Aquatic Patents (Class 472/128)
  • Patent number: 11960254
    Abstract: In various example embodiments, techniques are provided for efficient and reliable anomaly detection and evaluation in a water distribution system (e.g., a smart water distribution system) using both flow and pressure time series data from sensors of the system. The techniques may implement a multi-step workflow that involves decomposing the time series data to remove seasonality and rendering the time series data stationary, detecting outliers of the stationary time series data, classifying sensor events in response to flow or pressure of detected outliers exceeding high or low thresholds for at least a given number of time steps, classifying anomaly events by correlating one or more sensor events related to flow with one or more sensor events related to pressure or by clustering a plurality of sensor events in temporal proximity, and determining a quantitative score for each of the detected anomaly events that indicates a level of significance or importance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Assignee: Bentley Systems, Incorporated
    Inventors: Zheng Yi Wu, Yekun He
  • Patent number: 11389719
    Abstract: A waterslide attraction is provided that incorporates at least one waterslide element and at least one storyline element. Riders typically ride in a ride vehicle that may incorporate controls that may provide responses to stimuli presented during the ride. A user's responses to the stimuli are used to alter the storyline presented and may also alter ride characteristics. At the conclusion of the ride, a user is presented with a score.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Inventor: Rick Briggs
  • Patent number: 11352735
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a flushing device and method for an evaporator of dryer, and a dryer. The flushing device comprises an evaporator, a water storage box and a condensate water pan for collecting condensate water, wherein an eccentric bucket is arranged between the water storage box and the evaporator, a supporting structure is arranged at two symmetrical sides of a periphery of the eccentric bucket, the supporting structure enables the eccentric bucket to turn over along with a change in the center of gravity of the eccentric bucket, a pipeline for conveying condensate water to the eccentric bucket is arranged between the eccentric bucket and the condensate water pan, an opening of the eccentric bucket is arranged upwards, and after the eccentric bucket is turned over, the opening of the eccentric bucket is aligned with the evaporator, such that condensate water in the eccentric bucket flushes the evaporator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignees: CHONGQING HAIER WASHING MACHINE CO., LTD., HAIER SMART HOME CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Longping Yao, Zhaobin Du, Xinfeng Zhao, Jihai Wang
  • Patent number: 11197586
    Abstract: A spa (100) with built-in seating is disclosed. The spa (100) includes a pool body (10) partially enclosing a water cavity (11), and a seating assembly (20). The seating assembly (20) includes an inflatable bench (23) attached to a floor of the pool body (10), and an inflatable backrest (25) attached to the inflatable bench (23) by at least one attachment assembly (31) having an adjustable length such that a user can adjust a position of the inflatable backrest (25) relative to the inflatable bench (23).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2021
    Assignee: BESTWAY INFLATABLES & MATERIAL CORP.
    Inventors: Shuiyong Huang, Jing Wan
  • Patent number: 11130038
    Abstract: An entertainment system has an interactive component for an amusement park. The interactive component includes a detection device disposed within a housing and configured to read an identification tag via long range and short range radio communications, an interactive sensor disposed within the housing and configured to detect physical interaction with a portion of the interactive component, a control device communicatively coupled to the detection device and the interactive sensor, where the control device is configured to receive feedback from the detection device and the interactive sensor, an effect device configured to receive a signal from the control device and to generate an effect based on detection of the physical interaction, and a transmitter configured to transmit data to the identification tag based on detection of the physical interaction with the portion of the interactive component while detecting the identification tag within a threshold distance of the interactive component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2021
    Assignee: Universal City Studios LLC
    Inventors: Wei Cheng Yeh, Travis Jon Cossairt
  • Patent number: 11023048
    Abstract: A system and method for processing at least one of an audio or video input for non-scripted light modulation of at least one light-emitting peripheral device (LEPD), said method comprising the steps of: recognizing at least one of the audio or video input from at least one first device (D1) and determining for at least one tagged event, at least one of a pixel color score, a pixel velocity score, an event proximity score, or an audio score, and commanding a trigger or control over a light-emitting effect of the at least one LEPD upon a threshold-grade score.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Assignee: WHIRLWIND VR, INC.
