Marine Patents (Class 472/13)
  • Patent number: 12128326
    Abstract: A water attraction having one or more inflatable areas and/or features for reducing turbulence of water flow over a ride surface is disclosed. The water attraction includes a ride surface, a water delivery section, and a recovery section. The water delivery section provides water flow on the ride surface. The ride surface may include the assembly of multiple segments and may be fully or partially inflatable. The water delivery section may include one or more water delivery mechanisms, for example, nozzles. A water delivery mechanism may deliver a water flow different from the water flows from other water delivery mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2024
    Assignee: WHITEWATER WEST INDUSTRIES LTD.
    Inventors: Brad Jiro Koide, Danny Phillip
  • Patent number: 12005367
    Abstract: An immersion platform includes a dome configured to display a predetermined scene, wherein the dome includes an outer perimeter. A controller is configured to display the predetermined scene on the dome and to activate the plurality of accessories according to a predetermined timeline. A camera is configured to allow a user to stream the user to other platforms while the user is using the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2022
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2024
    Inventors: David Green, Jason Glickman
  • Patent number: 11879525
    Abstract: A wave machine (8) that produces different shapes of standing, parabolic-shaped waveforms (150) used by surfers (200). The parabolic waveforms (150) have different face angles and depths. The machine (8) includes a rotating container (10) partially filled with a fluid 140. When the container (10) is rotated, a standing, parabolic waveform 150 is created in the fluid (140). In one embodiment, the container (10) is bowl container (11) with curved panels (60) and terminate at an upper edge (16). On or near the upper edge (16) of the sidewall (14) is upper flange (18) that partially extends into the bowl container (11). The bowl container (11) is coupled to a speed adjustable drive mechanism (50). As the bowl container (11) is rotated, fluid (14) is forced outward against the sidewall (14) and forms a parabolic waveform (150). As the speed of rotation is increased, the fluid (140) flows upward over the sidewall (14) and against the upper flange (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Inventor: Rodney J Busto
  • Patent number: 11583780
    Abstract: A carousel ride system includes a first rotatable platform and multiple second rotatable platforms. Each second rotatable platform of the multiple second rotatable platforms is positioned within a respective opening in the first rotatable platform. A first drive system is configured to drive rotation of the first rotatable platform and multiple second drive assemblies are configured to drive rotation of the multiple second rotatable platforms. Multiple figures extend over the multiple second rotatable platforms and multiple figure drive assemblies are configured to independently lift and rotate the multiple figures relative to the multiple second rotatable platforms. One or more processors are configured to coordinate operation of the first drive system, the multiple second drive assemblies, and the multiple figure drive assemblies to maintain the multiple figures in a forward-facing orientation relative to a direction of travel of the first rotatable platform during operation of the carousel ride system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: Universal City Studios LLC
    Inventors: Jerrell Andrew Loudon, Rick A. Dias, David Wayne Komives, William Dale Mason
  • Patent number: 11287815
    Abstract: An amusement park system in accordance with present embodiments includes multiple separated park areas, an autonomous vehicle configured to drive along ground surfaces within the multiple separated park areas, and a gondola system configured to transport the autonomous vehicle between the multiple separated park areas. The amusement park system further includes a control system configured to operate the autonomous vehicle to engage with and disengage from the gondola system to facilitate transport of the autonomous vehicle by the gondola system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2022
    Assignee: Universal City Studios LLC
    Inventor: Keith Michael McVeen
  • Patent number: 11235193
    Abstract: A resistance system is disclosed. The resistance system has a line reel system for deploying a tension line and a power system for drawing in the slack line. The resistance value can be set by a subject using the device by using a resistance controller and indicator located on an outer surface of the system. The system can be self-contained with an internal power supply. The system is particularly useful for swim training or rehabilitation. It can be simply operated by a user without removing the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Assignee: University of Tennessee Research Foundation
    Inventors: Kelsey Ann McConachie, Isaac Robert Nolan, Thao Nguyen Strong, Ryan Joseph Tinker
  • Patent number: 11103797
    Abstract: A control system includes a ride controller configured to maintain a plurality of rules indicative of permitted states of the free-roaming ride vehicle within a game area and including gameplay rules. The ride controller is configured to receive monitoring data indicative of a current state of a free-roaming ride vehicle, receive a signal indicative of a user request to perform a requested action with the free-roaming ride vehicle, model performance of the requested action from the current state to determine a modeled state of the free-roaming ride vehicle, and determine whether the modeled state complies with the plurality of rules. In response to determining the modeled state does not comply with the plurality of rules, the ride controller is configured to determine a proximate action that complies with the plurality of rules and provide a control signal to instruct the free-roaming ride vehicle to perform the proximate action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: Universal City Studios LLC
