Wave Generation Or Enhancement Patents (Class 405/79)
  • Publication number: 20120201605
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2012
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Inventor: Kenneth Douglas Hill
  • Publication number: 20120183353
    Abstract: Described are systems, devices and methods for providing a facility for water sports such as wakeboarding, waterskiing, wake surfing, kneeboarding and the like in a controlled environment without the concomitant risks inherent in natural environments. Water is circulated by effluents from water pumps in an open air channel or pool and returned in a submerged closed channel. A participant controls velocity of water flowing from effluents and an amount of wake. Circulating water is rapidly decelerated by a second set of water pumps upon detecting participant falling or losing contact from a ski rope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Inventors: Richard P. Davis, Chad M. Davis
  • Patent number: 8166582
    Abstract: An alternative propulsion or motive force for the riders of water features based on generated waves. A wave generator may be used to propel individuals or vessels within a chute for recreation or transportation. In one form, a pool or container having a body of water is configured to support an artificial wave generator which uses compressed gas to discharge water and generate a wave-like motion within a body of water. A source of make-up fluid is configured to mitigate internal low pressure conditions caused by the water discharge to enable effective wave generation with reduced quantities of compressed air. Portions of the waves generated in a pool may be captured in a variety of ways by chutes for stand-alone rides or for portions of chutes in water slides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Inventor: Garrett T. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20120020735
    Abstract: An open chamber of predetermined size, and shape is positioned in a predetermined location within the confines of a pool bed so as to contain interconnected clusters of interconnected telescopic modules which occupy the entire chamber area. Each of the telescopic module is independently extended and retracted in length vertically by the increase or decrease of the volume of water contained within a bellows interconnected within each telescopic module, thereby establishing in the totality of the population of selected telescopic modules, a specific reef size, shape, and orientation. When kinetic-energy is introduced upstream from a source, the kinetic-energy within the water passes over the predetermined shape, size, and oriented reef, and generates a wave having specific features resulting from the properties of the specific reef configured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Inventor: Phillip James Fricano
  • Publication number: 20110188937
    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: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Applicant: AMERICAN WAVE MACHINES, INC.
    Inventor: Bruce McFarland
  • Publication number: 20110188938
    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: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventors: Timothy J. Nedwed, Robert D. Kaminsky, Terrance D. Ralston
  • Patent number: 7950875
    Abstract: A device for generating and maintaining a standing wave face capable of being ridden by an individual. The device includes a container having a base wall and a sidewall and containing a fluid, at least one inlet into the container, and means for imparting a combination of rotational vertical and horizontal velocity to a fluid with-in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Inventor: Roger A. Benham
  • Publication number: 20110116870
    Abstract: The arrangement for producing linear standing waves comprises: a transverse structure (Q) which is arranged at least substantially perpendicularly to the flow direction (S), this structure being designed in such a way that the outflow is converted from a streaming flowing movement (Froude number <1) into a shooting flowing movement (Froude number >1); a ramp (1) which is connected downstream to this transverse structure (Q) and which is arranged at least substantially perpendicularly to the flow direction (S); a counter-ramp (2) which is arranged at least substantially in the flow direction (S) at the downstream end of this ramp (1) and whose average inclination in the flow direction (S) forms an angle (?) to the horizontal in the flow direction (S), and which has a flow-promoting transition to the ramp (1) at its upstream end; a base (3) which is arranged downstream of the ramp (1) and the counter-ramp (2) and whose bottom is arranged lower by a height dimension (a) than the downstream end of the ramp
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2007
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventors: Markus Aufleger, Ulrich Hautzel, Derek O'neill, Roland Hoepffner
  • Publication number: 20110052322
    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: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventor: Bruce McFarland
  • Patent number: 7815396
    Abstract: A wave generating apparatus and method in which a chamber is at least partially submerged beneath a body of water in a pool and is connected to a gas supply for at least partially filling the chamber with gas, displacing water in the vicinity of the chamber. A vent valve is arranged to vent gas rapidly from the chamber so that the water level in the vicinity of the chamber falls, forming a wave trough. A wave reflecting wall is positioned in the pool adjacent the chamber and in the vicinity of the wave trough formation so as to reflect the wave away from the chamber and across the body of water. The chamber may have a flexible wall for displacing water or may be a rigid chamber communicating with the water through a submerged passageway. This apparatus forms a wave trough followed by a wave peak which travels across the pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: American Wave Machines, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce C. McFarland, Steven M Harrington