    Inventors: Timothy Chia-Chieh Sun, Matthew Ryan Gilg
  • Patent number: 10888759
    Abstract: An inflatable device designed as a martial arts training and/or educational device. The inflatable device includes an inflatable structure and at least one interactive device connected to the inflatable structure. The inflatable structure includes a floor that is at least partially inflatable, a plurality of inflatable columns extending upwardly from the floor and a plurality of inflatable beams connected to a top or top portion of the columns. The at least one interactive device includes a target, an inflatable target, punching or kicking target, inflatable punching or kicking target, an object in the form of a person or ninja, an inflatable in the form of person or ninja, an object in the form of a person or ninja with a target, and/or an inflatable in the form of a person or ninja with a target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Assignee: Scherba Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Scherba
  • Patent number: 10768704
    Abstract: A system for processing at least one of an audio or video input for non-scripted modulation of at least one peripheral device, comprising: the at least one peripheral device in physical contact with at least one user or free from the at least one user and in communication with at least a first device playing at least one of an original programming feed or live feed unscripted with modulation triggers; a processor; a memory element coupled to the processor; a program executable by the processor to: recognize at least one of the audio or video input from the at least one of the original programming feed or live feed, and determine for at least one tagged event, at least one of a pixel color score, a pixel velocity score, an event proximity score or an audio score; and convert the at least one scored event into at least one of an output command that triggers or controls a modulation effect of the at least one peripheral device in physical contact or free from the user in communication with the at least the first
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Inventors: Timothy Chia-Chieh Sun, Matthew Ryan Gilg
  • Patent number: 10518121
    Abstract: Disclosed is a reversibly installable modular fitness area including a plurality of platform-like islands adapted to support a plurality of systems and equipment in order to allow the user to carry out fitness exercises, the modular fitness area including at least one first central island; at least one second island; at least one third island; at least one fourth island; at least one fifth island; at least one sixth island; at least one seventh island; at least one eighth island; at least one ninth island; the modular fitness area also including an energy supply system adapted to supply power to the electronic components included therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: METALCO ACTIVE S.R.L.
    Inventor: Gian Luca Innocenzi
  • Patent number: 10466790
    Abstract: The present embodiments disclose apparatus, systems and methods for allowing users to receive targeted delivery of haptic effects—air flow of variable intensity and temperature—from a single tower or surround tower configuration. The haptic tower may have an enclosed, modular assembly that manipulates air flow, fluid flow, scent, or any other haptic or sensation, for an immersed user. Moreover, the system has an application of sensor technology to capture data regarding a user's body positioning and orientation in the real environment. This data and, or data from a program coupled to the system, and, or audio-video data corresponding to a user in a virtual environment, is relayed to a haptic engine; recognized; scored along a plurality of parameters; and converted into a haptic output command for haptic output expression corresponding to the user in the virtual environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2019
    Assignee: Whirlwind VR, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy Chia-Chieh Sun, Matthew Ryan Gilg
  • Patent number: 10456696
    Abstract: A system may include a housing that may hold a body of water, an inflatable assembly disposed within the body of water, and a processor. The processor may receive an indication related to a speed of a flow of the body of water and send a signal to at least one valve coupled between the inflatable assembly and a fluid source in response to the indication. The signal may cause the at least one valve to fluidly couple the inflatable assembly to the fluid source to cause the inflatable assembly to expand to an inflated configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Assignee: Universal City Studios LLC
    Inventors: Robert Cortelyou, Ross Osterman, Justin Schwartz, Amanda Zielkowski, Caitlin A. Correll, Darrin Hughes, Anisha Vyas
  • Patent number: 10391354
    Abstract: The present invention is a high performance jump rope handle which comprises a bearing assembly and attachment device for either adjustable or static attachment of a rope for use in the activity of jumping rope for exercise or entertainment. The high performance handle may also comprise a magnetic means for attaching the handle to a ferrous material when not being used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: READY MADE GEAR LLC
