With Wave-making Means Patents (Class 4/491)
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Patent number: 11542716Abstract: In an artificial surfing system for generating a standing wave, comprising a water circuit, in which a first wave generating device is arranged, which comprises a wave pool and a ramp arranged upstream of the wave pool, over which the water flows down into the wave pool, wherein the water circuit downstream of the wave pool of the first wave generating device comprises a water backflow, via which the water is made available to a pump with which the water can be conveyed from the backflow upwards to the first wave generating device, at least one further wave generating device is arranged in the backflow, to which the water coming from the first wave generating device flows.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2018Date of Patent: January 3, 2023Assignee: UPSURFDOWN GMBHInventor: Stefan Stockinger
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Patent number: 11483985Abstract: The present invention is an aquaponic assembly, comprising at least one tank, wherein the tank is sized to contain a predetermined quantity and species of fish; a radial flow settler connected to the at least one tank, wherein the radial flow settler receives a liquid from the at least one tank, wherein the liquid contains fish excrement and the radial flow settler sorts solid excrement from the liquid; a mineralization system is connected to the radial flow settler, wherein the liquid from the radial flow settler undergoes a mineralization process to adjust the composition of the liquid; a series of liquid beds connected to the mineralization system, wherein the liquid passes through the series of liquid beds; and a plurality of substrates positioned within the liquid beds.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2020Date of Patent: November 1, 2022Inventor: Sawyer Hall
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Patent number: 11478719Abstract: A wave generating apparatus mobile application controller and method are provided in which a mobile controller actuates a plurality of wave generating chambers in sequence using a delay between the actuation of each chamber to produce a rideable wave in a pool. The mobile application controller allows the user to select the exact type of wave to be produced by the wave generator apparatus by selecting the size, shape, and pattern of the wave. The application also allows the user to use a camera to photograph or record herself or someone else, even while riding a wave.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2022Date of Patent: October 25, 2022Assignee: American Wave Machines, Inc.Inventors: Bruce McFarland, Clement Ginestet
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Patent number: 11471780Abstract: A wave generating apparatus mobile application controller and method are provided in which a mobile controller actuates a plurality of wave generating chambers in sequence using a delay between the actuation of each chamber to produce a rideable wave in a pool. The mobile application controller allows the user to select the exact type of wave to be produced by the wave generator apparatus by selecting the size, shape, and pattern of the wave. The application also allows the user to use a camera to photograph or record herself or someone else, even while riding a wave.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2022Date of Patent: October 18, 2022Assignee: AMERICAN WAVE MACHINES, INC.Inventors: Bruce McFarland, Clement Ginestet
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Patent number: 11441324Abstract: A wave park is disclosed that includes a pool for containing a body of water, and a track positioned proximate the pool. The wave park further includes at least one foil coupled to move along the track, the at least one foil being at least partially submerged in the body of water. The at least one foil has a curvilinear cross-sectional geometry that includes a leading surface that is concave about a vertical axis to provide drag to generate a primary wave laterally in water of the body of water that contacts the leading surface of the foil, and a trailing surface that narrows from a maximum width of the foil adjacent the leading surface to a point at an end of the foil, the trailing surface to decrease the drag of the foil and to minimize oscillatory waves that trail the primary wave.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2020Date of Patent: September 13, 2022Assignee: Kelly Slater Wave Company, LLCInventors: Kelly Slater, Adam Fincham
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Patent number: 11439882Abstract: A countercurrent swimming system for swimming pools or swimming baths comprises a housing box which has at least one water inlet opening and at least one water outlet opening, a propeller for generating a water flow, which propeller is arranged in a flow channel, the flow channel opening into the at least one water outlet opening downstream of the propeller and hydraulically communicating with the at least one water inlet opening upstream of the propeller, a drive motor for the propeller. The countercurrent swimming system includes the drive motor arranged outside of the housing box and in that the propeller and the drive motor are coupled to one another via a magnetic coupling.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2020Date of Patent: September 13, 2022Assignee: Speck Pompen Verkaufsgesellschaft GmbHInventor: Armin Herger