  • Publication number: 20100260548
    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: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Inventors: Scott Richmond Shipley, Andrew Duncan Laird
  • Publication number: 20100226719
    Abstract: An orientation of wave generating devices is proposed that facilitates the creation of plunging breakers in a body of water. Water waves transform into plunging breakers under specific characteristics of water wave mechanics. Shoaling and refraction are specific processes of water wave mechanics that cause this transformation. By orientating two or more wave generating devices wherein the waves generated by these devices converge into one another, the refraction process of plunging breakers can be simulated. This orientation of wave generating devices therefore facilitates the creation of plunging breakers in a body of water. The plunging breaker can then be simulated in a manner favorable for surfing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Inventor: Justin Enjo
  • Patent number: 7743734
    Abstract: In order to generate waves in a volume of water (12) of an aquarium, it is proposed that a storage container (22) which extends beyond the surface of the volume of water (12) should be provided in the aquarium (10). Using a pump (32), water is periodically pumped from the water container (10) into the storage container (22) and returned from the storage container (23) into the aquarium (10). The energy delivered to the water during this leads to fluctuations in the position of the free surface (14) of the volume of water (12) and in-phase operation of the pump (32) provides stronger surface displacements in the aquarium (10), 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: May 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Tunze Aquarientechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Axel Tunze
  • Publication number: 20100158611
    Abstract: The wave making device comprises a caisson connected to an air blower and to a control valve mechanism comprising an exhaust valve adapted to move between a closed position and an open position, and a system adapted to move the exhaust valve and to maintain said exhaust valve into said position. The control valve mechanism is adapted to ensure continuously an air pressure within the caisson at least equal to the atmospheric pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Applicant: WOW COMPANY S.A.
    Inventor: Joseph DEMARTEAU
  • Publication number: 20100135727
    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: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: AMERICAN WAVE MACHINES, INC.
    Inventor: Bruce McFarland
  • Publication number: 20100135726
    Abstract: An apparatus for generating waves in a liquid container, with a container, which has an outlet opening in the upper region and an inlet opening in the lower region, and a shiftable body, which is arranged in said container and which can move in the direction towards the outlet opening in the container as a result of a buoyancy- or spring force, so that the liquid situated before the body in the movement direction is pressed through the outlet opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventor: André Clauss
  • Patent number: 7722290
    Abstract: A transportable module for use in generating waves in a body of water, having a tubular chamber with a predetermined length and width equal to or less than the maximum length permitted for transportation on a predetermined type of road. The chamber includes a rear valve located at the rear end to permit flow into the chamber and substantially block flow out of the chamber and a gas port proximate to the rear end for the admission of compressed gas into the chamber. The module includes an anchoring system, such as an integrated ballast tank, a connecting system mounted on the outer surface of the module by which the module may be detachably connected in parallel with other such modules in a side to side manner to form a barge or scalable wave generator. Individually, the modules are is capable of being transported by road to a desired body of water for use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Inventor: Garrett T. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7722291
    Abstract: 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 oblique foil member has a leading face extending at an oblique angle to the water stream in the channel, and a trailing, venturi face with a leading portion facing one of the side walls to form a venturi or constricted pass between the side wall and leading portion of the venturi face. The leading face, venturi face, and venturi pass together are adapted to form a standing barreling wave at the venturi pass. The orientation of the oblique foil member relative to the base of the channel is adjustable in order to vary the barreling wave formation, and may be adjusted during wave formation in order move the barreling wave across the leading face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Inventor: Bruce C. McFarland
  • Publication number: 20100124460
    Abstract: A new use of existing dry material storage silos. The massive capacity, proportions of height to diameter, uniform lateral strength attributed to vertical cylindrical and elevated configuration, and very existence provides for a cost effective and efficient means of water storage and release of massive volumes of water for the purpose of creating wave energy in a pool for water surfing and other water recreational entertainment or sport activities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2008
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventor: Phillip James Fricano
  • Publication number: 20100124459
    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: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventors: Kelly Slater, Adam Fincham
  • Patent number: 7717645
    Abstract: An adjustable physical structure for producing hydraulic formations for whitewater recreationalists includes a control structure, and an adjustable lip located downstream of the control structure. The control structure can include a crest and a ramp. The crest constricts and/or elevates (dams) the flow water to increase it's energy and focus the flow of water. Downstream of the crest, the ramp routes the flow of the water to the adjustable lip. The ramp can have varying and non-linear slopes and plan configurations. Additionally, the ramp can be static or adjustable to elevate the flow of water and vary the velocity and energy of the supercritical flow as it is passed to the adjustable lip. An adjustable invert physical structure comprises a shaped structure configured for placement on the invert of the channel. The adjustable invert physical structure can be moved or adjusted in horizontal and/or vertical directions to shape the flow of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: McLaughlin Consulting Company
    Inventor: Richard Evan McLaughlin
  • Patent number: 7658571
    Abstract: 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 in the channel. The oblique foil member has a leading face extending at an oblique angle to the water stream in the channel, and a trailing, venturi face with a leading portion facing one of the side walls to form a venturi or constricted pass between the side wall and leading portion of the venturi face. The leading face, venturi face, and venturi pass together are adapted to form a standing barreling wave at the venturi pass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: American Wave Machines, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce C. McFarland
  • Patent number: 7625153
    Abstract: The present invention involves an apparatus, namely a reef, used to transform ocean wave energy into preferred surfing waves. The reef is comprised of a hull having a substantially flat top surface with a vertically convex shape that preferably creates about a seventy degree tangential bow angle with the ocean surface. The bottom portion is tri-hull shaped and includes two side hulls and a center hull. The preferred embodiment is connected to a master vessel by control arms. The control arms can control the depth of the reef in water, thus controlling the wave characteristics. The control arms can also provide a ducting means for ballast pumps on the master vessel. In an alternative embodiment, the reef can be self-supporting in water. A single reef or a multiple reef configuration can be placed near shore to help prevent beach erosion by wave action, and or cause beach sand to accumulate. Several reefs can be connected for longer-lasting waves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Inventor: Charles E. Sauerbier
  • Publication number: 20090285633
    Abstract: A device for generating and maintaining a standing wave face capable of being ridden by an individual. The device includes a container having a base wall and a sidewall and containing a fluid, at least one inlet into the container, and means for imparting a combination of rotational vertical and horizontal velocity to a fluid with-in the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventor: Roger A. Benham
  • Patent number: 7568859
    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. Each bed form has an upper portion and a downwardly inclined downstream face extending from the upper portion to a trailing end. The trailing end of at least the first bed form is an extended, horizontal tail portion which extends up to an upwardly inclined leading face of the second bed form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: American Wave Machines, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce C. McFarland
  • Publication number: 20090185863
    Abstract: 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 oblique foil member has a leading face extending at an oblique angle to the water stream in the channel, and a trailing, venturi face with a leading portion facing one of the side walls to form a venturi or constricted pass between the side wall and leading portion of the venturi face. The leading face, venturi face, and venturi pass together are adapted to form a standing barreling wave at the venturi pass. The orientation of the oblique foil member relative to the base of the channel is adjustable in order to vary the barreling wave formation, and may be adjusted during wave formation in order move the barreling wave across the leading face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Applicant: AMERICAN WAVE MACHINES, INC.
    Inventor: Bruce C. McFarland
  • Publication number: 20090169305
    Abstract: The invention relates to a water ride with adjustable nozzles for adjusting the speed and depth of the flow of water emanating from the nozzles and onto the ride surface. The nozzles have a bladder that can be used to adjust the height of the opening and therefore the depth of the water flow. More than one adjustable nozzle can be used to vary the flow effects across the width of the ride surface. Additional adjustment bladders can be provided underneath the inclined portion of the ride surface, wherein by adjusting each bladder independently, the tilt of the ride surface transverse to the direction of flow can be adjusted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld
  • Publication number: 20090151064
    Abstract: Aspects of the invention provide a wave pool including at least one double V-shaped reef. The double V-shaped reef can include an inclined slope traversing the reef from the tip of the V-shape to the open end of the V-shape. In a round wave pool, a wave generating system can be provided within the center of the pool. The wave generating system can discharge water in a vertically upward motion to form a ring-shaped wave. The ring-shaped waves can propagate from proximate the center of the wave pool outward toward the edge thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventors: Richard Mladick, Richard Carnahan
  • Patent number: 7537414
    Abstract: The device is a wave generation system for bodies of water such as pools. At the deep end of the pool there is a set of air tight caissons. These caissons have an open bottom and allow the water of the pool to flow within. Pressurized air from a high pressure blower is introduced into these caissons via a duct. The duct, which passes through the caissons, is perforated on its top to allow the pressurized air from the blower to distribute itself evenly over the surface of the water. The air fills the caisson forcing the water out the open bottom of the caisson and into the pool causing the wave. These waves can be used as in a normal wave pool or used to power a river type ride.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Inventor: George W. Raike
  • Publication number: 20080282458
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a set wave system and method for use with a pool containing water up to a water level. The set wave system can include a chamber positioned lower than the water level. The chamber can include an outlet for ejecting water from the chamber into the pool. The set wave system can include an air injector positioned in the chamber upstream of the outlet. The air injector can introduce air into the chamber causing water to move out of the outlet and into the pool to form a wave.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Brandon Carnahan, Cheyne Carnahan, Richard Carnahan, Richard Mladick
  • Publication number: 20080286048
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a sheet flow wave generator including a ride surface and a plurality of nozzles or jets coupled to the ride surface. The nozzles or jets can be configured to form an artificial wave upon the ride surface. Embodiments of the invention also provide an apparatus and method of forming an artificial wave that moves in a direction against current flow. An apparatus and method of making an artificial wave can include forming an artificial wave that moves in one direction and using current moving in another direction to slow the speed of the artificial wave. Some embodiments of the invention can also be used to make a standing wave that is suitable for recreational use by causing water to flow through nozzles or jets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Brandon Carnahan, Richard Carnahan
  • Publication number: 20080286047
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a river water ride including a wave generator, a ride surface, and nozzles or jets coupled to the ride surface. The nozzles or jets can be configured to form an artificial wave upon the ride surface. Embodiments of the invention also provide an apparatus and method of forming an artificial wave that moves in a direction against current flow. Some embodiments of the invention can also be used to make a standing wave that is suitable for recreational use by causing water to flow through nozzles or jets. Some embodiments of the invention include a concave feature with a depression and a de-watering grate positioned upstream of the nozzles or jets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Brandon Carnahan, Richard Carnahan, Cheyne Carnahan
  • Publication number: 20080267713
    Abstract: A wave viewing apparatus incorporates a tubular member and a viewing window. The tubular member comprises an anterior end, a posterior end, a crest region, a trough region, a channel wall, and a falling wall. The viewing window is disposed at the posterior end of the tubular member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventor: Nathaniel Jacob Acosta
  • Patent number: 7374366
    Abstract: A wave generator comprises a seat; a positioning ring a wave generating unit received in an upper side of the seat; the wave generating unit being formed by a flow-steady base and a flow-collecting mask; the flow-steady base having a central platform; an upper surface of the central platform having a plurality of projecting blocks which are annularly arranged; the spaces between projecting blocks being formed as flow channels; an inner wall of the wave generating unit being formed with a plurality of longitudinal slots for draining water; a positioning unit for positioning the flow-steady base and the flow-collecting mask precisely; a filtering web having a plurality of holes which formed as an umbrella shape; a positioning rod extending from a central lower side of the web; and a front end of the positioning rod being formed an enlarged tapered head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Inventor: Chang-Hua Tasi
  • Publication number: 20080101866
    Abstract: An adjustable physical structure for producing hydraulic formations for whitewater recreationalists includes a control structure, and an adjustable lip located downstream of the control structure. The control structure can include a crest and a ramp. The crest constricts and/or elevates (dams) the flow water to increase it's energy and focus the flow of water. Downstream of the crest, the ramp routes the flow of the water to the adjustable lip. The ramp can have varying and non-linear slopes and plan configurations. Additionally, the ramp can be static or adjustable to elevate the flow of water and vary the velocity and energy of the supercritical flow as it is passed to the adjustable lip. An adjustable invert physical structure comprises a shaped structure configured for placement on the invert of the channel. The adjustable invert physical structure can be moved or adjusted in horizontal and/or vertical directions to shape the flow of water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventor: Richard Evan McLaughlin
  • Publication number: 20080089744
    Abstract: 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 in the channel. The oblique foil member has a leading face extending at an oblique angle to the water stream in the channel, and a trailing, venturi face with a leading portion facing one of the side walls to form a venturi or constricted pass between the side wall and leading portion of the venturi face. The leading face, venturi face, and venturi pass together are adapted to form a standing barreling wave at the venturi pass.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Publication date: April 17, 2008
    Inventor: Bruce C. McFarland
  • Publication number: 20080085159
    Abstract: A wave generating apparatus and method in which a chamber is at least partially submerged beneath a body of water in a pool and is connected to a gas supply for at least partially filling the chamber with gas, displacing water in the vicinity of the chamber. A vent valve is arranged to vent gas rapidly from the chamber so that the water level in the vicinity of the chamber falls, forming a wave trough. A wave reflecting wall is positioned in the pool adjacent the chamber and in the vicinity of the wave trough formation so as to reflect the wave away from the chamber and across the body of water. The chamber may have a flexible wall for displacing water or may be a rigid chamber communicating with the water through a submerged passageway. This apparatus forms a wave trough followed by a wave peak which travels across the pool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Publication date: April 10, 2008
    Inventors: Bruce C. McFarland, Steven M. Harrington
  • Patent number: 7326001
    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 weir bed form in the base at the inlet end of the channel, and at least one additional bed form in the channel downstream of the weir. Each bed form has an upper portion and a downwardly inclined downstream face extending from the upper portion to the trailing end. A spoiler is provided at or near to the trailing end of each bed form. A primary flow path for water extends over the bed forms. The trailing end of each bed form may be an extended, flat tail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: American Wave Machines, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce C McFarland
  • Patent number: 7252047
    Abstract: An adjustable wake-forming apparatus attachable to a boat stern providing means for generating waves of a particular form for water sport activities. The attachment is comprised of a pair of blades fastened to the transom by a plurality of struts. The present invention provides for the use of the wave maker on boats having either an inboard or outboard engine. Each of the provided designs places the blades in a spaced away relationship to the engine propeller. Operatively, the blades have a top edge and curvilinearly diverging bottom edge with anterior and posterior ends linearly skewed causing a plow-like movement through the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Inventor: Donald L Baucom, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7144197
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a variable floor (1) for a body of water, the variable floor (1) including a base portion (2) for location on or within a fixed floor (106) of the body of water and means to adjust the slope of the upper surface of the variable floor (1) relative to the fixed floor (106) or base portion (2) in one or both of a first direction transverse to the direction of travel of waves and in a second direction transverse to the first direction. A wavepool (100) incorporating the variable floor (1) and including variable converging side walls, a kit of parts for the variable floor (1) and a method of controlling wave characteristics is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Surf Pools Limited
    Inventor: Kerry Peter Black
  • Patent number: 7073977
    Abstract: The invention relates to a transport and gliding device for surfboards, comprising a guided stream of water influenc-ing the action of the surfboard, and a plurality of flexible parallel tubes (1) which are inclined at an angle (2) and have a non-abrasive, pressure-insensitive cover. Water flows upstream through said tubes which are preferably arranged or fixed on a solid base with spac-ers. In the region of the board gliding thereover, the cross-section of the tubes is reduced to a maximum value of zero by the gliding and squashing edge (5) of the board. In this way, the upwardly flowing water column (3) in the tube moves the board (4) with the surfer upwards. Strong jets of water (8) are also sprayed upwards on the surface of the tube, hitting the lower side of the board when it tilts and thus also pushing the board with the surfer upwards. The inventive gliding device can either be used in a buoyant manner on a lake, on the land or in areas with pools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Inventor: Walter Unterweger
  • Patent number: 6964069
    Abstract: A wave making method positions a shallow draft vessel off-shore form a shoreline of a sea in a position whereby one side of the vessel is in parallel to the shoreline. A pump is used for pumping seawater into a tank interior to the vessel. When the vessel is filled, the water is lifted to a rim of a side of the tank nearest to the shoreline to thereby dump the water in the tank over a side of the vessel. The dumped water is directed outwardly from the vessel and falls onto a submerged curved platform attached to the vessel and which extends outwardly therefrom. The platform creates a wave that moves away from the one side of the vessel toward the shoreline and is suitable for surfing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Inventors: Anthony Thomas English, Anthony Nathaniel English
  • Patent number: 6932541
    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 weir in the base at the inlet end of the channel, and at least one bed form in the channel downstream of the weir. The bed form has an upwardly inclined upstream face extending downstream of the leading end, an upper portion, and a downwardly inclined downstream face extending from the upper portion to the trailing end. A primary flow path for water extends over the weir and bed form. A secondary flow passageway extends through the bed form, with a first end adjacent the trailing end of the bed form, and a second end in the bed form upstream of the first end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Inventor: Bruce C. McFarland
  • Patent number: 6928670
    Abstract: The invention relates to a wave generating system comprising a wave generator that travels along the surface of a body of water, and preferably in the middle thereof, wherein the wave generator can create both primary and secondary waves that travel toward the shore. The primary waves are intended to allow surfing maneuvers to be performed in a relatively deep water environment. In the preferred embodiment, the body of water has opposing undulating shorelines upon which the secondary waves can break, wherein by modifying the shoreline's slope and curvature, and providing undulating peninsulas and cove areas, various multiple wave formations and effects can be created.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Light Wave Ltd.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Lochtefeld, Charles E. Sauerbier
  • Patent number: 6920651
    Abstract: A circular ring wave pool having an island in the center, the pool water depth becomes deeper the farther away from the island to the outside pool wall. A plurality of wave generators encompass the entire outer wall deep side of the pool. All wave generators point directly to the center of the island. Wave generators are synchronized in their action to produce waves that travel around the circular ring shaped pool in an endless loop therefore creating a traveling surfing wave that never ends. Many waves can be generated simultaneously creating a plurality of endless waves moving around the island. The sloping beach is at an angle to create a hollow tube breaking wave depending on wave speed and size. Hundreds of surfers can be in the pool at the same time all sitting out past the wave breakpoint waiting for an available wave to pass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Inventor: Michael Kevin Roberts
  • Patent number: 6729799
    Abstract: A pneumatic/hydraulic wave generator for a swimming pool includes a plurality of caissons communicating with the deep end of the pool through a submerged passage. A pneumatic system includes a motor-driven impeller fan housed horizontally within a manifold housing and communicating with duct lines to the caissons through pneumatic valve assemblies. Each valve assembly includes a pendulum sleeve having a butterfly valve mounted therein that is actuated by swinging movement of the sleeve between an open and a closed position. Disposed within an upper air chamber portion of each caisson below an associate caisson valve assembly is a dispersion grate for evenly distributing air from the valve assembly across the upper surface of water disposed within the caisson.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: George W. Raike
  • Patent number: 6726403
    Abstract: The present invention provides a wave simulating device comprising a surface which substantially conforms to the shape that a face of a predetermined natural ocean wave has at a predetermined instant, and fluid projecting means for projecting fluid from a position which either lies in the plane of the surface or beneath said plane, wherein the fluid projecting means is arranged to project fluid out of the surface to enable a person to surf over the surface. The present invention also provides a method of simulating a predetermined natural ocean wave comprising the steps of: a) providing a surface which substantially conforms to the shape that a face of a predetermined natural ocean wave has at a predetermined instant; and b) projecting fluid from a position which either lies in the plane of the surface or beneath said plane to project fluid out of the surface to enable a person to surf over the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Inventor: Stephen Con Kriticos
  • Patent number: 6709199
    Abstract: A fluid containment basin having ridges located in the bottom of the basin and furrows adjacent to the ridges to facilitate maintenance of the basin using the naturally occurring forces of gravity, wave action and fluid currents. The ridges can be formed from material taken from the furrows into shapes that facilitate wave action against the sides of the ridges. While the fluid level is above the ridges, sediment settles on the ridges and furrows, reducing the permeability of the ridges and furrows and, therefore, the drainage from the basin. Wave action against the sides of the ridges as the fluid level is lowered washes the sediments off the ridges into the furrows, thereby restoring the permeability of the ridges. The wave action can be wind generated or induced by a wave mechanism. The furrows can be allowed to become impermeable or be lined to prevent contaminates from migrating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Dennis E. Peyton
  • Publication number: 20030198515
    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 weir in the base at the inlet end of the channel, and at least one bed form in the channel downstream of the weir. The bed form has an upwardly inclined upstream face extending downstream of the leading end, an upper portion, and a downwardly inclined downstream face extending from the upper portion to the trailing end. A primary flow path for water extends over the weir and bed form. A secondary flow passageway extends through the bed form, with a first end adjacent the trailing end of the bed form, and a second end in the bed form upstream of the first end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2003
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Inventor: Bruce C. McFarland
  • Patent number: RE39171
    Abstract: A water sculpture is provided having a an upwardly inclined flow surface. A flowing body of water is caused to flow upon the flow surface simulating various desired wave shapes. A variety of aesthetic wave shapes can be created, such as an unbroken wave face, a white water bore, a spilling breaking wave, or a tunnel wave. In one embodiment a walk-through water sculpture is provided such as for an entranceway of a building or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Light Wave, LTD
    Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld