US20080286048A1 - Sheet flow water ride apparatus and method - Google Patents
Sheet flow water ride apparatus and method Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20080286048A1 US20080286048A1 US12/074,849 US7484908A US2008286048A1 US 20080286048 A1 US20080286048 A1 US 20080286048A1 US 7484908 A US7484908 A US 7484908A US 2008286048 A1 US2008286048 A1 US 2008286048A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- wave
- jets
- artificial
- water
- flow
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 title claims abstract description 222
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 22
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 5
- 239000011159 matrix material Substances 0.000 description 12
- 238000011144 upstream manufacturing Methods 0.000 description 6
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000005096 rolling process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011152 fibreglass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000630 rising effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
- A63B69/0093—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for surfing, i.e. without a sail; for skate or snow boarding
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63G—MERRY-GO-ROUNDS; SWINGS; ROCKING-HORSES; CHUTES; SWITCHBACKS; SIMILAR DEVICES FOR PUBLIC AMUSEMENT
- A63G3/00—Water roundabouts, e.g. freely floating
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63G—MERRY-GO-ROUNDS; SWINGS; ROCKING-HORSES; CHUTES; SWITCHBACKS; SIMILAR DEVICES FOR PUBLIC AMUSEMENT
- A63G31/00—Amusement arrangements
- A63G31/007—Amusement arrangements involving water
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
- A63B69/12—Arrangements in swimming pools for teaching swimming or for training
- A63B69/125—Devices for generating a current of water in swimming pools
Definitions
- the design of the pool is very important for producing waves. If the design of the pool is flawed, the pool will not produce waves. Even in nature with the correct beach, perfect waves are rare, because the waves depend upon environmental conditions, such as tides, wind, and off-shore storms.
- the pneumatic surf wave stores water in caissons and uses the water to produce the desired wave.
- the pneumatic surf wave uses gravity to discharge the water from the caissons.
- the pneumatic surf wave uses a fan to expel the air in the chamber, causing a vacuum to draw the air upward. When the air is at its maximum capacity, the air is released into the chamber to create the wave.
- the caissons of the pneumatic surf wave are generally positioned upright.
- the surf wave generator uses compressed air to release water from caissons to form a wave.
- the surf wave generator uses rows of caissons positioned along a side of the pool. More specifically, the caissons of the surf wave generator are generally positioned vertically along a back side of the pool.
- the pneumatic wave generator uses water-filled caissons to produce the desired wave.
- the pneumatic wave generator uses compressed air to expel the wave from the caisson.
- the pneumatic wave generator includes many caissons in a single pool.
- the pneumatic wave generator includes caissons that are generally positioned vertically on a back side of the pool.
- Some embodiments of the invention provide an apparatus and method for creating an artificial wave for a water ride with pneumatic wave generators enhanced by nozzles or jets.
- Some embodiments of the invention provide a sheet flow wave generator including a ride surface and nozzles or jets coupled to the ride surface. The nozzles or jets can be configured to form an artificial wave upon the ride surface.
- Embodiments of the invention also provide an apparatus and method of forming an artificial wave that moves in a direction against current flow.
- An apparatus and method of making an artificial wave can include forming an artificial wave that moves in one direction and using current moving in another direction to slow the speed of the artificial wave.
- Some embodiments of the invention can also be used to make a standing wave that is suitable for recreational use by causing water to flow through nozzles or jets.
- FIG. 1 is a top schematic view of a water ride according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 2 is side perspective view of the water ride of FIG. 1 .
- FIGS. 3A-3E are top views of a water ride including various configurations of nozzles or jets according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIGS. 4A-4E are end perspective view of a water ride including various configurations of nozzles or jets according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIGS. 5A-5E are top views of a water ride including various configurations of nozzles or jets according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 6 is a top view of a wave-generating device including nozzles formed in a rifling pattern according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 7 is a top view of a water ride including the wave-generating device of FIG. 6 .
- FIGS. 8A-8D are perspective views of a water ride and a pivot jet according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a water ride according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIGS. 10A-10C are top and side views of a water ride according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a water ride according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a water ride according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIGS. 13A-13J are schematic top views of a wave-generating device for use with the water rides of FIGS. 1-12 .
- FIG. 14 is a schematic top view of a wave-generating device for use with the water rides of FIGS. 1-12 .
- FIGS. 15A-15D are front and side views of artificial waves created by jets or nozzles.
- FIGS. 16A-16B are side and front views of artificial waves created by jets or nozzles.
- FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a water ride according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 18 is a center cross-sectional view of the water ride of FIG. 17 .
- FIG. 19 is a side cross-sectional view of the water ride of FIG. 17 .
- FIG. 20 is a top view of a wave generating device matrix according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIGS. 21A-21 b are perspective and side views of a concave feature for use with water rides according to some embodiments of the invention.
- FIGS. 22A-22C are side and perspective views of a concave feature for use with water rides according to some embodiments of the invention.
- FIGS. 23A-23C are perspective and side views of a concave feature for use with water rides according to some embodiments of the invention.
- FIGS. 24A-24B are top and perspective views of a concave feature for use with water rides according to some embodiments of the invention.
- FIG. 25 is a top view of a concave feature for use with water rides according to some embodiments of the invention.
- FIGS. 26A-26B are top views of concave features for use with water rides according to some embodiments of the invention.
- FIGS. 27A-27B are perspective and side views of a wave generating device module for use with water rides according to some embodiments of the invention.
- FIG. 28A-28B are top and side views of a water ride according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a water ride 100 according to one embodiment of the invention.
- the water ride 100 can include one or more chambers or caissons 1 , a primary pump room 2 , and wave-generating devices 3 .
- the water ride 100 can include water return grates 4 , water return pipes 5 , a water pump 7 , a water suction intake system 8 , and a secondary pump room 9 .
- the water ride 100 can include one or more sets of stairs 14 that allow a rider to enter and exit the water ride 100 .
- the water ride 100 can be positioned adjacent to various commercial establishments or recreational activities, such as a concession stand 10 , a hot tub 11 , or a restaurant 12 .
- a bar or wall 13 can be positioned within the water ride 100 to divide the water ride 100 into two or more sections.
- the primary pump room 2 can include pumps positioned close to the surface of the pool in order to produce a current to propel riders.
- the wave-generating devices 3 can be coupled to the water return pipes 5 in order to use the water flowing through the water return grates 4 to power the wave-generating devices 3 .
- the water return pipes 5 can be connected to the water pump 7 .
- the water pump 7 can also be connected to the water suction intake system 8 .
- the secondary pump room 9 can supply the caissons 1 with air to produce the primary wave of the water ride 100 .
- the wave-generating devices 3 can include pipes with nozzles or individual jets that force water upward to create a wave that moves in a direction against the current flow of the primary wave generated by the caissons 1 .
- nozzle and “jet” may be used interchangeably, with both terms referring to any device capable of propelling water upward from a surface in a desired direction and at a desired pressure.
- a pattern of nozzles 102 formed in a pipe can generate a wave at a starting location 15 .
- additional wave-generating devices can be used to create a small non-curling wave or “bump” before a curling wave created by the wave-generating devices 3 .
- This small non-curling wave can cause the rider to dip down before rising up the curling wave.
- the water ride 100 can use gravity to force water out of the caissons 1 to produce the primary wave.
- the water ride 100 can include one or more caissons 1 positioned vertically along a back side of the pool.
- the water ride 100 can use a set wave system to generate primary and/or secondary waves as disclosed in applicant's co-pending U.S. utility patent application entitled “Set Wave System for Wave Generation,” the entire contents of which is herein incorporated by reference, and which also claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application No. 60/893,923.
- the wave-generating devices 3 can be used to form an artificial wave that moves in a direction against current flow, such as the current flow produced by the primary wave generated by the caissons 1 .
- the artificial wave generated by the wave-generating devices 3 can also move in a direction that is against the current flow of a river type of water ride that does not provide primary waves.
- the artificial wave formed by the wave-generating devices 3 can move against the current flow in a channel (such as a stream or river, whether natural or artificial).
- the current flow in the channel can slow down the speed of the artificial wave.
- the current flow can slow down the speed of the artificial wave to about one-quarter of its original speed.
- the water ride 100 can form an artificial wave that moves in one direction and can use current moving in another direction to slow the speed of the artificial wave.
- the wave-generating devices 3 include one or more nozzles or jets that can be used to change or enhance the shape of the artificial wave.
- the nozzles or jets can be positioned beneath a surface of the water.
- a series of nozzles or jets can be positioned on a floor of the water ride and can be used to change or enhance the shape of the artificial wave.
- a series of nozzles or jets can be used to make the wave higher, steeper, and/or curl over.
- a combination of nozzles or jets and current flow caused by the caissons 1 can be used to make the wave higher, steeper, and/or curl over.