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Patent number: 11255098Abstract: An apparatus comprises a wave generator configured to move water on a front side of the wave generator to generate a surfable wave and a displacer configured to move in synchronization with the wave generator, the displacer to displace water on a back side of the wave generator to compensate for water elevation changes on the back side of the wave generator that would occur in the absence of the displacer.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2020Date of Patent: February 22, 2022Assignee: Swell Manufacturing, LLCInventor: John A. Bushey
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Patent number: 11187002Abstract: A wave generator pool that may be used for surfing, which has reefs configured to provide a variety of novel wave shapes. Reefs may have multiple sections with varying angles, causing the shape or direction of the wave to change as a surfer rides the wave. One or more embodiments of the pool may have two basins that share a common wave generator, resulting in substantial energy savings. An illustrative dual basin pool may have an intermediate basin on one side and a beginner basin on the other. The intermediate basin may have an easy takeoff reef section with a reef angle between 65 and 85 degrees. The beginner basin may have several isolated takeoff reef sections where a corresponding number of surfers can await a wave. Reefs may be constructed and reconfigured using a modular reef structure that avoids the months of downtime associated with rebuilding fixed reefs.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2021Date of Patent: November 30, 2021Assignee: Westlake Wave Co.Inventors: John Dascomb, Oriol Vicente
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Patent number: 11131107Abstract: A wave generating apparatus mobile application controller and method are provided, in which a mobile controller actuates a plurality of wave generating chambers in sequence using a delay between the actuation of each chamber to produce a rideable wave in a pool. The mobile application controller allows the user to select the exact type of wave to be produced by the wave generator apparatus by selecting the size, shape, and pattern of the wave. The application also allows the user to use a camera to photograph or record herself or someone else, even while riding a wave.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2020Date of Patent: September 28, 2021Assignee: AMERICAN WAVE MACHINES, INC.Inventors: Bruce McFarland, Clement Ginestet
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Patent number: 10890004Abstract: A wave pool for generating surfable waves is disclosed. The wave pool includes a pool for containing water. The pool defines a channel having a first side wall, a second side wall, and a bottom with a contour that slopes upward from a deep area proximate the first side wall toward a sill defined by the second side wall. The wave pool further includes at least one foil at least partially submerged in the water near the side wall, and being adapted for movement by a moving mechanism in a direction along the side wall for generating a wave in the channel that forms a breaking wave on the sill. The wave pool further includes one or more passive flow control mechanisms to mitigate a mean flow of the water induced by the movement of the at least one foil in the direction along the side wall.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2019Date of Patent: January 12, 2021Assignee: Kelly Slater Wave CompanyInventors: Adam Fincham, Kelly Slater
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Patent number: 10774553Abstract: A wave making apparatus for use with a wave pool having water is disclosed. The apparatus includes a wave making chamber having an interior and a plurality of chamber walls. The chamber also has a passageway connecting the interior to the wave pool and constructed to allow water to flow there-between. A water vane is disposed of in or adjacent to the passageway. The wave vane includes at least one smooth and curved water vane wall, which, in combination with the plurality of chamber walls, creates at least two conduit paths for the water flowing between the interior and the wave pool. The conduit paths have two ends, and the water enters one end in a first direction and exits the second end in a second direction.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2020Date of Patent: September 15, 2020Assignee: American Wave Machines, Inc.Inventor: Bruce McFarland
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Patent number: 10760290Abstract: A plunger wave making apparatus for creating a surface wave in a body of water. The waves are generated by a plurality of side by side individual plungers oscillating up and down, placed along different shapes such as a linear straight line, square, polygon, triangle and hexagon shapes. Plunger Wave Makers oscillating at individual different times in a non-sequence manner and oscillating in sequence one plunger at a time in a delayed actuation. The plungers have the ability to produce swells in different directions. The plunger wave making apparatus is made of an internal steel structure with EPS Geo Foam secured to the outside of the steel internal structure with end caps. Ballast Water is placed inside the inner steel structure of the plungers to offset upward buoyancy forces. The wave making plungers are placed on a back wall angled between 30-90 degrees.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2020Date of Patent: September 1, 2020Inventor: Walter Judson Bennett
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Patent number: 10738492Abstract: An aquatic sports amusement apparatus includes a plurality of wave generating chambers that release water into a pool. A plenum is pneumatically connected to each chamber and a plurality of fans is connected to the plenum to pressurize the plenum. A plurality of sensors is also connected to the plenum and measure the pressure of the plenum. And a plurality of vents is connected to the plenum and release pressure from the plenum upon actuation. A controller connected to the vents and sensors, performs the following steps: (a) measure the pressure from a sensor in the plurality of sensors; and (b) if the measured pressure is greater than a preset set point pressure, then actuating a vent from the plurality of vents to release pressure.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2019Date of Patent: August 11, 2020Assignee: American Wave Machines, Inc.Inventor: Bruce McFarland
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Patent number: 10662664Abstract: A wave generating system can include a water channel for creating a flow of water to produce a standing wave. A water return passageway can circulate the water back to the inlet of the water channel. One or more pipes can extend under the water channel for circulating the water. A water storage chamber can be positioned below the water channel. Water can be stored in the space between the one or more pipes, and the storage water can be isolated from the water being circulated in the system. The system can produce a hydraulic circuit with hydraulic continuity so that water can be efficiently circulated through the water channel and water return passageway. The system can be modular.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2018Date of Patent: May 26, 2020Assignee: THE WAVE POOL COMPANY, LLCInventor: Johan Perslow
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Patent number: 10662663Abstract: A wave-generating apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a wave pool with a bottom, wherein the bottom is upwardly-inclined along a length of the wave pool and defines a deep edge and a beach edge. A wave generator is placed adjacent to the deep edge. An open wave-damping trough is placed adjacent to the beach edge and is adapted to retain water. The apparatus is constructed such that when the wave generator is not actuated, the pool retains water defining a static water level, and a portion of the beach edge is above the static water level. When the wave generator is actuated, it creates a wave that propagates across the wave pool from the deep edge to the beach edge, and the wave energy is dampened when the wave encounters the water retained in the trough.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2017Date of Patent: May 26, 2020Assignee: American Waves Machines, Inc.Inventor: Bruce McFarland
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Patent number: 10605694Abstract: The present invention belongs to the technical field of movement monitoring, and provides a video monitoring apparatus and method for an operating state of a wave maker. When the operating state of the wave maker is monitored, an image collected by a camera is subjected to mark point detection and a central position is computed. Then, the position of each mark point is tracked in a dynamic video; and the operating condition of each wave paddle is assessed according to the motion state of the mark point. In the present invention, operating monitoring of the wave paddle is independent of a wave making control system, and the operating condition of the wave paddle is monitored in real time through a non-contact image measurement mode.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2017Date of Patent: March 31, 2020Assignee: DALIAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGYInventors: Hai Du, Juan Meng, Muguo Li
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Patent number: 10561918Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a method and apparatus for providing training to a surfer. The method involves highlighting the critical elements of the surfing region, enabling a surfer to comprehend complex dynamic environments, (such as barrells), better understand what expert surfers do in such environments, and then progressing such maneuvers from the mind to the physical environment as actual performance. The apparatus comprises a sensory cue generator capable of delivering cues that enable a surfer to visualize maneuvers in their mind, practice in virtual/augmented reality, and the physical environment in artificially and naturally generated surfing conditions. The sensory cues are delivered dynamically to the surfer, in an intuitive fashion correlated with the surfing visualizations, simulations or environments, prompting the surfer to deploy correct surfing maneuvers, greatly reducing the learning curve and progressing physical and mental performance as never before.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2016Date of Patent: February 18, 2020Inventor: Gilbert T Olsen, II
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Patent number: 10533311Abstract: A toilet bowl water sterilization device and a method therefor, which may electrolyze toilet bowl water stored in a toilet bowl water tank or a pipe, convert the toilet bowl water into electrolyzed water suitable for sterilization and cleaning through the electrolyzing, and sterilize various bacteria which live in a toilet bowl as well as the toilet bowl water tank or the pipe without using a toilet bowl cleaning agent, such as a chemical substance or a surfactant.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2016Date of Patent: January 14, 2020Inventor: Kyo Pil Ku
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Patent number: 10526806Abstract: A wave making apparatus for use with a wave pool having water is disclosed. The apparatus includes a wave making chamber having an interior and a plurality of chamber walls. The chamber also has a passageway connecting the interior to the wave pool and constructed to allow water to flow there-between. A water vane is disposed of in or adjacent to the passageway. The wave vane includes at least one smooth and curved water vane wall, which in combination with the plurality of chamber walls, create at least two conduit paths for the water flowing between the interior and the wave pool. The conduit paths have two ends, and the water enters one end in a first direction and exits the second end in a second direction.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2018Date of Patent: January 7, 2020Assignee: American Wave Machines, Inc.Inventor: Bruce McFarland
