Water Slide Patents (Class 472/117)
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Patent number: 7300354Abstract: An inflatable structure includes a first inflatable section having an interior open to an airflow from a blower, and a second inflatable section attached to the first inflatable section and having an interior that is substantially closed from the airflow such that if the airflow is stopped the second inflatable section will not deflate as fast as the first inflatable section and will support the first inflatable section.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2003Date of Patent: November 27, 2007Assignee: Cutting Edge Creations, Inc.Inventors: Robert Field, Brian Field
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Patent number: 7285053Abstract: A water transportation system and method are described, generally related to water amusement attractions and rides. Further, the disclosure generally relates to water-powered rides and to a system and method in which participants may be actively involved in a water attraction. This transportation system comprises at least two water stations and at least one water channel connecting the at least two water stations for the purpose of conveying participants between the at least two water stations. In addition, the water transportation system may include conveyor belt systems and water locks configured to convey participants from a first source of water to a second source of water which may or may not be at a different elevation.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2001Date of Patent: October 23, 2007Assignee: NBGS International, Inc.Inventors: Jeffery W. Henry, John Schooley
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Publication number: 20070204759Abstract: A reaction component or plate for a linear induction motor incorporates a flexibility increasing feature and a wear resistant feature.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2007Publication date: September 6, 2007Applicant: HM ATTRACTIONS, INC.Inventor: Richard D. Hunter
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Publication number: 20070207869Abstract: A waterslide amusement ride having in a portion thereof, a linear induction motor to efficiently and effectively affect the motion of a vehicle sliding on the ride. The linear induction motor comprises linear induction motor units embedded below a sliding surface, and a reaction plate mounted to the bottom of the vehicle. Depending on the configuration of the linear induction motor units and the reaction plate, the linear induction motor drive can be used to accelerate the vehicle, decelerate the vehicle, maintain the speed of the vehicle up an uphill section, or rotate the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2007Publication date: September 6, 2007Applicant: HM Attractions, Inc.Inventor: Richard D. Hunter
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Patent number: 7229359Abstract: A water transportation system and method are described, generally related to water amusement attractions and rides. Further, the disclosure generally relates to water-powered rides and to a system and method in which participants may be actively involved in a water attraction. This transportation system comprises at least two water stations and at least one water channel connecting the at least two water stations for the purpose of conveying participants between the at least two water stations. In addition, the water transportation system may include conveyor belt systems and water locks configured to convey participants from a first source of water to a second source of water which may or may not be at a different elevation.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2003Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Henry, Schooley & Associates, L.L.C.Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Schooley
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Patent number: 7210976Abstract: An inflatable play structure includes an inflatable platform and an inflatable slide attached to the platform. The platform provides stability to the slide when the structure is used in water so that it does not easily turn over. Further, the slide is preferably positioned on the platform so that the platform provides a resting and staging area for the slide. When used on land, the slide may be positioned so the platform provides a cushioned area for a user to land when coming down the slide.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2001Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Assignee: Aviva Sports, L.L.C.Inventor: Donald W. Gordon
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Patent number: 7066821Abstract: A waterslide amusement course proceeds from a higher elevation to a lower elevation, with a water pooling area to produce fluid drag that slows or stops the riders, especially at the end of the course. The course is divided into lanes at the pooling area, for example by curbs protruding above the water level. Arriving riders displace water from their lanes and the lanes are coupled to permit level-equalizing flow. The pooling area can have a weir, lip, upwardly sloping bottom or similar obstruction forming pools in the lanes. Water can pass through gaps in the curbs, around ends of the curb and preferably flows through a connecting conduit that couples between the lanes at an end wall of a box-like enclosure subdivided by lanes in the pooling area.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2004Date of Patent: June 27, 2006Inventor: Frederick Langford
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Patent number: 7056220Abstract: A flume ride is provided having a funnel-shaped slide feature having a relatively larger entry end and a relatively smaller exit end, the funnel-shaped slide feature being configured and arranged such that a rider enters at the wider end with a predetermined expected velocity and swings back and forth and/or spins around the inner surface of the funnel before safely draining through the smaller end.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2005Date of Patent: June 6, 2006Assignee: ProSlide Technology Inc.Inventor: Richard D. Hunter
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Patent number: 7048092Abstract: The present Patent of invention “HELICAL RAMP LIFE-PRESERVER” refers to a model of helical ramp, aimed for collective use, for immediate rescue of lives subjected to a probable fire, to be used in buildings of any height, or in places that cannot be reached by the devices currently in use, such as “Magirus” stairs, or even in those where these devices can reach, but a probable delay to help would put in risk people's life in an eventual emergency state.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2001Date of Patent: May 23, 2006Inventor: Jason De Carvalho Gomes Junior
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Patent number: 7040994Abstract: A redundant array pumping system and control system is provided for water rides for ensuring continuous and non-disruptive supply of water. The pumping system incorporates a redundant pump and filter array in conjunction with a nozzle system for injecting water onto a ride surface. The nozzle system may incorporate a plurality of redundant or quasi-redundant nozzles. The hydraulic system can include many levels of redundancy as applied to its various components, such as pumps, filters and nozzles. Additionally, the system can be equipped with a plurality of pressure and flow sensors for monitoring and controlling the performance of the pumps, filters and nozzles of the hydraulic system.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2005Date of Patent: May 9, 2006Assignee: Light Wave, Ltd.Inventors: Thomas J. Lochtefeld, Jeffery W. Henry
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Patent number: 7008329Abstract: The invention provides an improved water flume ride having one or more slide effects for presenting multiple random flume paths to riders. In one embodiment, a water flume comprises a primary flume portion, an uphill embankment culminating in a crest, and two or more adjoining secondary flume portions. The secondary flume portions provide mutually exclusive ride paths which are selected according to the particular kinetic energy and/or momentum possessed by a rider ascending toward the crest of the uphill embankment.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2004Date of Patent: March 7, 2006Assignee: Proslide Technology, Inc.Inventor: Richard D. Hunter
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Patent number: 7001282Abstract: A baseball water slide apparatus includes a panel that has a top side and a peripheral edge. The panel is flexible and has a substantially square shape. A loop member is attached to the top side. The loop member is hollow and defines a tube. The loop member is positioned adjacent to and extends along the peripheral edge of the panel. The loop member has a plurality of apertures extending through that are each directed generally inward of the panel. An inlet hose is fluidly coupled to the loop member. A water supply may be removably coupled to the inlet hose such that water may be supplied to the loop member. A plurality of bases is attached to the top side of the panel. Each of the bases is positioned adjacent to one of four corners of the panel.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2004Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Inventor: Linda H. Jennings
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Patent number: 6988952Abstract: A swimming pool slide capable of assembly in a plurality of configurations is disclosed. The slide body comprises a seat segment, a runway segment and an exit segment, the runway segment being attachable to the other two segments in more than one orientation, thereby varying the configuration of the slide.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2004Date of Patent: January 24, 2006Inventor: Michael J. Hagerty
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Patent number: 6957662Abstract: A redundant array pumping system and control system is provided for water rides for ensuring continuous and non-disruptive supply of water. The pumping system incorporates a redundant pump and filter array in conjunction with a nozzle system for injecting water onto a ride surface. The nozzle system may incorporate a plurality of redundant or quasi-redundant nozzles. The hydraulic system can include many levels of redundancy as applied to its various components, such as pumps, filters and nozzles. Additionally, the system can be equipped with a plurality of pressure and flow sensors for monitoring and controlling the performance of the pumps, filters and nozzles of the hydraulic system.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2004Date of Patent: October 25, 2005Assignee: Light Wave Ltd.Inventors: Thomas J. Lochtefeld, Jeffrey W. Henry
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Patent number: 6945873Abstract: A rider slides down an inlet slide to a low entrance opening of a separate exit slide. The exit slide has an inclined portion along which the rider decelerates from the entrance as he or she moves upward, followed by downward travel along a predetermined path of the separate exit slide from a high elevation, past the entrance, to a low elevation.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2004Date of Patent: September 20, 2005Assignee: Whitewater West Industries, Ltd.Inventor: Marvin Hlynka
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Patent number: 6932541Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 24, 2003Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Inventor: Bruce C. McFarland
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Patent number: 6857964Abstract: A flume ride is provided having a funnel-shaped slide feature having a relatively larger entry end and a relatively smaller exit end, the funnel-shaped slide feature being configured and arranged such that a rider enters at the wider end with a predetermined expected velocity and swings back and forth and/or spins around the inner surface of the funnel before safely draining through the smaller end.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2003Date of Patent: February 22, 2005Assignee: Proslide Technology, Inc.Inventor: Richard D. Hunter
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Patent number: 6855064Abstract: An arrangement for a playground for children is embodied as a internally hollow object, preferably of synthetic material, which can have the shape of a mountain top with a circumferential edge (2) at the bottom, which rests on the ground. The object (1) is embodied with windows (3) and with one or more doorways (4), and the internal hollow space constitutes a playhouse. The upper surface of the object (1) is embodied with one or more chutes (6) and with a flight of steps (7). The object (1) is held solidly to the ground surface by a vertical mast (11), e.g. of steel, which is carried through a hole (12) in the top of the object (1) and secured in the ground in a foundation block (13), and at its upper end has a free height (h) above the top of the object (1). The mast (11) can be supplemented with other play ground equipment, such as a frame for a swing (18) and a rope (19) for a ropeway. The arrangement is simple of construction and consequently cheap to produce.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2003Date of Patent: February 15, 2005Assignee: Dansk Yacht-Fiber A/SInventor: Frank Sundahl
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Patent number: 6786830Abstract: An improved water play structure, which integrates a single water supply network of conduit with a central support infrastructure, is provided. In one embodiment, a plurality of central pedestals are interconnected to water supply legs in a staircase manner in order to deliver a single water supply to a plurality of interactive water play elements. The size of the water play structure can be increased to accommodate additional play participants by adding decks to the structure. Interactive play modules consisting of water play elements and interactive play apparatuses can be easily interchanged, which facilitates servicing, simplifies design and manufacturing, and adds variety to a play participant's recreational experience. In addition, multiple water play structures can be interconnected to each other without the need for establishing separate water supply line connections.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2002Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Assignee: Koala CorporationInventors: Rick A. Briggs, Carin R. Brown, Richard T. Moran
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Patent number: 6758231Abstract: A redundant array pumping system and control system is provided for water rides for ensuring continuous and non-disruptive supply of water. The pumping system incorporates a redundant pump and filter array in conjunction with a nozzle system for injecting water onto a ride surface. The nozzle system may incorporate a plurality of redundant or quasi-redundant nozzles. The hydraulic system can include many levels of redundancy as applied to its various components, such as pumps, filters and nozzles. Additionally, the system can be equipped with a plurality of pressure and flow sensors for monitoring and controlling the performance of the pumps, filters and nozzles of the hydraulic system.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 1999Date of Patent: July 6, 2004Assignee: Light Wave Ltd.Inventors: Thomas J. Lochtefeld, Jeffery W. Henry
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Patent number: 6743108Abstract: The invention provides an improved water flume ride having one or more slide effects for presenting multiple random flume paths to riders. In one embodiment, a water flume comprises a primary flume portion, an uphill embankment culminating in a crest, and two or more adjoining secondary flume portions. The secondary flume portions provide mutually exclusive ride paths which are selected according to the particular kinetic energy and/or momentum possessed by a rider ascending toward the crest of the uphill embankment.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2001Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Proslide Technology Inc.Inventor: Richard D. Hunter
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Patent number: 6743107Abstract: Slide apparatus includes a first slide, which may have a somewhat parabolic configuration having a trough and/or a switchback. The switchback is oriented and configured for changing the direction of travel of a user. Multiple troughs and switchback elements may be provided so as to maximize the length of time during which a user slides, yet without increasing water usage, energy requirements, and space requirements. A switchback element may be configured for reversing the direction of travel of the user from more than 0° to 180° or more. The switchback element may be configured for directing passengers in different directions along different paths, and yet, without a dividing wall therebetween, thanks to the configuration of the switchback elements. One or more partially or completely spiral slides may precede or follow the first slide.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Water Fun Products, Corp.Inventor: David J. Dubeta
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Patent number: 6739979Abstract: An interactive fountain is suitable for installation in a spray or water park partially submerged in a swimming or wading pool. The fountain includes a body having an upper surface sized to support at least one user in a position standing or sitting thereon. The support structure may be formed in situ, or preformed off-site from precast materials. Two or more water nozzles are positioned within the support structure. The water nozzles are connected to a source of water under pressure, as well as to each other by means of a water conduit, whereby in use, water flows from the water source along the conduit and outwardly from each nozzle as a discharged jet, spray or other such stream of water. The water nozzles are configured to permit a user to partially or fully block or obstruct the nozzles, as for example, by the user putting his hand or foot over the nozzle such that when a nozzle is blocked, water is redirected to other non-obstructed water nozzles.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2002Date of Patent: May 25, 2004Inventor: Wyeth G. Tracy
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Patent number: 6729963Abstract: A rider slides down an inlet slide to a low entrance opening of a separate exit slide. The exit slide has an inclined portion along which the rider decelerates from the entrance as he or she moves upward, followed by downward travel along a predetermined path of the separate exit slide from a high elevation, past the entrance, to a low elevation.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2002Date of Patent: May 4, 2004Assignee: Whitewater West Industries Inc.Inventor: Marvin Hlynka
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Patent number: 6716107Abstract: A water ride attraction is disclosed which utilizes a containerless riding surface to eliminate disadvantageous boundary layer effects. A sheet flow of water is directed up the incline to produce a simulated wave. The configuration and contour of the riding surface and the various flow parameters can be widely varied to produce numerous desirable wave conditions.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2001Date of Patent: April 6, 2004Assignee: Light Wave, Ltd.Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld
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Patent number: 6702687Abstract: A programmable logic controller for a water system is described. The controller is configured to operate the water system to produce water effects when the controller receives a participant signal. The controller is further configured to produce water effects in the absence of a participant signal to attract participants to the water system.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: NBGS International, Inc.Inventor: Jeffery W. Henry
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Patent number: 6692257Abstract: A water sliding baseball game is a water-based baseball or softball game. The game may be played according to the general rules of baseball or softball, but includes enhancements to incorporate the use of water, thus allowing sliding and increased fun, while also reducing the risk of injury and pain associated with repeated sliding into bases on grass or dirt surfaces. The game is played on a vinyl tarp having a substantially square playing area and substantially conforming to the terrain or surface over which it is placed. The bases are made of a non-absorbent material. Tubing, with multiple water ports, is routed along the baselines and hooked up to a garden hose. When the water is turned on, it provides a gentle spray all over the infield and outfield areas, thereby providing the proper conditions for instructing on base sliding skills, with the spraying water facilitating base sliding.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2003Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventors: Celeste Branum, Troy Buckley, Angela Achord
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Patent number: 6676530Abstract: A ride surface for water ride attractions and the like is provided. The ride surface is fabricated from a reinforced membrane material tensioned over a supporting framework. The tensioned membrane ride surface serves the dual role of providing structural support for water flow and riders thereon while at the same time providing an impact safe surface that is non-injurious to riders who may fall thereon. The tensioned membrane can be adjusted actively and/or passively in order to accommodate different and varied ride experiences. Optionally, the shape of the membrane ride surface can be changed either dynamically or passively by special tensioning techniques and/or by using auxiliary support structures such as air bladders, pressure/suction, foam supports or/or the like.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2002Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Assignee: Light Wave, Ltd.Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld
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Patent number: 6648767Abstract: An inflatable water slide has an inflatable main section of an inflatable ramp section, formed as an inflatable channel for receiving users and inflatable retaining sidewall members formed on the left and right side of the inflatable channel, and an inflatable ladder section, having rope ladder rungs. Also, one pair of inflatable stabilizing chamber members attached to each opposite left and right side of the inflatable main section. The pair of stabilizing chamber members are a separately inflatable and deflatable. The inflatable stabilizing chambers stabilize the inflatable main section, and an attachment for a water hose, the attachment holding a water hose to allow a flow of water from the water hose to begin at an apex of the inflatable main section and end at a bottom end of the ramp section.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2003Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Assignee: Sports Power, Ltd.Inventor: Samuel Chen