- the water ride 100 can be used to make a standing wave that is suitable for recreational use by causing water to flow through nozzles or jets.
- the nozzles or jets can be articulated or moveable to facilitate varying a shape of the standing wave.
- some embodiments of the invention provide a sheet flow wave ride including a ride surface and a series of nozzles or jets coupled to, formed in, or positioned proximate to the ride surface.
- the nozzles or jets can be configured to form an artificial wave upon the ride surface.
- the ride surface can be generally planar.
- the ride surface can be positioned to be substantially horizontal or inclined with respect to the ground.
- the nozzles or jets can be configured to cause water to flow across the ride surface. If the ride surface is inclined, the nozzles or jets can be configured to cause water to flow upwardly over the ride surface.
- the nozzles or jets can be configured to define water depths on the ride surface from approximately 2 inches to approximately 36 inches.
- the water depth on the ride surface can be substantially less than for a river type of water ride.
- the nozzles or jets are angled to cause the wave to curl forward on one side.
- the pressure of the water flowing through the nozzles or jets can be varied.
- the pressure can be varied through each individual nozzle or jet or through groups of nozzles or jets.
- the water pressure can be varied through the nozzles or jets to change the shape and/or position of the wave.
- the nozzles or jets can be articulated either in groups or individually. The nozzles or jets can be articulated to change the shape and/or position of the wave.
- the water pressure can be varied through the nozzles or jets and the nozzles or jets can be articulated to move the wave left or right, move the wave up or down, and/or to vary the shape of the wave.
- the water pressure is higher in the front (or lower or upstream) nozzles or jets than in the back (or higher or downstream) nozzles or jets.
- a portion of the nozzles or jets are positioned along a front end (or lower end or upstream) of the ride surface to cause water flow upwardly across the ride surface.
- a drain can be formed at the back end (upper end or downstream) of the ride surface.
- FIG. 3A illustrates one embodiment of a sheet flow water ride 200 with a ride surface 202 .
- the sheet flow water ride 200 can include wave-generating devices 3 , additional wave-generating or flow-creating devices 4 , a water suction intake system 8 , and stairs 14 .
- the wave-generating devices 3 can be used to create artificial waves on the ride surface 202 .
- the wave-generating devices 3 can be configured in a number of manners, such as those shown in FIGS. 3B-3E . If the configuration of FIG. 3B is used, the artificial wave can be formed at a central portion 204 of the wave-generating devices 3 . If the configuration of FIG. 3C is used, the artificial wave can be formed at a diagonal portion 206 of the wave-generating devices 3 . If the configuration of FIG.
- the artificial wave can substantially span the width of the water ride 200 . If the configuration of FIG. 3E is used, the artificial wave can be formed at another diagonal portion 208 of the wave-generating devices 3 .
- a bar or wall 13 can be positioned within the water ride 200 to create two ride surfaces for two riders. Each ride surface can include one of the nozzle or jet configurations shown in FIGS. 3B-3E .
- FIGS. 4A-5E illustrate a water ride 300 similar to the water ride 200 shown in FIGS. 3A-3E , except that no bar or wall 13 is included in the water ride 300 . As a result, the water ride 300 only includes a single ride surface 302 .
- the nozzles of the wave-generating devices 3 are defined by openings formed in pipes. As shown in FIGS. 6-7 , the openings in the pipes can spiral at least part of the way around the pipes in a rifling-like fashion. These types of nozzles can also be configured within the water rides described herein in the manner shown and described with respect to FIGS. 3A-5E .
- FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate a water ride 400 according to another embodiment of the invention.
- the water ride 400 can include a body 402 divided into two or more parts, such as four parts 404 , 406 , 408 , and 410 , as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8C . More specifically, the body 402 can include an upper left body 404 , an upper right body 406 , a lower left base 408 , and a lower right base 410 . In some embodiments, each of the four parts 404 , 406 , 408 , and 410 can be constructed of fiberglass.
- the water ride 400 can be substantially portable by disassembling and reassembling the four parts in a new location. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG.
- the assembled water ride 400 can have a length L of about 50 feet, a width W for each half of about 12 feet, and a maximum height H of about 7 feet.
- the upper left body 404 can be secured to the upper right body 406 using fasteners within holes 420 in flanges 422 .
- the upper left body 404 and the upper right body 406 can include grating lips 412 that can support grating 414 .
- the upper left body 404 and the upper right body 406 can also include lateral grating 416 for de-watering the water ride 400 along its lateral sides 418 .
- one or both of the upper left body 404 and the upper right body 406 can include stairs 424 that allow riders to enter and exit the water ride 400 .
- the upper left body 404 and the upper right body 406 can include a curb 425 formed around a bottom perimeter of the water ride 400 .
- One or both of the upper left body 404 and the upper right body 406 can include openings 426 (as shown in FIG. 8A ) through which jets 428 (as shown in FIG. 8C ) can be positioned.
- the jets 428 can propel a sheet of water up a ride surface 430 .
- the water ride 400 can include a series of wave-generating devices 432 , as shown in FIG. 8A , such as a series of pivot jets, that can propel water upward and/or in a direction that is against the current flow produced by the jets 428 .
- FIG. 8B illustrates a wave-generating device 432 in the form of a pivot jet that can be articulated with respect to the ride surface 430 .
- FIGS. 8C-8D illustrate the jets 428 that propel water upwardly onto the ride surface 430 .
- the water creates a sheet of water on the ride surface 430 flowing at a particular rate.
- Water is also being propelled upwardly from the wave-generating devices 432 positioned across the width W of the water ride 400 .
- the sheet of water meets the area adjacent to the wave-generating devices 432 , the sheet of water is slowed down.
- the water being propelled upward by the wave-generating devices 432 combines with the sheet of water being propelled upward by the jets 428 .
- an artificial wave is generated on the ride surface 430 .
- the shape, height, and curl of this artificial wave can be altered by varying the pressure and/or position of the wave-generating devices 432 .
- the artificial wave can also be altered by varying the pressure of the jets 428 .
- the pressures and positions of the wave-generating devices 432 and the jets 428 can be automated with an automation system.
- the water ride 400 can include grating 414 through which return water can flow once the sheet of water has passed over the ride surface 430 .
- the return water can flow downward into a basin 434 .
- the return water in the basin 434 can flow through water return grating 436 and into water intake ports 438 in order to be returned to the jets 428 through caissons 440 .
- the de-watering of the water ride 400 can also be accomplished using the lateral grating 416 , as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8C .
- FIG. 9 illustrates a water ride 500 according to another embodiment of the invention.
- the water ride 500 is similar to the water ride 400 shown and described with respect to FIGS. 8A-8D .
- the water ride 500 can have a length L of about 52 feet and a total width W of about 34 feet.
- FIG. 9 illustrates an artificial curling wave 502 created by a combination of a sheet of water flowing from jets 528 up the incline of the ride surface 530 and water being propelled upward by jets 532 coupled to the ride surface 530 .
- the jets 532 can be coupled to the ride surface 530 in groups, with each group being positioned in a particular direction and propelling water at a particular pressure.
- the jets 532 can be positioned in four rows across the width W of the water ride 500 .
- the rows of jets 532 can create an angled portion across part of the width W of the water ride 500 .
- the angled portion can be used to direct the curling portion of the artificial wave to the desired position on the ride surface 530 .
- FIGS. 10A-10C illustrate a water ride 600 according to another embodiment of the invention.
- the water ride 600 is similar to the water ride 400 shown and described with respect to FIGS. 8A-8D , except that the water ride 600 includes water intake ports 638 positioned along lateral sides 618 of the water ride 600 , rather than under a ride surface 630 of the water ride 600 .
- a sheet of water is propelled up the ride surface 630 by jets 628 .
- the sheet of water can meet a first set of wave-generating jets 640 that can create a small non-curling wave or bump.
- the sheet of water can then met a second set of wave-generating jets 632 positioned across the width of the water ride 600 .
- the jets 632 can create a curling wave, for example, as shown and described with respect to FIG. 9 .
- the sheet of water can pass the jets 632 and continue up the inclined ride surface 630 until reaching the grating 614 . As shown in FIG.
- the return water can fall through the grating 614 and be directed into a basin 634 and then toward the water intake ports 638 positioned along the lateral sides 618 of the water ride 600 .
- the return water can be directed into chambers or caissons 642 (in one embodiment, three caissons 642 on each lateral side 618 of the water ride 600 ) and through additional piping 643 back to the jets 628 .
- a portion of the return water can be routed directly back onto the ride surface 630 by piping 644 (as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B ) rather than being returned to the jets 628 .
- FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate an artificial curling wave created by a combination of a sheet of water flowing from jets up the incline of the ride surface and water being propelled upward by jets coupled to the ride surface.
- the jets can be coupled to the ride surface in panels or groups (such as sixteen groups, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 ), with each group being positioned in a particular direction and propelling water at a particular pressure.
- the jets can be positioned in four rows and four sections across the width of the water ride to create sixteen groups of jets.
- the rows of jets can create an angled portion across part of the width of the water ride. The angled portion can be used to direct the curling portion of the artificial wave to the desired position on the ride surface.
- each panel or group can be about 24 inches long and about 71 ⁇ 2 inches wide. Four panels can span about 96 inches across the width of the water ride. In another embodiment, each panel or group can be about 8 inches long, with four panels spanning about 32 inches across the width of the water ride in order to create a two foot high barrel standing wave.
- FIGS. 13A-13J illustrate a wave-generating device 700 for use with the water rides shown and described with respect to FIGS. 1-12 .
- the wave-generating device 700 can include groups of jets that can be operated, positioned, and/or pressurized in the same manner.
- FIG. 13A illustrates a top left group 702 , a top right group 704 , a top middle group 706 , a bottom left group 708 , a bottom right group 710 , and a bottom middle group 712 .
- the configurations shown in FIGS. 13B-13J can each be created.
- Each of the configurations shown in FIGS. 13B-13J can produce a different type, shape, or size of artificial wave.
- FIG. 13A illustrates a wave-generating device 700 for use with the water rides shown and described with respect to FIGS. 1-12 .
- the wave-generating device 700 can include groups of jets that can be operated, positioned, and/or pressurized in the same manner.
- FIG. 13A illustrate
- FIG. 13B illustrates the use of the top left group 702 , the top middle group 706 , and the bottom right group 710 .
- FIG. 13C illustrates the use of the bottom left group 708 , the top middle group 706 , and the top right group 704 .
- FIG. 13D illustrates the use of the bottom left group 708 , the bottom middle group 712 , and the bottom right group 710 .
- FIG. 13E illustrates the use of the top left group 702 and the top right group 704 .
- FIG. 13F illustrates the use all the groups except for the bottom middle group 712 .
- FIG. 13G illustrates the use of the top left group 702 , the top middle group 706 , and the bottom left group 708 .
- FIG. 13H illustrates the use of the top right group 706 , the top middle group 706 , and the bottom right group 310 .
- FIG. 13I illustrates the use of the top left group 702 , the top right group 704 , and the bottom right group 710 .
- FIG. 13J illustrates the use of the top left group 702 , the bottom left group 708 , and the bottom right group 710 .
- FIG. 14 illustrates a wave-generating device 800 for use with the water rides shown and described with respect to FIGS. 1-12 .
- the wave-generating device 800 can include a matrix 802 having a particular bed size. In one embodiment, the bed size is about 351 ⁇ 2 inches by 20 inches.
- the matrix 802 can include a horizontal matrix 804 and an inclined matrix 806 .
- the horizontal matrix 804 can include, for example, 66 jets (6 rows by 11 columns).
- the inclined matrix 806 can include, for example, 144 jets (6 rows by 24 columns). Accordingly, in one embodiment, the matrix 802 can include a total of 210 jets.
- FIGS. 15A-15D illustrate wave profiles created with various embodiments of the invention.
- FIG. 15A is a side view of an artificial curling wave 900 created with jets 902 being operated at different pressures.
- FIG. 15B is a front view of the artificial curling wave of FIG. 15A .
- FIG. 15D is a side view of a rolling wave 904 and
- FIG. 15C is a front view of the rolling wave 904 .
- FIG. 15D illustrates the jets 902 being positioned across two wavelengths.
- FIG. 16A also illustrates the jets 902 being positioned across two wavelengths including a first crest 906 , a trough 908 , and a second crest 910 .
- FIG. 16B is a front view of the waves of FIG. 16A .
- each jet of the wave-generating devices can be individually controlled.
- the jets can be connected to an automation system in order to be individually controlled.
- the jets can cover more of the floor of the riding surface, for example, covering two or more wavelengths of the artificial wave.
- FIGS. 17-19 illustrate a water ride 1000 according to another embodiment of the invention.
- the water ride 1000 can include a ride surface 1010 with a concave feature 1012 .
- the water can flow into the concave feature 1012 to create a dip in the height of the water with respect to the height of the ride surface 1010 .
- the concave feature 1012 can have several suitable configurations as described below.
- the concave feature 1012 results in the rider dropping down before reaching the area where the rider is elevated onto a wave form 1026 created by wave-generating devices 1028 .
- the water ride 1000 can include additional wave-generating devices positioned upstream of the concave feature 1012 .
- the additional wave-generating devices can create a small non-curling wave before the rider drops down into the concave feature 1012 .
- the water ride 1000 can include one or more side de-watering grates 1022 positioned on the lateral sides of the water ride 1000 generally outside of the concave feature 1012 .
- the water ride 1000 can also include a central de-watering grate 1024 positioned in the center of the concave feature 1012 .
- the water flow as represented by arrows 1032 , can flow past the concave feature 1012 where some water can be removed through the grates 1022 , 1024 .
- the water collected with the grates 1022 , 1024 can be used to power the wave-generating devices 1028 .
- the remaining water flow 1032 can move into the wave-generating devices 1028 in order to form the wave form 1026 .
- FIG. 18 illustrates a cross-section of the ride surface 1010 taken transverse to the water flow 1032 .
- FIG. 19 illustrates another cross-section of the ride surface 1010 taken parallel to the water flow 1032 .
- FIG. 19 illustrates that the water flowing into the central de-watering grate 1024 can flow through a pipe 1034 to a reservoir 1036 used to provide water to the wave-generating devices 1028 .
- FIG. 20 illustrates a wave generating device matrix 1050 according to one embodiment of the invention.
- the wave generating device matrix 1050 can include a top surface 1052 that can form part of the ride surface 1010 .
- Individual jets or nozzles 1054 can be coupled to the top surface 1052 in an evenly-space rectangular matrix configuration or another suitable configuration.
- the individual jets or nozzles 1054 can each include a valve or groups of the jets or nozzles 1054 can be controlled by one valve.
- the jets or nozzles 1054 for which the valve is open are identified by circles 1056 and create a wave generation pattern 1058 suitable for generating a particular waveform.
- FIGS. 21A-21B illustrate one embodiment of a concave feature 1100 for use with various water rides as described herein.
- the concave feature 1100 can include a generally planar bed 1102 , a perimeter 1104 , a depression 1106 , a de-watering grate 1108 , wave-generating devices 1110 , a primary flow area 1112 , a secondary flow area 1114 , and a surfing zone 1116 .
- FIGS. 22A-23C also illustrate embodiments of a concave feature similar to the concave feature 1100 of FIGS. 21A-21B .
- FIGS. 22A and 23C illustrate a platform 1118 , water return piping 1120 , and piping 1122 for the wave-generating devices 1110 .
- FIG. 22B illustrates that the depression 1106 can include various zones with different elevation levels.
- FIG. 22C illustrates a curling barrel wave that can be created in the secondary flow area 1114 .
- FIG. 23A illustrates the depression 1106 without any wave-generating devices 1110 .
- FIG. 23B illustrates platforms 1118 that can be positioned, in some embodiments, upstream and downstream of the depression 1106 and the wave-generating devices 1110 .
- FIGS. 24A-24B illustrate a concave feature 1100 similar to the concave feature of FIGS. 21A-23C .
- the concave feature 1100 of FIGS. 24A-24B can include various zones with different elevation levels.
- the wave-generating devices 1110 of FIGS. 24A-24B can include several panels of nozzles or jets, such as left side panels 1124 , left diagonal panels 1126 , center panels 1128 , right diagonal panels 1130 , and right side panels 1132 .
- the wave-generating devices 1110 of FIGS. 24A-24B can generate a curling wave in a central portion of the depression 1106 , for example, upstream of the center panels 1128 .
- the water ride of FIGS. 24A-24B can also include grating 1108 at the bottom of the depression 1106 and grating 1134 downstream from the wave-generating devices 1110 .
- FIG. 25 illustrates another concave feature 1100 similar to the concave feature of FIGS. 24A-24B , except that the wave-generating devices 1110 are configured in a different manner.
- the wave-generating devices 1110 of FIG. 25 include several panels of nozzles or jets, including left top panels 1136 , diagonal panels 1138 , and right bottom panels 1140 .
- FIGS. 26A-26B illustrate another concave feature 1100 including two depressions 1106 and wave-generating devices 1110 in a V-shaped configuration that can create two separate curling waves.
- the wave-generating devices 1110 of FIG. 26A can include several panels of nozzles or jets, including top left panels 1142 , left diagonal panels 1144 , central panels 1146 , right diagonal panels 1148 , and top right panels 1150 .
- FIG. 26B illustrates a depression 1106 with three elevation zones.
- FIG. 27A illustrates a wave generating device module 1200 .
- FIG. 27B illustrates two wave generating device modules 1200 connected together by connectors 1202 on each end and/or other suitable fasteners on the elongated sides.
- Each wave generating device module 1200 can include an evenly-space rectangular matrix configuration or another suitable configuration of wave generating devices 1204 As shown in FIG. 27B , each wave generating device 1204 can include an angled exit orifice 1206 designed to direct the water in a particular manner.
- the angled exit orifice 1206 can be formed in a panel having a thickness that allows each orifice 1206 to give direction to the water flowing through it.
- the wave generating device modules 1200 can each be designed to generate different wave forms depending on the number and arrangement of the modules 1200 .
- the modules 1200 can be connected together using suitable connectors 1202 .
- a desired number and arrangement of modules 1200 can be coupled together and attached as decking (such as with bolts) to create a portion of the ride surface of one of the water ride embodiments described herein.
- the modules 1200 can be easily removed from the ride surface in order to change the type of wave form that is being generated, for example, during testing of the water ride or in order to provide different wave forms for different riders.
- the modules 1200 can be changed in order to change the level of difficulty of the water ride.
- Different modules 1200 can be designed for the following activities: body boarding (no curl), surfing (curl), kayaking (deep flow), and body surfing (deep flow).
- Different modules 1200 can also be designed for different depths of flow within the water ride, such as sheet flow versus deep river flow.
- water flows can be introduced into the water rides from different angles and perspectives.
- water can be angled to flow up an inclined ride surface.
- water can be introduced to form an intersecting flow that can be diagonal or transverse to the main water flow in the water ride.
- water can be introduced from the side of the water ride and then join the main water flow of the water ride.
- FIGS. 28A-28B illustrate a generally circular water ride 1300 according to another embodiment of the invention.
- the water ride 1300 can include a wave generation system 1302 positioned in a central portion of the water ride 1300 .
- the wave generation system 1302 can push water to flow upward into a dome 1304 and then create a sheet flow 1306 on a conical ride surface 1308 .
- the conical ride surface 1308 can include wave generating devices 1310 positioned in a ring around an outer portion 1312 of the water ride 1300 .
- the wave generating devices 1310 can be jets or nozzles that help to create a wave form 1313 around a portion of the perimeter of the water ride 1300 or around substantially the entire perimeter of the water ride 1300 .
- Water can be provided from the wave generation system 1302 to the wave generating devices 1310 with pipes 1311 .
- the water ride 1300 can also include de-watering grates 1314 positioned in a ring around the outside perimeter of the water ride 1300 . The water can flow through the grates 1314 into water returns 1316 that lead back to the wave generation system 1302 .
Abstract
Embodiments of the invention provide a sheet flow wave generator including a ride surface and a plurality of nozzles or jets coupled to the ride surface. The nozzles or jets can be configured to form an artificial wave upon the ride surface. Embodiments of the invention also provide an apparatus and method of forming an artificial wave that moves in a direction against current flow. An apparatus and method of making an artificial wave can include forming an artificial wave that moves in one direction and using current moving in another direction to slow the speed of the artificial wave. Some embodiments of the invention can also be used to make a standing wave that is suitable for recreational use by causing water to flow through nozzles or jets.
Description
- This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/893,923 filed on Mar. 9, 2007, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/003,080 filed on Nov. 14, 2007, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.
- Wave pools and water rides often use conventional wave generators to produce waves. The design of the pool is very important for producing waves. If the design of the pool is flawed, the pool will not produce waves. Even in nature with the correct beach, perfect waves are rare, because the waves depend upon environmental conditions, such as tides, wind, and off-shore storms.
- One conventional wave generator is the pneumatic surf wave. The pneumatic surf wave stores water in caissons and uses the water to produce the desired wave. The pneumatic surf wave uses gravity to discharge the water from the caissons. The pneumatic surf wave uses a fan to expel the air in the chamber, causing a vacuum to draw the air upward. When the air is at its maximum capacity, the air is released into the chamber to create the wave. The caissons of the pneumatic surf wave are generally positioned upright.
- Another conventional wave generator is the surf wave generator. The surf wave generator uses compressed air to release water from caissons to form a wave. The surf wave generator uses rows of caissons positioned along a side of the pool. More specifically, the caissons of the surf wave generator are generally positioned vertically along a back side of the pool.
- Yet another conventional wave generator is the pneumatic wave generator. The pneumatic wave generator uses water-filled caissons to produce the desired wave. The pneumatic wave generator uses compressed air to expel the wave from the caisson. The pneumatic wave generator includes many caissons in a single pool. The pneumatic wave generator includes caissons that are generally positioned vertically on a back side of the pool.
- Some embodiments of the invention provide an apparatus and method for creating an artificial wave for a water ride with pneumatic wave generators enhanced by nozzles or jets. Some embodiments of the invention provide a sheet flow wave generator including a ride surface and nozzles or jets coupled to the ride surface. The nozzles or jets can be configured to form an artificial wave upon the ride surface. Embodiments of the invention also provide an apparatus and method of forming an artificial wave that moves in a direction against current flow. An apparatus and method of making an artificial wave can include forming an artificial wave that moves in one direction and using current moving in another direction to slow the speed of the artificial wave. Some embodiments of the invention can also be used to make a standing wave that is suitable for recreational use by causing water to flow through nozzles or jets.
- Other aspects of the invention will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.
-
FIG. 1 is a top schematic view of a water ride according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 2 is side perspective view of the water ride ofFIG. 1 . -
FIGS. 3A-3E are top views of a water ride including various configurations of nozzles or jets according to another embodiment of the invention. -
FIGS. 4A-4E are end perspective view of a water ride including various configurations of nozzles or jets according to another embodiment of the invention. -
FIGS. 5A-5E are top views of a water ride including various configurations of nozzles or jets according to another embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 6 is a top view of a wave-generating device including nozzles formed in a rifling pattern according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 7 is a top view of a water ride including the wave-generating device ofFIG. 6 . -
FIGS. 8A-8D are perspective views of a water ride and a pivot jet according to another embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a water ride according to another embodiment of the invention. -
FIGS. 10A-10C are top and side views of a water ride according to another embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a water ride according to another embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a water ride according to another embodiment of the invention. -
FIGS. 13A-13J are schematic top views of a wave-generating device for use with the water rides ofFIGS. 1-12 . -
FIG. 14 is a schematic top view of a wave-generating device for use with the water rides ofFIGS. 1-12 . -
FIGS. 15A-15D are front and side views of artificial waves created by jets or nozzles. -
FIGS. 16A-16B are side and front views of artificial waves created by jets or nozzles. -
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a water ride according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 18 is a center cross-sectional view of the water ride ofFIG. 17 . -
FIG. 19 is a side cross-sectional view of the water ride ofFIG. 17 . -
FIG. 20 is a top view of a wave generating device matrix according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIGS. 21A-21 b are perspective and side views of a concave feature for use with water rides according to some embodiments of the invention. -
FIGS. 22A-22C are side and perspective views of a concave feature for use with water rides according to some embodiments of the invention. -
FIGS. 23A-23C are perspective and side views of a concave feature for use with water rides according to some embodiments of the invention. -
FIGS. 24A-24B are top and perspective views of a concave feature for use with water rides according to some embodiments of the invention. -
FIG. 25 is a top view of a concave feature for use with water rides according to some embodiments of the invention. -
FIGS. 26A-26B are top views of concave features for use with water rides according to some embodiments of the invention. -
FIGS. 27A-27B are perspective and side views of a wave generating device module for use with water rides according to some embodiments of the invention. -
FIG. 28A-28B are top and side views of a water ride according to one embodiment of the invention. - Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms “mounted,” “connected,” “supported,” and “coupled” and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further, “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings.
-
FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate awater ride 100 according to one embodiment of the invention. Thewater ride 100 can include one or more chambers orcaissons 1, aprimary pump room 2, and wave-generatingdevices 3. In some embodiments, thewater ride 100 can include water return grates 4,water return pipes 5, awater pump 7, a watersuction intake system 8, and asecondary pump room 9. Thewater ride 100 can include one or more sets ofstairs 14 that allow a rider to enter and exit thewater ride 100. In some embodiments, thewater ride 100 can be positioned adjacent to various commercial establishments or recreational activities, such as aconcession stand 10, ahot tub 11, or arestaurant 12. In some embodiments, a bar orwall 13 can be positioned within thewater ride 100 to divide thewater ride 100 into two or more sections. - The
primary pump room 2 can include pumps positioned close to the surface of the pool in order to produce a current to propel riders. The wave-generatingdevices 3 can be coupled to thewater return pipes 5 in order to use the water flowing through the water return grates 4 to power the wave-generatingdevices 3. Thewater return pipes 5 can be connected to thewater pump 7. Thewater pump 7 can also be connected to the watersuction intake system 8. Thesecondary pump room 9 can supply thecaissons 1 with air to produce the primary wave of thewater ride 100. - The wave-generating
devices 3 can include pipes with nozzles or individual jets that force water upward to create a wave that moves in a direction against the current flow of the primary wave generated by thecaissons 1. As used herein and in the appended claims, the terms “nozzle” and “jet” may be used interchangeably, with both terms referring to any device capable of propelling water upward from a surface in a desired direction and at a desired pressure. In one embodiment, as shown inFIG. 6 , a pattern ofnozzles 102 formed in a pipe can generate a wave at a startinglocation 15. - In some embodiments, additional wave-generating devices can be used to create a small non-curling wave or “bump” before a curling wave created by the wave-generating
devices 3. This small non-curling wave can cause the rider to dip down before rising up the curling wave. - In some embodiments, the
water ride 100 can use gravity to force water out of thecaissons 1 to produce the primary wave. Thewater ride 100 can include one ormore caissons 1 positioned vertically along a back side of the pool. In other embodiments, thewater ride 100 can use a set wave system to generate primary and/or secondary waves as disclosed in applicant's co-pending U.S. utility patent application entitled “Set Wave System for Wave Generation,” the entire contents of which is herein incorporated by reference, and which also claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application No. 60/893,923. - The wave-generating
devices 3 can be used to form an artificial wave that moves in a direction against current flow, such as the current flow produced by the primary wave generated by thecaissons 1. The artificial wave generated by the wave-generatingdevices 3 can also move in a direction that is against the current flow of a river type of water ride that does not provide primary waves. - In some embodiments, as shown in
FIG. 1 , the artificial wave formed by the wave-generatingdevices 3 can move against the current flow in a channel (such as a stream or river, whether natural or artificial). The current flow in the channel can slow down the speed of the artificial wave. For example, in some embodiments, the current flow can slow down the speed of the artificial wave to about one-quarter of its original speed. In general, thewater ride 100 can form an artificial wave that moves in one direction and can use current moving in another direction to slow the speed of the artificial wave. - In some embodiments, the wave-generating
devices 3 include one or more nozzles or jets that can be used to change or enhance the shape of the artificial wave. In some embodiments, the nozzles or jets can be positioned beneath a surface of the water. In some embodiments, a series of nozzles or jets can be positioned on a floor of the water ride and can be used to change or enhance the shape of the artificial wave. For example, a series of nozzles or jets can be used to make the wave higher, steeper, and/or curl over. Also, a combination of nozzles or jets and current flow caused by thecaissons 1 can be used to make the wave higher, steeper, and/or curl over. - In some embodiments, the
water ride 100 can be used to make a standing wave that is suitable for recreational use by causing water to flow through nozzles or jets. In some embodiments, the nozzles or jets can be articulated or moveable to facilitate varying a shape of the standing wave. - As shown in
FIGS. 3-5 , some embodiments of the invention provide a sheet flow wave ride including a ride surface and a series of nozzles or jets coupled to, formed in, or positioned proximate to the ride surface. The nozzles or jets can be configured to form an artificial wave upon the ride surface. The ride surface can be generally planar. The ride surface can be positioned to be substantially horizontal or inclined with respect to the ground. The nozzles or jets can be configured to cause water to flow across the ride surface. If the ride surface is inclined, the nozzles or jets can be configured to cause water to flow upwardly over the ride surface. Depending on the intended use of the water ride, the nozzles or jets can be configured to define water depths on the ride surface from approximately 2 inches to approximately 36 inches. For a sheet flow water ride, the water depth on the ride surface can be substantially less than for a river type of water ride. - In some embodiments, the nozzles or jets are angled to cause the wave to curl forward on one side. The pressure of the water flowing through the nozzles or jets can be varied. For example, the pressure can be varied through each individual nozzle or jet or through groups of nozzles or jets. The water pressure can be varied through the nozzles or jets to change the shape and/or position of the wave. In some embodiments, the nozzles or jets can be articulated either in groups or individually. The nozzles or jets can be articulated to change the shape and/or position of the wave. In some embodiments, the water pressure can be varied through the nozzles or jets and the nozzles or jets can be articulated to move the wave left or right, move the wave up or down, and/or to vary the shape of the wave. In some embodiments, the water pressure is higher in the front (or lower or upstream) nozzles or jets than in the back (or higher or downstream) nozzles or jets. In some embodiments, a portion of the nozzles or jets are positioned along a front end (or lower end or upstream) of the ride surface to cause water flow upwardly across the ride surface. In some embodiments, a drain can be formed at the back end (upper end or downstream) of the ride surface.
-
FIG. 3A illustrates one embodiment of a sheetflow water ride 200 with aride surface 202. The sheetflow water ride 200 can include wave-generatingdevices 3, additional wave-generating or flow-creatingdevices 4, a watersuction intake system 8, andstairs 14. The wave-generatingdevices 3 can be used to create artificial waves on theride surface 202. The wave-generatingdevices 3 can be configured in a number of manners, such as those shown inFIGS. 3B-3E . If the configuration ofFIG. 3B is used, the artificial wave can be formed at acentral portion 204 of the wave-generatingdevices 3. If the configuration ofFIG. 3C is used, the artificial wave can be formed at adiagonal portion 206 of the wave-generatingdevices 3. If the configuration ofFIG. 3D is used, the artificial wave can substantially span the width of thewater ride 200. If the configuration ofFIG. 3E is used, the artificial wave can be formed at anotherdiagonal portion 208 of the wave-generatingdevices 3. In some embodiments, as shown inFIG. 3A , a bar orwall 13 can be positioned within thewater ride 200 to create two ride surfaces for two riders. Each ride surface can include one of the nozzle or jet configurations shown inFIGS. 3B-3E . -
FIGS. 4A-5E illustrate awater ride 300 similar to thewater ride 200 shown inFIGS. 3A-3E , except that no bar orwall 13 is included in thewater ride 300. As a result, thewater ride 300 only includes asingle ride surface 302. - In some embodiments, at least some of the nozzles of the wave-generating
devices 3 are defined by openings formed in pipes. As shown inFIGS. 6-7 , the openings in the pipes can spiral at least part of the way around the pipes in a rifling-like fashion. These types of nozzles can also be configured within the water rides described herein in the manner shown and described with respect toFIGS. 3A-5E . -
FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate awater ride 400 according to another embodiment of the invention. Thewater ride 400 can include abody 402 divided into two or more parts, such as fourparts FIGS. 8A and 8C . More specifically, thebody 402 can include an upperleft body 404, an upperright body 406, a lowerleft base 408, and a lowerright base 410. In some embodiments, each of the fourparts water ride 400 can be substantially portable by disassembling and reassembling the four parts in a new location. In one embodiment, as shown inFIG. 8A , the assembledwater ride 400 can have a length L of about 50 feet, a width W for each half of about 12 feet, and a maximum height H of about 7 feet. The upperleft body 404 can be secured to the upperright body 406 using fasteners withinholes 420 inflanges 422. - As shown in
FIGS. 8A and 8C , the upperleft body 404 and the upperright body 406 can includegrating lips 412 that can support grating 414. In some embodiments, the upperleft body 404 and the upperright body 406 can also includelateral grating 416 for de-watering thewater ride 400 along its lateral sides 418. - In some embodiments, as shown in
FIG. 8A , one or both of the upperleft body 404 and the upperright body 406 can includestairs 424 that allow riders to enter and exit thewater ride 400. In some embodiments, the upperleft body 404 and the upperright body 406 can include acurb 425 formed around a bottom perimeter of thewater ride 400. - One or both of the upper
left body 404 and the upperright body 406 can include openings 426 (as shown inFIG. 8A ) through which jets 428 (as shown inFIG. 8C ) can be positioned. Thejets 428 can propel a sheet of water up aride surface 430. In addition to thejets 428, thewater ride 400 can include a series of wave-generatingdevices 432, as shown inFIG. 8A , such as a series of pivot jets, that can propel water upward and/or in a direction that is against the current flow produced by thejets 428.FIG. 8B illustrates a wave-generatingdevice 432 in the form of a pivot jet that can be articulated with respect to theride surface 430. -
FIGS. 8C-8D illustrate thejets 428 that propel water upwardly onto theride surface 430. As the water moves up theride surface 430, the water creates a sheet of water on theride surface 430 flowing at a particular rate. Water is also being propelled upwardly from the wave-generatingdevices 432 positioned across the width W of thewater ride 400. When the sheet of water meets the area adjacent to the wave-generatingdevices 432, the sheet of water is slowed down. The water being propelled upward by the wave-generatingdevices 432 combines with the sheet of water being propelled upward by thejets 428. As these two bodies of water meet, an artificial wave is generated on theride surface 430. The shape, height, and curl of this artificial wave can be altered by varying the pressure and/or position of the wave-generatingdevices 432. The artificial wave can also be altered by varying the pressure of thejets 428. In some embodiments, the pressures and positions of the wave-generatingdevices 432 and thejets 428 can be automated with an automation system. - As shown in
FIGS. 8C-8D , thewater ride 400 can include grating 414 through which return water can flow once the sheet of water has passed over theride surface 430. The return water can flow downward into abasin 434. As shown inFIG. 8D , the return water in thebasin 434 can flow through water return grating 436 and intowater intake ports 438 in order to be returned to thejets 428 throughcaissons 440. In some embodiments, the de-watering of thewater ride 400 can also be accomplished using the lateral grating 416, as shown inFIGS. 8A and 8C . -
FIG. 9 illustrates awater ride 500 according to another embodiment of the invention. Thewater ride 500 is similar to thewater ride 400 shown and described with respect toFIGS. 8A-8D . In one embodiment, thewater ride 500 can have a length L of about 52 feet and a total width W of about 34 feet.FIG. 9 illustrates anartificial curling wave 502 created by a combination of a sheet of water flowing fromjets 528 up the incline of theride surface 530 and water being propelled upward byjets 532 coupled to theride surface 530. In some embodiments, thejets 532 can be coupled to theride surface 530 in groups, with each group being positioned in a particular direction and propelling water at a particular pressure. For example, thejets 532 can be positioned in four rows across the width W of thewater ride 500. In addition, the rows ofjets 532 can create an angled portion across part of the width W of thewater ride 500. The angled portion can be used to direct the curling portion of the artificial wave to the desired position on theride surface 530. -
FIGS. 10A-10C illustrate awater ride 600 according to another embodiment of the invention. Thewater ride 600 is similar to thewater ride 400 shown and described with respect toFIGS. 8A-8D , except that thewater ride 600 includeswater intake ports 638 positioned alonglateral sides 618 of thewater ride 600, rather than under aride surface 630 of thewater ride 600. - As shown in
FIG. 10A , a sheet of water is propelled up theride surface 630 byjets 628. As the sheet of water flows up theinclined ride surface 630, the sheet of water can meet a first set of wave-generatingjets 640 that can create a small non-curling wave or bump. The sheet of water can then met a second set of wave-generatingjets 632 positioned across the width of thewater ride 600. Thejets 632 can create a curling wave, for example, as shown and described with respect toFIG. 9 . The sheet of water can pass thejets 632 and continue up theinclined ride surface 630 until reaching thegrating 614. As shown inFIG. 10B , the return water can fall through the grating 614 and be directed into abasin 634 and then toward thewater intake ports 638 positioned along thelateral sides 618 of thewater ride 600. The return water can be directed into chambers or caissons 642 (in one embodiment, threecaissons 642 on eachlateral side 618 of the water ride 600) and throughadditional piping 643 back to thejets 628. In some embodiments, a portion of the return water can be routed directly back onto theride surface 630 by piping 644 (as shown inFIGS. 10A and 10B ) rather than being returned to thejets 628. -
FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate an artificial curling wave created by a combination of a sheet of water flowing from jets up the incline of the ride surface and water being propelled upward by jets coupled to the ride surface. In some embodiments, the jets can be coupled to the ride surface in panels or groups (such as sixteen groups, as shown inFIGS. 11 and 12 ), with each group being positioned in a particular direction and propelling water at a particular pressure. For example, the jets can be positioned in four rows and four sections across the width of the water ride to create sixteen groups of jets. In addition, the rows of jets can create an angled portion across part of the width of the water ride. The angled portion can be used to direct the curling portion of the artificial wave to the desired position on the ride surface. In one embodiment, each panel or group can be about 24 inches long and about 7½ inches wide. Four panels can span about 96 inches across the width of the water ride. In another embodiment, each panel or group can be about 8 inches long, with four panels spanning about 32 inches across the width of the water ride in order to create a two foot high barrel standing wave. -
FIGS. 13A-13J illustrate a wave-generatingdevice 700 for use with the water rides shown and described with respect toFIGS. 1-12 . The wave-generatingdevice 700 can include groups of jets that can be operated, positioned, and/or pressurized in the same manner.FIG. 13A illustrates a topleft group 702, atop right group 704, a topmiddle group 706, a bottomleft group 708, abottom right group 710, and a bottommiddle group 712. By selectively controlling each of the groups of jets, the configurations shown inFIGS. 13B-13J can each be created. Each of the configurations shown inFIGS. 13B-13J can produce a different type, shape, or size of artificial wave.FIG. 13B illustrates the use of the topleft group 702, the topmiddle group 706, and thebottom right group 710.FIG. 13C illustrates the use of the bottomleft group 708, the topmiddle group 706, and thetop right group 704.FIG. 13D illustrates the use of the bottomleft group 708, the bottommiddle group 712, and thebottom right group 710.FIG. 13E illustrates the use of the topleft group 702 and thetop right group 704.FIG. 13F illustrates the use all the groups except for the bottommiddle group 712.FIG. 13G illustrates the use of the topleft group 702, the topmiddle group 706, and the bottomleft group 708.FIG. 13H illustrates the use of thetop right group 706, the topmiddle group 706, and the bottom right group 310.FIG. 13I illustrates the use of the topleft group 702, thetop right group 704, and thebottom right group 710.FIG. 13J illustrates the use of the topleft group 702, the bottomleft group 708, and thebottom right group 710. -
FIG. 14 illustrates a wave-generatingdevice 800 for use with the water rides shown and described with respect toFIGS. 1-12 . The wave-generatingdevice 800 can include amatrix 802 having a particular bed size. In one embodiment, the bed size is about 35½ inches by 20 inches. Thematrix 802 can include ahorizontal matrix 804 and aninclined matrix 806. Thehorizontal matrix 804 can include, for example, 66 jets (6 rows by 11 columns). Theinclined matrix 806 can include, for example, 144 jets (6 rows by 24 columns). Accordingly, in one embodiment, thematrix 802 can include a total of 210 jets. -
FIGS. 15A-15D illustrate wave profiles created with various embodiments of the invention.FIG. 15A is a side view of anartificial curling wave 900 created withjets 902 being operated at different pressures.FIG. 15B is a front view of the artificial curling wave ofFIG. 15A .FIG. 15D is a side view of a rollingwave 904 andFIG. 15C is a front view of the rollingwave 904.FIG. 15D illustrates thejets 902 being positioned across two wavelengths.FIG. 16A also illustrates thejets 902 being positioned across two wavelengths including afirst crest 906, atrough 908, and asecond crest 910.FIG. 16B is a front view of the waves ofFIG. 16A . - Rather than being controlled in groups or panels as described herein, each jet of the wave-generating devices can be individually controlled. For example, the jets can be connected to an automation system in order to be individually controlled. Also, rather than being positioned in relatively narrow rows across the width of the riding surface, the jets can cover more of the floor of the riding surface, for example, covering two or more wavelengths of the artificial wave.
-
FIGS. 17-19 illustrate awater ride 1000 according to another embodiment of the invention. Thewater ride 1000 can include aride surface 1010 with aconcave feature 1012. The water can flow into theconcave feature 1012 to create a dip in the height of the water with respect to the height of theride surface 1010. Theconcave feature 1012 can have several suitable configurations as described below. In general, theconcave feature 1012 results in the rider dropping down before reaching the area where the rider is elevated onto awave form 1026 created by wave-generatingdevices 1028. In some embodiments, thewater ride 1000 can include additional wave-generating devices positioned upstream of theconcave feature 1012. The additional wave-generating devices can create a small non-curling wave before the rider drops down into theconcave feature 1012. - The
water ride 1000 can include one or more side de-watering grates 1022 positioned on the lateral sides of thewater ride 1000 generally outside of theconcave feature 1012. Thewater ride 1000 can also include acentral de-watering grate 1024 positioned in the center of theconcave feature 1012. The water flow, as represented byarrows 1032, can flow past theconcave feature 1012 where some water can be removed through thegrates grates devices 1028. The remainingwater flow 1032 can move into the wave-generatingdevices 1028 in order to form thewave form 1026. After flowing past the wave-generatingdevices 1028, the water can flow intowater returns 1038 in order to be returned to the upstream portion of thewater ride 1000.FIG. 18 illustrates a cross-section of theride surface 1010 taken transverse to thewater flow 1032.FIG. 19 illustrates another cross-section of theride surface 1010 taken parallel to thewater flow 1032.FIG. 19 illustrates that the water flowing into thecentral de-watering grate 1024 can flow through apipe 1034 to areservoir 1036 used to provide water to the wave-generatingdevices 1028. -
FIG. 20 illustrates a wave generating device matrix 1050 according to one embodiment of the invention. The wave generating device matrix 1050 can include a top surface 1052 that can form part of theride surface 1010. Individual jets ornozzles 1054 can be coupled to the top surface 1052 in an evenly-space rectangular matrix configuration or another suitable configuration. The individual jets ornozzles 1054 can each include a valve or groups of the jets ornozzles 1054 can be controlled by one valve. As shown inFIG. 20 , the jets ornozzles 1054 for which the valve is open are identified bycircles 1056 and create awave generation pattern 1058 suitable for generating a particular waveform. -
FIGS. 21A-21B illustrate one embodiment of aconcave feature 1100 for use with various water rides as described herein. Theconcave feature 1100 can include a generallyplanar bed 1102, aperimeter 1104, adepression 1106, ade-watering grate 1108, wave-generatingdevices 1110, aprimary flow area 1112, asecondary flow area 1114, and asurfing zone 1116. -
FIGS. 22A-23C also illustrate embodiments of a concave feature similar to theconcave feature 1100 ofFIGS. 21A-21B . In addition to the structure shown inFIGS. 21A-21B ,FIGS. 22A and 23C illustrate aplatform 1118, water return piping 1120, and piping 1122 for the wave-generatingdevices 1110.FIG. 22B illustrates that thedepression 1106 can include various zones with different elevation levels.FIG. 22C illustrates a curling barrel wave that can be created in thesecondary flow area 1114.FIG. 23A illustrates thedepression 1106 without any wave-generatingdevices 1110.FIG. 23B illustratesplatforms 1118 that can be positioned, in some embodiments, upstream and downstream of thedepression 1106 and the wave-generatingdevices 1110. -
FIGS. 24A-24B illustrate aconcave feature 1100 similar to the concave feature ofFIGS. 21A-23C . Theconcave feature 1100 ofFIGS. 24A-24B can include various zones with different elevation levels. The wave-generatingdevices 1110 ofFIGS. 24A-24B can include several panels of nozzles or jets, such asleft side panels 1124, leftdiagonal panels 1126,center panels 1128, rightdiagonal panels 1130, andright side panels 1132. The wave-generatingdevices 1110 ofFIGS. 24A-24B can generate a curling wave in a central portion of thedepression 1106, for example, upstream of thecenter panels 1128. The water ride ofFIGS. 24A-24B can also include grating 1108 at the bottom of thedepression 1106 and grating 1134 downstream from the wave-generatingdevices 1110. -
FIG. 25 illustrates anotherconcave feature 1100 similar to the concave feature ofFIGS. 24A-24B , except that the wave-generatingdevices 1110 are configured in a different manner. The wave-generatingdevices 1110 ofFIG. 25 include several panels of nozzles or jets, including lefttop panels 1136,diagonal panels 1138, and rightbottom panels 1140. -
FIGS. 26A-26B illustrate anotherconcave feature 1100 including twodepressions 1106 and wave-generatingdevices 1110 in a V-shaped configuration that can create two separate curling waves. The wave-generatingdevices 1110 ofFIG. 26A can include several panels of nozzles or jets, including topleft panels 1142, leftdiagonal panels 1144,central panels 1146, rightdiagonal panels 1148, and topright panels 1150.FIG. 26B illustrates adepression 1106 with three elevation zones. -
FIG. 27A illustrates a wavegenerating device module 1200.FIG. 27B illustrates two wavegenerating device modules 1200 connected together byconnectors 1202 on each end and/or other suitable fasteners on the elongated sides. Each wavegenerating device module 1200 can include an evenly-space rectangular matrix configuration or another suitable configuration ofwave generating devices 1204 As shown inFIG. 27B , eachwave generating device 1204 can include anangled exit orifice 1206 designed to direct the water in a particular manner. Theangled exit orifice 1206 can be formed in a panel having a thickness that allows eachorifice 1206 to give direction to the water flowing through it. The wavegenerating device modules 1200 can each be designed to generate different wave forms depending on the number and arrangement of themodules 1200. As shown inFIG. 27B , themodules 1200 can be connected together usingsuitable connectors 1202. A desired number and arrangement ofmodules 1200 can be coupled together and attached as decking (such as with bolts) to create a portion of the ride surface of one of the water ride embodiments described herein. Themodules 1200 can be easily removed from the ride surface in order to change the type of wave form that is being generated, for example, during testing of the water ride or in order to provide different wave forms for different riders. Themodules 1200 can be changed in order to change the level of difficulty of the water ride.Different modules 1200 can be designed for the following activities: body boarding (no curl), surfing (curl), kayaking (deep flow), and body surfing (deep flow).Different modules 1200 can also be designed for different depths of flow within the water ride, such as sheet flow versus deep river flow. - In the various embodiments of water rides described herein, different types of water flows can be introduced into the water rides from different angles and perspectives. For example, water can be angled to flow up an inclined ride surface. Also, water can be introduced to form an intersecting flow that can be diagonal or transverse to the main water flow in the water ride. In addition, water can be introduced from the side of the water ride and then join the main water flow of the water ride.
-
FIGS. 28A-28B illustrate a generallycircular water ride 1300 according to another embodiment of the invention. Thewater ride 1300 can include awave generation system 1302 positioned in a central portion of thewater ride 1300. Thewave generation system 1302 can push water to flow upward into adome 1304 and then create asheet flow 1306 on aconical ride surface 1308. Theconical ride surface 1308 can includewave generating devices 1310 positioned in a ring around anouter portion 1312 of thewater ride 1300. Thewave generating devices 1310 can be jets or nozzles that help to create awave form 1313 around a portion of the perimeter of thewater ride 1300 or around substantially the entire perimeter of thewater ride 1300. Water can be provided from thewave generation system 1302 to thewave generating devices 1310 withpipes 1311. Thewater ride 1300 can also includede-watering grates 1314 positioned in a ring around the outside perimeter of thewater ride 1300. The water can flow through thegrates 1314 intowater returns 1316 that lead back to thewave generation system 1302. - Various features and advantages of the invention are set forth in the following claims.
Claims (53)
1. A method of making an artificial wave, the method comprising forming an artificial wave that moves in a direction against current flow.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the artificial wave moves against current flow in a channel.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the current flow slows down a speed of the artificial wave.
4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the current flow slows down the speed of the artificial wave to about one quarter of its original speed.
5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising causing water to flow through at least one jet to change a shape of the artificial wave.
6. The method of claim 1 , further comprising causing water to flow through at least one jet to enhance a shape of the artificial wave.
7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the jet is disposed beneath a water surface.
8. The method of claim 1 , wherein a plurality of jets are used to change a shape of the artificial wave.
9. The method of claim 1 , wherein a plurality of jets are used to enhance a shape of the artificial wave.
10. The method of claim 1 , wherein a plurality of jets are used to make the artificial wave higher.
11. The method of claim 1 , wherein a plurality of jets are used to make the artificial wave steeper.
12. The method of claim 1 , wherein a plurality of jets are used to make the artificial wave curl over.
13. The method of claim 1 , wherein a combination of a plurality of jets and the current flow are used to make the artificial wave curl over.
14. The method of claim 1 , wherein a combination of a plurality of jets and the current flow are used to make the artificial wave higher.
15. A method of making an artificial wave, the method comprising forming an artificial wave that moves in one direction and using current moving in another direction to slow the speed of the artificial wave.
16. A method of making a standing wave that is suitable for recreational use, the method comprising causing water to flow through at least one jet.
17. The method of claim 16 , wherein a plurality of jets are used to change a shape of the artificial wave.
18. The method of claim 16 , wherein at least one jet is articulated to vary a shape of the standing wave.
19. An apparatus for making an artificial wave, the apparatus comprising a wave-generating device that causes the artificial waves to move in a direction against current flow.
20. The apparatus of claim 19 , wherein the artificial wave moves against current flow in a channel.
21. The apparatus of claim 19 , wherein the current flow slows down the speed of the artificial wave.
22. The apparatus of claim 21 , wherein the current flow slows down the speed of the wave to about one quarter of its original speed.
23. The apparatus of claim 19 , further comprising at least one jet through which water flows to change a shape of the artificial wave.
24. The apparatus of claim 19 , further comprising at least one jet through which water flows to enhance a shape of the artificial wave.
25. The apparatus of claim 24 , wherein the jet is disposed beneath a water surface.
26. The apparatus of claim 19 , further comprising a plurality of jets configured to change a shape of the artificial wave.
27. The apparatus of claim 19 , further comprising a plurality of jets configured to enhance a shape of the artificial wave.