    Inventors: Logan Barton, Dennis Welle
  • Patent number: 10087649
    Abstract: A pool side shading device that includes: an inflatable object, where inflatable object is placed near a swimming pool; a platform, where the platform is an integral part of the inflatable object; a flow of water over the platform, where the flow of water descends into the pool; and a water source, where the water source provides water for the flow of water. The inflatable object may preferably configured as a rock formation. The water source may be a water hose or water from the swimming pool through a pump. Further, the flow of water may be adapted to recirculate over the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Inventor: Rick Jones
  • Patent number: 9861875
    Abstract: An accident preventing system for sports, for preventing an accident to a user who uses a sport facility involving movement from a first zone including a starting spot to a second zone including an arrival spot, includes a safety equipment that a user wears to use the sport facility, an entry sensing unit installed in the first zone and determining that the user enters the starting spot, a binding sensing unit installed in the first zone and determining whether the safety equipment is bound, and a controller determining whether to operate the sport facility upon receiving signals checked by the entry sensing unit and the binding sensing unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: NATIONAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Simjung Cho, Dugkeun Park, Hoon Lee, Taewoong Jung, Hyunjung Kim, Minjung Kim
  • Patent number: 9808727
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method for purging water in a waterpark reservoir by inducing a siphon and several examples of an apparatus to achieve this result. The apparatus disclosed herein provides an emptying mechanism which may have no moving parts or valves between the inlet and the outlet and yet delivers a short term large volume dump or purge of water to patrons in an impact area of a patron region of a waterpark.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Avalanche Waterslides, Inc.
    Inventors: Zachary Michael Stone, Michael Stephen Stone
  • Patent number: 9795890
    Abstract: The mobile sheet flow water ride apparatus of the present invention utilizes a rigid inclined structure. Ride surfaces, aisle surfaces, and surround fences are covered with protective inflatable air cushions. The ride apparatus of the present invention has non-retractable transport wheels and uses a multitude of adjustable jacks to take the load off the transport wheels and support the ride apparatus. The ride apparatus utilizes a 15,000 gpm double-suction pump driven by a 460-horsepower diesel engine that is transported in its own trailer. Water is pumped from a main storage tank through a horizontally-oriented nozzle that 2.438 meters wide and 6.35 cm high at supercritical speed. The water rushes up the slope, over a berm at the top of the slope, and back into the main storage tank through a square main return grate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Inventor: Jerry Boyc Bradshaw
  • Patent number: 9486681
    Abstract: An apparatus including a raceway comprising a flexible surface, and a mechanism located under the flexible surface that forms waves of motion in the flexible surface. The waves can be random or controlled, with varying heights. This application provides several embodiments of the mechanisms of the invention. The disclosed apparatus can be utilized for recreational, sports or industrial purposes and for other applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2016
    Assignee: LINCOLN SANTOS NEVES JĂšNIOR
    Inventors: Lincoln Santos Neves JĂşnior, Luciana Maria Da Silva Suman Jardim
  • Patent number: 9120024
    Abstract: A water based amusement structure includes: a ring shaped base; a dome like structure fixed on the ring shaped base, wherein the ring shaped base and dome like structure define an amusement area; a plurality of water carrying lines, wherein each water carrying line includes at least one opening for providing a splashing path; a plurality of lighting means for illuminating the amusement area; a plurality of at least one of the following: disco lights, beam lights, strip lights, laser beam lights, disco floor, ceiling lights, mounted fountains, entrance fog effect water jets, and sprinklers; a music system fixed inside the amusement area; a support structure having a base and an elongated portion fixed on the base, wherein the ring shaped base rests on the elongated structure; at least one ladder like structure; and a temperature control system with a fan provided in different locations for a cyclonic effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Assignee: Arihant Industrial Corporation Limited
    Inventor: Rajen S. Shah
  • Patent number: 9095780
    Abstract: A rotating water amusement ride is described in which the passengers can in a simpler manner walk to their seats in the water vessels while keeping their feet dry. This is principally achieved by a water amusement ride, with at least one water vessel which is preferably movable in the body of water, and having a float body which is borne by the water and which has seats for accommodating passengers, wherein a platform is provided which, in a rest state of the water amusement ride, protrudes out of the water surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Assignee: MACK RIDES GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventor: Guenter Burger
  • Publication number: 20150119155
    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: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: Oriol Vicente
  • Patent number: 9011261
    Abstract: A rotating water play device generally comprises a static shaft typically fixedly mounted to a ground surface and a platform mounted for rotation on the shaft. The platform allows at least one person to stand on it and impart a rotating motion thereto. The shaft is configured to be connected to a water source and comprises a hollow axial bore and at least one radial opening. The platform comprises a sleeve pivotally mounted to the shaft, the sleeve comprising at least one radial opening in fluid communication with at least one dispensing opening located on the platform, typically at the periphery thereof. The radial openings of the shaft and of the sleeve are configured to be in intermittent or continuous fluid communication, whereby water can flow through the shaft and then through the platform before exiting the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Stella Hamelin Holdings Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen Hamelin
  • Publication number: 20150080137
    Abstract: An amusement apparatus for dynamic simulation, in particular for use in amusement parks or the like, comprising: a first housing station (2) of at least one user (U), which is mobile along a respective path (P); at least one second housing station (3) of at least one user (U); interaction means (9) between the users (U) arranged at the first and the second station (2, 3); a water basin (4) interposed between the first and the second station (2, 3); said interaction means (9) comprising water supply organs, arranged on the respective stations (2, 3) in order to generate water jets between the users (U).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Applicant: PRESTON & BARBIERI S.R.L.
    Inventor: FRANCESCO FERRARI
  • Publication number: 20150065261
    Abstract: The invention relates to a flow divider for a sheet flow water ride having an inclined ride surface capable of dividing it into two or more sections, wherein more than one rider can then safely ride on the water ride at the same time. The water ride can include an inclined ride surface on which a sheet flow of water is propelled that can conform to the contours of the ride surface. The flow divider can be an inflatable tube that can float and extend longitudinally over the sheet flow in the same direction thereof. The flow divider can be secured at its front end to the water ride, and its back end can be relatively free to pivot and shift from side to side. In some embodiments, the air pressure in the tube can be adjusted to enable the divider to be inflated to the appropriate stiffness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld
  • Publication number: 20150057093
    Abstract: A water or other amusement or surfing attraction that includes an inflatable portion or material. A variety of different waveforms, such as curling waves, may be generated. The inflatable portion or material may be inflated to different pressures, or multiple inflatable portions or materials may be coupled with the attraction such that the shape of a riding surface can be manipulated by modifying the amount of air or fluid used to inflate the inflatable portions or materials. Contouring elements that exhibit a force upon a sliding surface of an attraction may be used to form a desired contour in the sliding surface. Various riding configurations may be used as part of the attraction, including sidewalls that taper inward or flare outward, bowl-shaped riding surfaces, and half-bowl-shaped riding surfaces. Staircases that are inflatable or non-inflatable may be used as entry and/or exit points for riders to interact with the riding surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Inventor: Douglas Murphy
  • Publication number: 20150024857
    Abstract: A rotating water amusement ride is described in which the passengers can in a simpler manner walk to their seats in the water vessels while keeping their feet dry. This is principally achieved by a water amusement ride, with at least one water vessel which is preferably movable in the body of water, and having a float body which is borne by the water and which has seats for accommodating passengers, wherein a platform is provided which, in a rest state of the water amusement ride, protrudes out of the water surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventor: Guenter Burger