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Publication number: 20030203760Abstract: A control system for a water amusement system is described. The control system is configured to operate the water amusement system to produce water effects, sound effects, and/or light effects when the control system receives an activation signal. The activation signal may be sent to the control system by an activation point, such as an optical touch button, or a water target. The control system is further configured to produce water effects, sound effects, and/or light effects in the absence of an activation signal to attract participants to the water amusement system.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2002Publication date: October 30, 2003Inventors: Jeffery W. Henry, David Mosley
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Publication number: 20030196580Abstract: A floating playground includes floating modules which provide buoyancy to a variety of recreational implements. Rigid flotation vessels filled with foam provide buoyancy to the modules. The modules have a frame and plurality of posts which can support a variety of recreational implements. The modules float individually or can be connected together to from a floating playground with a variety of recreational implements. The modules are also mobile so they can be moved from location to location and interchanged with other modules to form a dynamic playground.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2003Publication date: October 23, 2003Applicant: Nauticblue Corp.Inventors: Dennis L. Broderick, LaVon F. Broderick
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Patent number: 6634953Abstract: A downhill sliding course of sliding track for sliding objects and persons down a slope or a hill includes covering or cladding elements for covering the surface of the slope and a water source to moisten the elements with water. The sliding elements include pools located one below the other, wherein the pools are forming water filled micro-terraces (10). The micro-terraces (10) are formed by a sheet covering the slope in a water-tight manner and flexible ribs (2) are emerging from the sheet, furthermore each pool is bordered by the covering sheet (5) and the rib (2) and is closed by a flexible transverse sectioning rib joined to the covering sheet (5) and the flexible rib (2). With suitable accessories activities similar to skiing, sleighing and surfing can be performed on the sliding course. Accordingly, the invention includes also accessories that can be used to perform these activities. The invention provides individual appliances to implement the sliding course.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2002Date of Patent: October 21, 2003Inventor: Csongor Czintos
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Patent number: 6634949Abstract: A multi-media interactive play system has a number of play elements situated in a variety of play environments or play media. The play elements are linked to a common record of participant performance, progress, character attributes, etc. The participant's performance in the play elements determines the play elements to which the participant may proceed as well as the play parameters of the play element in which the participant is currently involved. The play elements are thus interlinked to define a sequence or path network along which the participant advances. By advancing through the play elements the participant carries out a plot, story, theme, etc. that attaches a significance to the successful completion of a given play element or elements. Also disclosed in a variety of play elements suitable for use in the system, an example of a plot or theme that may be carried out by the system, and a send/receive radio frequency network that may be used to track play participants in a play center.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2000Date of Patent: October 21, 2003Assignee: Creative Kingdoms, LLCInventors: Rick A. Briggs, Denise Westin
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Patent number: 6629803Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 19, 2002Date of Patent: October 7, 2003Inventor: Bruce C. McFarland
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Publication number: 20030139218Abstract: A rider slides down an inlet slide to a low entrance opening of a separate exit slide. The exit slide has an inclined portion along which the rider decelerates from the entrance as he or she moves upward, followed by downward travel along a predetermined path of the separate exit slide from a high elevation, past the entrance, to a low elevation.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 18, 2002Publication date: July 24, 2003Applicant: Whitewater West Industries, Ltd.Inventor: Marvin Hlynka
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Publication number: 20030119592Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2002Publication date: June 26, 2003Inventors: Thomas J. Lochtefeld, Charles E. Sauerbier
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Patent number: 6582315Abstract: A plastic slide is provided with a pump at the bottom of the slide and placed into a pool, typically a wading pool. A strainer assembly filters out grass and other foreign matter from the water, and transfers the water through a small electrical, air, or battery powered pump to the top of the slide, where the water is released. The water then falls down the slide and back into the pool where it repeats the cycle as long as the pump is energized.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2001Date of Patent: June 24, 2003Inventor: Joseph J. Formanski
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Patent number: 6575840Abstract: A backyard swimming pool slide includes a 90 degree runway curve, a banked runway rail to offset centrifugal force, and a high volume water diffuser source to enhance the ride. Also disclosed is an integrated ladder, platform and handrail assembly and a center stanchion for cantelever support at the exit end of the slide.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2002Date of Patent: June 10, 2003Inventor: Michael J. Hagerty
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Patent number: 6569023Abstract: A multi-level play structure is provided for entertaining play participants. The play structure comprises multiple play levels at various elevations, including an upper play level, a lower play level, and one or more intermediate play levels. Multiple gravity induced rides and climbing structures connect two or more of the play levels. At least one of the intermediate play levels is connected to two or more other play levels by at least one gravity induced ride and at least one climbing structure, thereby allowing play participants to choose between two or more different paths to other play levels upon reaching the intermediate play level.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2000Date of Patent: May 27, 2003Assignee: Koala CorporationInventor: Rick A. Briggs
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Patent number: 6558264Abstract: A water play structure which includes an inflatable wedge which is used with a water slide. The inflatable wedge is positioned at one end of the water slide and connected to a garden hose to run lubricating water down the wedge and along the water slide. Children and adults run and dive onto the inflatable wedge which cushions their transition from a vertical running position to a horizontal sliding position down the wedge and along the water slide. An inflatable sled with gripping handles can be used to slide on for added cushioning.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2001Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Assignee: Aviva, L.L.C.Inventor: Donald W. Gordon
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Patent number: 6554715Abstract: A fiberglass step for a water slide comprising a horizontally disposed tread and a vertically disposed riser. The tread of the step comprises vertically spaced-apart members which define a space therebetween having a polypropylene honeycomb material positioned therebetween. The steps are positioned between step supports and are secured thereto.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2002Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Inventor: Dan H. Gernstein
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Publication number: 20030069078Abstract: A time configurable water amusement ride of a type including a water course having a floor and upstanding walls for sustaining and directing a flow of water along a water path, a first set of water features along said water path and a second set of water features along said water path. The water course is divided into several thematic zones of activity such as depth charge zone, pipe forest zone, tipping bucket zone, etc. The ride includes a first set of features and a second set of features arrayed along the ride. A timer coupled to the second set of features includes an activation period having a start time and an end time wherein the second set of features are only active during said activation period. Accordingly, the ride can be configured to have repeatable periods throughout the day where only more sedentary features are active, and other periods where more extreme features are active to cater to different participants throughout the day.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 8, 2002Publication date: April 10, 2003Applicant: Wizard Works, Inc.Inventors: Mark Aragona, Chris Mesanko
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Patent number: 6527645Abstract: A portable, extendable and collapsible tunnel cover that is removably secured to a conventional slide, such as may be found in one's backyard. The tunnel cover includes front and rear members, and plural U-shaped rods for mounting therebetween, and a flexible cover, such as made from vinyl, extending between the front and rear members and in contact with the respective U-shaped rods. For stability in the operable and extended position, plural, rigid stabilizing arms are provided to extend between adjacent U-shaped rods, and the rods adjacent the front and rear members. When it is desired to store the tunnel cover in winter, for example, the cover may be collapsed bringing the front and rear members in close proximity to one another.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2001Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Inventor: Denise B. Cline
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Patent number: 6527646Abstract: A competition water slide play apparatus is provided having a pair of water slide riding surfaces that are essentially mirror images of each other. These riding surfaces pass through a competition zone wherein the riding surfaces are substantially parallel to each other and first and second competition platforms are positioned adjacent the riding surfaces. Control stations are disposed on each of the competition platforms. Each control station corresponds to an aiding or a hindering play effect whereby a non-riding play participant can aid or hinder the travel of riding participants through the competition zone. The control stations on a first competition platform control aiding play effects in a first riding surface and hindering effects in a second riding surface. Similarly, the control stations on a second competition platform control aiding effects in the second ride surface and hindering effects in the first ride surface.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2000Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Inventor: Rick A. Briggs
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Publication number: 20030029369Abstract: A floating playground includes floating modules which provide buoyancy to a variety of recreational implements. Rigid flotation vessels filled with foam provide buoyancy to the modules. The modules have a frame and plurality of posts which can support a variety of recreational implements. The modules float individually or can be connected together to from a floating playground with a variety of recreational implements. The modules are also mobile so they can be moved from location to location and interchanged with other modules to form a dynamic playground.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2002Publication date: February 13, 2003Applicant: Nauticblue Corp.Inventors: Dennis L. Broderick, LaVon F. Broderick
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Publication number: 20030027645Abstract: A water play structure which includes an inflatable wedge which is used with a water slide. The inflatable wedge is positioned at one end of the water slide and connected to a garden hose to run lubricating water down the wedge and along the water slide. Children and adults run and dive onto the inflatable wedge which cushions their transition from a vertical running position to a horizontal sliding position down the wedge and along the water slide. An inflatable sled with gripping handles can be used to slide on for added cushioning.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2001Publication date: February 6, 2003Inventor: Donald W. Gordon
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Publication number: 20030004003Abstract: A ride surface for water ride attractions and the like is provided. The ride surface is fabricated from a reinforced membrane material tensioned over a supporting framework. The tensioned membrane ride surface serves the dual role of providing structural support for water flow and riders thereon while at the same time providing an impact safe surface that is non-injurious to riders who may fall thereon. The tensioned membrane can be adjusted actively and/or passively in order to accommodate different and varied ride experiences. Optionally, the shape of the membrane ride surface can be changed either dynamically or passively by special tensioning techniques and/or by using auxiliary support structures such as air bladders, pressure/suction, foam supports or/or the like.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld
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Publication number: 20020193169Abstract: Slide apparatus includes a first slide, which may have a somewhat parabolic configuration having a trough and/or a switchback. The switchback is oriented and configured for changing the direction of travel of a user. Multiple troughs and switchback elements may be provided so as to maximize the length of time during which a user slides, yet without increasing water usage, energy requirements, and space requirements. A switchback element may be configured for reversing the direction of travel of the user from more than 0° to 180° or more. The switchback element may be configured for directing passengers in different directions along different paths, and yet, without a dividing wall therebetween, thanks to the configuration of the switchback elements. One or more partially or completely spiral slides may precede or follow the first slide.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 12, 2002Publication date: December 19, 2002Inventor: David J. Dubeta
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Patent number: 6491589Abstract: A mobile and compact simulated-wave water ride attraction is provided having one or more sluice slide-over covers for ensuring the safety of riders in the absence of an extended transition surface or using a shortened transition surface. Advantageously, the ride attraction comprises a plurality of transportable modules and other associated components that can be shipped between sites using trucks, trains or other transportation means. The slide-over sluice cover advantageously enables riders to safely slide over the sluice gate and/or injection nozzle without risk of injury or interference with ride operation. The sluice cover comprises a contoured flexible pad which covers and extends over the top surface of the sluice gate. A flexible tongue is provided which is urged downward squeezing against the flow and sealing the nozzle area off from possible injurious contact from a rider. The shape of the tongue also provides a short transition surface over the top of which a rider can slide without injury.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2000Date of Patent: December 10, 2002Assignee: Light Wave, Ltd.Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld
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Patent number: 6485372Abstract: A waterslide bowl element has a bottom wall configured to form a throat around a rider exit opening in the bottom of the bowl. The bowl holds an annular ring of water around the throat that slows down and conducts the rider to the exit opening and a flume in which the waterslide ride continues. The waterslide bowl may be used by riders on inner tubes.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2001Date of Patent: November 26, 2002Assignee: Whitewater West Industries Ltd.Inventors: Alexander Stuart, David J. Cuttell