    Inventors: Akiva Meir Krauthamer, Timothy Fitzgerald Garnier, Simran Veena Batra
  • Patent number: 11103798
    Abstract: An attraction system includes a fluid source configured to emit a fluid stream with a geometry that facilitates internal reflection, a transmitter configured to transmit a signal through the fluid stream such that the signal is enclosed in the fluid stream via internal reflection and the signal comprises a parameter, a sensor configured to receive the signal via the fluid stream and provide data indicative of the parameter, and a control system communicatively coupled to the sensor. The control system includes a processor and a memory, and the memory includes instructions that cause the processor to receive the data indicative of the parameter from the sensor, and operate the attraction system based on the parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: Universal City Studios LLC
    Inventors: Aaron Chandler Jeromin, Akiva Meir Krauthamer, Elam Kevin Hertzler, Andrew Brian Raij, Victor Alexander Lugo
  • Patent number: 10258892
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a water slide system including an at least partly translucent or transparent slide tube which may be circumferentially closed and in which a slide surface that can be wetted with liquid extends in a slide direction. Lighting features that are visible from the interior of the slide tube are arranged on the outside of the slide tube in order to achieve optical effects in the interior of the slide tube. According to an aspect, the lighting features are pixels, for example LEDs, which are arranged in a matrix of at least one screen module. The screen module may be in the shape of a shell that extends on the outside of the slide tube and over a circumferential portion of the slide tube and which can be actuated in order to display movable two-dimensional or stereoscopic images, which may be curved in the circumferential direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignee: KLARER FREIZEITANLAGEN AG
    Inventor: Stefan Klarer
  • Patent number: 9889387
    Abstract: A water parcourse has a suspension system and exercise elements. Each exercise element is attached for arrangement in a predetermined position of use below, on, or above a water surface or in a predetermined rest position spaced apart from the water surface on the suspension system above the water surface. The exercise elements are movable from the position of use into a rest position and back. The suspension system is provided with at least one support structure and, arranged on the support structure, at least one of the components of a group that includes a shaft on which one or several winches are rotatably arranged; a pull rod system; and one or several deflection rollers, wherein for transfer of the exercise elements from the position of use into the rest position and back the support structure or the pull rod system can be changed in relation to a spatial position by means of at least one drive, with which the support structure or the pull rod system is in operative connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventor: Uwe Roth
  • Patent number: 9808726
    Abstract: A rider propulsion system for use with a water ride having a plurality of waterjets is disclosed. The system includes a dewatering tank configured to hold a volume of water used to support operation of the water ride, a compressed air system configured to supply pressurized air to the dewatering tank so as to pressurize the water, and at least one release valve configured to selectively release water from the dewatering tank in a controlled manner and provide it to the plurality of waterjets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventor: Garrett Johnson
  • Patent number: 9623339
    Abstract: An apparatus for transporting a rider comprising a vehicle adapted to support the rider wherein vehicle has a driven portion disposed along a bottom surface thereof and a track having a path sized to slidably receive the vehicle therein and a plurality of water jets disposed along the track along a path of travel of the driven portion. Each of the plurality of water jets is adapted to sequentially discharge a portion of water in a desired direction of travel of the vehicle there through when aligned with the driven portion such that the portion of water engages the driven portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: Skyturtle Technologies Ltd.
    Inventor: Lance Craig Fisher
  • Patent number: 9585488
    Abstract: A child seat apparatus for use in a swimming pool includes a frame assembly including an opposed and parallel pair of side frames, a vertical adjusting assembly movably connected to the pair of side frames, a floatable seat assembly connected to the vertical adjusting assembly between the pair of side frames, and a weighted base connected to the frame assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Inventor: Marie R. Kalista
  • Patent number: 9578973
    Abstract: A child seat apparatus for use in a swimming pool includes a floatable seat assembly configured to support a child occupant upon a water surface, and a pedestal assembly removably connected to the seat assembly to support the seat assembly on a bottom of the swimming pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Inventor: Marie R. Kalista
  • Patent number: 9463379
    Abstract: A unique combination of amusement park attraction ride vehicles with gesture-based game controllers to create a new form of interactive amusement ride, where on-board game displays, cameras and gesture recognition software for each of a plurality of riders, capture rider gestures and convert those gestures into signals that are inputs to, and affect, the interactive experience or game elements of the attraction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Inventors: Michael Keith Brister, Thadeus C. Reed
  • Patent number: 8905854
    Abstract: A reaction component or plate for a linear induction motor incorporates a flexibility increasing feature and a wear resistant feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: HM Attractions Inc.
    Inventors: Richard D. Hunter, Andreas Tanzer
  • Patent number: 8784224
    Abstract: A modular water slide apparatus integrated with a transportable unit includes a major slide structure, a minor slide structure, a plurality of water jet nozzles, a trailer, a water supply and storage tank, a water catch basin, a plurality of anchor columns, and at least one circular, spiral, or winding staircase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Inventor: Brian E. Schafer
  • Patent number: 8727896
    Abstract: The attraction systems include underground or underwater tunnels having a visitor transportation system with ride vehicles and multiple audio and video systems for providing an experience of three-dimensional (3D) or four-dimensional (4D) video installations. In addition, the attraction systems may have various special effects devices to enhance visitors' experiences. These underground or underwater tunnels may be built in cities, and especially, in historic city centers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Inventor: Anton Frolov
  • Publication number: 20130130812
    Abstract: The invention relates to a water amusement ride (1), comprising at least one water vehicle (20) that can be moved in a body of water and a floating body (23) that is carried by water, having seats for accommodating passengers, wherein a platform (10) is provided, which extends out of the water surface (4) of the body of water when the water amusement ride (1) is in an idle state and is beneath the water surface (4) when in operation. An advantage of said invention is that the passengers can reach their seats in the water vehicles without getting wet feet when the water amusement ride is in an idle state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: MACK RIDES GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventor: Guenter Burger
  • Patent number: 8430597
    Abstract: Disclosed is a reconfigurable obstacle system for a river channel in a river park. Each obstacle assembly includes a plurality of obstacles. Obstacles may include a hollow structural box, a strut channel frame and a plurality of connectors that cooperate to divert water when installed in a river channel. A plurality of connectors pass through the hollow structural box when holding the obstacle in position. The obstacle assemblies can be reconfigured as desired, e.g. increase amplitude of a wave, speed up water flow, change depth, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Rapidblocs Limited
    Inventors: Scott Richmond Shipley, Andrew Duncan Laird
  • Patent number: 8162770
    Abstract: A reaction component or plate for a linear induction motor incorporates a flexibility increasing feature and a wear resistant feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: HM Attractions Inc.
    Inventors: Richard D. Hunter, Andreas Tanzer
  • Patent number: 8083599
    Abstract: A rotating ride for use in water parks and other settings to provide ride passengers or park guests with an interactive water experience. The ride includes a structural system with a drive that rotates a support structure such as a wheel frame about a central axis or hub. The ride includes a plurality of vehicles that each includes a body with seating for passengers and that is connected to the support structure and rotates with it. The vehicle assembly includes a water release mechanism that is passenger operable to release water from the vehicle as it is moved through the ride path. The vehicle body may include a water storage reservoir storing a volume of water that then can be selectively released by the passenger. The stored water may be caught as it pours over the vehicle or the vehicle may pass through a pool to scoop up the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Crawford, Timothy J. Delaney
  • Patent number: 8057316
    Abstract: An amusement device that is added to a new or existing bumper boat attraction, consisting of a singular or plurality of targets, lights, water effect devices, and a control system or module. The target may be comprised of a mechanical switch, pressure switch, sensor, optical beam, or any other device for detecting a participant signal. When a participant operating a bumper boat, bumps (or sprays if equipped with onboard squirt guns), or enters into the sensor area of pool, a signal is sent to a control module or control system. The control module or system will in turn send a signal to a water effect device, actuating a singular or plurality of valves. The water effect device will be directed over the pool or arena area such that there is a possibility of other participants getting wet. A water effect device may consist of a water cannon, water blast, mist, air assisted mist, dumping of water or water spray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Inventors: Brian Legary, James Legary
  • Patent number: 8038542
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: HM Attractions Inc.
    Inventors: Richard D. Hunter, Andreas Tanzer
  • Patent number: 7988562
    Abstract: The observation apparatus provided with the observation wheel comprises a water tank housing fish and being arranged around the substantially lower half of a rotation locus of the observation wheel in which at least an inside face facing the observation wheel of the water tank is formed of a transparent material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Inventor: Norio Kojiro
  • Patent number: 7854663
    Abstract: The water amusement ride according to the invention has watercraft that are pulled through the body of water (1) on a traction cable (40). These watercraft are composed of a frame (10), pulled by the traction cable (40), on which a float (20) having a platform (24) is rotatably supported and on the underside of which is provided with a blade wheel (30). When the watercraft is moved through the body of water (1) in the direction of the arrow (A), the blade wheel (30) together with the float (20) are set in rotational motion by the resulting flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Mack Rides GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Günter Burger
  • Patent number: 7828667
    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 an access point functioning to allow participants to enter/exit one or more of the floating containers. The access point may include a gradually sloping beach portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7815514
    Abstract: An amusement ride system and method are described. In some embodiments, an amusement ride system may be 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 more involved in a water attraction. An amusement ride system may include a system for conveying a participant from a first source of water to a second source of water. A system for conveying a participant from a first source of water to a second source of water may include a belt and a belt movement system. A system for conveying a participant from a first source of water to a second source of water may include one or more barriers configured to inhibit participants from leaving the belt as the participants are conveyed along the belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7811177
    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. At least a portion of a floating marine park may be coupled to at least a water amusement ride.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7780536
    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 marine park may include one or more convertible roofs functioning to substantially cover at least a portion of one or more of the floating containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7766753
    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 marine park may include two or more of the floating containers, which may be assembled and used at a first site, dissembled, and then assembled and used at a second site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7762900
    Abstract: 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 may include a plurality of covers forming a covering system over at least a portion of the water transportation and/or amusement system. In some embodiments, at least one of the covers may be positionable. 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: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Patent number: 7758435
    Abstract: An interactive water amusement ride may include a water amusement ride, a competition area located in the water amusement ride, and a participant identifier coupled to a participant in the water amusement ride. The participant may participate in a competition in the competition area. An automated system assesses a status of the participant in the competition. In some embodiments, an automated system for an interactive water amusement ride includes sensors coupled to a competition area. The sensors may detect participant identifiers in the competition area. The sensors may be coupled to a control system. The control system may assess a status of each participant individually and/or a status of the teams in the competition area. Status of participants and/or teams in the competition area may be displayed on a display (e.g., a scoreboard) located at or near the competition area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Wayne Henry, John Timothy Schooley
  • Publication number: 20100009767
    Abstract: A rotating ride for use in water parks and other settings to provide ride passengers or park guests with an interactive water experience. The ride includes a structural system with a drive that rotates a support structure such as a wheel frame about a central axis or hub. The ride includes a plurality of vehicles that each includes a body with seating for passengers and that is connected to the support structure and rotates with it. The vehicle assembly includes a water release mechanism that is passenger operable to release water from the vehicle as it is moved through the ride path. The vehicle body may include a water storage reservoir storing a volume of water that then can be selectively released by the passenger. The stored water may be caught as it pours over the vehicle or the vehicle may pass through a pool to scoop up the water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: David W. Crawford, Timothy J. Delaney
  • Patent number: 7597630
    Abstract: An amusement ride system and method are described. In some embodiments, an amusement ride system may be 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 more involved in a water attraction. An amusement ride system may include system for conveying a participant from a first source of water to a second source of water. The system may include one or more fluid jets. The fluid jets may function to produce a fluid stream having a predetermined velocity which is selectively greater, less than, or the same as a velocity of a participant at each of the fluid jet locations and are oriented tangentially with respect to the surface of the source of water so as to contact a participant and/or participant vehicle. An amusement ride system may include a system for controlling a participant flow rate through a multi path water amusement ride system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Water Ride Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffery Wayne Henry
