Having Carrier Rotating About Vertical Axis (e.g., Merry-go-round, Etc.) Patents (Class 472/29)
Using individual occupant or article carriage to ride on stationary track or platform (Class 472/36)
Using cantilevered arm arrangement to repeatedly move occupant or article up and down (Class 472/39)
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Patent number: 11260310Abstract: Systems and related methods related to structures with large-scale rotatable elements. Some of the present systems comprise: a tower; a tower hub coupled to the tower and having a transverse dimension of at least 50 feet; an observation wheel rotatably coupled to the tower and having a central wheel hub; a plurality of roller bearings disposed between the tower hub and the wheel hub to rotatably support the observation wheel relative to the structure, the roller bearings each having a diameter that is less than one quarter of the transverse dimension of the wheel hub.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2020Date of Patent: March 1, 2022Inventors: Haskel Mayer, Cyril Silberman
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Patent number: 11083660Abstract: A centrifugal bed rotator is provided. The rotator includes a central pivot base; at least one riding arm attached at one end to the central pivot base; and a drive system attached to one end of the riding arm or the central pivot base drives the rotator with a support board having a wheel attached to the opposite end of the riding arm. The centrifugal bed rotator is useful for hypergravity therapy in health rehabilitation and exercise.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2020Date of Patent: August 10, 2021Inventor: Vern Louis Ader
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Patent number: 9758263Abstract: A space relevator adapted to transition an object between a stationary compartment and a rotating module rotating in a first direction, the relevator comprising: a relevator module comprising a plurality of substantially solid pie-shaped structures separated by a plurality of pie-shaped compartments all positioned around a central axis; a relevator central shaft extending along the central axis; the relevator module being adapted to receive a rotate signal and a stop signal, one or more of the pie-shaped compartments comprising an entry between the stationary compartment and the rotating module when the relevator module receives a stop signal and after the relevator module receives a rotate signal.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2015Date of Patent: September 12, 2017Assignee: Space Design CorporationInventor: Joseph Michael Clay
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Patent number: 8876615Abstract: Provided are a driving motor-placement device to be used in rotating playground equipment that is superior in terms of maintenance, and rotating playground equipment. The disclosed playground equipment driving motor-placement device is characterized in that it is provided with a lower stationary component and an upper rotator; the lower stationary component is provided with a stationary plate that can be removed from the playground equipment and a shaft that stands upright on said stationary plate; the upper rotator is configured to be able to rotate around the shaft of said lower stationary component and is provided with a handle support that supports handles that users can grasp, and a driving motor support that supports the driving motor; said driving motor support is provided above the handle support; and a coupling that transmits the rotation of the driving motor to the shaft of the lower stationary component is fixed to the top of said shaft.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2010Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Assignee: BLD Oriental Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yasushi Ochi
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Publication number: 20140243106Abstract: A round ride adapted for efficient and safe maintenance of elevated components. The ride includes a central hub assembly with a hub and a hub drive adapted for selectively rotating the hub about a central axis. The hub assembly includes a plurality of vehicle support arms pivotally mounted at a first end to the hub and extending outward to a second end. The round ride includes a maintenance platform assembly with, for each of the vehicle support arms, extension plates proximate to the first end and extending outward from sides of the vehicle support arm. The extension plates each include a planar upper surface, and the planar upper surfaces are coplanar with an upper surface of the vehicle support arm. When the support arms are pivoted into a horizontal position, the upper surfaces of the plates combined with the upper surfaces of the arms creates a platform near the hub.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 27, 2013Publication date: August 28, 2014Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventors: Donald Robert Hilsen, Guillermo L. Herrejon, Anthony Steven Castillo
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Patent number: 8672769Abstract: A supporting system for a mast, for example for a swing carousel, includes stabilizing vehicles which each include a chassis, sets of wheels for moving the stabilizing vehicle, coupling elements near one end of the chassis, and at least one stabilizing arm which is displaceable between an inoperative position in which the stabilizing arm is swung in and a swung-out position in which the stabilizing arm extends outwards with respect to the chassis. At their free ends, the stabilizing arms each have a support for stabilizing the stabilizing vehicle on the ground in the swung-out position of the stabilizing arm. A base is provided for the mast, which base includes complementary coupling elements situated opposite one another, one complementary coupling element of which is coupled to the coupling element of a stabilizing vehicle and the other complementary coupling element of which is coupled to the coupling element of another stabilizing vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2011Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignee: Cobra Beheer B.V.Inventors: Albert Louisito Phillipus Kroon, Jan Hendrik Wessel Hartemink
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Patent number: 8529362Abstract: An elevated hand held merry go round provides a hand hold elevated a distance above a playing surface to which a user may grab and rotate through an unobstructed zone between the hand hold and the playing surface. In the preferred embodiment the hand hold may be tilted at an angle relative to the playing surface so the user may pump themselves to maintain the round momentum in a manner somewhat similar to an individual pumping themselves on a swing to maintain themselves swinging. Alternative embodiments lack the tilt may be made in various dimensions to accommodate various numbers of users and may have more than one set of locations for hand holds.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2011Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: Playcore Wisconsin, Inc.Inventor: Paul S. Wingerstahn
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Patent number: 8505245Abstract: The invention can be efficiently used for intensively learning different disciplines, including foreign languages, and for forming and automating operational skills of professionals in different field of activity. It makes it possible to obtain a technical result and a high-quality intensive training. The use of a training aid is developed according to a synergetic theory in the form of a synergetic training device and makes it possible to provide a synergetic variant of intensive training. The synergetic training device is embodied in a dynamic technical device consisting of several soundproof booths which comprise training facilities and technical means using a sensor system.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2007Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Inventors: Miroslav Valerjevitsh Bobryshev, Irina Evgenjevna Bobrysheva
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Publication number: 20130090176Abstract: Disclosed is an amusement device capable of increased sustainment of user interest. The present disclosure presumes a rotating amusement device comprising an amusement device proper and a rotating base. The amusement device proper further comprises a playroom, an airtight member, and a ventilator means. The playroom is a region surrounded by partition members that partition an amusement region, and the airtight member is disposed below the partition members that configure the wall units of the playroom. The interior of the playroom further comprises a ventilator means for creating a convection current in the air inside the playroom, and a plurality of balloons that are positioned in the playroom are made to float about wildly by the ventilator means.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 25, 2011Publication date: April 11, 2013Applicant: BLD ORIENTAL CO., LTD.Inventor: Yasushi Ochi
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Patent number: 8388458Abstract: A round ride configured to provide lateral flight or movement of the passenger vehicle. The ride includes a vehicle support or boom arm that includes a four-bar linkage with: a base link affixed to the rotating hub; a crank or driver link rotating about a pivotal connection with this base link by a rotary actuator; a vehicle support link pivotally connected at one end to the crank or driver link to move with this link and at a second or outboard end to a coupler that supports the vehicle; and a follower or connector link pivotally connected at its ends to the base link and vehicle support link. As the crank or driver link is rotated, the guest compartment moves along a motion profile defining irregular vertical movement (not simply a preset arc) and providing lateral movement, which changes the ride dynamics including changing vehicle velocity with varying vehicle radii.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2010Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Peyton B. Buhler
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Publication number: 20130045810Abstract: Rotating inclusive play devices are provided. In certain embodiments, a rotating play device includes a stationary base, a rotatable portion, and a speed limiting device that connects the stationary base to the rotatable portion. The speed limiting device illustratively limits a rotational speed of the rotatable portion relative to the stationary base. The rotatable portion may have an elevated outer perimeter that includes recessed and raised portions. The speed limiting device may include a cranking mechanism and/or a piston mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2012Publication date: February 21, 2013Applicant: LANDSCAPE STRUCTURE INC.Inventors: Thomas L. Keller, Thomas W. Felber
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Patent number: 8313388Abstract: The present invention relates to an amusement device which comprises a rotating body formed in a disk shape and provided horizontally rotatably, and an upper member disposed at the upper position located at a certain distance from the upper surface of the rotating body. A strut is vertically arranged in the center portion of the upper surface of the rotating body. A plurality of poles are formed in a straight line and disposed with its axis directed in the up-and-down direction. The lower ends of the plurality of poles are fixed on the upper surface of the rotating body, and the upper ends of the plurality of poles are fixed on the lower surface of the upper member. A support mechanism supports the rotating body. A rotation drive mechanism rotates the rotating body horizontally. An air cushion is provided to cover the upper surface of the rotating body.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2011Date of Patent: November 20, 2012Assignee: BLD Oriental Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yasushi Ochi
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Publication number: 20120172138Abstract: A round ride configured to provide lateral flight or movement of the passenger vehicle. The ride includes a vehicle support or boom arm that includes a four-bar linkage with: a base link affixed to the rotating hub; a crank or driver link rotating about a pivotal connection with this base link by a rotary actuator; a vehicle support link pivotally connected at one end to the crank or driver link to move with this link and at a second or outboard end to a coupler that supports the vehicle; and a follower or connector link pivotally connected at its ends to the base link and vehicle support link. As the crank or driver link is rotated, the guest compartment moves along a motion profile defining irregular vertical movement (not simply a preset arc) and providing lateral movement, which changes the ride dynamics including changing vehicle velocity with varying vehicle radii.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 29, 2010Publication date: July 5, 2012Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventor: PEYTON B. BUHLER
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Patent number: 8137205Abstract: The present disclosure provides a motion-based attraction device engagable with a plurality of spaced guest supports that are movable along a path, having a rotatable carousel configured to temporarily and separately synchronize with the plurality of spaced guest supports, at least one pair of domes supported by the carousel, each dome having a viewing portion that is positioned towards the guest supports and the dome being movable to temporarily cover the guest supports, and an image projecting assembly supported by each dome and configured to display an image on the viewing portion.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2009Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: Universal City Studios LLCInventors: Robert J. Cortelyou, Steven C. Blum, Thierry Jean-Andre Coup, Brian McQuillan
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Patent number: 7959513Abstract: The present invention relates to an amusement device which comprises a rotating body formed in a disk shape and provided horizontally rotatably; a frame body which is fixedly arranged on the upper surface of the rotating body 10; a partition member which is fastened to the frame body for forming the play area; a plurality of beams which are mounted to the frame body across the play area horizontally; a plurality of floor portions which are supported by the frame body and the beams, and which partition the play area into a plurality of layered spaces; the support mechanism; and the rotation drive mechanism. The support mechanism supports the rotating body. The rotation drive mechanism rotates the rotating body horizontally.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2007Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Assignee: Bld Oriental, Ltd.Inventor: Yasushi Ochi
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Patent number: 7938731Abstract: A child motion device has a frame assembly and a seat supported by the frame assembly and capable of movement with a child occupying the seat. A housing is provided on a part of the frame assembly. A receptacle is provided in the housing and is positioned spaced from and faces away from the seat. A storage tray is located in the compartment and defines a storage space on the tray. The tray is movable between an opened position with the storage space and the tray extending outside the housing away from the seat and a closed position with the tray and storage space within the receptacle in the housing.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2007Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Assignee: Graco Children's Products Inc.Inventors: Nick Efthemios Papageorge, William B. Bellows, Joshua E. Clapper
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Patent number: 7884710Abstract: A method of controlling a child motion device includes the steps of determining data indicative of motion of the child motion device, and controlling an audio output of the child motion device in accordance with the data. In some cases, the controlling step includes the step of modulating the audio output in accordance with the data. For example, the modulating step may involve applying a modulation effect to an audio track available to the child motion device.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2007Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Graco Children's Product Inc.Inventors: James E. Godiska, William B. Bellows, John (Jason) C. Arnold, IV
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Patent number: 7874926Abstract: An elevated hand held merry go round provides a hand hold elevated a distance above a playing surface to which a user may grab and rotate through an unobstructed zone between the hand hold and the playing surface. In the preferred embodiment the hand hold may be tilted at an angle relative to the playing surface so the user may pump themselves to maintain the round momentum in a manner somewhat similar to an individual pumping themselves on a swing to maintain themselves swinging. Alternative embodiments lack the tilt may be made in various dimensions to accommodate various numbers of users and may have more than one set of locations for hand holds.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2009Date of Patent: January 25, 2011Assignee: PlaycoreInventor: Paul S. Wingerstahn
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Publication number: 20100248850Abstract: An amusement ride system includes: a shooting device adapted to shoot a projectile; an aiming facility operable by a user to aim the shooting device; and a triggering device operable by the user to fire the shooting device. The user rides the vehicle, aims the shooting device, and fires the device to shoot the projectile. A method for a ride includes: providing a shooting device; providing a plurality of projectiles; and aiming and shooting the projectiles utilizing the shooting device.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2009Publication date: September 30, 2010Applicant: BLAMMO, LLCInventors: Philip Stephen Bloom, Bing Yeh
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Patent number: 7775944Abstract: A kinematic rotating-tilting mechanism (10) that consists of six major elements: a housing (12), a housing flange assembly (42), a platform flange assembly (70), a platform base (90), a resilient section (110) and an angled shaft (120). The housing (12) includes an upper end (18) having a cover (20) to which is attached the housing flange assembly (42), and attached to the lower surface (98) of the platform (90) is the platform flange assembly (70). The shaft (120) has a lower vertical section (122) that is rotatably attached to the housing flange assembly (42), and an upper angled section (126) that is rotatably attached to the platform flange assembly (70). The platform base (90) has an upper surface (96) to which is attached a resilient section (110). A person who is located on the resilient section (110) can produce torque by shifting their body weight.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2007Date of Patent: August 17, 2010Inventor: Larry D. Shultz
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Patent number: 7578745Abstract: An elevated hand held merry go round provides a hand hold elevated a distance above a playing surface to which a user may grab and rotate through an unobstructed zone between the hand hold and the playing surface. In the preferred embodiment the hand hold may be tilted at an angle relative to the playing surface so the user may pump themselves to maintain the round momentum in a manner somewhat similar to an individual pumping themselves on a swing to maintain themselves swinging. Alternative embodiments lack the tilt may be made in various dimensions to accommodate various numbers of users and may have more than one set of locations for hand holds.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2007Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Assignee: PlaycoreInventor: Paul S Wingerstahn
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Patent number: 7563170Abstract: A child motion device has a frame assembly configured to rest on a floor surface. The device also has a drive system and a cantilevered arm extending from part of the device. The arm is supported above the floor surface and has a driven end coupled to and movable by the drive system and a distal end opposite the driven end. The drive system is configured to pivotally move the arm through a partial orbit around a generally vertical axis of rotation. A child seat is supported on the distal end of the support arm.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2006Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Assignee: Graca Children's Products Inc.Inventors: William B. Bellows, James Godiska, Baku Kakuda, Matthew J. Ransil
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Publication number: 20080200266Abstract: A riding device includes one or more cranks rotatably attached to a base, and a rider support supported on a carrier and movable relative to the base for supporting a rider, the carrier has a front portion for swinging relative to the base and a rear portion pivotally coupled to the cranks for moving cyclically relative to the base and for allowing the carrier to be moved in an elliptical and reciprocating action relative to the base by the crank device, and the rider support is supported on the carrier and moved in concert with the rider support for supporting the rider, and an actuating device may be used for actuating the carrier and the rider support to move relative to the base in an elliptical and reciprocating action.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2008Publication date: August 21, 2008Inventors: Jin Chen Chuang, Lung Fei Chuang
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Publication number: 20080200265Abstract: A riding device includes one or more cranks rotatably attached to a base, and a rider support supported on a carrier and movable relative to the base for supporting a rider, the carrier has a front portion for swinging relative to the base and a rear portion pivotally coupled to the cranks for moving cyclically relative to the base and for allowing the carrier to be moved in an elliptical and reciprocating action relative to the base by the crank device, and the rider support is supported on the carrier and moved in concert with the rider support for supporting the rider, and the carrier and the rider support may be moved relative to the base in an elliptical and reciprocating action by the rider.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2008Publication date: August 21, 2008Inventors: Jin Chen Chuang, Lung Fei Chuang
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Publication number: 20080200268Abstract: A riding device includes one or more cranks rotatably attached to a base, and a rider support supported on a carrier and movable relative to the base for supporting a rider, the carrier has a front portion for swinging relative to the base and a rear portion pivotally coupled to the cranks indirectly with a pendulum for moving cyclically relative to the base and for allowing the carrier to be moved in an elliptical and reciprocating action relative to the base by the crank device, and the rider support is supported on the carrier and moved in concert with the rider support for supporting the rider, and the carrier and the rider support may be moved relative to the base in an elliptical and reciprocating action by the rider.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2008Publication date: August 21, 2008Inventors: Jin Chen Chuang, Lung Fei Chuang
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Publication number: 20080200269Abstract: A riding device includes one or more cranks rotatably attached to a base, and a rider support supported on a carrier and movable relative to the base for supporting a rider, the carrier has a front portion pivotally coupled to the base with a link and an arm and a rear portion coupled to the cranks for moving cyclically relative to the base and for allowing the carrier to be moved in an elliptical and reciprocating action relative to the base by the crank device, and the rider support is supported on the carrier and moved in concert with the rider support for supporting the rider, and an actuating device may be used for actuating the carrier and the rider support to move relative to the base in an elliptical and reciprocating action.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2008Publication date: August 21, 2008Inventors: Jin Chen Chuang, Lung Fei Chuang
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Publication number: 20080200267Abstract: A riding device includes one or more cranks rotatably attached to a base, and a rider support supported on a carrier and movable relative to the base for supporting a rider, the carrier has a front portion for swinging relative to the base and a rear portion pivotally coupled to the cranks indirectly with a pendulum for moving cyclically relative to the base and for allowing the carrier to be moved in an elliptical and reciprocating action relative to the base by the crank device, and the rider support is supported on the carrier and moved in concert with the rider support for supporting the rider, and the carrier and the rider support may be moved relative to the base in an elliptical and reciprocating action by the rider.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2008Publication date: August 21, 2008Inventors: Jin Chen Chuang, Lung Fei Chuang
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Patent number: 7182694Abstract: A play facility (1) includes a rotation shaft (25) erected on a floor inside the play facility, the rotation shaft being rotatable (25) around its axis; a brush-like decorative object (33) attached to a circumferential periphery of the rotation shaft (25); and a driving means for rotating the rotation shaft (25) around its axis. A play participant can play while holding on to the rotation shaft (25) to which the decorative object (33) is attached.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2005Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Assignee: BLD Oriental, Ltd.Inventor: Yasushi Ochi
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Patent number: 7008328Abstract: A controllably rotatable seat having an arm to which one or more seats are attached. The arm is rotatably connected to a carrier. An electrical motor, pneumatics, hydraulics, or any other mechanism that is well known in the art for producing rotation rotates the arm and, consequently, the seat or seats. Initiation of rotation and returning of the seat or seats to their original orientation is accomplished by a timer, a sensor detecting targets, or the measurement of some physical criterion associated with movement of the carrier. Preferably, a lever arm connects the arm to the device for rotating so that the point of rotation of the device for rotating will be substantially aligned with the center of gravity of a participant sitting on the seat.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2001Date of Patent: March 7, 2006Inventor: Stanley J. Checketts
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Patent number: 6869368Abstract: A first embodiment of carousel device provides a bouncer which cannot be tipped over accidentally. Further, a oscillating circuit enables a battery-operated motor to gently oscillate the bouncer through an 80° arc. A pair of retractable rockers are provided on the bottom of the stationary base to afford the baby additional motion while bouncing. A second embodiment provides a straddlable vehicle which a youngster can peddle, a sound circuit being activated by the pedaling as inducement to continue exercising.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2004Date of Patent: March 22, 2005Inventors: William A Clarke, Pamela J. Clarke
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Patent number: 6851748Abstract: A multiple chair workstation especially suitable for barbers, hair stylists, dentists, and the like. The workstation comprises a base having a centrally mounted client chair. A revolving floor surrounds the client chair, and an operator's chair is mounted on the revolving floor. The base has a vacuum system for collection of cut hair and other debris, along with air conditioning and lighting. Controls mounted in proximity to the operator chair permit control of the revolving floor and the vacuum and air conditioning. Both chairs may be vertically adjustable, as controlled from the operator chair. Additional controls may include a reclining back on the client and/or operator chair. Various utilitarian appendages such as footrests, armrests, tool trays, storage boxes and the like may be provided on the chairs.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2002Date of Patent: February 8, 2005Inventor: Mary C. Garrick
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Patent number: 6790146Abstract: Apparatus for amusement, unusually capable of causing the user to interact while it is in operation, comprising a structure capable of rotating about an axis and a support for receiving at least one user associated with the structure in its rotary motion about an axis. The structure comprises at least one target. In addition to this, activating mechanism operatively associated with the support to receive at least one user are provided, the activating mechanism being capable of causing the support to receive at least one user to move along at least one direction jointly with the said structure. A device for projecting detection mechanism against the target operatively connected to the support to receive at least one user can be activated by the user himself.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2003Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Assignee: Antonio Zamperla S.p.A.Inventor: Alberto Comand
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Patent number: 6773016Abstract: Game apparatus that enables players themselves to bodily sense a feeling of reality and lively motion, and that enables satisfying curiosity regarding mechanical manipulations. The game apparatus is composed of: a holding section (6) for holding a plurality of grab articles (7); a ride apparatus (10) for players (Y) to board, adapted to be shiftable and/or rotatable; and a fetching device (25) attached onto the ride apparatus (10), for fetching grab articles (7) from the holding section (6) by player (Y) manipulations. By actions that manipulate the fetching device (25), a player (Y) can satisfy curiosity regarding mechanical manipulations, and can enjoy an amusement brimming with appeal. By boarding and traveling with the ride apparatus (10), the players (Y) themselves can bodily sense a feeling of reality and lively motion.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2002Date of Patent: August 10, 2004Inventor: Yasushi Ochi
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Patent number: 6755749Abstract: The invention relates to a free-fall tower for a roller coaster, comprising an approximately or a precisely vertical rail system for a passenger unit, which moves from the lower end to the upper end of said tower, from where the passenger unit can freely fall down to subsequently reach said roller coaster course. In the region of the upper end of said tower, the fixedly secured passenger unit is rotated around an approximately or a precisely vertical axis to allow the passenger unit to freely fall down on another rail of said tower. This results, in combination with a roller coaster course, particularly in combination with a second tower of similar construction, in new, eventful ride effects.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2001Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Inventor: Werner Stengel
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Publication number: 20040116194Abstract: Apparatus for amusement, unusually capable of causing the user to interact while it is in operation, comprising a structure capable of rotating about an axis and means for receiving at least one user associated with the said structure in its rotary motion about an axis. The structure comprises at least one target. In addition to this, activating means operatively associated with the means to receive at least one user are provided, the said activating means being capable of causing the means to receive at least one user to move along at least one direction jointly with the said structure. Means for projecting detection means against the said target operatively connected to the said means to receive at least one user can be activated by the user himself.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 1, 2003Publication date: June 17, 2004Inventor: Alberto Comand
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Patent number: 6656137Abstract: Structure providing sessions of a prolonged spinning therapeutic modality that affects the biological occupant therein stimulating, exercising and strengthening the occupant's R.A.S in combination with other stimuli that affect the organism with different types of physiological and neurological stimuli such that several unique types of input affect the organism synergistically to provide a far greater therapeutic benefit than the prior art showed by using such stimulus devices individually.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 1998Date of Patent: December 2, 2003Assignee: Omega Assembly TrustInventors: James Eugene Tyldsley, Loran L. Swensen
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Patent number: 6328658Abstract: An amusement ride is provided which includes a base, stationary elements mounted on said base, assemblies that are movable relative to said stationary elements, cabins that are fastened on said moving assemblies, and units for passengers loading, unloading and servicing that are mounted on said base. At least one of said cabins is designed as a restaurant and/or a bar, and said servicing units contain blocks for food preparation and/or storage. The amusement ride can be designed as a panoramic wheel or any other amusement device equipped with cabins that move under the action of forces applied.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 1999Date of Patent: December 11, 2001Inventor: Vladimir Gnezdilov
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Patent number: 6171198Abstract: A merry-go-round with a frame supported for rotation by a plurality of driven wheels, the merry-go-round having a space for a wheel chair and a space for a non-wheel chair bound person. Each separate space on the merry-go-round is associated with a respective crank assembly such that a person in that space can drive one of the driven wheels through a crank. A plurality of smaller wheels secured to the underside of the frame provide additional support for the merry-go-round. The person in the non-wheel chair bound space can stand on the frame, or in an alternate embodiment can sit on a chair. Because the merry-go-round has spaces for both wheel chairs and non-wheel chair bound people, both can use the merry-go-round at the same time.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 1999Date of Patent: January 9, 2001Assignee: University of Puerto RicoInventors: Mauricio Ambal Lizama Troncoso, David Serrano, Eilleen Aviles, Felix J. Santana Lopez, Victor M. Valentin
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Patent number: 6162127Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 8, 1998Date of Patent: December 19, 2000Assignee: Oriental Sangyo Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yasushi Ochi
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Patent number: 6149528Abstract: An amusement ride vehicle includes a seat for accommodating a rider in a wheelchair. A door attached to the seat pivots outwardly. The seat bottom folds down and a seat back pivotably attached to the seat bottom retracts, to create space for maneuvering a wheelchair and reveals storage panels for wheelchair tiedowns. A fixed companion seat is provided alongside the space created for the wheelchair. To accommodate non-physically disabled riders, the seat bottom is moved to an up position and the seat back moved out, to align with the seat bottom and back of the fixed companion seat. The door, when in the closed position, engages a seat lock that supports the folding seat on both sides.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 1999Date of Patent: November 21, 2000Assignee: Universal City Studio, Inc.Inventors: David G. Volz, Chad E. Brose, Joseph o Chadwick, David L. Manlove
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Patent number: 6128863Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 24, 1999Date of Patent: October 10, 2000Assignee: SeaVenture, a Nevada Limited Liability CompanyInventor: George D. Millay
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Patent number: 5957778Abstract: An amusement ride (10) is provided which includes a trailer (12) to make the ride portable. A park ride (10') is also disclosed for permanent installation at an amusement park or similar facility. In the portable ride (10), the tower (14) is moved by a double acting hydraulic cylinder (26) along the trailer from the transport position to a position where it is hingeably mounted to the trailer (12) by a hinge support (32). The double acting hydraulic cylinder (26) is also used to lift the tower to the erected position once the tower assembly is hinged to hinge support 32. In both the portable ride (10) and park ride (10'), the tower includes a lower section (16) and an upper section (18). A hydraulic cylinder lifts the upper section relative to the lower section. Cables (46) extend between a gondola and the lower section and are guided on pulleys over the upper end of the upper section. As the upper section moves vertically, the gondola will move vertically at about twice the velocity of the upper section.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 1996Date of Patent: September 28, 1999Inventor: Walter F. Larson
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Patent number: 5935012Abstract: A wheeled child seat is provided including a seat having a bottom, a back integrally coupled to the bottom and extending upwardly therefrom. A harness is provided for securing a child within the seat. Also included is a drive assembly having wheels mounted on the seat, a plurality of batteries mounted on the seat, and a motor coupled to the seat and in communication with the wheels for rotating the same upon actuation.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 1998Date of Patent: August 10, 1999Inventors: Irv Cohn, William Highfield
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Patent number: 5935011Abstract: A carousel has a ramp for providing wheelchair access. The ramp is slidably stored on the underside of the carousel platform. In use, the ramp is pulled out from the carousel and is then unfolded, using a lever handle. The outer or bottom end of the lower ramp section rests on the ground. The inner or upper end of the second ramp section is positioned on the top surface of the carousel platform, or on a raised vehicle platform above the carousel platform. A wheelchair can then roll up the ramp and onto the carousel. The wheelchair is secured into a vehicle, such as a chariot, on the carousel. The vehicle oscillates vertically, to provide the wheelchair passenger with a more traditional and enjoyable carousel ride experience.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1998Date of Patent: August 10, 1999Assignee: Universal City Studios, Inc.Inventors: Dana H. Morgan, George Olson, Christian Lauren
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Patent number: 5935010Abstract: A toddler carousel is formed by providing a rotational base member with a mountable seat such as a pony. Preferably, the seat is mounted in the center of the carousel and can be rocked by the toddler. The rotational base is rotated relative to a stationary base by a motor and, by virtue of bearings positioned between the rotational and stationary bases. Alternatively, the seat may be mounted adjacent the periphery of the carousel to provide the toddler with a more conventional carousel-type ride.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 1997Date of Patent: August 10, 1999Inventor: William A. Clarke
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Patent number: 5810641Abstract: A rocking mechanism with upward, downward, forward and backward actions is disclosed. It mainly includes a base, a driving unit, a rocking unit, an outer pipe unit, an inner pipe unit, a rocking block, a upper sleeve and a decoration. With matching the inclined guiding slots on the rocking block and the fixed key of the outer pipe unit, the driving block can rock forward and backward when moving upward and downward in the same time. The effect of the rock makes the decoration of the mechanism lively as a horse runs.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1997Date of Patent: September 22, 1998Inventor: Szu Wei Lo
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Patent number: 5803815Abstract: The present invention is an amusement ride which whips a rider high into the air at the end of a long crane-like arm. The ride comprises an arm having a rider capsule at one end and a counterweight at the other. A pivot point is located on the arm at a point near the counterweight. The pivot point is not at the center point of the arm. The pivot point is attached to a fulcrum on a base. The base is of sufficient height so that the arm in operation oscillates through an arc of 170.degree. without the counterweight contacting the ground. The rider capsule spins while the arm is oscillating. The effect of the ride is to subject riders first to a positive and then a negative "g" during the ride's operation.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 1997Date of Patent: September 8, 1998Assignee: Skymax, Inc.Inventor: William Joel Kitchen
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Patent number: 5709606Abstract: A rotatable swing set for providing amusement to children by spinning children secured within swing seats around a central point includes a main support post, a horizontally-disposed circular plate secured to the upper end of the support post for selective rotation thereon, and a plurality of arms radially mounted on the upper surface of the circular plate with the distal ends of the arms projecting outwardly past the circular plate and from which swing seats are suspended with one swing seat suspended from each arm. In addition, a support plate is mounted to the main support post subjacent the circular plate. The support plate supports thereon a drive motor, a chain linkage arrangement driven by the drive motor, and a drive wheel which frictionally engages the bottom surface of the circular plate.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 1996Date of Patent: January 20, 1998Inventor: Richard Eugene Ehrman
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Patent number: 5676601Abstract: A carousel comprises turntable (10) mounted for rotation about a vertical axis on a frame (12, 13). The turntable (10) carries a plurality, and typically four, see-saw arrangements (11), each of which comprises an arm (43) pivoted centrally to a support (40) and carrying seats (44) at its two ends. Hydraulic rams are arranged to effect movement of the arm (43), as the turntable rotates. The movement of the arms may be linked to the rotation of the turntable. The see-saws may be aesthetically configured to add appeal to young children.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 1996Date of Patent: October 14, 1997Inventor: Stuart Edward Saunders
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Patent number: 5660430Abstract: An infant entertainment device having a molded plastic receptacle which receives a portable seat or layette, the device rotating a baby carried by the seat at a rate of about one rpm relative to a stationary base member. Optionally, the carousel may be equipped with a cam on the stationary base and a cam-riding rod which engages and rocks the removable seat relative to the molded carrier as the upper portion rotates relative to the stationary base. Music is provided by a microchip, for example, or at the option of the operator, the carousel may be operated without music. A toddler carousel may be formed by providing the rotational base member with a mountable seat such as a pony. Preferably, the pony is mounted in the center of the carousel and can be rocked by the toddler. Alternatively, the pony may be mounted adjacent the periphery of the carousel to provide the toddler with a more conventional carousel-type ride.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1995Date of Patent: August 26, 1997Inventor: William A. Clarke