  • Patent number: 8915826
    Abstract: A hopping play ball comprises a pair of elongated grips or handles adjacent to each other and extending radially outward from the surface of the ball. The ball may also comprise an array of mammillated protrusions on the lower surface, opposite the handles, to improve the stability during bouncing on a soft or elastic surface, such as a trampoline rebounding mat. In other embodiments, the ball has one or more water reservoirs in fluid communication with squirt nozzles disposed on either the surface of the ball or an outward facing portion of the handles. The squirt nozzles are activated by the player via the handle grips, and may pump or squirt water in response to each bounce or may be triggered independent of the players bouncing movement. The mammillated surface aids in preventing slippage of the balls during such types of wet play with multiple players.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Inventor: Mark W. Publicover
  • Patent number: 8882604
    Abstract: The invention relates to a flow divider for a sheet flow water ride having an inclined ride surface capable of dividing it into two or more sections, wherein more than one rider can then safely ride on the water ride at the same time. The water ride preferably comprises an inclined ride surface on which a sheet flow of water is propelled that substantially conforms to the contours of the ride surface. The flow divider is preferably an inflatable tube that can be extended longitudinally over the sheet flow, in substantially the same direction thereof, and float, wherein in the preferred embodiment, it is secured at its front end to the water ride and its back end is relatively free to pivot and shift from side to side, such that the momentum of the sheet flow helps to keep it oriented downstream and in the appropriate position. The air pressure in the tube is preferably adjustable to enable the divider to be inflated to the appropriate stiffness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Surf Park Pte, Ltd.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld
  • Patent number: 8821304
    Abstract: A participatory water play structure including a water eruption effect device. The water eruption effect device may include a water eruption jet, lighting devices, sound devices, light towers, mist or smoke devices and fountain devices. The water eruption effect device imitates a geyser, volcanic eruption, or large water spray, dousing play participants in a participatory play structure with a cool deluge of water. The water eruption effect may also be used as a show feature during night-time operation of the participatory play structure. Responsive water play devices may also be used, including RFID and motion sensor systems that respond to the presence of play participants and to identifying characteristics of the play participants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Whitewater West Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Harley Ensing
  • Patent number: 8808100
    Abstract: A play swing system includes a safety harness attached to each seat, as well as other features for interactive and competitive throwing and tossing games. The safety harness may incorporates various games features, and thus encourage use in activities that require at least one free hand, or otherwise increase the risk of slippage and falling from the play swing seat. Various embodiments accommodate as well as challenge the spatial perception, dexterity and reflexes of players of different ages. For examples, younger players might compete by throwing objects at a fixed target mounted on the ground. In other embodiments, the target is moving in synchronization with the oscillatory motion of the adjacent players swing by a physical coupling or attachment. Interactive play is encouraged at the higher skill levels by configuring the targets associated with adjacent seats to face each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Inventors: Mark W Publicover, Jacob M Publicover, Rachel C Publicover
  • Patent number: 8777766
    Abstract: An amusement ride in the form of a boat regatta having a water-filled basin and boats traveling thereon with their own drive, where there is arranged in the basin a raisable platform which allows the boats to travel in the lowered position and lifts the boats out of the water in the travel breaks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Mack Rides GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Guenter Burger
  • Patent number: 8777765