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Patent number: 10519679Abstract: A wave making apparatus for creating a surfing wave in a body of water. The waves are generated using a controlled up and down motion of Fiber Glass, (FRP), or EPS Geo Foam Mechanical Plungers in a way that allows the control and shape and therefore surf characteristics of the wave. The plunger wave making apparatus is assembled side by side in a vertically manner on a 45-degree sloped back wall. Water ballast is added to the front and main compartments of the wave making plungers to optimize power requirements to power the plungers up and down to produce the waves into the body of water.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2018Date of Patent: December 31, 2019Inventor: Walter Judson Bennett
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Patent number: 10501951Abstract: A wave generating apparatus (100) for generating at least one wave in a surface of a body of water (102) has at least one wave generating object (12, 150) with at least one wave generating surface (13, 152), drive means (108, 110) for causing the wave generating object to oscillate along a path (106), with the wave generating object in contact with the body of water for at least some of the time. When there is a single wave generating object (12, 150), the wave extends away from the wave generating object and when there are multiple wave generating objects (12, 150), the wave generating objects (12, 150) and wave generating surfaces (13, 152) are configured such that substantially all of any waves generated extend away from the wave generating objects.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2018Date of Patent: December 10, 2019Assignee: Surf Lakes Holdings LtdInventor: Aaron James Trevis
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Patent number: 10501953Abstract: The invention relates to a hydraulic pump (10) comprising a pump shaft (52) and a casing (46) delimiting a liquid circulation duct (44) in which the cross-section of the outlet orifice (12) is flattened and is oriented such that the liquid outlet direction (14) is inclined from a longitudinal axis (22) of the pump shaft passing through the casing, the casing comprising a first segment (100a) in which the inside surface (102a) has a circular cross-section centred on said longitudinal axis (22) and surrounding a pump impeller (60) supported on the pump shaft (52). According to the invention, the first segment (100a) has a downstream end starting from which the cross-section of the casing inside surface becomes flattened.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2014Date of Patent: December 10, 2019Inventor: Clément Courtaigne
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Patent number: 10488194Abstract: The present invention belongs to the technical field of image measurement, and provides a motion measurement method and apparatus applied to a large multi-paddle wave simulation system. When the motion of the wave maker is measured, firstly site images are collected by the cameras; the mark point on each wave making paddle in the image processing boards is identified; and a central position is computed. Then, the central position is contrasted with the initial position to calculate displacement of the image plane and convert the displacement into the displacement on a physical space in combination with calibration parameters. Next, data is transmitted to the computer through the EtherCAT network, and coded identification is conducted on the data. Finally, comparative analysis is conducted on a measured value and a target value of the motion of the wave making paddle in the computer, thereby obtaining motion information of the wave maker.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2017Date of Patent: November 26, 2019Assignee: DALIAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGYInventors: Hai Du, Juan Meng, Muguo Li
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Patent number: 10458136Abstract: A wave generator for a wave pool with a floating attenuator housed within a caisson compartment that has mass, density and weight characteristics that enable it to remain substantially in contact with the top surface of the water in the compartment. Additional mechanisms are provided which help to keep the attenuator in a substantially horizontal orientation within the caisson, such that unwanted wave motions and water movements within the caisson compartment can be substantially reduced or eliminated. These mechanisms include the adaptation of a vertical post within the compartment and cable and pulley systems that are designed to help control the up and down movement of the attenuator as it travels up and down within the compartment.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2015Date of Patent: October 29, 2019Inventors: Thomas J. Lochtefeld, Dirk Bastenhof
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Patent number: 10407927Abstract: A wave generating system.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2018Date of Patent: September 10, 2019Inventor: Tony L. Spriggs
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Patent number: 10300360Abstract: A disclosed facility includes a wave generator, a support including an edge zone, a culminating zone, a progression zone sloping upwardly between the edge and culminating zones, a crest between the culminating zone and a depressed zone depressed relative to the crest, water situated over the edge and progression zones, forming part of an aquatic environment including horizontally contiguous upper and deep regions which are respectively higher than and lower than the edge zone, and an inner zone over the edge and progression zones and which is vertically contiguous with the upper region; the facility being configured such that the water at end of travel of the waves gets past the crest and falls into a reception volume delimited by the depressed zone when the generator is in use; and a fluidic communication below the support linking the deep region to an opening that is open to the reception volume.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2016Date of Patent: May 28, 2019Inventor: Laurent Hequily
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Patent number: 10233660Abstract: A wave pool having a deep end and a shallow end with a plurality of wave generators along the deep end that are extended along a curved stagger line positioned at an oblique angle relative to the moving waves. The wave generators are preferably extended in a substantially staggered manner relative to the travel direction of the waves. A pair of dividing walls is preferably provided in front of each generator, wherein the dividing walls are extended substantially forward with a fade angle of no more than about 20 degrees relative to each other. The wave generators are preferably operated in sequence, such that a plurality of wave segments is generated, and such that the wave segments travel forward and then merge together to form a substantially uniform resultant wave which travels forward and then breaks along the shallow end.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2017Date of Patent: March 19, 2019Inventors: Thomas J. Lochtefeld, Dirk Bastenhof
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Patent number: 10207168Abstract: A surf pool design comprising of an artificial contiguous reef, consisting of a first and second reef sub sections and a specific surf pool design that function together to create a surf pool for recreational surfing. Aspects of the invention provide a surf pool including a contiguous artificial reef of any shape or size. The continuous artificial shaped reef can include an inclined slope traversing the reef from the tip of the first artificial reef sub section to the open end of the second artificial reef sub section. The definition for the purpose of this invention an artificial contiguous reef, is a reef that is angled, contoured and shaped to the bottom of the surf pool. The meaning of pool in the embodiment is any artificially created body of water such as a pool, lake or lagoon which is constructed for the purpose of recreational surfing.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2016Date of Patent: February 19, 2019Inventors: Walter Judson Bennett, Matthew Gunn
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Patent number: 10145135Abstract: A wave generating apparatus mobile application controller and method is provided in which a mobile controller actuates a plurality of wave generating chambers in sequence using a delay between actuation of each chamber to produce a rideable wave in a pool. The mobile application controller allows the user to select the exact type of wave to be produced by the wave generator apparatus by selecting size, shape, and pattern of the wave. The application also allows the user to use a camera to photograph or record herself or someone else, even while riding a wave.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2015Date of Patent: December 4, 2018Assignee: American Wave Machines, Inc.Inventors: Bruce McFarland, Clement Ginestet
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Patent number: 10132625Abstract: The present invention belongs to the technical field of irrigation and water conservancy, and discloses a method for acquiring anisotropic basin surface roughness and use thereof.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2015Date of Patent: November 20, 2018Assignee: CHINA INSTITUTE OF WATER RESOURCES AND HYDROPOWER RESEARCHInventors: Shaohui Zhang, Di Xu, Yinong Li, Meijian Bai, Fuxiang Li
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Patent number: 10119285Abstract: A wave generating system can include a water channel for creating a flow of water to produce a standing wave. A water return passageway can circulate the water back to the inlet of the water channel. One or more pipes can extend under the water channel for circulating the water. A water storage chamber can be positioned below the water channel. Water can be stored in the space between the one or more pipes, and the storage water can be isolated from the water being circulated in the system. The system can produce a hydraulic circuit with hydraulic continuity so that water can be efficiently circulated through the water channel and water return passageway. The system can be modular.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2018Date of Patent: November 6, 2018Assignee: The Wave Pool Company, LLCInventor: Johan Perslow
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Patent number: 10119284Abstract: A wave generator which may e.g. rest on a deck of a concrete swimming pool is disclosed. The wave generator may include a chassis for support of other components, have structure for engaging a supporting environmental surface or object, an agitator to be periodically projected into the water, and an oscillating device for periodically projecting the agitator into the water and withdrawing the agitator from the water to enable subsequent impingements against the water. The oscillating device includes a rocker arm, a powered crank mechanism to rock the rocker arm, and a support arm to hold the agitator below the elevated end of the rocker arm, thus enabling the agitator to impinge against the surface of the water. Optionally, functional components of the wave generator are covered by a cover simulating e.g. a whale. Optionally, the wave generator includes a protective cage held in the water below the agitator.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2017Date of Patent: November 6, 2018Inventor: Ryan M. Dunlap
