggers of said looping swing ride about said swing axis.

8. The entertainment apparatus of claim 7, wherein said ride comprises at least one of:

at least one sensor operative to sense said second plurality of rotational position locations of said gondola relative to said parallel swing arm outriggers of said looping swing ride, about said swing axis,

at least one motor to start rotation of said gondola relative to said parallel swing arm outriggers of said looping swing ride about said swing axis, and

at least one braking mechanism to stop rotation of said gondola relative to said parallel swing arm outriggers of said looping swing ride about said swing axis.

9. The entertainment apparatus of claim 8, wherein said programmably controlled ride comprises means for programmably starting and stopping rotation about said swing axis in synchronization with theatrical effects including at least one of:

music,

theatrical scenes,

fire,

water,

smoke,

steam,

sculpted scenery,

lighting effects,

audio,

visual effects,

fog, and

video effects.

10. The entertainment apparatus of claim 1, wherein said ride comprises:

a looping swing ride, and wherein said looping swing ride comprises a gondola comprising at least three parallel rows of theatrically seated passengers.

11. The entertainment apparatus of claim 1, wherein said ride comprises:

a looping swing ride, wherein said looping swing ride is programmably controlled to start and stop rotation;

wherein said programmably controlled looping swing ride comprises at least one motor, at least one braking mechanism, and at least one sensor;

wherein said at least one sensor is adapted to determine a rotational position about a first axis of two parallel swing arm outriggers of said looping swing ride relative to a position of two vertical supports of said looping swing ride; and

wherein said at least one sensor is adapted to determine a rotational position about a swing axis of a gondola of said looping swing ride relative to a position of said two parallel swing arm outriggers of said looping swing ride.

12. The entertainment apparatus of claim 11, further comprising a retractable loading ramp.

13. The entertainment apparatus of claim 12, wherein said retractable loading ramp comprises at least one of a motor driven retractable loading ramp and a pneumatically driven retractable loading ramp, said retractable loading ramp enabling at least one of: tandem loading, loading multiple rows at one time, loading ingress and egress at the same time, and loading at least three (3) parallel paths of entry to said entertainment apparatus.

14. The entertainment apparatus of claim 1, wherein said ride further comprises: an article storage compartment.

15. The entertainment apparatus of claim 14, wherein said article storage compartment comprises at least one of:

an integrated receptacle coupled to part of said ride;

a bag;

a plastic bag;

a spandex bag;

a net;

a cover; and

an external receptacle for receiving articles separate from said ride.

16. The entertainment apparatus of claim 1, wherein said ride comprises: a pre-show.

17. The entertainment apparatus of claim 1, wherein said enclosure comprises at least one of:

a box,

a cylinder,

a dome,

a hemisphere, and

a sphere.

18. The entertainment apparatus of claim 1, wherein said enclosure is impermeable to light.

19. The entertainment apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a retractable loading ramp comprising at least one of: a pneumatically retractable and a motor driven retractable loading ramp.

20. The entertainment apparatus of claim 19, wherein said retractable loading ramp enables at least one of:

tandem loading,

loading multiple rows at one time,

loading ingress and egress at the same time, and

loading at least three (3) parallel paths of entry to said entertainment apparatus.

21. A method for providing a theatrical experience comprising:

a) receiving at least one guest in an enclosure adapted to present a theatrical experience;

b) providing seating for the at least one guest; and

c) providing a theatrical experience to the at least one guest that is programmably controllable.

22. The method according to claim 21, wherein said enclosure comprises at least one of:

a box,

a cylinder,

a sphere,

a hemisphere,

a dome,

a rectangular box, and

a material impermeable to light.

23. The method according to claim 21, wherein said step (b) comprises at least one of:

i) providing a looping swing in said enclosure as said seating; and

ii) providing a retractable loading ramp for passenger entry and exit from said seating.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein said step (i) comprises at least one of:

A) providing said looping swing comprising at least one of a motor, a braking mechanism, and at least one sensor to sense location of said looping swing; and

B) providing said looping swing comprising an article storage compartment.

25. The method according to claim 23, wherein said step (ii) comprises at least one of:

A) providing tandem loading using said retractable loading/unloading ramp;

B) providing at least 3 parallel paths for entry into said seating;

C) providing for simultaneous ingress and egress into said seating;

D) providing for simultaneous entry into multiple rows at one time; and

E) pneumatically retracting said retractable loading/unloading ramp.

26. The method according to claim 21, wherein said step (c) comprises at least one of:

i) programmably intensifying or moderating said theatrical experience;

ii) programmably lengthening or shortening said theatrical experience;

iii) programmably adjusting to ratings tiers said theatrical experience;

iv) programmably adjusting to age categorizations said theatrical experience;

v) programmably starting and stopping rotation of a looping swing at any of a plurality of predetermined locations;

vi) programmably varying said theatrical experience; and

vii) receiving a selection of a plurality of pre-programmed guest-tailored theatrical experiences.

27. The method according to claim 26, wherein said step (v) comprises at least one of:

A) positioning parallel swing arm outriggers at one of a plurality of first predetermined locations, wherein said first predetermined locations are of said parallel swing arm outriggers relative to vertical supports of said looping swing;

B) positioning said gondola at one of said plurality of second predetermined locations, wherein said second predetermined locations are of said gondola relative to said parallel swing arm outriggers of said looping swing; and

C) positioning in synchronism with at least one of: music, effects, theatrical elements, theatrical scenes, sculpted scenery, lighting effects, audio, visual effects, fog, and video effects.

28. The method according to claim 21, further comprising:

d) receiving an article from the at least one guest into an article storage compartment.

29. The method according to claim 28, wherein said article storage compartment comprises at least one of:

an integrated receptacle coupled to said seating;

a bag;

a plastic bag;

a spandex bag;

a box;

a locker;

a net;

a cover; and

an external receptacle not coupled to said seating.