    Abstract: Present embodiments are directed to features for maintaining or providing a beach area that is adjacent a water feature and that includes beach surface material disposed in one or more containment structures such that a multi-colored or illuminated beach surface is provided. Present embodiments may include multiple containment structures arrayed in an area adjacent a water feature, wherein each containment structure holds beach surface material of a different color. Further, present embodiments may include creating and/or distributing iridescent and/or phosphorescent beach surface material in one or more containment structures that define the beach area. Additionally, present embodiments may include adjustable or attachable barrier extensions to facilitate maintenance. Further, present embodiments may include transparent or translucent beach surface material disposed in one or more containment structures and a lighting system under the beach surface materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Universal City Studios LLC
    Inventors: Ross Alan Osterman, Justin Michael Schwartz
  • Patent number: 8753216
    Abstract: A play set with a mist device which includes a mist frame unit supported through a framework of the play set. The mist frame unit has a hollow body allowing water passage and comprises a flexible hose member mounted onto the framework, wherein a portion of the flexible hose member is constructed into a hose ring encircling a slide unit; a water inlet provided at a first end of the mist frame unit for connecting to a water source; and a plurality of mist producing units provided along the mist frame unit arranged for producing mist such that a preset mist surrounding area is defined within which the play set is located, therefore the mist can reach all play units of the play set, including the slide unit through the hose ring at an angle which is greater than 270°, thereby providing a cooling effect to the mist surrounding area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Inventor: Paul Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20140135138
    Abstract: A water based amusement structure includes: a ring shaped base; a dome like structure fixed on the ring shaped base, wherein the ring shaped base and dome like structure define an amusement area; a plurality of water carrying lines, wherein each water carrying line includes at least one opening for providing a splashing path; a plurality of lighting means for illuminating the amusement area; a plurality of at least one of the following: disco lights, beam lights, strip lights, laser beam lights, disco floor, ceiling lights, mounted fountains, entrance fog effect water jets, and sprinklers; a music system fixed inside the amusement area; a support structure having a base and an elongated portion fixed on the base, wherein the ring shaped base rests on the elongated structure; at least one ladder like structure; and a temperature control system with a fan provided in different locations for a cyclonic effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2013
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: Arihant Industrial Corporation Limited
    Inventor: Rajen S. Shah
  • Patent number: 8721465
    Abstract: A water dispensing device comprises a container mounted to rotate about an axis. The container is adapted to receive and accumulate quantities of water. The container is pivotal mounted to rotate about the axis such that when the container accumulates more than a predetermined quantity of water, the container is adapted to rotate at least one rotation about the axis to dispense a quantity of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Proslide Technology Inc.
    Inventor: Rick Hunter
  • Patent number: 8702525
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an interactive ride, such as a flume within a flume. In one embodiment, a water ride can include a first flume ride and a second flume ride. The first flume ride can include a first middle section, while the second flume ride can include a second flume section. The second flume ride can pass through the first flume ride by having the second middle section pass through the first middle section. Thus, the second middle section can be located within the first middle section. The first middle section and the second middle section can form a pass-through section. The second flume ride can be partially supported by the first flume ride.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Whitewater West Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: Bruce R. Bradley, Timothy B. Kwasnicki, Daniel P. Brassard, Hyuma Frankowski
  • Patent number: 8690697
    Abstract: A slide feature is adapted to carry one or more riders and/or ride vehicles sliding thereon. The slide feature includes a sliding surface having an entry end and an exit end. The sliding surface comprising at least a lower portion of a sideways tilted funnel shape wherein a radius of the sliding surface tapers from the entry end to the exit end. A lowermost surface of the sliding surface is horizontal or slightly inclined from horizontal descending from the entry end to the exit end. The sliding surface comprising side walls each extending upward from the lowermost surface about a longitudinal axis which would be defined by the complete sideways tilted funnel shape through an angle of more than 90°. The entry end is substantially larger in diameter than the exit end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Proslide Technology Inc.
