ARTICULATING WALL WAVE GENERATION SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS

Abstract

In an aspect, various embodiments of an articulating wall wave generation system for forming surfable waves is described. The articulating wall wave generation system can include a panel actuating assembly including an actuator. The actuator can include an actuator body and a linkage arm. The articulating wall wave generation system can further include a panel connected to the actuator, and the linkage arm of the actuator can extend between the panel and the actuator body. Activation of the actuator can cause movement of the panel to assist with forming a surfable wave in a fluid volume.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Ser. No. 63/377,179, filed Sep. 26, 2022, titled “PIVOT LINKAGE ARTICULATING WALL FOR WAVE GENERATION,” the contents of which are fully incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

Ocean waves have been used recreationally for hundreds of years. One of the most popular sports at any beach with well-formed, breaking waves is surfing. Surfing and other board sports have become so popular, in fact, that the water near any surf break that is suitable for surfing is usually crowded and overburdened with surfers, such that each surfer has to compete for each wave and exposure to activity is limited. Further, the majority of the planet's population does not have suitable access to ocean waves in order to even enjoy surfing or other ocean wave sports.

Another problem is that the waves at any spot are varied and inconsistent, with occasional “sets” of nicely formed waves that are sought after to be ridden, interspersed with less desirable and, in some cases, unrideable waves. Even when a surfer manages to be able to ride a selected wave, the duration of the ride usually lasts only a few seconds, with most rides being between 5 and 10 seconds long. For both recreational and competitive surfing, consistency, control of variability, size and shape are key and long-sought aspects of man-made waves.

SUMMARY

Various embodiments of an articulating wall wave generation system and related methods are described herein. In an aspect, various embodiments of an articulating wall wave generation system for forming surfable waves is described. The articulating wall wave generation system can include a panel actuating assembly including an actuator. The actuator can include an actuator body and a linkage arm. The articulating wall wave generation system can further include a panel connected to the actuator, and the linkage arm of the actuator can extend between the panel and the actuator body. Activation of the actuator can cause movement of the panel to assist with forming a wave in a fluid volume.

In some variations one or more of the following features can optionally be included in any feasible combination. The fluid volume can be contained in a fluid container having one or more of a basin, a pool, and a channel. The wave can be a surfable wave. The panel actuating assembly can further include an actuation mechanism that actuates the actuator, and the actuation mechanism can cause the actuator body to move thereby causing the panel to move for assisting with forming the surfable wave. The actuator body can be configured to rotate upon actuation of the actuator by the actuation mechanism. The actuator body can be configured to linearly translate upon actuation of the actuator by the actuation mechanism. The linkage arm can be pivotably coupled to the actuator body and the panel such that rotation of the actuator body causes one or more of pivoting and translating of the panel. The panel can be an active panel and the articulating wall wave generation system can further include a connecting panel pivotably coupled to the active panel. The connecting panel can be configured to pivot and/or translate as a result of pivoting and/or translating of the active panel. The pivoting and/or translating of the active panel and the connecting panel can assist with forming the surfable wave in the fluid container.

The articulating wall wave generation system can further include a plurality of the panel actuating assemblies, and the plurality of panels of the plurality of panel actuating assemblies can be connected in a series. Each panel actuating assembly of the plurality of panel actuating assemblies can be in communication with a control system and an actuation mechanism for allowing individual actuation of each panel actuating assembly of the plurality of panel actuating assemblies to form an articulating wall. The articulating wall wave generation system can further include a plurality of the panel actuating assemblies and a plurality of connecting panels, each of the connecting panels being coupled to a first panel actuation assembly of the plurality of actuating assemblies and a second panel actuation assembly of the plurality of actuation assemblies. Each of the first panel actuation assembly and the second actuation assembly can be in communication with a control system and an actuation mechanism for allowing individual actuation of the first panel actuation assembly and the second panel actuation assembly to form an articulating wall. The articulating wall can include the plurality of panels forming a curved shaped wall portion that travels along a length of the articulating wall for forming a surfable wave in the fluid container. The articulating wall can include one or more of the active panel and the connecting panel forming a curved shaped wall portion that travels along a length of the articulating wall for forming a surfable wave in the fluid container.

The actuation mechanism can include one or more drive units that are configured to rotate the actuator body of each panel actuation assembly of the plurality of panel actuation assemblies. The articulating wall wave generation can further include a controller configured to control the actuation mechanism. The articulating wall wave generation system can further include a support structure coupled to one or more of the actuation mechanism and the actuator, the support structure being secured to a part of the fluid container. The actuator body can include a central portion and an actuator arm that extends outward from the central portion. The actuator arm can extend between the central portion and the linkage arm. The actuator can further include an actuator joint pivotably connecting the actuator arm and the linkage arm. The panel can include a panel joint, and the panel joint can be operably coupled to the actuator. The panel joint can allow the linkage arm to pivot relative to a back surface of the panel. The panel can include a front surface including one or more of a flat shape, a corrugated shape, a curved shape, a smooth shape, or a textured shape.

The actuator body of the actuator can be configured to rotate in a first direction to thereby advance the linkage arm of the actuator such that the panel can be advanced away from the actuator body and into an extended configuration. The actuator body of the actuator can be configured to rotate in a second direction to thereby retract the linkage arm of the actuator such that the panel can be retracted towards the actuator body and into a retracted configuration. In the retracted configuration, the actuator body can be in a first rotational position and the panel can be at a retracted distance from the actuator body. The retracted distance can be a minimum distance between the actuator body and the primary panel. In the extended configuration, the actuator body can be in a second rotational position and the panel can be at an extended distance from the actuator body. The extended distance can be a maximum distance formed between the actuator body and the primary panel. The extended distance can be larger than the retracted distance. The panel of the panel actuating assembly can be configured to transition between the retracted configuration and the extended configuration.

The connecting panel can be coupled to the active panel via a panel connecting joint. Movement of the active panel can cause movement of the connecting panel. The articulating wall wave generation system can include a plurality of panels forming an articulating wall, and each of the panels can be an active panel. The articulating wall wave generation system can further include at least one connecting panel pivotably coupled to at least one active panel. The active panels and the at least one connecting panel can be connected in an alternating pattern to form the articulating wall. The articulating wall can include one or more of the active panel and the connecting panel forming an undulation for forming a surfable wave in the fluid container.

The articulating wall wave generation system can further include a pivoting wall stabilizer connected to the connecting panel. The pivoting wall stabilizer can include a connecting arm connected to the connecting panel and a support arm connected to the connecting arm. The articulating wall wave generation system can further include a support track connected to the at least one pivoting wall stabilizer, and the connecting arm can extend between the connecting panel and the support track. The connecting arm can be configured to slide or move along the support track in response to movement of the connecting panel. The support arm can extend between the connecting arm and the support track, and the support arm can be configured to pivot relative to the support track.

In another interrelated aspect of the current subject matter, a method includes generating a wave in a fluid volume using an articulating wall wave generation system. The method can also include actuating the articulating wall wave generation system to thereby generate a wave in a fluid volume. For example, the articulating wall wave generation system can include a panel actuating assembly having an actuator, and the actuator can include an actuator body and a linkage arm. The articulating wall wave generation system can further include a panel connected to the actuator, and the linkage arm of the actuator can extend between the panel and the actuator body.

In some variations one or more of the following features can optionally be included in any feasible combination. The actuating of the articulating wall wave generation system can include activating the actuator to thereby cause movement of the panel. The activating the actuator can include rotating or translating the actuator in a first direction. The fluid volume can be contained in a fluid container including one or more of a basin, a pool, and a channel, and the wave can be a surfable wave. The panel actuating assembly can further include an actuation mechanism that activates the actuator, the actuation mechanism causing the actuator body to move thereby causing the panel to move for assisting with forming the surfable wave. The actuator body can be configured to rotate upon activation of the actuator by the actuation mechanism. The actuator body can be configured to linearly translate upon activation of the actuator by the actuation mechanism. The linkage arm can be pivotably coupled to the actuator body and the panel such that rotation of the actuator body causes one or more of pivoting and translating of the panel. The panel can be an active panel and the articulating wall wave generation system can further include a connecting panel pivotably coupled to the active panel. The connecting panel can be configured to pivot and/or translate as a result of pivoting and/or translating of the active panel. The pivoting and/or translating of the active panel and the connecting panel can assist with forming the surfable wave in the fluid container.

The articulating wall wave generation system can further include a plurality of the panel actuating assemblies. The plurality of active panels of the plurality of panel actuating assemblies can be connected in a series, and each panel actuating assembly of the plurality of panel actuating assemblies can be in communication with a control system and an actuation mechanism for allowing individual actuation of each active panel actuating assembly of the plurality of panel actuating assemblies to form an articulating wall. The articulating wall wave generation system can further include a plurality of the panel actuating assemblies and a plurality of connecting panels. Each of the connecting panels can be coupled to a first panel actuation assembly of the plurality of actuating assemblies and a second panel actuation assembly of the plurality of actuation assemblies. Each of the first panel actuation assembly and the second actuation assembly can be in communication with a control system and an actuation mechanism for allowing individual actuation of the first panel actuation assembly and the second panel actuation assembly to form an articulating wall. The articulating wall can include the plurality of active panels forming a curved shaped wall portion that travels along a length of the articulating wall for forming a surfable wave in the fluid container. The articulating wall can include one or more of the active panel and the connecting panel forming a curved shaped wall portion that travels along a length of the articulating wall for forming a surfable wave in the fluid container.

The actuation mechanism can include one or more drive units that are configured to rotate the actuator body of each panel actuation assembly of the plurality of panel actuation assemblies. The articulating wall wave generation system can further include a controller configured to control the actuation mechanism. The articulating wall wave generation system can further include a support structure coupled to one or more of the actuation mechanism and the actuator. The support structure can be secured to a part of the fluid container. The actuator body can include a central portion and an actuator arm that extends outward from the central portion. The actuator arm can extend between the central portion and the linkage arm. The actuator can further include an actuator joint pivotably connecting the actuator arm and the linkage arm. The panel can include a panel joint, wherein the panel joint can be operably coupled to the actuator. The panel joint can allow the linkage arm to pivot relative to a back surface of the panel. The panel can include a front surface having one or more of a flat shape, a corrugated shape, a curved shape, a smooth shape, or a textured shape.

The actuator body of the actuator can be configured to rotate in a first direction to thereby advance the linkage arm of the actuator such that the panel can be advanced away from the actuator body and into an extended configuration. The actuator body of the actuator can be configured to rotate in a second direction to thereby retract the linkage arm of the actuator such that the panel can be retracted towards the actuator body and into a retracted configuration. The retracted configuration of the actuator body can be in a first rotational position and the panel can be at a retracted distance from the actuator body. The retracted distance can be a minimum distance between the actuator body and the primary panel. The extended configuration of the actuator body can be in a second rotational position and the panel can be at an extended distance from the actuator body. The extended distance can be a maximum distance formed between the actuator body and the primary panel. The extended distance can be larger than the retracted distance. The panel of the panel actuating assembly can be configured to transition between the retracted configuration and the extended configuration.

The connecting panel can be coupled to the active panel via a panel connecting joint. Movement of the active panel can cause movement of the connecting panel. The articulating wall wave generation system can include a plurality of panels forming an articulating wall, and each of the panels can include an active panel. The articulating wall wave generation system can further include at least one connecting panel pivotably coupled to at least one active panel. The active panels and the at least one connecting panel can be connected in an alternating pattern to form the articulating wall. The articulating wall can include one or more of the active panel and the connecting panel forming an undulation for forming a surfable wave in the fluid container. The articulating wall wave generation system can further include a pivoting wall stabilizer connected to the connecting panel. The pivoting wall stabilizer can include a connecting arm connected to the connecting panel and a support arm connected to the connecting arm. The articulating wall wave generation system can further include a support track connected to the at least one pivoting wall stabilizer, and the connecting arm can extend between the connecting panel and the support track. The connecting arm can be configured to slide or move along the support track in response to movement of the connecting panel. The support arm can extend between the connecting arm and the support track, and the support arm can be configured to pivot relative to the support track.

The details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other aspects will now be described in detail with reference to the following drawings.

FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a wave pool in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of an articulating wall wave generation system in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a plan view of the articulating wall wave generation system extending along a side of an embodiment of the wave pool;

FIG. 4 is a side view of the articulating wall wave generation system of FIG. 2 in the embodiment of the wave pool of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5A is an overhead view of an embodiment of the articulating wall wave generation system of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5B is an overhead view of an embodiment of an articulating wall wave generation system in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a panel actuating assembly and connecting panel of the articulating wall wave generation system of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the panel actuating assembly and connecting panel of FIG. 6 with a support structure removed from view;

FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the panel actuating assembly and connecting panel of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of an actuator body of the articulating wall wave generation system;

FIG. 9B is a perspective view of linkage arms and stiffening linkages of the panel actuating assembly;

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a back surface of a panel of the articulating wall wave generation system;

FIG. 10B is an overhead view of a panel of the articulating wall wave generation system;

FIG. 11 illustrates articulating of the articulating wall wave generation system over time in an overhead view;

FIG. 12A illustrates an overhead view of a panel actuating assembly and its displacements during articulation;

FIG. 12B illustrates a side view of a panel actuating assembly and its displacements during articulation;

FIG. 13 illustrates an overhead view and a magnified view of an articulating wall wave generation system with a pivoting wall stabilizer;

FIG. 14 illustrates overhead views of the pivoting wall stabilizer in different positions;

FIG. 15 illustrates schematic overhead views of embodiments of articulating wall wave generation systems;

FIG. 16 illustrates overhead views comparing the curvature of an articulating wall wave generation system and a piston wave generation system;

FIG. 17 illustrates overhead schematic views of articulating wall wave generation systems in a linear arrangement and a curved arrangement; and

FIGS. 18A-18F illustrate overhead views of articulating wall wave generation systems in various arrangements.

Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This document describes a wave pool including an articulating wall wave generation system for efficiently and effectively generating one or more waves in the wave pool. For example, the one or more generated waves can be formed by the articulating wall wave generation system for allowing one or more persons to surf along the generated waves in the wave pool. The generated waves can be used for other purposes, including other sporting activities.

In some embodiments, the wave pool includes at least one side defining a fluid container (e.g., a pool) for containing a volume of fluid, such as water, for forming the surfable waves. The wave pool can include an embodiment of the articulating wall wave generation system positioned along one or more sides defining the fluid container, or within the fluid container distanced away from the side (e.g., in the center of the fluid container). In some embodiments, the articulating wall wave generation system can include a plurality of panel actuation assemblies that can be individually actuated to form a dynamic articulating wall that interacts (e.g., applies various forces against and into the fluid contained in the fluid container) to thereby form at least one wave (e.g., surfable wave). For example, the articulating wall can form a convex and/or curved shape or undulation 195 that travels along the articulating wall wave generation system to form the at least one wave. The curved shape or undulation 195 that forms along the articulating wall and travels along the articulating wall wave generation system can be formed as a result of individual actuation of each of the panel actuating assemblies, such as in a sequential and/or programmed order, as will be described in greater detail below. The articulating wall can be dynamically moved through a wide range of shapes, including a convex and/or curved shape, without over-constraining the articulating wall wave generation system.

FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a wave pool 200 including a fluid container 202 (e.g., basin, channel, pool, etc.) that can contain a fluid 204, such as a large volume of water sufficient to allow one or more persons to surf one or more waves formed along the wave pool 200. As shown in FIG. 1, the wave pool can include at least one articulating wall wave generation system 100 along at least one side 206 of the wave pool 200 that can form at least one surfable wave. The surfable wave can be about 6 feet tall, about 4 feet tall, or a range in between. The fluid container 202 can be linear or curvilinear, such as an arc, a semi-circle, or a circle. The fluid container 202 can include a number of sections, each of which can be one of a linear section, a curvilinear section, or a combination thereof. As shown in FIGS. 2, 3, and 4, the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can be at least partly surrounded by a protection barricade 210. For example, the protection barricade 210 can include a fluid-permeable fence that extends along a length of the articulating wall wave generation system 100, including at least an entire length of the articulating wall wave generation system 100, such as to protect people in the wave pool 200 from contacting the articulating wall wave generation system 100 (e.g., to prevent injury). As such, the protection barricade 210 can provide a protective barrier to prevent user contact with the articulating wall wave generation system 100 without impeding the formation of waves by the articulating wall wave generation system 100.

FIGS. 3 and 5A-5B illustrate embodiments of the articulating wall wave generation system 100 including a plurality of panel actuating assemblies 102 that can be arranged in series, such as in a linear configuration. The panel actuating assemblies 102 arranged in series can allow the panel actuating assemblies 102 to be individually actuated in a sequence that results in the articulating wall wave generation system 100 forming a dynamic articulating wall 101. As discussed above, the articulating wall 101 can form (as a result of the individually and sequentially actuated panel actuating assemblies) a convex and/or curved shape or undulation 195 (as shown in FIG. 11) that travels along the articulating wall wave generation system 100 to form at least one wave in the fluid 204 contained in the fluid container 202. For example, the curved shape or undulation 195 that travels along the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can cause a force to be applied to the fluid 204 that results in the formation of at least one surfable wave.

As shown in FIGS. 6-8, some embodiments of the panel actuating assembly 102 can include at least one actuator 110, such as a first actuator 110a and a second actuator 110b, that are each coupled to an active panel 140. For example, the first actuator 110a and the second actuator 110b can be individually actuated to cause movement (e.g., pivoting, translation) of at least the active panel 140. As shown in FIG. 5B, some embodiments of the panel actuating assembly 102 can include a single actuator 110. Each actuator 110 of the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can be individually actuated to cause movement (e.g., pivoting, translation) of at least the active panel 140. As shown in FIG. 5A, and 6-8, the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can include a connecting panel 160 coupled between and linking two adjacent panel actuating assemblies 102. As such, movement of the active panel 140, such as by activation of one or more actuators 110, can cause movement (e.g., pivoting, translation) of a connecting panel 160, as will be described in greater detail below. The active panels 140 and connecting panels 160 can be linked together end-to-end via hinges or other pivoting connections 143, 162. As shown in FIG. 5B, the articulating wall wave generation system may not include connecting panels 160, and instead, active panels 140 can be linked together end-to-end via hinges or other pivoting connections 143. In some embodiments, the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can include a number N of panels 140, 160 and a number N+1 of actuators 110. In some embodiments, the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can include 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or at least 100 actuators 110, as well as any number therebetween.

As shown in FIG. 5B, each panel actuating assembly 102 can include a single actuator 110, and the active panels 140 may be coupled to each other without intervening connecting panels 160. In some embodiments, each actuator 110 (e.g., the first actuator 110a and the second actuator 110b, or a single actuator 110) of each panel actuating assembly 102 can include an actuator body 112 and a linkage arm 116 that can extend between the active panel 140 and the actuator body 112. The linkage arm 116 can transmit force from the actuator body 112 to the active panel 140 to thereby cause translational motion of at least a portion of the active panel 140. In some embodiments, the linkage arm 116 can convert rotational motion of the actuator body 112 to linear motion of at least a portion of the active panel 140. In some embodiments, the linkage arm 116 can transmit a linear motion or linear force to cause linear motion of at least a portion of the active panel 140. The linkage arm 116 can include a variety of configurations and are not limited to the embodiments illustrated. In some embodiments, the linkage arm 116 can be integrated with and/or part of the actuator body 112 (e.g., no mechanical joint connecting the linkage arm 116 to the actuator body 112), such as in embodiments of the panel actuating assembly 102 including an embodiment of the actuator 110 that includes a linear actuator. Each actuator body 112 can be coupled to one or more actuation mechanisms 180 (e.g., rotary drive units, linear drive units, etc.) that cause the actuator body 112 to move (e.g., rotate, pivot, translate) upon actuation of the associated actuation mechanism 180. For example, the actuation mechanisms 180 may be located above a fluid line of the fluid 204 in a fluid container 202 for ease of access during maintenance, repair, or the like.

As shown in FIGS. 7, 8, and 9A, some embodiments of the actuator body 112 include an actuator arm 114 that extends from a central portion 115 of the actuator body 112. As also shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the linkage arm 116 can extend between the actuator body 112, or a portion of the actuator body 112 such as the actuator arm 114, and the active panel 140. For example, the actuator arm 114 can assist with efficiently pivoting the linkage arm 116 to cause the active panel 140 to pivot and/or translate in response to a rotational movement of the actuator body 112. As such, the active panel 140, as well as adjacent connecting panels 160 or other adjacent active panels 140, can be caused to move (e.g., pivot, translate) as a result of rotational movement of the actuator body 112. Pivoting and/or translating of the active panel 140 and/or the connecting panel 160 may assist with forming a surfable wave in the fluid container 202. However, in some embodiments, the actuator body 112 can be configured to linearly translate for causing at least the active panel 140 to move (e.g., pivot, translate) and adjacent connecting panels 160 to move (e.g., pivot, translate) without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Other possible actuators can include chain drives, electromechanical actuators, hydraulic actuators, and direct drive linear motors without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

In some embodiments, each actuator 110 can include an actuator joint 118 that pivotably couples the linkage arm 116 to the actuator body 112. For example, the actuator joint 118 can be positioned along a distal end of the actuator arm 114, as shown in FIG. 7. Additionally, each active panel 140 can include a pair of panel joints 142 that pivotably couple the linkage arm 116 of each actuator 110 to the active panel 140. This can allow the linkage arm 116 to pivot relative to a back surface of the active panel 140 and the actuator body 112 (e.g., relative to a longitudinal axis of the actuator body 112). This can allow rotation of the actuator body 112 to translate into pivoting and/or translation (e.g., angular, linear) of the active panel 140, such as to assist with forming the curved shaped portion of the articulating wall for forming one or more waves in the wave pool 200. The panel joint 142 can be located on a back surface of the active panel 140. In some embodiments, the linkage arms 116 can connect to the active panel 140 at the hinge point between the active panel 140 and the connecting panel 160 and apply force directly to both the active panel 140 and the connecting panel 160. In some embodiments, the linkage arms 116 can connect to a hinge point between two adjacent active panels 140 and apply force directly to the two adjacent active panels 140.

As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, each actuator 110 can include more than one linkage arm 116 (e.g., two linkage arms 116), one or more actuator arms 114 (e.g., two actuator arms 114), and one or more actuator joints 118 (e.g., two actuator joints 118) without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, more than one actuator arm 114, linkage arm 116, and actuator joint 118 can allow for additional support and applied forces to and from at least the active panels 140 (e.g., to achieve formation of a larger variety of sized and shaped waves). As shown in FIGS. 7, 8, and 9B, each actuator 110 can include one or more stiffening arms 119 extending between the two or more linkage arms 116 to prevent torsional twist or shear between the linkage arms 116 during rotation of the actuator 110 and movement of a active panel 140 in the generation of a wave. The actuator arms 114 and linkage arms 116 can also be stiff in the vertical plane to support the vertical weight of the active panels 140 and/or the connecting panels 160 such that a separate vertical load carrying system is not required. Furthermore, although the actuator bodies 112 described herein are described as being activated to rotate (to thereby cause an associated active panel 140 to pivot and/or translate), one or more actuator bodies 112 of the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can be activated to linearly translate (and not rotate) to thereby cause an associated active panel 140 to pivot and/or translate without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 4, 5A, and 12A-12B, the panel actuating assembly 102 can form a retracted configuration and an extended configuration. In the retracted configuration, the actuator body 112 can be in the rested or unactuated state with the actuator arm 114 in a first position 130, as shown in FIG. 12A. When the actuator arm 114 is in the first position 130 (e.g., as a result of the actuator body 112 being in a first rotational position), the active panel 140 can be in a retracted position 131, which can be the minimum distance the active panel 140 is positioned relative to the actuator body 112. In the extended configuration, the actuator body 112 can be in an activated state (e.g., one or more drive units of the actuation mechanism 180 cause the actuator body 112 to rotate about a longitudinal axis passing through the center of the central portion 115) to thereby place the actuator arm 114 in a second position 132, as shown in FIG. 12A. When the actuator arm 114 is in the second position 132 (e.g., as a result of the actuator body 112 being in a second rotational position), the active panel 140 can be in an extended position 133, which can be the furthest the active panel 140 is positioned away from the actuator body 112. For example, in the extended configuration, the linkage arm 116 can extend approximately perpendicular or transverse relative to the active panel 140, however, the linkage arm 116 can form a variety of angles relative to the active panel 140 without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The distance between the retracted position 131 and the extended position 133 can be about 12 feet, about 10 feet, about 8 feet, or any range in between. In some embodiments, the distance can be greater than 12 feet or less than 8 feet.

As shown in FIGS. 7 and 11, each panel actuating assembly 102 can include the first actuator 110a and the second actuator 110b, which can be separately actuated by the actuation mechanism 180. For example, the first actuator 110a and the second actuator 110b can be activated at the same and/or different times. In some embodiments, the first actuator 110a and the second actuator 110b can include the same configuration and features. In some embodiments, for example, the first actuator 110a can include a first actuator body 112a that is actuated to rotate in a clockwise direction and the second actuator 110b can include a second actuator body 112b that is actuated to rotate in a counterclockwise direction. In some embodiments, each panel actuating assembly 102 can include a single actuator 110, which can be actuated by the actuation mechanism 180 and can include an actuator body 112 that is actuated to move in one or both of a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction.

As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12A-12B, an actuator body 112 (e.g., the first actuator body 112a) can be activated and caused to rotate in a clockwise confirmation to thereby cause the associated active panel 140 to pivot and/or translate. Such pivoting and/or translation can result from a first end of the active panel 140 being transitioned towards and/or into the extended position 133, which can occur while the second end of the active panel 140 is in (or more closely in) the retracted position 131 or extended position 133, as well as any position therebetween (e.g., transitioning between the retracted position 131 and the extended position 133).

FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment of the articulating wall wave generation system 100 showing independent and coordinated actuation of first and second actuators 110a and 110b, respectively, in a series of connected panel actuation assemblies 102. Each pair of panel actuation assemblies 102 can be connected by at least one connecting panel 160. Additionally, pivoting and/or translation of an active panel 140 can result in pivoting and/or translation of an adjacent connecting panel 160 or other adjacent active panels 140, such as to form the curved articulating wall shape that translates along the articulating wall wave generation system 100, as shown in in FIG. 11.

As the actuator body 112 transitions from the first position 130 to the second position 132, the portion of the active panel 140 that is connected to the actuator 110 can transition from the retracted position 131 to the extended position 133 (e.g., translates outward to thereby apply a force against the water to assist with forming a surfable wave). If one portion of the active panel 140 transitions from the retracted position 131 to the extended position 133 (e.g., translates outward) asynchronously from another portion of the active panel 140, the active panel 140 can pivot about a rotational axis (e.g., a pivot point or fulcrum). Asynchronous sequential translation of adjacent portions of active panels 140 and (if present) connecting panels 160 can cause sequential pivoting of panels 140, 160 thereby creating an undulation 195 that can travel across the length of the articulating wall 101 of the articulating wall wave generation system 100, as shown in FIG. 11.

As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can include a controller 150 (e.g., including a memory and processor) that can be in communication with each actuator 110 of the articulating wall wave generation system 100. The controller 150 can activate each actuator 110 in a synchronous or asynchronous manner to cause the asynchronous sequential translation of adjacent portions of panels 140, 160, thereby causing the sequential pivoting of panels 140, 160 that forms a traveling undulation 195. The controller 150 can include a processor and a non-transient computer readable medium including software or programming that the processor can run in order to cause the asynchronous activation of each actuator 110. The controller 150 can be manually controlled by an operator in order to cause the asynchronous activation of each actuator 110 and/or the controller 150 can operate automatically (e.g., preprogrammed controller 150) to cause the individual activation of each actuator 110. The controller 150 can be configured and programmed in a variety of ways in order to achieve the undulation 195 that is formed and translated across the articulating wall 101 of the articulating wall wave generation system 100, as shown in FIG. 11, for forming a surfable wave in a fluid container, such as the wave pool 200 shown in FIG. 1.

In some embodiments, the connecting panel 160 can include at least one panel connecting joint 162 at a first coupling end 164 and a second coupling end 166 of the connecting panel 160. For example, the panel connecting joints 162 can allow the connecting panel 160 to pivot relative to adjacent active panels 140, such as to form the curved shape along the articulating wall that translates along the articulating wall wave generation system 100. In some embodiments, the active panel 140 can include at least one panel connecting joint 143 in order to be able to connect to other active panels 140. The panel joint 143, 162 can be a hinge, a ball and socket joint, or another pivotable connection.

In some embodiments, the active panel 140 and/or connecting panel 160 can include one or more substantially flat surfaces. In some embodiments, the active panel 140 and/or connecting panel 160 can include one or more non-planar surfaces, such as a corrugated surface having a plurality of vertical channels, as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B. As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the active panel 140 and/or the connecting panel 160 can include one or more support beams running lengthwise across a back surface of the active panel 140 and/or the connecting panel 160. A front surface of the active panel 140 and/or the connecting panel 160 can include one or more of a flat shape, a corrugated shape, a curved shape with a radius of curvature, a smooth shape, or a textured shape. In some embodiments, the active panel 140 and/or connecting panel 160 can contain internal buoyant compartments that reduce the mass and density of the active panel 140 and/or connecting panel 160. The resulting buoyant force exerted on the active panel 140 and/or connecting panel 160 can partially or fully offset the vertical weight of the active panel 140 and/or connecting panel 160 such that a separate vertical load carrying system is not required. The active panel 140 and/or connecting panel 160 can have various characteristics (e.g., widths, heights, thicknesses, weights, densities, etc.). For example, panels 140, 160 can have a width of about 25 feet, about 24 feet, about 20 feet, about 16 feet, or any range in between, and a height of about 15 feet, about 15 feet and 5 inches, or a range in between. In some embodiments, the width can be greater than 25 feet or less than 16 feet. In some embodiments, the height can be greater than 15 feet and 5 inches, or less than 15 feet.

In some embodiments, the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can include one or more longitudinal restraints or pivoting wall stabilizers 170 that can assist with providing additional stabilization to one or more connecting panels 160, as shown in FIG. 13, or one or more active panels 140. The pivoting wall stabilizers 170 restrain the articulating wall 101 (formed of active panels 140 and/or connecting panels 160) in the longitudinal direction (e.g., in the lengthwise direction of the articulating wall 101), preventing the articulating wall 101 from moving uncontrolled in the longitudinal direction, while still allowing the articulating wall 101 to articulate in the transverse direction (e.g., perpendicular to the face of the articulating wall 101, toward/away from the actuator bodies 112). For example, the pivoting wall stabilizer 170 can include a connecting arm 172 that pivotably couples to the active panel 140 or the connecting panel 160 (e.g., along a back side of the active panel 140 or a back side of the connecting panel 160) at a distal end 173 of the connecting arm 172. The connecting arm 172 can include a proximal end 174 that pivotably and slidably couples to a support track 179, which can be a part of and/or coupled to an embodiment of a support structure 190 that provides structural and positional support for the articulating wall wave generation system 100, including each panel actuating assembly 102. In some embodiments, the connecting arm 172 can be pivotably and slidably coupled to the active panel 140 or connecting panel 160, and pivotably coupled to the support track 179. As shown in FIG. 14, the pivoting wall stabilizer 170 can include a supporting arm 176 that is pivotably connected to a part of the connecting arm 172 at a first end and is pivotably coupled to the support track 179 at a second end. As such, the pivoting wall stabilizer 170 can be a passive and movable (e.g., pivoting, sliding) mechanism that moves (e.g., pivots, slides) in response to movement of the active panel 140 and/or connecting panel 160, which is caused to move as a result of either one or more actuators 110 of a panel actuating assembly 102 moving an active panel 140 and/or a connecting panel 160 or one or more actuators 110 of an adjacent panel actuating assembly 102 moving an active panel 140 adjacent to a connecting panel 160.

FIG. 15 illustrates various example embodiments of the articulating wall wave generation system 100, such as various numbers of active panels 140, connecting panels 160, and/or panel actuating assemblies 102 the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can include and the length of each active panel 140 and/or connecting panel 160. The articulating wall wave generation system 100 can have any number of active panels 140 and/or connecting panels 160. The density of actuators 110 along the length of the articulating wall 101, and therefore the length of active panels 140 and/or connecting panels 160, can affect the curved dimensions (e.g., arc length, radius of curvature, fidelity of the curve). For example, a greater number of panels 140, 160 each having a shorter width over a length of the articulating wall 101 can allow the length of articulating wall 101 to form a curve having a smaller radius of curvature and/or arc length and/or fidelity of the curve compared to a length of the articulating wall 101 with fewer panels 140, 160 each having a longer width, as shown in FIG. 15. Panels 140, 160 with shorter widths can allow for a higher fidelity or resolution of a desired curve, which can positively affect the smoothness of a wave forming function (e.g., a curve or undulation 195 traveling across the length of the articulating wall 101), increase power and/or quality of the formed wave, and/or reduce the amount of energy needed to form the wave. For example, the articulating wall 101 can have a length of about 320 feet, about 264 feet, about 240 feet, about 224 feet, or any range in between. The articulating wall 101 can include 11, 12, 13, or 14 active panels 140 and/or connecting panels 160.

FIG. 16 illustrates the curved dimensions of the articulating wall wave generation system 100 with an articulating wall 101 in comparison to a piston-type wave generation system lacking an articulating wall. As shown in FIG. 16, the articulating wall wave generation system 100 with an articulating wall 101 is able to more precisely fit a curve than a piston-type wave generation system lacking an articulating wall. The articulating wall wave generation system 100 can have distinct advantages over a piston-type wave generation system including paddles or panels constrained to move on a linear axis without pivoting or yaw angle rotation. For example, the articulating wall wave generation system 100 has the ability to form a smooth wave generation profile with a significantly smaller number of panels than a piston-type wave generation system. The articulation of the articulating wall 101, and more precisely the pivoting and/or yaw angle rotation of the active panels 140 and/or connecting panels 160 forming the articulating wall 101, allow the articulating wall 101 to conform to a curve as opposed to having cliffs or defined steps. Additionally, no intermediate devices are required, such as between active panels 140 and/or connecting panels 160, to address flow control or vortex formation issues. Additionally, the articulation of the articulating wall 101 can allow a better fit to optimal wave generation forcing functions, providing for better energy transfer to the wave and more precise generated wave profiles. A further advantage of the articulating wall wave generation system 100 is the ability to implement a wide variety of shapes of the articulating wall wave generation system 100 that can allow for novel implementation in a wave pool 200.

FIGS. 17 and 18A-18F illustrate various example embodiments of the articulating wall wave generation system 100, such as various shapes the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can form. Such variation in shapes of the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can allow the articulating wall wave generation system 100 to accommodate a variety of wave pool shapes and designs. As shown in FIG. 17, the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can have a straight linear configuration and a curvilinear configuration. As shown in FIG. 18A, the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can have a straight linear configuration. As shown in FIG. 18B, the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can have a concave configuration. As shown in FIG. 18C, the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can have a convex configuration. As shown in FIG. 18D, the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can have more than one curved section along the length of the sequentially coupled panel actuating assemblies of the articulating wall wave generation system 100. As shown in FIG. 18E, the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can have a V-shaped configuration. As shown in FIG. 18F, the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can have a straight linear section with one or more panel actuating assemblies 102 angled away from the straight linear section.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 8, some embodiments of the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can include a support structure 190, which can include an upper platform and one or more support legs. For example, the support structure 190 can assist with securing a position of each actuator 110 while allowing each actuator body 112 to pivot or rotate about a longitudinal axis running through the center of the central portion 115 relative to the support structure 190, such as to allow the panel actuating assembly 102 to form the extended and/or retracted configuration. For example, as shown in FIG. 12A, the central portion 115 of the actuator body 112 rotates about a central longitudinal axis without translational movement. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 8, the support structure 190 can further include a lower mount for each actuator 110 that can assist with securing a position of each actuator 110 while allowing each actuator body 112 to pivot or rotate about the central longitudinal axis. The support structure 190 can be coupled to the actuation mechanism 180, the pair of actuators 110, and the fluid container 202 or a part of the fluid container 202. As shown in FIGS. 2-4 and 6, a catwalk structure 192 can be located alongside and at the same level as the upper platform of support structure 190. The catwalk structure 192 can provide service access to the actuation mechanism 190 and may be enclosed for architectural requirements or weather protection.

In some embodiments, the actuator bodies 112 may be rotated via activation of an actuation mechanism 180. As shown in FIGS. 6-8, the actuation mechanism 180 may include a plurality of drive units arranged circumferentially about an upper end of the actuator bodies 112, or may include a single on-axis drive unit. The drive units can interface with a slewing ring and the support structure 190. The drive units may be stabilized and held in place by support structure 190 as they rotate the actuator bodies 112. As each individual drive unit rotates, the rotational force may be transmitted to the actuator bodies 112 via the slewing ring, causing rotation of the actuator bodies 112.

In some implementations, a method of an articulating wall wave generation system can include generating one or more waves (e.g., surfable waves) in a fluid volume contained in a fluid container. For example, the method can include actuating the articulating wall wave generation system to thereby generate one or more surfable waves in the fluid volume. In some embodiments, the articulating wall wave generation system can include an embodiment of the panel actuating assembly including a pair of actuators that each include an embodiment of the actuator body and linkage arm. The articulating wall wave generation system can include an embodiment of the active panel connected to the pair of actuators, and the linkage arm of each actuator can extend between the active panel and a respective actuator body.

For example, actuating the articulating wall wave generation system can include activating an embodiment of the first actuator of the pair of actuators to thereby cause movement of the active panel. In some embodiments, activating the first actuator of the pair of actuators can include rotating the first actuator in a first direction to thereby advance the linkage arm of the first actuator in a direction toward the active panel. In some embodiments, actuating the articulating wall wave generation system can further include activating a second actuator of the pair of actuators to thereby cause movement of the active panel. For example, activating the second actuator can include rotating the second actuator in a second direction, and the first direction can be opposite the second direction.

Furthermore, independent control and actuation (such as by a controller 150 in communication with the panel actuating assemblies 102 of the articulating wall wave generation system 100, as shown in FIGS. 5A-5B) of the panel actuating assemblies 102 can allow the articulating wall wave generation system 100 to form an articulating wall 101 having a curved shape that translates along the articulating wall 101 and at least partly within the fluid 204 to thereby form a surfable wave in the fluid 204. For example, the curved shape can push and direct fluid 204 to form a surfable wave that breaks along a length of the articulating wall wave generation system 100. In some embodiments, the curved shape formed along the articulating wall 101 can translate along the articulating wall 101 in a first direction and a second direction that is opposite the first direction, such as to allow the articulating wall wave generation system 100 to form left and right breaking waves.

In some implementations, the panels can be activated to form one or more curved shapes or undulations 195 that travel along the articulating wall wave generation system 100 in more than one direction, which can allow formation of either a “right” breaking wave or a “left” breaking wave, depending on a direction of the curved shaped panel configuration or undulation 195 traveling along the articulating wall wave generation system 100.

The traversal of the curved formation, shown in FIG. 11, along the articulating wall wave generation system 100 can be controlled and modulated so as to provide specific or desired acceleration, deceleration, velocity and displacement of the curve formation in the wave pool 200. For example, in operation, a speed of the curve formation can be varied down the fluid container 202. Such variability can be programmed by software and executed by a control computing system 150 in communication with each actuator 110 of the articulating wall wave generation system 100, as shown in FIGS. 5A-5B Further, the speed variations of the curved formation can be coordinated with changes in bathymetry along the wave pool 200, which bathymetric changes can include a dynamically adjustable and changeable reef. Similarly, a shape (e.g., radius, arc length, etc.) of the curved formation can be independently controlled and modulated to provide specific or desired generated wave energy from the surface of each active panel 140 and/or connecting panel 160. Accordingly, changes to either or both of the articulating wall wave generation system 100 or bathymetry of the fluid container 202 can provide a limitless number of waves, some of which can be programmed and branded (i.e., “Teahupoo,” “Cloudbreak,” or “Trestles” for example) and licensed for use in a wave pool installation. The fluid container 202 of the wave pool 200 is illustrated in FIG. 1 as a linear channel, but can also be curvilinear, circular, oval, parabolic, or other shape.

In the descriptions above and in the claims, phrases such as “at least one of” or “one or more of” may occur followed by a conjunctive list of elements or features. The term “and/or” may also occur in a list of two or more elements or features. Unless otherwise implicitly or explicitly contradicted by the context in which it is used, such a phrase is intended to mean any of the listed elements or features individually or any of the recited elements or features in combination with any of the other recited elements or features. For example, the phrases “at least one of A and B;” “one or more of A and B;” and “A and/or B” are each intended to mean “A alone, B alone, or A and B together.” A similar interpretation is also intended for lists including three or more items. For example, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C;” “one or more of A, B, and C;” and “A, B, and/or C” are each intended to mean “A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A and B and C together.” Use of the term “based on,” above and in the claims is intended to mean, “based at least in part on,” such that an unrecited feature or element is also permissible.

The implementations set forth in the foregoing description do not represent all implementations consistent with the subject matter described herein. Instead, they are merely some examples consistent with aspects related to the described subject matter. Although a few variations have been described in detail herein, other modifications or additions are possible. In particular, further features and/or variations can be provided in addition to those set forth herein. For example, the implementations described above can be directed to various combinations and sub-combinations of the disclosed features and/or combinations and sub-combinations of one or more features further to those disclosed herein. In addition, the logic flows depicted in the accompanying figures and/or described herein do not necessarily require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. The scope of the following claims may include other implementations or embodiments.

Claims

1. An articulating wall wave generation system for forming surfable waves, the articulating wall wave generation system, comprising:

a panel actuating assembly comprising: an actuator, wherein the actuator comprises:

an actuator body; and

a linkage arm; and

a panel connected to the actuator, wherein the linkage arm of the actuator extends between the panel and the actuator body;

wherein activation of the actuator causes movement of the panel to assist with forming a wave in a fluid volume.

2. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 1, wherein the fluid volume is contained in a fluid container comprising one or more of a basin, a pool, and a channel, and wherein the wave is a surfable wave.

3. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 2, wherein the panel actuating assembly further comprises an actuation mechanism that actuates the actuator, the actuation mechanism causing the actuator body to move thereby causing the panel to move for assisting with forming the surfable wave.

4. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 3, wherein the actuator body is configured to rotate upon actuation of the actuator by the actuation mechanism.

5. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 3, wherein the actuator body is configured to linearly translate upon actuation of the actuator by the actuation mechanism.

6. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 4, wherein the linkage arm is pivotably coupled to the actuator body and the panel such that rotation of the actuator body causes one or more of pivoting and translating of the panel.

7. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 6, wherein the panel is an active panel and the articulating wall wave generation system further comprises a connecting panel pivotably coupled to the active panel, the connecting panel configured to pivot and/or translate as a result of pivoting and/or translating of the active panel.

8. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 7, wherein pivoting and/or translating of the active panel and the connecting panel assists with forming the surfable wave in the fluid container.

9. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 6, further comprising a plurality of the panel actuating assemblies, the plurality of panels of the plurality of panel actuating assemblies being connected in a series, each panel actuating assembly of the plurality of panel actuating assemblies being in communication with a control system and an actuation mechanism for allowing individual actuation of each panel actuating assembly of the plurality of panel actuating assemblies to form an articulating wall.

10. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 7, further comprising a plurality of the panel actuating assemblies and a plurality of connecting panels, each of the connecting panels being coupled to a first panel actuation assembly of the plurality of actuating assemblies and a second panel actuation assembly of the plurality of actuation assemblies, each of the first panel actuation assembly and the second actuation assembly being in communication with a control system and an actuation mechanism for allowing individual actuation of the first panel actuation assembly and the second panel actuation assembly to form an articulating wall.

11. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 9, wherein the articulating wall comprises the plurality of panels forming a curved shaped wall portion that travels along a length of the articulating wall for forming a surfable wave in the fluid container.

12. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 10, wherein the articulating wall comprises one or more of the active panel and the connecting panel forming a curved shaped wall portion that travels along a length of the articulating wall for forming a surfable wave in the fluid container.

13. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 4, wherein the actuation mechanism comprises one or more drive units that are configured to rotate the actuator body of each panel actuation assembly of the plurality of panel actuation assemblies.

14. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 12, wherein the articulating wall wave generation system further comprises a controller configured to control the actuation mechanism.

15. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 12, further comprising a support structure coupled to one or more of the actuation mechanism and the actuator, the support structure being secured to a part of the fluid container.

16. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 1, wherein the actuator body comprises:

a central portion; and

an actuator arm that extends outward from the central portion;

wherein the actuator arm extends between the central portion and the linkage arm.

17. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 16, wherein the actuator further comprises:

an actuator joint pivotably connecting the actuator arm and the linkage arm.

18. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 17, wherein the panel comprises a panel joint, wherein the panel joint is operably coupled to the actuator.

19. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 18, wherein the panel joint allows the linkage arm to pivot relative to a back surface of the panel.

20-30. (canceled)

31. The articulating wall wave generation system of claim 1, wherein the articulating wall wave generation system comprises a plurality of panels forming an articulating wall, and wherein each of the panels comprise an active panel.

32-78. (canceled)