Amusement Patents (Class 104/53)
  • Patent number: 8453576
    Abstract: A roller coaster amusement device adapted to provide for the passengers a ride wherein the passengers experience at least a portion of the ride in a racing position, the amusement device wherein an endless guide structure at least including multiple curves, one or more carriages displaceable along the guide structure, a passenger assembly associated with a carriage, said passenger assembly being adapted to accommodate at least one passenger such that said passenger experiences at least a portion of the ride in a racing position, a station along said guide structure allowing the passenger to board the passenger assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Vekoma Rides Engineering B.V.
    Inventors: Joop Roodenburg, Petrus Joseph Hubertus Clerx
  • Patent number: 8453578
    Abstract: A coaster according to the invention includes a track (10) and a vehicle (20). The track (10) includes a first support rail (11) and a second support rail (12). The first support rail (11) and the second support rail (12) are disposed vertically below the passenger receiver of the vehicle (20). Each of the bogies (23) and (24) includes a plurality of first rollers (25) and second rollers (26), wherein the second rollers (26) contact the second support rail (12) and prevent a lateral tilting of the vehicle relative to the plane (E) defined by the first support rail (11) and the second support rail (12). The first support element (11) and the second support element (12) are configured tubular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventor: Jörg Beutler
  • Patent number: 8453579
    Abstract: A boat capture assembly that enhances control over boats moved by a track assembly through a body of water. The capture assembly includes a mounting plate attached to a positionable portion of the track assembly (such as to a bogie). The capture assembly includes a rigid extension arm with a first end attached to the mounting plate and a pivot structure, defining a pivot surface, rigidly attached to a second end of the rigid extension arm. The capture assembly includes a receiver cavity provided in a bottom surface of a hull of a boat. The receiver cavity includes a sidewall or body with an opening receiving the pivot structure, with the sidewall defining a well or recessed surface with a cross sectional shape and size to receive and allow vertical movement of the pivot structure but to restrain fore and aft movement of the hull relative to the pivot structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Edward A. Nemeth
  • Publication number: 20130118370
    Abstract: A ride system with crossing ride paths. A first assembly is provided that includes a first set of vehicles movable along a first ride path, and the first vehicle set is vertically supported above the track at a first height. A second assembly is provided with a second set of vehicles movable along a second ride path that differs from the first ride path and crosses over the first ride path when viewed in plan view. The second vehicle set is vertically supported below the upper vehicle track at a second height, which may be the same as the first height such that passengers perceive a collision risk at path intersections. The upper track is at a higher elevation than the lower track such that track crossovers occur without interference. A synchronization mechanism synchronizes movement of the upper and lower sets of vehicles to avoid collisions at crossover points.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2013
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Edward A. Nemeth, David W. Crawford
  • Patent number: 8428781
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and methods for controlling robotic apparatus having several movable elements or segments coupled by joints. At least one of the movable elements can include one or more mobile bases, while the others can form one or more manipulators. One of the movable elements can be treated as an end effector for which a certain motion is desired. The end effector may include a tool, for example, or represent a robotic hand (or a point thereon), or one or more of the one or more mobile bases. In accordance with the systems and methods disclosed herein, movement of the manipulator and the mobile base can be controlled and coordinated to effect a desired motion for the end effector. In many cases, the motion can include simultaneously moving the manipulator and the mobile base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Energid Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Chu-Yin Chang, James English, Neil Tardella, James Bacon
  • Publication number: 20130087066