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Patent number: 10081956Abstract: A wave park includes a body of water, and a track positioned in or proximate the body of water. The wave park further includes at least one foil coupled to move along the track, the foil being at least partially submerged in the body of water. Each foil has a curvilinear cross-sectional geometry that includes a leading surface that is concave about a vertical axis to provide drag to generate a primary wave laterally in water of the body of water that contacts the leading surface of the foil, and a trailing surface that narrows from a maximum width of the foil adjacent the leading surface to a point at an end of the foil, the trailing surface to decrease the drag of the foil and to minimize oscillatory waves that trail the primary wave from the water moving past the leading surface of the foil.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2016Date of Patent: September 25, 2018Assignee: Kelly Slater Wave CompanyInventors: Kelly Slater, Adam Fincham
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Patent number: 10066410Abstract: A wave pool includes a channel that includes a bottom contour with a depth that runs from a deep end to a shoal or beach. One or more three-dimensional foils are vertically arranged along at least one side of the channel, and moved against the water in the channel. Each foil has a curvilinear cross-sectional geometry that defines a leading surface that is adapted to generate a wave in water moving past the leading surface, and a trailing surface configured for flow recovery to avoid separation of the flow of water in the wave and to mitigate drag from the foil from the water moving past the leading surface.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2017Date of Patent: September 4, 2018Assignee: Kelly Slater Wave Company, LLCInventors: Kelly Slater, Adam Fincham
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Patent number: 9926712Abstract: [Problem to be solved] To provide a wave making apparatus for surfing that can make a so-called tubular curling wave suitable for surfing and in which a breaking portion and about to break portion are arrayed in a line. [Solution] The wave making apparatus comprises: a water carrying bucket 110 opened at the front, including a bottom plate and a side surface plate, and capable of holding water in a portion of an inner space thereof; a supporting structure 120 that supports the water carrying bucket 110; and a transmission apparatus 130 that moves the water carrying bucket 110 forward at a predetermined speed. The water carrying bucket 100 supported by submerging the water carrying bucket 110 under waterline of the pool such that the front of the water carrying bucket 110 faces the play area of the pool. The transmission apparatus 130 moves the water carrying bucket 110 forward along a track extending forward the play area with the water carrying bucket 100 kept below the waterline.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2015Date of Patent: March 27, 2018Assignee: RESPONCE-ENGINEER, INC.Inventor: Takahiro Oshibe
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Patent number: 9879438Abstract: A wave pool for producing waves having a first wave forming portion with an inclined section and a second wave dampening portion having a raised floor above a bottom chamber floor wherein the raised floor preferably has multiple openings thereon and a predetermined porosity (?) within the range of 0<??0.5, such that as the waves travel across the wave dampening chamber, a boundary layer of energy absorbing vortices and eddies are generated above and below the raised floor resulting from water flowing up and down through the perforations, which helps to dampen the waves, and wherein the raised floor preferably comprises a padded grate drainage system consisting of multiple elongated members formed by rigid bars with foam adhered on one side thereof, which are encapsulated by a water impervious layer.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2014Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Inventors: Thomas J. Lochtefeld, Hendrik Dirk van Ettinger, Dirk Bastenhof
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Patent number: 9856665Abstract: A wave pool for producing waves has a first wave-forming portion with an inclined section for causing the waves to begin breaking and a second wave-dampening portion with a raised floor with perforations extended above a bottom chamber floor. The raised floor is preferably adapted with a predetermined porosity such that a boundary layer of energy absorbing vortices and eddies is generated above and below the raised floor, resulting from water passing up and down through the openings, and the boundary layer effects on the raised floor help to dampen the waves.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2016Date of Patent: January 2, 2018Inventors: Thomas J. Lochtefeld, Hendrik Dirk van Ettinger, Dirk Bastenhof
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Patent number: 9777494Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for a wave pool having a deep end and a shallow end, wherein a plurality of wave generators is provided for producing wave segments in the wave pool. The wave generators are preferably extended substantially along the deep end in a substantially staggered manner relative to the travel direction of the wave segments. A pair of dividing walls is preferably provided in front of each wave generator, wherein the dividing walls are extended substantially forward in the travel direction and substantially parallel to each other or with a fade angle of no more than about 20 to 30 degrees relative to each other.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2011Date of Patent: October 3, 2017Assignee: Stagger Reef Pte. Ltd.Inventors: Thomas J. Lochtefeld, Dirk Bastenhof
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Patent number: 9649569Abstract: Examples of a wave simulator for board sports and other uses are disclosed. An example wave simulator includes means for forming a wave, the means having at least one inclined side wall and a bottom corresponding to a desired wave shape. The wave simulator includes means for flowing water along at least partially along the inclined side wall and bottom of the flume to form a simulated wave. The wave simulator includes means for restraining a board rider in the means for forming a wave. Streamlines of the simulated wave are substantially parallel to a crest line of the simulated wave, and an inclined water flow ends in a downward arc.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2016Date of Patent: May 16, 2017Inventor: Kenneth Douglas Hill
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Patent number: 9574360Abstract: A wave pool for generating surfable waves is disclosed. The wave pool includes a pool for containing water. The pool defines a channel having a first side wall, a second side wall, and a bottom with a contour that slopes upward from a deep area proximate the first side wall toward a sill defined by the second side wall. The wave pool further includes at least one foil at least partially submerged in the water near the side wall, and being adapted for movement by a moving mechanism in a direction along the side wall for generating a wave in the channel that forms a breaking wave on the sill. The wave pool further includes one or more passive flow control mechanisms to mitigate a mean flow of the water induced by the movement of the at least one foil in the direction along the side wall.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2012Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: KELLY SLATER WAVE COMPANY, LLC.Inventors: Adam Fincham, Kelly Slater
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Patent number: 9556633Abstract: A wave pool having a deep end and a shallow end with a plurality of wave generators along the deep end that are extended along a curved stagger line positioned at an oblique angle relative to the moving waves. The wave generators are preferably extended in a substantially staggered manner relative to the travel direction of the waves. A pair of dividing walls is preferably provided in front of each generator, wherein the dividing walls are extended substantially forward with an outward fade angle of no more than about 20 degrees relative to each other. The wave generators are preferably operated in sequence, such that a plurality of wave segments is generated, and such that the wave segments travel forward and then merge together to form a substantially uniform resultant wave which travels forward and then breaks along the shallow end.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2013Date of Patent: January 31, 2017Inventors: Thomas J. Lochtefeld, Dirk Bastenhof
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Patent number: 9546491Abstract: A surface gravity wave generator and wave pool is disclosed. A wave pool is formed of opposing side walls and a center channel of water. The channel includes a bottom contour with a depth that runs from a deep end to a shoal or beach. One or more three-dimensional foils are vertically arranged along at least one side wall, and moved against the water in the channel. Each foil has a curvilinear cross-sectional geometry that defines a leading surface that is adapted to generate a wave in water moving past the leading surface, and a trailing surface configured for flow recovery to avoid separation of the flow of water in the wave and to mitigate drag from the foil from the water moving past the leading surface.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2013Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: KELLY SLATER WAVE COMPANY, LLC.Inventors: Kelly Slater, Adam Fincham
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Patent number: 9534408Abstract: Present embodiments are directed to a system and method for generating waves in multiple directions. Present embodiments may include a wave generation mechanism configured to be positioned centrally within a container filled with water that is sufficiently sized to facilitate recreational activities for patrons within the container. The wave generation mechanism may include at least one actuator configured to activate at least one water-displacement medium to displace the water such that waves are propagated through the water, and a directional feature configured to direct the waves away from the wave generation mechanism after activation of the actuator such that the waves are propagated outward from the wave generation mechanism in multiple directions.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2011Date of Patent: January 3, 2017Assignee: Universal City Studios LLCInventors: Ross Alan Osterman, Justin Michael Schwartz
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Patent number: 9506259Abstract: A wave pool for producing waves having a first wave forming portion with an inclined section oriented obliquely relative to the travel direction of the waves and a second wave dampening portion having a raised perforated floor above a bottom chamber floor wherein the raised floor is preferably extended substantially horizontally at a predetermined depth in the water or at a slight incline, and wherein the raised floor preferably has a predetermined porosity (?) within the range of 0<??0.5, such that as the waves travel across the wave dampening chamber, a boundary layer of energy absorbing vortices and eddies are generated above and below the raised floor resulting from water flowing up and down through the perforations, which helps to dampen the waves.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2013Date of Patent: November 29, 2016Inventors: Thomas J. Lochtefeld, Hendrik Dirk van Ettinger, Dirk Bastenhof
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Patent number: 9457290Abstract: Examples of a wave simulator for board sports and other uses are disclosed. An example wave simulator includes means for forming a wave, the means having at least one inclined side wall and a bottom corresponding to a desired wave shape. The wave simulator includes means for flowing water along at least partially along the inclined side wall and bottom of the flume to form a simulated wave. The wave simulator includes means for restraining a board rider in the means for forming a wave. Streamlines of the simulated wave are substantially parallel to a crest line of the simulated wave, and an inclined water flow ends in a downward arc.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2012Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Inventor: Kenneth Douglas Hill
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Patent number: 9394711Abstract: A cleaning system comprising a cleaner body configured to travel through a water pool powered by a positive pressure water flow supplied via a flexible hose. The system is characterized by: (1) a water distribution subsystem carried by the cleaner body including a state valve selectively operable in a forward or redirect state and a mode valve selectively operable in a top or bottom mode; and/or (2) a wall fitting including an outlet section extending downward at an oblique angle between 15° and 75° to reduce the likelihood of hose restraint.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2013Date of Patent: July 19, 2016Assignee: Henkin-Laby, LLCInventors: Melvyn L. Henkin, Jordan M. Laby
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Patent number: 9279263Abstract: A wave generating apparatus and method is provided in which a controller actuates a plurality of wave generating chambers in sequence using a delay between actuation of each chamber to produce a rideable wave in a pool. The actuation delay period may be a predetermined proportion of the chamber period. The sequence creates a surging motion in the pool that changes the characteristics of the waves to create a considerably hollow barreling wave. The flow of water created by a sequence may resemble a diamond pattern and additional patterns may resemble diamonds linked at the vertices. This pattern effectively reduces the depth of the water between successive waves, which causes them to pitch away from the chambers and create a considerably hollow barrel.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2012Date of Patent: March 8, 2016Inventor: Bruce McFarland
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Publication number: 20150107013Abstract: A wave pool for producing waves having a first wave forming portion with an inclined section oriented obliquely relative to the travel direction of the waves and a second wave dampening portion having a raised perforated floor above a bottom chamber floor wherein the raised floor is preferably extended substantially horizontally at a predetermined depth in the water or at a slight incline, and wherein the raised floor preferably has a predetermined porosity (?) within the range of 0<??0.5, such that as the waves travel across the wave dampening chamber, a boundary layer of energy absorbing vortices and eddies are generated above and below the raised floor resulting from water flowing up and down through the perforations, which helps to dampen the waves.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2013Publication date: April 23, 2015Inventors: Thomas J. Lochtefeld, Hendrik Dirk van Ettinger, Dirk Bastenhof
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Publication number: 20150089731Abstract: A wave pool having multiple wave breaking zones extending across the pool floor, wherein different wave breaking formations with different wave characteristics can be generated within each zone, using the same wave energy derived from the same original wave, wherein surfers with different abilities can surf in different locations within the same pool. Specific features are provided that enable breaker waves to be properly managed and controlled such that intermediate/advanced surfers can surf in one zone and beginner surfers can surf in another zone. Included are special dividers to prevent surfers from crossing from one zone to the next, while at the same time, allowing wave energy to pass through. An attenuating means is provided to help reduce the choppiness of the waves.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 2, 2014Publication date: April 2, 2015Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld
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Publication number: 20150040306Abstract: A wave-making apparatus for use in a swimming pool comprises a motor that may be powered at least in part by the flow of water from a swimming pool pump. When water from the pump flows through an inlet in the motor housing, it rotates a turbine within the housing, which in turn rotates a cantilever arm about a central axis of the turbine. A distal end of the cantilever arm is attached, e.g., by a tether or other device, to a buoy or float at the surface of the water such that rotation of the cantilever arm pulls the float down periodically, creating perpetual swimming pool waves.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 8, 2014Publication date: February 12, 2015Inventor: John Distinti