    Inventor: Richard D. Hunter
  • Patent number: 8684855
    Abstract: Present embodiments are directed to systems and methods for providing an articulated waterslide. An articulate waterslide is capable of being maneuvered during operation to change flow paths of the waterslide. Specifically, an embodiment includes a waterslide with a chute configured to facilitate water flow along the chute and configured to transport a patron, an adjustable joint positioned along the chute, and an actuator configured to manipulate the adjustable joint such that a flow path of the chute is changeable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Universal City Studios LLC
    Inventors: Ross Alan Osterman, Justin Michael Schwartz
  • Patent number: 8663023
    Abstract: A water transportation system and method are described, generally related to water amusement attractions and rides. 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, a floating water park positioned in a body of water is described, as well as, a floating marine park. A floating marine/water park may include one or more floating containers positioned in a body of a first fluid. One or more of the floating containers may function to hold a second fluid, marine life, and/or participants in water amusement activities. A floating container may include a view window configured to allow participants (e.g., below the surface of water) in a first floating container to view marine life or participants in a second floating container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 8651971
    Abstract: A swing tag game has: a first swing support supporting a first seat for a first player; a middle module comprising a middle module emitter and a middle module receiver; first player inputs including a first player middle module first control corresponding to an attack; a second swing support supporting a second seat for a second player; second player inputs including a second player middle module first control corresponding to an attack; an attack defense resolution; and an indication output such as lights, sound or vibration. The middle module can be formed as a glove gun. The middle module can be formed as a sleeve and the middle module can be for indicating a successful hit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Samuel Chen
  • Patent number: 8641544
    Abstract: An interactive apparatus includes a frame that defines an interior region. A swing is secured to the frame and moves into and out of the interior region. At least one fluid delivery system is secured to the frame for directing a plane of fluid into the interior region of the frame. The fluid delivery system includes a plurality of flow regulating elements for selectively controlling the cross-section of the fluid plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventors: Michael O'Toole, Andrew Ratcliff
  • Patent number: 8641543
    Abstract: The invention relates to a portable water ride having a trailer with a water catch basin built therein, wherein at least two pivoting supports are provided which can be deployed to an expanded position and stowed to a vertical position. When the supports are deployed, a flexible ride surface can be stretched between said supports to form an inclined ride surface upon which a sheet flow of water from a nozzle housing can be provided upon which water skimming maneuvers can be performed. A walkway on either side of the ride surface, as well as an entrance platform at the top of the ride surface, and other grated platforms, railings, etc., can also be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld
  • 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: 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
  • Patent number: 8550928
    Abstract: A participatory water play installation comprises a water play area provided with several water dispensing elements which can be user-activated via a user interface connected to a command center. The command center is preferably located underneath the water play area and further comprises an electronic system controller, electrically actuated solenoid valves and a water distribution manifold. The command center is in fluid communication with the water dispensing elements whereby upon stimulation of the user interface, the command center initiates a predetermined sequence of water dispensing patterns from the activated water dispensing elements, resulting in recreational enjoyment of the participants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Stella Hamelin Holdings Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen Hamelin
  • 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: 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
  • 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: 8465375
    Abstract: An underwater device for generating a vortex ring includes a liquid chamber, and a fluid or air chamber contiguous to the liquid chamber and separated by a partition wall. The liquid chamber includes a generally rigid section and a compressible or flexible section. The rigid section includes an opening for selectively loading the liquid chamber with a liquid and for discharging a vortex ring therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Inventor: Eric W. Curry
  • Publication number: 20130130815
    Abstract: The invention relates to a flow divider for a sheet flow water ride having an inclined ride surface capable of dividing it into two or more sections, wherein more than one rider can then safely ride on the water ride at the same time. The water ride preferably comprises an inclined ride surface on which a sheet flow of water is propelled that substantially conforms to the contours of the ride surface. The flow divider is preferably an inflatable tube that can be extended longitudinally over the sheet flow, in substantially the same direction thereof, and float, wherein in the preferred embodiment, it is secured at its front end to the water ride and its back end is relatively free to pivot and shift from side to side, such that the momentum of the sheet flow helps to keep it oriented downstream and in the appropriate position. The air pressure in the tube is preferably adjustable to enable the divider to be inflated to the appropriate stiffness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld