Wave Generation Or Enhancement Patents (Class 405/79)
  • Patent number: 11828672
    Abstract: A method for forming a test flume usable in hydraulic engineering and debris-flow hazard mitigation is provided. The test flume has a foundation flume and an expansion flume. The expansion flume has a lower edge connected to an upper edge of the foundation flume. A hydraulic radius of the test flume is determined based on a model test. A width of the foundation flume is selected based on a size of the test site of the model test. A coefficient is obtained and a width of the test flume is obtained. A cross section curve equation of the expansion flume is obtained based on the hydraulic radius of the test flume, the coefficient, the width of the test flume and the width of the foundation flume. The test flume is formed based on the cross section curve equation of the expansion flume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2023
    Assignee: INSTITUTE OF MOUNTAIN HAZARDS AND ENVIRONMENT CHINESE ACADEMY OF SCIENCES
    Inventors: Jiangang Chen, Xian Wang, Huayong Chen, Xiaoqing Chen, Jinbo Tang, Wanyu Zhao, Tao Wang, Wenrun Liu, Xinglong Gong
  • Patent number: 11801920
    Abstract: The present disclosure generally pertains to a lateral displacement surf system and methods of laterally displacing a watercraft to generate wake. The lateral displacement system includes at least one pair of foils configured to be extended from a hull on a first side of the watercraft at a level of approximately the waterline. Upon forward movement of the watercraft with extended foils, the watercraft is rotated about its vertical axis toward the first side and generates waves sufficient for the conduction watersport activities on a second side of the watercraft. In some instances, foils are built into the hull and extended from this position, while in other instances the foils are attached to the hull using attachment structures. Rotation of the foils about an axis of rotation approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the watercraft alters the angle of attack of the foils relative to the waterline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2023
    Inventor: Bryan Thompson
  • Patent number: 11660546
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2023
    Assignee: AMERICAN WAVE MACHINES, INC.
    Inventors: Bruce McFarland, Clement Ginestet
  • Patent number: 11524751
    Abstract: The present disclosure generally pertains to a lateral displacement surf system and methods of laterally displacing a watercraft to generate wake. The lateral displacement system includes at least one pair of foils configured to be extended from a hull on a first side of the watercraft at a level of approximately the waterline. Upon forward movement of the watercraft with extended foils, the watercraft is rotated about its vertical axis toward the first side and generates waves sufficient for the conduction watersport activities on a second side of the watercraft. In some instances, foils are built into the hull and extended from this position, while in other instances the foils are attached to the hull using attachment structures. Rotation of the foils about an axis of rotation approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the watercraft alters the angle of attack of the foils relative to the waterline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2022
    Inventor: Bryan Thompson
  • Patent number: 11478689
    Abstract: A floating wave generating device for generating a standing wave in a standing water body or water basin includes at least one water acceleration section, at least one wave generation section arranged downstream of the water acceleration section, and at least one pump. The at least one pump is arranged in such a way that with this pump water from the underwater area of the standing water body or water basin can be conveyed to a starting level which is higher than the water level of the standing water body or water basin, in order to generate a water flow directed toward the wave generation section by utilizing gravity. Furthermore, the apparatus is arranged in relation to the standing water body or water basin such that the standing water body or water basin with its water level is part of the wave generation section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2022
    Assignee: UNIT PARTECH AG
    Inventors: Johannes Degenhardt, Stefan Jandke
  • Patent number: 11400384
    Abstract: A water or other amusement attraction that includes an inflatable portion or material. A cavity of the attraction is located underneath an upper surface, the upper surface configured to support a flow of water and at least one rider thereon. A volume of water is configured to be disposed within the cavity, the upper surface floating upon the volume of water while connected to at least one side wall, floor, and/or nozzle structure. A pump and nozzle assembly, positioned outside of the cavity, communicates with the water within the cavity for flowing a portion of the water over the upper surface. A drainage portion, adjacent to the upper surface, drains the flowing water back into the cavity for recirculation. Support components, such as a plurality of beams or an inflatable grid structure help maintain stability for the attraction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2022
    Assignee: Whitewater West Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Oriol Vicente
  • Patent number: 11346066
    Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure involve hydraulic systems and methods for altering a flow of a body of water, such as a river, channel, and/or other flowing or uncontained bodies of water. In one aspect, a hydraulic system provides a velocity barrier for the impedance of aquatic organism migration. More particularly, the velocity barrier may be adapted based on the swimming capabilities of one or more aquatic organisms to impede migration. The aquatic organism may be one or more species of fish, such as species sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus). The example implementations shown and described herein reference the restriction of the sea lamprey. However, it will be appreciated that other aquatic organisms could be restricted by the presently disclosed technology, for example, with different hydraulic targets depending on swimming capabilities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2022
    Assignee: RIVERRESTORATION.ORG, LLC
    Inventors: Jason Carey, Stephen Michael Scurlock
  • Patent number: 11261611
    Abstract: The invention relates to water amusement facilities generating artificial waves for surfing. The technical result is a simpler and lighter design and a shorter assembly and dismantling time along with the capability to control the water flow rate and to stabilize the flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Assignee: Wave Box Ltd
    Inventor: Aleksandr Gennad'evich Abramov
  • Patent number: 10744417
    Abstract: A water or other amusement attraction that includes an inflatable portion or material. A cavity of the attraction is located underneath an upper surface, the upper surface configured to support a flow of water and at least one rider thereon. A volume of water is configured to be disposed within the cavity, the upper surface floating upon the volume of water while connected to at least one side wall, floor, and/or nozzle structure. A pump and nozzle assembly, positioned outside of the cavity, communicates with the water within the cavity for flowing a portion of the water over the upper surface. A drainage portion, adjacent to the upper surface, drains the flowing water back into the cavity for recirculation. Support components, such as a plurality of beams or an inflatable grid structure help maintain stability for the attraction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2020
    Assignee: Whitewater West Industries, LTD.
    Inventors: Marshall Corey Myrman, Brad Koide, Danny Philp
  • Patent number: 10612256
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2020
    Assignee: American Wave Machines, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce McFarland, Clement Ginestet
  • Patent number: 10597884
    Abstract: A wave pool and wave generating mechanism are disclosed. The wave pool includes a bathymetry that includes a dynamically shapeable reef along a length or circumference of a channel that defines the wave pool. The wave generating mechanism includes a foil that has a shape for bi-directionality based on an adjustment of a yaw angle of the foil. The foil can be further controlled to increase or decrease certain surface areas or other angles of interacting with water in the wave pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2020
    Assignee: Kelly Slater Wave Company, LLC
    Inventors: Adam Fincham, Alex Poirot, Nathan Loewen, Robert Kelly Slater
  • Patent number: 10584506
    Abstract: A liquid sealing actuator system enables use in a non-contact or low-friction manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2020
    Assignee: SURF LAKES HOLDINGS LTD
    Inventors: Christopher Roy Sidwell, Aaron James Trevis
  • Patent number: 10557277
    Abstract: A wave pool and wave generating mechanism are disclosed. The wave pool includes a bathymetry that includes a dynamically shapeable reef along a length or circumference of a channel that defines the wave pool. The wave generating mechanism includes a foil that has a shape for bi-directionality based on an adjustment of a yaw angle of the foil. The foil can be further controlled to increase or decrease certain surface areas or other angles of interacting with water in the wave pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2020
    Assignee: Kelly Slater Wave Company, LLC
    Inventors: Adam Fincham, Alex Poirot, Nathan Loewen, Robert Kelly Slater
  • Patent number: 10364584
    Abstract: Wave generator system (1), comprising a continuous and elongated barrier (4) that has a front side (4a) facing a first mass of water (2) fitted with a first reef (12) and a rear side (4b) facing a second mass of water (3) fitted with a second reef (15). The barrier (4) can move along the length (L) with a serpentine movement, and the front (4a) and rear sides (4b) push water from the masses of water (2, 3) towards the respective reefs (12, 15) for the formation of waves in the first mass of water (2) and in the second mass of water (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2019
    Assignee: INSTANT SPORT, S.L
    Inventor: José Manuel Odriozola Sagastume
  • Patent number: 10280640
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Assignee: American Wave Machines, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce McFarland, Clement Ginestet
  • Patent number: 9933536
    Abstract: A marine seismic survey is performed in icy waters by initially planning a survey track traversing a survey area. The initial track is planned based on initial ice conditions in the survey area having the icy waters. After preparing the system, a seismic system is deployed into the water from a survey vessel at the survey area. This is typically done in an area relatively free of ice. At least one escort vessel escorts the survey vessel as it traverses the survey track and obtains seismic data. The survey vessel tows the seismic system under the surface of the icy water to avoid the ice. All the while, systems and operators monitor the survey area along the survey track for actual ice conditions. In this way, the escort vessel can handling the actual ice conditions along the survey track so the survey vessel does not need to halt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: ION Geophysical Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph R. Gagliardi, Shawn Rice, Curt Schneider, Jeffrey W. Cunkelman, Tim Dudley, Dale Lambert, Mike Burnham, Ray Pierce
  • Patent number: 9592454
    Abstract: An interactive amusement attraction capable of sensing ride vehicle or user interaction or position. The attraction can track user performance and/or location, through use of a ride vehicle or without, and can include a slide for supporting water and a sensor connected with the slide for sensing an interactive element. The tags or interactive element may be passive (e.g., sensed by the sensor merely when within a predetermined proximity) or may require user manipulation (e.g., a button to be pressed when within a predetermined proximity of the sensor). Various lighting elements may be connected or embedded in the slide and may be controlled to illuminate with various colors. These lighting elements, such as LED light strips, can be used to indicate the presence of a sensor and/or that a sensor has been successfully or unsuccessfully interacted with.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2017
    Assignee: Whitewater West Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: Denise Chapman Weston, Aaron Mendelson
  • Patent number: 9194146
    Abstract: A wave pool configured to generate waves from a center portion of the wave pool towards the outer perimeter of the wave pool. A motor is positioned substantially at a center of the wave pool and is connected to a foil via an arm extending outwardly from the motor. The motor causes rotation of the arm and the foil for generating waves that travel away from the motor and towards an outer edge of the pool. The foil may be formed in the shape of a scoop and configured to adjust its angle relative to the arm via one or more angular adjustment connections with the arm. Multiple arms and/or foils may be used to generate waves in the wave pool. The wave pool has a deeper body of water located adjacent to the motor and a shallower body of water adjacent to the outer perimeter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Inventor: Douglas Murphy
  • Patent number: 9144727
    Abstract: The invention relates to a positively buoyant wave generator adapted to travel through a body of water, wherein specific features are incorporated into the wave generator to help create and off-set various hydrodynamic forces that can act on the wave generator as it travels through the water. Rather than eliminating these hydrodynamic forces, the invention seeks to create and counter these forces, which has been found to help keep the wave generator in substantial equilibrium. For example, a connecting member can be extended forward and below the wave generator's center of buoyancy, such that as the wave generator is pulled, it creates an upward force that helps to counter a downward force acting on the front end of the wave generator as water is lifted up. Various internal moments can also be created and off-set by adjusting the center of gravity and/or center of buoyancy and using these forces to help keep the wave generator in substantial equilibrium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld
  • Patent number: 9103133
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Assignee: American Wave Machines, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce McFarland
  • Patent number: 9068309
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus and method for simulating a submarine landslide. The apparatus includes an inclined flume; a plurality of sedimentary layers which are stacked on top of one another in the flume and tapped; water which is charged into the flume on the sedimentary layers in such a way that the surface of the water is formed in the flume; and a plurality of injectors which are provided in a bottom of the flume so as to be movable upwards or downwards with respect to the flume and inject gas or water into the sedimentary layer. The sedimentary layers are changed in pressure and temperature by the gas or water injected from the injectors into the sedimentary layers so that an artificial slope collapse is caused, whereby a water wave is generated in the flume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: KOREA INSTITUTE OF GEOSCIENCE AND MINERAL RESOURCES
    Inventors: Sueng Won Jeong, Sung-Sik Park, Gil Young Kim, Jang-Jun Bahk, Seong-Pil Kim, Sang Hoon Lee
  • Patent number: 9044685
    Abstract: A water attraction, involving a flowing body of water, for performing board-riding maneuvers is described. A water attraction according to the present invention includes an activity section adjacent a safety chute; opposing sidewalls adjacent to a safety chute; a water delivery section creating water flow towards a safety chute; a water recovery section; and a rideable surface area. The rideable surface area further includes irregularly shaped surfaces with varying angles and elevations to increase difficulty and creativity in board-riding maneuvers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2015
    Assignee: Pacific Surf Designs, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Alleshouse, Yong L Yeh
  • Publication number: 20150037098
    Abstract: A removable wavemaker having a self-supporting structure for use in a wave tank has an integrated mounting structure for mounting on a frame of an open top of the wave tank, a linear motor positioned above a waterline in the wave tank having a forcer containing activation coils that is driven in reciprocation motion by electromagnetic interaction with an array of permanent magnets contained in a tubular support structure on which the forcer is configured to slide, and a vertically-oriented wave board mounted on a lower part of the integrated mounting structure below the waterline for generating waves within the wave tank. The forcer is supported on a movable carriage that rides on a rail fixed to the integrated mounting structure and is coupled to the wave board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventor: Richard W. Carter
  • Publication number: 20140227036
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus and method for simulating a submarine landslide. The apparatus includes an inclined flume; a plurality of sedimentary layers which are stacked on top of one another in the flume and tapped; water which is charged into the flume on the sedimentary layers in such a way that the surface of the water is formed in the flume; and a plurality of injectors which are provided in a bottom of the flume so as to be movable upwards or downwards with respect to the flume and inject gas or water into the sedimentary layer. The sedimentary layers are changed in pressure and temperature by the gas or water injected from the injectors into the sedimentary layers so that an artificial slope collapse is caused, whereby a water wave is generated in the flume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Inventors: Sueng Won Jeong, Sung-Sik Park, Gil Young Kim, Jang-Jun Bahk, Seong-Pil Kim, Sang Hoon Lee
  • Patent number: 8776830
    Abstract: An invention for transporting material is described. The material, which may be or include a liquid or particles, be transported floats on and flows on a more dense fluid. Standing waves may be induced in the more dense fluid, and devices are provided to either force the transported fluid in a direction, or to prevent the transported fluid from flowing in a direction counter to the flow direction. The inventive apparatus and method have the ability to transport fluids long distances with much less frictional losses than convention technology.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventors: Walter Chen, C. K. Hari Dharan
  • Publication number: 20140133914
    Abstract: The invention relates to a wave pool having a deep end and a shallow end, wherein a plurality of wave generators is provided 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, wherein 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 can travel forward and then merge together to form a substantially uniform resultant wave which travels forward and then breaks along the shallow end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2013
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Inventors: Thomas J. Lochtefeld, Dirk Bastenhof
  • Patent number: 8715496
    Abstract: A system for altering water properties in an outdoor body of water includes a holding vessel configured to hold water. The holding vessel has at least one wall extending above a mean surface water level. The system also includes at least one conduit extending downward from the holding vessel. The at least one conduit has a length extending to a depth at which at least one property of water at the depth differs substantially from that of water at the surface. The system further includes at least one aperture formed in at least one of the holding vessel or the at least one conduit and located at a distance below the mean surface water level. Further still, the system includes at least one one way valve coupled to the at least one aperture and allowing flow of water in only one direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Kenneth G. Caldeira, Alistair K. Chan, William H. Gates, III, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, John Latham, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Stephen H. Salter, Clarence T. Tegreene, Willard H. Wattenburg, Lowell L. Wood, Jr., Victoria Y. H. Wood
  • Patent number: 8702982
    Abstract: A system is described generally for providing a structure or structures for altering water surface temperature. The system includes a holding vessel configured to hold water. The holding vessel has at least one wall coupled to a lowermost portion. The at least one wall extends above the water level and the lowermost portion is configured to be submerged. At least one conduit extends from the lower side of the holding vessel. The at least one conduit has a length extending to a depth at which a property of water at the depth is substantially different from that of the water at the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Kenneth G. Caldeira, Alistair K. Chan, William Gates, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, John Latham, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Stephen H. Salter, Clarence T. Tegreene, Willard H. Wattenburg, Lowell L. Wood, Jr., Victoria Y. H. Wood
  • Publication number: 20140105685
    Abstract: A wave forming apparatus has a channel for containing a flow of water with an inlet end connected to a water supply, a floor, and spaced side walls, a first bed form or weir at the inlet end of the channel, and a second bed form in the channel downstream of the first bed form. Also disclosed is a wave forming apparatus has a channel for containing a flow of water, the channel having an inlet end connected to a water supply for supplying a flowing stream of water, a floor, and spaced side walls, and at least one oblique foil member adjustably mounted in the floor of the channel. The foils, weirs or bed form, form a standing wave.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: American Wave Machines, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce McFarland
  • Patent number: 8685254
    Abstract: A method is generally described which includes environmental alteration. The method includes determining a placement of at least one vessel capable of moving water to lower depths in the water via wave induced downwelling. The method also includes placing the at least one vessel in the determined placement. Further, the method includes generating movement of the water adjacent the surface of the water in response to the placing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Kenneth G. Caldeira, Alistair K. Chan, William H. Gates, III, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, John Latham, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Stephen H. Salter, Clarence T. Tegreene, Willard H. Wattenburg, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8679331
    Abstract: A structure described generally for altering one or more properties within a body of water includes a vessel configured to hold water. The vessel may have at least one wall. The at least one wall extends at least above a mean surface water level. At least one conduit extends downward from the holding vessel. The at least one conduit has a length that extends below the surface of the water. A propulsion system may be coupled to at least one of the vessel or the conduit and may be configured to provide forces to the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Kenneth G. Caldeira, Alistair K. Chan, William H. Gates, III, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, John Latham, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Stephen H. Salter, Clarence T. Tegreene, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8622651
    Abstract: The teachings herein are directed to a wave forming apparatus including a bed form that may include a plurality of sections at different angles, including a base section adjacent to a wave forming channel, the base section having an exterior profile defining a first, non-abrupt angle to the direction of flow of water in the channel, and an upper section that forms an exterior profile defining a second, steeper angle to the direction of water flow. Also disclosed is a twistlock mechanism adapted to removably fasten a bed form to a water channel, and a method of use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Bruce McFarland
  • Patent number: 8602685
    Abstract: A wave forming apparatus has a channel for containing a flow of water with an inlet end connected to a water supply, a floor, and spaced side walls, a first bed form or weir at the inlet end of the channel, and a second bed form in the channel downstream of the first bed form. Also disclosed is a wave forming apparatus has a channel for containing a flow of water, the channel having an inlet end connected to a water supply for supplying a flowing stream of water, a floor, and spaced side walls, and at least one oblique foil member adjustably mounted in the floor of the channel. The foils, weirs or bed form, form a standing wave.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: American Wave Machinces, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce McFarland
  • Patent number: 8602684
    Abstract: The arrangement for producing linear standing waves includes: a transverse structure arranged at least substantially perpendicularly to the flow direction, the structure designed such that the outflow is converted from a streaming flowing movement into a shooting flowing movement; a ramp connected downstream to the transverse structure and arranged at least substantially perpendicularly to the flow direction; a counter-ramp arranged at least substantially in the flow direction at the downstream end of the ramp and the average inclination in the flow direction forms an angle to the horizontal in the flow direction, and which has a flow-promoting transition to the ramp at its upstream end; a base arranged downstream of the ramp and the counter-ramp and whose bottom is arranged lower by a height dimension than the downstream end of the ramp and/or the upstream end of the counter-ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventors: Markus Aufleger, Ulrich Hautzel, Derek O'neill, Roland Hoepffner
  • Publication number: 20130322967
    Abstract: A wave forming apparatus has a channel for containing a flow of water with an inlet end connected to a water supply, a base, and spaced side walls, a first bed form or weir at the inlet end of the channel, and a second bed form in the channel downstream of the first bed form. Also disclosed is a wave forming apparatus has a channel for containing a flow of water, the channel having an inlet end connected to a water supply for supplying a flowing stream of water, a base, and spaced side walls, and at least one oblique foil member adjustably mounted in the base of the channel. The foils, weirs or bed form, form a standing wave.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: American Wave Machines, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce McFarland
  • Patent number: 8573887
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Kelly Slater Wave Company, LLC
    Inventors: Kelly Slater, Adam Fincham
  • Publication number: 20130266379
    Abstract: Magnetic wave generator and use. The wave generator includes a driver portion with motor and rotating mount with a first magnet; and an actuator portion that includes a pivot mount and a pivoting arm coupled thereto, with a second magnet at one position on the pivoting arm, and a buoyant float member at another. During operation, the actuator portion is at least partially submerged in a fluid of a wave tank, with the driver portion just outside the wave tank. The driver portion rotates the rotating mount, repeatedly moving the first magnet near then away from the actuator portion. Accordingly, the pivot arm rotates away due to magnetic repulsion, pushing the float member down into the fluid, then buoyancy of the float member provides a restorative force that rotates the pivoting arm, allowing the float member to rise. The movement of the float member induces waves in the wave tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Inventor: David E. Wilson
  • Patent number: 8523484
    Abstract: The teachings herein are directed to a wave forming apparatus and method including a channel directing a flow of water over modular forms in the bed of the channel, such as aerofoils, that can be changed, repositioned or removed to create various effects such as barrel waves for surfing. Also disclosed is a water smoothener system and method for reducing turbulence in water flowing through such an apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: Bruce McFarland
  • Patent number: 8523483
    Abstract: A system and method for clearing an approaching floating ice mass comprising locating a hydrocarbon development platform in a marine environment, and determining a direction from which the ice mass is approaching the hydrocarbon development platform. The method also includes providing an intervention vessel having a water-agitating mechanism associated therewith for propagating artificially generated waves towards a leading edge of the approaching ice mass to fracture the ice mass along the leading edge, thereby causing small ice pieces to separate from the ice mass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company
    Inventors: Timothy J. Nedwed, Robert D. Kaminsky, Terrance D. Ralston
  • Patent number: 8516624
    Abstract: An artificial surfing facility for producing a standing wave, with an inclined ramp, to the upper end of which water is conveyed by at least one pump and at the lower end of which the water discharges into a wave pool. A standing wave is easily attained by there being an adjustable guide device in the wave pool at a distance from the bottom end of the ramp in the flow direction as a wave initiator. The wave pool, during operation of at least one pump, has a liquid level which is located above the liquid level of a main pool which surrounds the wave pool and the amount of water in the wave pool offers a defined resistance to the water flowing down the ramp so that the formation and height of the standing wave are influenced by the change of the flow velocity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Action Team Veranstaltungs GmbH
    Inventor: Rainer Klimaschewski
  • Publication number: 20130199433
    Abstract: The invention relates to a positively buoyant wave generator adapted to travel through a body of water, wherein specific features are incorporated into the wave generator to help create and off-set various hydrodynamic forces that can act on the wave generator as it travels through the water. Rather than eliminating these hydrodynamic forces, the invention seeks to create and counter these forces, which has been found to help keep the wave generator in substantial equilibrium. For example, a connecting member can be extended forward and below the wave generator's center of buoyancy, such that as the wave generator is pulled, it creates an upward force that helps to counter a downward force acting on the front end of the wave generator as water is lifted up. Various internal moments can also be created and off-set by adjusting the center of gravity and/or center of buoyancy and using these forces to help keep the wave generator in substantial equilibrium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2013
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld
  • Patent number: 8496403
    Abstract: The invention relates to a wave pool with a beach having a body of water and a wave generator that travels along a relatively shallow channel across from the beach. The wave generator is adapted to travel through the channel and displace the water in the channel to create primary waves on which surfing maneuvers can be performed. The primary waves in turn enter into the body of water to produce secondary waves that can be acted upon by the inclined pool floor so that they eventually break and spill onto the beach. The water in the channel is preferably provided with a reverse current to enable the absolute speed of the wave generator to be reduced, which allows the channel to be shorter in length without significantly impacting the wave effects that are created, which helps reduce the cost of construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Inventors: Thomas J. Lochtefeld, Charles E. Sauerbier
  • Patent number: 8434966
    Abstract: 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 amount of delay in the sequence can determine the direction that the peak of the wave travels and the amplitude of the peak. Through the sequencing, the peak of the wave produced can travel in a direction not substantially perpendicular to the wave generating chambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventor: Bruce McFarland
  • Patent number: 8430597
    Abstract: Disclosed is a reconfigurable obstacle system for a river channel in a river park. Each obstacle assembly includes a plurality of obstacles. Obstacles may include a hollow structural box, a strut channel frame and a plurality of connectors that cooperate to divert water when installed in a river channel. A plurality of connectors pass through the hollow structural box when holding the obstacle in position. The obstacle assemblies can be reconfigured as desired, e.g. increase amplitude of a wave, speed up water flow, change depth, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Rapidblocs Limited
    Inventors: Scott Richmond Shipley, Andrew Duncan Laird
  • Patent number: 8366347
    Abstract: Wave-generating apparatus (1) that is installed in an aquatic environment (3) and which comprises, as its main elements, at least one elongated profile (5) that moves tangentially in relation in relation to a uniformly-deep floor (4) by the action of a drive mechanism (6). As a result, a wave (2) forms on the profile (5) and moves along with the profile (2). The profile (5) is disposed to form an angle (8) other than 90° with the direction of displacement (7), the purpose being to generate a wave (2) with an escape area and which can therefore be surfed. Some parameters of the apparatus (1) may be adjusted for the purpose of changing the degree of difficulty of the wave (2) that is generated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Instant Sport, S.L.
    Inventor: Jose Manuel Odriozola Sagastume
  • Publication number: 20130025491
    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: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: David W. Crawford, Edward A. Nemeth
  • Patent number: 8303213
    Abstract: The teachings herein are directed to a wave forming apparatus and method including a channel directing a flow of water over modular forms in the bed of the channel, such as aerofoils, that can be changed, repositioned or removed to create various effects such as barrel waves for surfing. Also disclosed is a water smoothener system and method for reducing turbulence in water flowing through such an apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: American Wave Machines, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce McFarland
  • Patent number: 8267047
    Abstract: In order to generate waves in a volume of water of an aquarium, it is proposed that a storage container which extends beyond the surface of the volume of water should be provided in the aquarium. Using a pump, water is periodically pumped from the water container into the storage container and returned from the storage container into the aquarium. The energy delivered to the water during this leads to fluctuations in the position of the free surface of the volume of water and in-phase operation of the pump provides stronger surface displacements in the aquarium, which are comparable with a wave in open water and which expose the plants and living beings in the aquarium to an alternating mechanical load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Tunze Aquarientechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Axel Tunze
  • Patent number: 8262316
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Kelly Slater Wave Company, LLC
    Inventors: Kelly Slater, Adam Fincham
  • Patent number: RE47023
    Abstract: A wave generating apparatus mobile application controller and method is are 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 himself or herself or someone else, even while riding a wave.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2018
    Assignee: American Wave Machines, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce McFarland