  • Patent number: 7156714
    Abstract: A rider is suspended a distance beneath a lift cable and moved over a region of water with incoming waves. The distance that the rider is suspended beneath the lift cable is controllably increased and, thereafter, the rider enters the water, such as to surf the waves. The rider can control the increase in distance individually, lowering himself or herself at will after spotting a desirable place to enter the water, e.g., just after the crest of an incoming wave. The initial distance, i.e., the distance below the cable before the rider is lowered toward the water, can be set to carry the rider high enough to pass over the crests of the waves. Various other aspects, apparatus, and variations are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: MKS Enterprises, LLC
    Inventors: Kianoush Kian, Max R. Foroudi, Sean F. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6582265
    Abstract: A floatation toy for providing a floatation device which resembles a boat includes a bottom wall and a peripheral wall fluidly coupled to and extending upwardly from the bottom wall. The bottom and peripheral wall is generally hollow and comprising a flexible material. The flexible material is airtight. The peripheral wall includes a back wall and a pair of side walls. The side walls converge into a front portion such that the a combination of the bottom wall and the peripheral wall resembles a boat. A valve is fluidly coupled to the peripheral wall for selectively inflating and deflating the bottom and peripheral walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventor: Shawn P. Graham
  • Patent number: 6561914
    Abstract: A water amusement system is described which includes a number of different water park rides. The water amusement system may include a water fountain system. The water fountain system includes a roof configured to turn in response to directing a stream of water at the roof. The water amusement system may include a water carousel. The water carousel is a carousel which is configured to float on a body of water. The water amusement system may include a musical fountain system. The musical fountain system is configured to spray water, play music and/or provide visual effects. The water amusement system may include a water powered Ferris wheel. The water amusement system may include a water powered bumper vehicle system. The water powered bumper vehicle system is configured such that the vehicles are preferably propelled by streams of water produced by water nozzles arranged about the water bumper vehicle system. The water system may include a boat ride system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: NBGS International, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffery Wayne Henry
  • Patent number: 6508716
    Abstract: An elevated wooden racetrack includes a wooden racetrack surface having a plurality of floor boards laid flat to form at least one straightaway, and at least one banked curve, each floor board of the plurality having two lengthwise, substantially parallel, spaced apart sides. A racetrack support frame has a plurality of vertical support posts anchored on suitable land and a plurality of support members connected thereto for supporting the wooden racetrack surface above ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Inventor: John Arie
  • Patent number: 6464593
    Abstract: The invention discloses an amusement park comprising an elevated wooden racetrack built in combination with another park activity. The combination comprises a wooden racetrack surface extending along at least one portion elevated above ground level, and a support frame comprising a plurality of vertical supports connected to support the elevated portion above ground level, and another park facility constructed at least partially below the elevated portion of the racetrack to thereby conserve space in the amusement park. The combination includes a go-kart as the motorized amusement vehicle. The park facility constructed below the racetrack is selected from an amusement ride, a building, and a parking lot, the amusement ride being particularly a boat ride having bumper boats. An amusement ride includes a second racetrack operated at least partially below an elevated portion of the first racetrack, and sharing a pit area therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventor: John Arie
  • Patent number: 6238296
    Abstract: A simulated boat device for having directional control that simulates a boat rudder. The simulated boat device includes a hollow structure forming the hull of the boat device. The hollow structure has a bottom wall, a top wall, a front portion, a back portion and middle portion. The top wall has an opening therein. The hollow structure has first and second opposing side walls. A first bore is in the first wall and is located generally in the front portion of the hollow structure. A second bore is in the second wall and is generally coaxial with the first bore. An axle extends through and is rotatable mounted in the first and second bores in the hollow structure. The axle has a first end and a second end. A first wheel is fixedly coupled to the first end of the axle, and a second wheel is fixedly coupled to the second end of the axle. An opening is in the bottom wall in the back portion of the hollow structure. A third wheel is rotatably mounted in the opening in the bottom wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventors: Woodrow Mc Kinney, Jr., Gladys Mc Kinney
  • Patent number: 6210284
    Abstract: A cable driven ride includes at least one carriage configured to receive and support an motorized passenger vehicle filled with at least one passenger and move with a cable as the cable is moved between at least one terminal and a tower, the cable extending therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Assignee: Oriental Sangyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasushi Ochi
  • Patent number: 6162127
    Abstract: An amusement park includes a plurality of rides, each ride being provided with car support mechanisms. Each car support mechanism is configured to receive and support an automotive vehicle filled with at least one passenger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Assignee: Oriental Sangyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasushi Ochi
  • Patent number: 6128863
    Abstract: A fish and marine mammal aquatic observatory. The observatory comprises an outer cylindrical wall and an inner cylindrical wall that define an enclosed annular volume. The inner cylindrical wall is formed of a transparent material, e.g., glass or reinforced plastic. The enclosed annular volume is partially filled with a body of sea water that includes fish and marine mammal animals and other aquatic plants. The observatory further includes a carousel or platform supported on a tower located along a longitudinal axis of the observatory. An outer diameter of the carousel substantially abuts the inner cylindrical wall of the observatory. The carousel is accessible to participants when located at a first or upper position above the enclosed annular volume of water. A lift mechanism moves the carousel from the first, upper position to a second, lower position within the enclosed annular volume of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: SeaVenture, a Nevada Limited Liability Company
    Inventor: George D. Millay
  • Patent number: 6115974
    Abstract: An integrated entertainment and resort complex, which includes at least a first transportation hub; at least one shopping mall communicating with the transportation hub; and at least one riverwalk communicating with the transportation hub. The complex may include at least a second transportation hub communicating with at least one of the riverwalk and the shopping mall, and at least one of the transportation hubs includes an airport. At least one of the transportation hubs includes a railroad station, a bus station, or airport facilities. The shopping mall connects at least partway the first and second transportation hub, and the riverwalk may connect at least partway the first and second transportation hub. The above complex may include a waterway arranged at least partway in parallel with the riverwalk, and at least part of the waterway may form a closed loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Inventor: Cyrus Milanian
  • Patent number: 6066049
    Abstract: The construction of one or more of conveyances i.e. "submarines" in the form of a sub-marine passenger vessel for the re-enactment of an underwater voyage to the bottom of the sea is disclosed herein. The vessels have seating for passengers seated along windows for watching a sub-marine landscape created on the lake bottom. The vessel has a degree of buoyancy and runs on a track, not visible to the passengers mounted on piers set on the lake bottom. It is propelled e.g. by an endless drag line. The vessel has windows allowing passengers to view numerous features on the lake bottom and in the water. The re-enactment of an under-water voyage to the bottom of the sea, includes a body of water having a bottom and a border area adjoining the body of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Inventor: Cyrus Milanian
  • Patent number: 6045449
    Abstract: A water play area having a plurality of water devices and actuators for controlling those devices located outside of the play area for selective activation by spectators observing participants within the play area. The play area is preferably laid out like a giant pinball machine in which participants are placed in groups or individually within tubes representing the balls of the pinball machine. Movement of the tubes along the play area plane can be influenced by movement inducing devices such as flippers, spinners, stationary bumpers, guides and Dutchman's Dikes. Also included within the play area are water devices, such as whipping snakes, geysers, rain drops, shower sprayers, whirly-birds and water bomb launchers that can either be on continuously or be selectively activated to drench participants within the play area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Inventors: Mark Aragona, Robert F. Belongia, Fred C. Larson
  • Patent number: 5989126
    Abstract: An amusement water ride is provided including a water course for carrying one or more circular water rafts. The water course is provided with at least one downhill section for accelerating the water rafts into a splash point. A spin mechanism is provided near the top of the downhill section for imparting a spin to the water rafts as they move past the spin mechanism. The spin mechanism includes a movement retarding surface along one wall of the water course and a movement expediting surface along an opposite wall of the water course. The movement retarding surface is provided with a high friction coating which retards sliding movement in a downstream direction of the surface of the raft which contacts the movement retarding surface, and induces rotation of the raft and movement towards the opposite wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael G. Kilbert, Mark W. Sumner
  • Patent number: 5913636
    Abstract: An ocean wave producing structure (10, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100) having a support structure (14) and a web (12). The support structure (14) is fixed to the ocean floor (32) and the web (12) is arranged with its upswell end (12a) lower than its downswell end (12b) so that ocean swells (34a) travelling over the web (12) are forced upwardly to form into waves (34b). The shape and characteristics of the waves (34b) vary depending upon the gradients (24) of the sections (W1 to W8, 52 to 56) of the web (12). The support structure (14) allows ocean currents to flow through it and hence has a low impact upon the ocean environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Inventor: Graham David Macaulay
  • Patent number: 5669858
    Abstract: An inflatable structure having a trampoline-type floor with an inflatable framework projecting upwardly therefrom and having netting panels extending between adjacent portions of said framework to prevent a child from inadvertently bouncing out of the structure, with at least one of said panels having releasable fastening means to allow opening of said one of said panels as a door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Inventors: Rodney Lee Blair, Philip G. Chauvet