    Abstract: An intersecting path ride providing close vehicle interaction without risk of collision. The ride includes a track assembly defining first and second linear, open channels bisecting at a vehicle path intersection point. The ride includes first and second vehicle guides movable within the channels. The ride includes first and second vehicle subassemblies supported by the guides, and the vehicle subassemblies move or reciprocate with the guides along linear paths defined by the channels. The ride includes a vehicle positioning assembly that concurrently reciprocates the guides back and forth along the linear channels through the intersection point. The vehicle positioning assembly includes a connection link pivotally coupled to the guides, a drive motor with an output shaft, and a crank arm rigidly coupled to the output shaft at one end and pivotally coupled to the connection link at another end moving the midpoint of the link through a circular drive path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventor: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
  • Patent number: 8393275
    Abstract: A roller coaster or amusement ride providing a unique free-floating sensation by extending the passenger vehicles out on either side of the central frame structure. The passenger vehicles (48, 50) are supported between two cushioned cantilevered vehicle support arms {34, 36) that pivot while being supported between air bags (30, 32} or springs. The air pressure in the air bags or the tension in the springs can be adjusted to provide a soft, free-floating sensation to the ride. Additional passenger vehicle motions are achieved by the omni-directional ball-swivel joints (38, 40) on the ends of the support arms. The off-center location of the passenger vehicles (48, 50) and the weight of the passengers enable the passenger vehicles to remain in the up right position even when the central frame structure rotates around the track system. No additional drive systems or passenger controls are required on this unique roller coaster ride.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: S & S Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy R. Jacobi, Stanley J. Checketts
  • Patent number: 8382005
    Abstract: A rideable toy that includes a base that includes a quartet of wheels and a battery-powered motor. The base also has a control pad attached to the motor and a pair of speakers that can be controlled through the control pad. The rideable toy is used in conjunction with a track that is fabricated from a number of track segments that can be interconnected with one another in a wide variety of configurations. Each track segment has placement holes that allow a stop block to be inserted, providing some limitation and perhaps safety considerations to the use of the rideable toy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventor: Brandon A. Fletcher
  • Patent number: 8375864
    Abstract: A floating omnimover ride with high capacity throughput and enhanced control over speeds of passenger boats. The ride includes a water containment structure with spaced apart sidewalls defining an elongated guide channel that defines a loop-shaped ride path or circuit. The ride includes a volume of liquid contained in the guide channel to a desired depth. The ride also includes a chain of passenger boats floating in the liquid contained in the guide channel. Each of the boats is linked to the two adjacent boats with a connecting link such that the chain of boats is a continuous loop. The chain of boats has a length that is approximately equal to a length of the ride path, and during operation of the ride, the boats in the chain are moved along the loop-shaped ride path at a predefined rate by a pump station moving the liquid in the guide channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Crawford, Edward A. Nemeth
  • Patent number: 8375863
    Abstract: An amusement ride includes at least one passenger carrier, an amusement ride guide structure and a launch system adapted to accelerate the at least one passenger carrier from a starting position. The launch system includes a launch guide structure having a curvature, a launch arm rotatable about a rotation axis, an engagement device for providing a temporary connection between the launch arm and the at least one passenger carrier during the launch, and a launch drive providing the launch arm with an angular velocity. In the launch system, the radial distance between the engagement device and the launch arm support is variable such that portions of the launch guide structure have a deviating radius, or the distance in axial direction between the engagement device and the launch arm support is variable such that portions of the launch guide structure have curvatures perpendicular to the surface of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Vekoma Rides Engineering B.V.
    Inventors: Joop Roodenburg, Petrus Joseph Hubertus Clerx
  • Patent number: 8371227
    Abstract: A ride system with crossing ride paths. A first omnimover assembly is provided that includes a continuous vehicle chain movable along a first ride path and includes vehicles vertically supported above the track at a first height. A second omnimover assembly is provided with a continuous vehicle chain movable along a second ride path that differs from the first ride path and crosses over the first ride path when viewed in plan view. The second omnimover assembly includes vehicles vertically supported below the upper vehicle track at a second height, which may be the same as the first height such that passengers perceive a risk of a collision at the path intersections. The upper track is at a higher elevation than the lower track such that cross overs occur without interference. A synchronization mechanism is provided that synchronizes the movement of the upper and lower vehicle chains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward A. Nemeth, David W. Crawford
  • Publication number: 20130025492
    Abstract: A roller coaster with seats articulated between vertical and reclined positions. The roller coaster includes a track with a load/unload portion and a ride portion. The coaster includes a vehicle with a body supported on the track and a passenger seat positioned in the body mounted for articulation between a first position and a second position. The roller coaster includes a seat positioning mechanism coupled to the passenger seat operating while the vehicle is in the load/unload portion to articulate the seat into the first position and operating, prior to the vehicle traveling into the ride portion of the ride path, to articulate the seat into the second position. The passenger seat includes a seat back that is substantially vertical in the first position and is at an obtuse angle in the second position or horizontal position, such that a passenger has an upward point of view during the ride.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: DAVID W. CRAWFORD, THOMAS FITZGERALD, DEREK HOWARD, DAVID A. DURHAM, JAMES H. SHULL
  • Patent number: 8360893
    Abstract: A ride system provides guest compartment(s) with a roll degree of freedom through a pivoting connection. The guest compartment is attached to a track via a chassis, the chassis being attached to the track such that the guest compartment rides substantially above the track but has a roll degree of freedom relative to the chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Derek Howard
  • Publication number: 20130019771
    Abstract: The invention relates to a roller coaster ride element comprising a first track section which is adapted to guide a passenger car and a second track section which extends in a first plane. The invention is characterised in that the second track section is attached to a platform which is moveably guided on a frame in a second plane that is inclined in relation to the first plane, in particular perpendicular thereto, and that the second track section can be coupled in a first position to the first track section in order to transfer a passenger car from the first track section to the second track section, and in a second position is spatially offset along the second plane relative to the first position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2012
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventors: Roland Gmeinwieser, Walter Steininger, Rupert Koeckeis
  • Publication number: 20130014669
    Abstract: A ride system with crossing ride paths. A first omnimover assembly is provided that includes a continuous vehicle chain movable along a first ride path and includes vehicles vertically supported above the track at a first height. A second omnimover assembly is provided with a continuous vehicle chain movable along a second ride path that differs from the first ride path and crosses over the first ride path when viewed in plan view. The second omnimover assembly includes vehicles vertically supported below the upper vehicle track at a second height, which may be the same as the first height such that passengers perceive a risk of a collision at the path intersections. The upper track is at a higher elevation than the lower track such that cross overs occur without interference. A synchronization mechanism is provided that synchronizes the movement of the upper and lower vehicle chains.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2011
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: EDWARD A. NEMETH, DAVID W. CRAWFORD
  • Patent number: 8347556
    Abstract: A spectator venue having a performance area and spectator area is disclosed. The spectator area is generally divided into to portions, a stationary seating area and a dynamic seating area, both of which overlook the performance area. In the performance area, a spectator event occurs, such as a sports game or music concert. In the dynamic seating area, a plurality of seats are provided on a series of dynamic seating platforms. The dynamic seating platforms move along a track to various viewing locations during the course of the spectator event to provide multiple vantage points of the performance area from each seat. The distance and timing of movement of the dynamic seating platforms is based on various criteria, including occurrences during the spectator event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventors: Thomas R. Stelmaszek, Shin Takeda
  • Patent number: 8336463
    Abstract: A zipline trolley system comprises a cable, trolley, launcher, and a catch block. The launcher is fixed on the cable and comprises a substantially cylindrical inner body with a rigid outer body adapted to rotate about the inner body. A return spring attaches the inner body with the outer body. The catch block is also fixed on the cable and comprises a block with left and right retaining arms pivotably connected to the block and adapted to clasp onto the front plate of the frame of the trolley.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Skyline Zipline Global, LLC
    Inventor: Kevin G. Smith
  • Patent number: 8328651
    Abstract: A ride system provides guest compartment(s) with a roll degree of freedom through a pivoting connection. The guest compartment is attached to a track via a chassis, the chassis being attached to the track such that the guest compartment rides substantially above the track but has a roll degree of freedom relative to the chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Derek Howard
  • Patent number: 8327769
    Abstract: A large bipedal walking robot that a human can directly board and ride and that may be used as an amusement park ride, and to an amusement park system using the same includes a large bipedal walking robot capable of being boarded and ridden, a boarding vehicle to be coupled to the head or body of the robot, a safety cable and a safety rail that prevent the robot from falling, a safety vehicle that prevents the robot, but not the safety cable, from falling and makes the robot's bipedal walking steadier, connection means enabling the robot to be connected to a roller coaster (tram railway) in order to provide the effect of a flying robot, and a tunnel in which various villain robots are installed to provide an experience of the robot engaging in combat, and safety rails installed and connected in all areas where the robot moves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: In-Sang Kim
  • Patent number: 8327770
    Abstract: A trolley for transporting the rider supported by a harness on a cable or rope, the trolley having a mounting plate configured with a connection point to receive the rider's harness, a pulley rotatably mounted to the mounting plate to support the plate on the cable or rope, and a friction shoe mounted on the plate forward of the pulley to contact the upper portion of the cable or rope, wherein the connection point is located beneath the cable or rope between the centers of the pulley and the friction shoe. The apparatus may also provide a manually operated brake handle to allow the rider to selectively apply braking force to reduce the speed of the trolley on the cable as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventors: Daniel Blair Boren, Brett J. Epstein, Jason B. Hickman, David J. W. Lovinger, Gary P. Prus, James R. Wilson, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120291657
    Abstract: A boat capture assembly that enhances control over boats moved by a track assembly through a body of water. The capture assembly includes a mounting plate attached to a positionable portion of the track assembly (such as to a bogie). The capture assembly includes a rigid extension arm with a first end attached to the mounting plate and a pivot structure, defining a pivot surface, rigidly attached to a second end of the rigid extension arm. The capture assembly includes a receiver cavity provided in a bottom surface of a hull of a boat. The receiver cavity includes a sidewall or body with an opening receiving the pivot structure, with the sidewall defining a well or recessed surface with a cross sectional shape and size to receive and allow vertical movement of the pivot structure but to restrain fore and aft movement of the hull relative to the pivot structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventor: EDWARD A. NEMETH
  • Publication number: 20120260815
    Abstract: The invention relates to a rail system (1) having two rail sections (12, 13) arranged parallel to each other. Each rail section (12, 13) has a rail (2, 3) which has expanded lateral edges (8, 9; 10, 11). According to the invention, a person can travel on said rail system (1) with a travel board (90) produced for said purpose. The travel board (90) has at least one wheel suspension device for each of the rail sections (12, 13).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Applicant: IDEA TV Gesellschaft fur kommunikative Untemehmensbetreuung mbH
    Inventor: Bruno Wilbert
  • Patent number: 8262071
    Abstract: A positioning assembly using a pair of rollers elastically connected to a holding base for clamping two cutters received in the holding base. The cutters in the holding base can be adjusted to make different blades contact and align precisely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chien-Feng Huang
  • Patent number: 8241133
    Abstract: Systems, devices, apparatus and methods of using a simulator cabin module with an interior space which replicates a space ship, where the simulator module is mounted in a real aircraft, as a real airborne simulator. The aircraft lifts off to provide airborne maneuvers such as parabolic flight paths to cause G force and zero gravity effects to passengers in the cabin module. The cabin module includes rows of seats where passengers experience realistic sounds, lights, different temperatures, and physical effects (vibrations) of space ship liftoffs and space travel by having realistic simulation effects distributed over the seated passengers. Passengers can be seated in special reclinable seats with 5 point harnesses and pilot helmets with operable wireless communications and uniforms to add to the realistic simulation effects. Simulator modules can also be mounted in other moving vehicles, such as but not limited to submersibles, ships, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Communications Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: James C. Lewis, Nick A. Mascia
  • Patent number: 8234980
    Abstract: An apparatus for transporting a rider between two points on a cable or rope, having a plurality of supports configured to suspend the cable or rope between two points of unequal elevation and a trolley for transporting the rider supported by a harness on the cable or rope, the trolley having a mounting plate configured with a connection point to receive the rider's harness, a pulley rotatably mounted to the mounting plate to support the plate on the cable or rope, and a friction shoe mounted on the plate forward of the pulley to contact the upper portion of the cable or rope, wherein the connection point is located beneath the cable or rope between the centers of the pulley and the friction shoe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Adventure Holdings LLC
    Inventors: Daniel Blair Boren, Brett J. Epstein, Joel C. Haas, Jason B. Hickman, Gary P. Prus, David J. W. Lovinger, James R. Wilson, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120125220
    Abstract: An amusement ride apparatus includes a suspended cable and a carriage that supports a user. The carriage is supported on and movable along the suspended cable. Additionally, the apparatus includes a load/unload mechanism that includes a tethering portion and a retractor. The tethering portion is removably coupleable to at least one of the suspended cable and carriage. The retractor is selectively operable in a first mode to retract the tethering portion when removably coupled to the at least one of the suspended cable and carriage to lower the carriage relative to the platform from a raised position to a lowered position and in a second mode to extend the tethering portion when removably coupled to the at least one of the suspended cable and carriage to raise the carriage relative to the platform from the lowered position to the raised position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2011
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventors: Stanley J. Checketts, Val Simmons
  • Patent number: 8179337
    Abstract: One particular implementation of the present invention may take the form of a mobile set configured to include one or more projection devices to display a media presentation to a viewer. The mobile set may be configured to follow a fixed path or may move through autonomous navigation. In one embodiment, the mobile set may be included as part of an amusement park ride to interact with the ride patrons and provide them with a greater entertainment experience. For example, the mobile projected set may be synchronized to move with a carrier vehicle carrying the ride patrons and project a presentation or display to the ride patrons during the ride. Placing the projected scene on a mobile set allows the patrons to interact with the projected scene for a longer period of time then if the projected scene was stationary. Further, the mobile sets may be used to configure and control sightlines through the ride to provide a more dynamic environment for the amusement park ride.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises
    Inventors: Gregory A. Wilzbach, Janice L. Mulholland, Thomas J. Fitzgerald, David A. Durham, David W. Crawford
  • Patent number: 8176853
    Abstract: An amusement park ride adapted for fully rotating a passenger compartment in response to vehicle motion along a guide track. The ride includes a vehicle chassis that engages the guide track and travels along the ride path during operation of the ride. The ride further includes a cam-based positioning assembly that is supported by the vehicle chassis to move with it along the guide track. The positioning assembly operates in response to being moved along the guide track to rotate the passenger compartment. The positioning assembly rotates the passenger compartment in counterclockwise and clockwise directions to provide 360-degree rotation. The positioning assembly includes a cam shaft with three cam follower pairs offset along the shaft and extending outward from the shaft at angular offsets, and three cam rails are used to selectively position the followers to rotate the cam shaft and set the position of the passenger compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward A. Nemeth, David W. Crawford
  • Patent number: 8176852
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a toy track for traversal of at least one toy vehicle. It includes a track segment having a flipper disposed therein, the flipper being attached to the track segment at a pivot point and capable of movement thereabout. A vibration damper post having a stanchion portion and a resilient portion for supporting the track segment is also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventor: Stacy Lynn O'Connor
  • Publication number: 20120111222
    Abstract: An amusement device includes at least one platform movable with respect to a fixed chassis, in which the at least one platform includes at least one compartment to accommodate one or more passengers. The at least one compartment has no seating and includes an arrangement for manually supporting the one or more passengers who are disposed standing freely inside the at least one compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Applicant: ANTONIO ZAMPERLA S.P.A.
    Inventors: Giambattista Zambelli, Fiorella Viarana
  • Patent number: 8140202
    Abstract: A train is driven by drive stations positioned along a track for frictionally contacting side plates on the train. The drive speed is controlled in response to sensors located at each drive station sensing a position of a wheel and a side plate for confirming a presence of the train. A start command is transmitted from the drive station driving the train to a second drive station downstream when a lead car is within a preselected distance from the second drive station. The drive station at the second drive station is quickly accelerated to a target speed for synchronizing the first drive station with the second drive station. After receiving the train, the second drive station then transmits a stop command to the first drive station for fast decelerating the drive station to a stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Rail-Veyor Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Merton F. Dibble, Joe Capers
  • Patent number: 8136453
    Abstract: A vehicle motion control system comprising: a sliding surface; a vehicle adapted to slide on said sliding surface; and a linear motor associated with the vehicle and the sliding surface for affecting sliding motion of the vehicle on the sliding surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: HM Attractions Inc.
    Inventors: Richard D. Hunter, Andreas Tanzer
  • Patent number: 8132513
    Abstract: An amusement park ride with one or more evacuation zones. The ride includes a track with a rail defining a ride path. The ride path includes at least one evacuation zone along a first length of the track at a first height and a non-evacuation zone along a second length of the track with one or more portions at a second height greater than the first height. The track is sloped in the non-evacuation zone toward the evacuation zone. The ride includes a vehicle supported on the rail via roller elements such as load bearing wheels. The ride includes a drive assembly that provides a driving force to selectively move the vehicle along the ride path. The drive assembly is adapted to automatically disengage from the vehicle upon loss of power. The vehicle is free rolling upon loss of power to travel to the evacuation zone based on gravity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Crawford, Edward A. Nemeth, Derek Lee Howard
  • Publication number: 20120048138
    Abstract: A multiple cable zip line ride is provided. The ride includes a support structure with a cross beam mounted to the support structure for routing and mounting of a plurality of cables of the zip line ride. The cables are mounted to the cross beam such that multiple users can travel simultaneously in the same direction along the cables. The cross beam provides for the mounting of additional safety cables and tensioning devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: EXPERIENCE BASED LEARNING, INC.
    Inventor: Steven R. Gustafson
  • Publication number: 20120048254
    Abstract: A controllable launcher for propelling a payload through a predictable and repeatable trajectory to a desired height. The launcher has an energy source for propelling a carriage and a piston in substantially opposing directions and a controller for controlling the trajectory of the propelled payload to enable the payload to land gently at a safe impact distance from the edge of a destination structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Dean Kamen, Larry B. Gray, Richard J. Lanigan
  • Publication number: 20120042802
    Abstract: A coaster having a substantially cylindrical rotatable track area capable of rotating, for example, 180° and repositioning a car for further movement along another track different than the one from which it originated. The rotatable track area can be cylindrical or frusto-conical in configuration. A corresponding rotation system with computer controls can selectively rotate the rotatable track area in predetermined increments according to the coaster track end positions so as to selectively align the rotatable tracks with the coaster tracks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Inventors: Hans Jurgen Schmidt, Jordan M. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 8117968
    Abstract: A magnetic pacer system and method for adjusting vehicle speed in an amusement park ride. The system includes a controller and memory that stores speed settings such as upper and lower speed limits for the vehicle in a specific portion of a ride. A magnetic thruster is positioned near the portion of the ride, and a signal or signals are sent from position sensors to the controller. The controller determines the actual velocity of the vehicle as it travels along a direction of travel and acts to compare the determined vehicle velocity with the stored and desired speed settings. The controller then determines a magnetic force to apply to the vehicle including selecting whether the force is along the direction of travel or opposite to provide acceleration or deceleration of the vehicle. The magnetic thruster is selectively operated to generate a magnetic force to act on the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Rose, David W. Crawford
  • Publication number: 20120006221
    Abstract: An intersecting path ride providing close vehicle interaction without risk of collision. The ride includes a track assembly defining first and second linear, open channels bisecting at a vehicle path intersection point. The ride includes first and second vehicle guides movable within the channels. The ride includes first and second vehicle subassemblies supported by the guides, and the vehicle subassemblies move or reciprocate with the guides along linear paths defined by the channels. The ride includes a vehicle positioning assembly that concurrently reciprocates the guides back and forth along the linear channels through the intersection point. The vehicle positioning assembly includes a connection link pivotally coupled to the guides, a drive motor with an output shaft, and a crank arm rigidly coupled to the output shaft at one end and pivotally coupled to the connection link at another end moving the midpoint of the link through a circular drive path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: David W. Crawford, Edward A. Nemeth
  • Patent number: 8090474
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for controlling at least one machine, such as an industrial robot, having drives, safety peripheral components and a controller for a machine, and also having a safety controller. In this arrangement, the safety controller has superordinate access over the respective machine controller both to the machine drives and to the safety peripherals. This achieves the most easily configurable integration of the safety control loop into the operating control loops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: KUKA Laboratories GmbH
    Inventor: Bernd Fiebiger
  • Patent number: 8079891
    Abstract: Described is a track set with a taut filament for use with a toy vehicle. The track set includes a first tower and a second tower. A spool is connected with the first tower, with the filament wound around the spool. The spool includes a ratcheting mechanism to allow a user to selectively unwind the filament from the spool. Once unwound, the filament can be connected with the second tower. The spool can again be used to tighten the filament between the two towers, thereby creating a taut filament. Using a toy vehicle with a grooved-wheel, the toy vehicle can pass from the first tower to the second tower along the taut filament with the grooved-wheel riding on the filament.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: JAKKS Pacific, Inc.
    Inventors: Dominic Laurienzo, Michael Bernstein, Gabriel Carlson, Dion Fields
  • Patent number: 8066576
    Abstract: An amusement ride, such as a roller coaster or vertical tower track ride, includes an attachment assembly movably connected to a track system. A vehicle assembly is connected to the attachment assembly and includes a seat assembly having at least one rider seat. The vehicle assembly is coupled to the attachment assembly and configured such that the seat assembly is capable of fully rotating about first and second, and preferably even third axes independent of the track system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventor: David V. Threlkel
  • Publication number: 20110265679
    Abstract: An anti-roll back (ARB) assembly for use with vehicles that ride on a track, which has inclined portions that include a set of ARB or lift pins. The assembly includes a linear magnet assembly positioned along the track in the ARB portion, and this assembly includes spaced apart magnet arrays that define a slot or elongated magnetic force zone. The ARB assembly includes an ARB element with a body pivotally supported on a vehicle frame and further includes an electrically conductive reaction plate supported on the vehicle frame, and the plate passes through the magnet assembly slot when the vehicle travels on the track. The reaction plate is connected to the ARB body to pivot it in response to displacement of the reaction plate in response to magnetic forces to rotate it up into a suspended position in which the ARB body is spaced apart from the ARB pins.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2011
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: John Douglas Smith, Katherine Kelly, L. Keith Forbis
  • Patent number: 8028521
    Abstract: The invention relates to a catapult drive for an object to be accelerated, preferably the car of a fairground ride, wherein the object is accelerated by means of a driving element. The movement of the driving element is produced by a flexible drive and a hydraulic cylinder via which all movements of the driving element can be controlled. The invention also relates to a control system for suitably controlling the inventive catapult drive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Bosch Rexroth AG
    Inventors: Sander Leonard Boeijen, Marten Fluks, Maarten Rik Leo Kuijpers
  • Patent number: 7987793
    Abstract: Amusement ride device, comprising a track and at least one carriage, which carriage is moveable along the track in a transport direction. The carriage comprises a transport part which engages on the track, at least one platform that allows to support the feet of at least one passenger, and at least one passenger torso restraint engaging on the torso of the passenger for safely supporting the passenger. The transport part comprises one of the passenger torso restraint or the platform to support the passenger, while the other is connected by connecting means to the transport part. The connecting means are designed to allow the passenger to perform movements during the ride while being restrained by the torso restraint, wherein the torso restraint performs a movement with respect to the platform during said movements of the passenger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Vekoma Rides Engineering B.V.
    Inventors: Stefanus Petrus Cornelis Maria Blonk, Joop Roodenburg
  • Publication number: 20110174189
    Abstract: The amusement ride 1 comprises a track 2 and a vehicle 3 being moveable along the track 2 at a velocity v. Within the vehicle 3 a video camera 4 is installed. The video camera 4 takes a video film of the face of a passenger received within the vehicle 3 during a ride. A sender 5 transmits the data 6 to a facial expression recognition system 7. The result 10 of the process carried out by facial expression recognition system 7 may be downloaded from a server 11 by a client 13.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2010
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Applicant: MAURER SOEHNE GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventor: Jõrg Beutler
  • Patent number: 7980181
    Abstract: A drag racing roller coaster amusement ride has at least two sets running rails, each set having at least one running rail and an embark point. At least two carriers (109) are arranged to carry at least one rider on a respective set of running rails with the rider(s) in a substantially prone position. Each carrier is arranged to slidingly engage with the respective set of running rails to enable the carriers to traverse the ride. The ride has an indicator (109) to provide a ride commencement indication. A launch system is configured to provide a powered initial motion to each carrier. Each carrier has a ride activator controllable by a rider of the carrier to trigger the launch system to commence the ride for the carrier following the ride commencement indication. Launch systems are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Manchester Securities Limited
    Inventors: Christopher James Heaslip, Robert Cummins
  • Patent number: 7971537
    Abstract: The carnival ride has a travel path for cars with seats and at least one screen arranged adjacent to the travel path. In order to design the carnival ride in such a way that the passengers in the car have an optimal gaming experience, the screen follows the car at least along a section of its travel distance. In this way, the passengers in the car have a very long-lasting visual contact with the screen or with the movie shown on the screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventors: Alexander Verl, Gino De-Gol
  • Patent number: 7966941
    Abstract: An improved zip line trolley allowing a rider control of his or her speed while traversing along a suspended cable (8) as seen in FIGS. 1A and 1B. The trolley comprises front and rear pulleys (44F) and (44R) conjoined via pulley housing (16) with left and right horizontal handles (10L) and (10R) attached to vertical shaft (12). Front and rear hand brake levers (20F) and (20R) are mounted onto left and right horizontal handles (10L) and (10R). When front and rear hand brake levers (20F) and (20R) are squeezed by the rider, they create a constricting force on front left and right calipers (32FL) and (32FR) along with rear left and right calipers (32RL) and (32RR) of FIGS. 2A and 3A. Thus, friction is applied to front and rear pulleys (44F) and (44R) via front left and right brake pads (34FL) and (34FR) along with rear left and right brake pads (34RL) and (34RR).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Inventor: Kenton Michael Brannan
  • Publication number: 20110146528
    Abstract: A method of fabricating an amusement park ride track utilizing stock, planar materials, namely comprising of creating elongated, curved structures from planar materials. A roller coaster track capable of being fabricated from multiple planar pieces without heating or bending. Other embodiments are described which utilize elongated, curved structures such as ski lifts, people movers, staircases and architectural structures. A jig is disclosed for providing for ease of manufacture of the elongated, curved structures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventors: Alan Schilke, Fred Grubb, Dody Bachtar
  • Publication number: 20110139030
    Abstract: A large bipedal walking robot that a human can directly board and ride and that may be used as an amusement park ride, and to an amusement park system using the same includes a large bipedal walking robot capable of being boarded and ridden, a boarding vehicle to be coupled to the head or body of the robot, a safety cable and a safety rail that prevent the robot from falling, a safety vehicle that prevents the robot, but not the safety cable, from falling and makes the robot's bipedal walking steadier, connection means enabling the robot to be connected to a roller coaster (tram railway) in order to provide the effect of a flying robot, and a tunnel in which various villain robots are installed to provide an experience of the robot engaging in combat, and safety rails installed and connected in all areas where the robot moves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2011
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventor: In-Sang KIM