28. The apparatus of claim 19 , further comprising a plurality of jets configured to make the artificial wave higher.
29. The apparatus of claim 19 , further comprising a plurality of jets configured to make the artificial wave steeper.
30. The apparatus of claim 19 , further comprising a plurality of jets configured to make the artificial wave curl over.
31. The apparatus of claim 19 , further comprising a plurality of jets configured to cooperate with the current flow to make the artificial wave curl over.
32. The apparatus of claim 19 , wherein a combination of a plurality of jets and the current flow are used to make the artificial wave higher.
33. An apparatus for making artificial waves, the apparatus comprising a wave-generating device configured to make artificial waves that move in a direction so that current moving in another direction causes the speed of the artificial waves to be reduced.
34. A apparatus for making a standing wave that is suitable for recreational use, the apparatus comprising at least one jet through which water flows.
35. The apparatus of claim 34 , wherein a plurality of jets are used to change a shape of the standing wave.
36. The apparatus of claim 34 , wherein at least one jet is articulated to facilitate varying a shape of the standing wave.
37. A sheet flow wave generator comprising:
a ride surface; and
a plurality of jets coupled to the ride surface, the jets configured to form an artificial wave upon the ride surface.
38. The sheet flow wave generator of claim 37 , wherein the ride surface is generally planar.
39. The sheet flow wave generator of claim 37 , wherein the ride surface is inclined.
40. The sheet flow wave generator of claim 37 , wherein the jets are configured to cause water to flow across the ride surface.
41. The sheet flow wave generator of claim 37 , wherein the jets are configured to cause water to flow upwardly over the ride surface.
42. The sheet flow wave generator of claim 37 , wherein the jets are angled to cause the artificial wave to curl forward at one side.
43. The sheet flow wave generator of claim 37 , wherein water pressure can be varied through the jets.
44. The sheet flow wave generator of claim 37 , wherein water pressure can be individually varied through the jets.
45. The sheet flow wave generator of claim 37 , wherein water pressure can be varied through the jets to change at least one of a shape and a position of the artificial wave.
46. The sheet flow wave generator of claim 37 , wherein the jets can be articulated.
47. The sheet flow wave generator of claim 37 , wherein the jets can be individually articulated.
48. The sheet flow wave generator of claim 37 , wherein the jets can be articulated to change at least one of a shape and a position of the artificial wave.
49. The sheet flow wave generator of claim 37 , wherein water pressure can be varied through the jets and the jets can be articulated.
50. The sheet flow wave generator of claim 37 , wherein water pressure can be varied through the jets and the jets can be articulated to at least one of move the wave left or right, move the wave up or down, and vary a shape of the artificial wave.
51. The sheet flow wave generator of claim 37 , wherein water pressure is higher in the front jets than in the back jets.
52. The sheet flow wave generator of claim 37 , wherein a portion of the jets are positioned along a front end of the ride surface to cause water to flow upwardly across the ride surface.
53. The sheet flow wave generator of claim 37 , further comprising a drain formed at the back end of the ride surface.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/074,849 US20080286048A1 (en) | 2007-03-09 | 2008-03-06 | Sheet flow water ride apparatus and method |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US89392307P | 2007-03-09 | 2007-03-09 | |
US308007P | 2007-11-14 | 2007-11-14 | |
US12/074,849 US20080286048A1 (en) | 2007-03-09 | 2008-03-06 | Sheet flow water ride apparatus and method |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20080286048A1 true US20080286048A1 (en) | 2008-11-20 |
Family
ID=39759813
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/074,849 Abandoned US20080286048A1 (en) | 2007-03-09 | 2008-03-06 | Sheet flow water ride apparatus and method |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20080286048A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2008112120A1 (en) |
Cited By (12)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20110143846A1 (en) * | 2008-06-17 | 2011-06-16 | Davis Richard P | Motorized Retractable Line for a Water Sports Facility |
US20110171618A1 (en) * | 2008-08-08 | 2011-07-14 | Madea Concept Sas | System for Artificially Creating the Practice of a Water Board Sport |
US20120183353A1 (en) * | 2011-01-19 | 2012-07-19 | Davis Richard P | Water Sports Facility |
US9457290B2 (en) | 2011-02-04 | 2016-10-04 | Kenneth Douglas Hill | Wave simulator for board sports |
US9982448B2 (en) * | 2016-02-08 | 2018-05-29 | Phillip James Fricano | Articulated plow |
US10119285B2 (en) | 2017-01-20 | 2018-11-06 | The Wave Pool Company, LLC | Systems and methods for generating waves |
US10195535B2 (en) | 2015-11-12 | 2019-02-05 | Whitewater West Industries Ltd. | Transportable inflatable surfing apparatus and method |
US10335694B2 (en) | 2015-11-12 | 2019-07-02 | Whitewater West Industries Ltd. | Method and apparatus for fastening of inflatable ride surfaces |
US10376799B2 (en) | 2015-11-13 | 2019-08-13 | Whitewater West Industries Ltd. | Inflatable surfing apparatus and method of providing reduced fluid turbulence |
US11040289B2 (en) | 2013-03-21 | 2021-06-22 | Whitewater West Industries, Ltd. | Padded grate drainage system for water rides |
US11273383B2 (en) | 2017-11-10 | 2022-03-15 | Whitewater West Industries Ltd. | Water ride attraction incorporating a standing wave |
US11542716B2 (en) * | 2017-09-25 | 2023-01-03 | Upsurfdown Gmbh | Artificial surfing system |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP2014502869A (en) * | 2010-12-21 | 2014-02-06 | コン クリティコス,ステファン | Surfing apparatus and method |
Citations (50)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US586983A (en) * | 1897-07-27 | Amusement apparatus | ||
US2002043A (en) * | 1933-11-16 | 1935-05-21 | Price Owen Alfred | Means for producing artificial waves |
US3350724A (en) * | 1964-07-07 | 1967-11-07 | Walter J Leigh | Method and apparatus for generating artificial waves in a body of water |
US3473334A (en) * | 1968-06-24 | 1969-10-21 | Phillip Dexter | Apparatus and method for producing waves |
US3477233A (en) * | 1966-03-07 | 1969-11-11 | F Andersen | Wave machine installations |
US3557559A (en) * | 1969-05-12 | 1971-01-26 | Douglas W Barr | Wave-generating apparatus |
US3598402A (en) * | 1967-08-11 | 1971-08-10 | Otto Frenzl | Appliance for practicing aquatic sports |
US3693105A (en) * | 1971-01-18 | 1972-09-19 | Nasa | Active tuned circuit |
US3802697A (en) * | 1971-10-14 | 1974-04-09 | Mehaute B Le | Wave generator for simulated surfriding |
US3981612A (en) * | 1975-06-27 | 1976-09-21 | Charles Bunger | Wave Producing apparatus |
US4062192A (en) * | 1974-06-03 | 1977-12-13 | Offshore Technology Corporation | Method of and mechanism for generating waves suitable for surfing |
US4276661A (en) * | 1979-01-30 | 1981-07-07 | Baker William H | Wave-making apparatus |
US4276664A (en) * | 1979-01-30 | 1981-07-07 | Baker William H | Apparatus for wave-making |
US4339122A (en) * | 1980-05-12 | 1982-07-13 | Croul Richard D | Surfing slide |
US4467483A (en) * | 1982-10-08 | 1984-08-28 | Ecopool Design Limited | Pneumatic wave generator |
US4515500A (en) * | 1983-11-15 | 1985-05-07 | Ecopool Design Limited | Combustion powered wave generator |
US4522535A (en) * | 1983-08-08 | 1985-06-11 | Ecopool Design Limited | Surf wave generator |
US4539719A (en) * | 1984-02-08 | 1985-09-10 | Automated Swimpools, Inc. | Pneumatic surf wave production for pools |
US4558474A (en) * | 1982-10-08 | 1985-12-17 | Ecopool Design Limited | Wave generator |
US4564190A (en) * | 1982-06-07 | 1986-01-14 | Otto Frenzl | Appliance for practicing aquatic sports |
US4662781A (en) * | 1983-08-15 | 1987-05-05 | Tinkler Michael R | Apparatus for creating water sports ramp |
US4692949A (en) * | 1985-12-11 | 1987-09-15 | Wavetek International, Inc. | High-head, low-volume surfing wave pool |
US4720210A (en) * | 1986-02-17 | 1988-01-19 | Stonor William F | Apparatus for generating waves |
US4730355A (en) * | 1986-05-08 | 1988-03-15 | Kreinbihl Mark L | Pneumatic wave generator employing four-way valve arrangement |
US4730807A (en) * | 1983-11-30 | 1988-03-15 | Wavetek International, Inc. | Surf pool gate valve |
US4762316A (en) * | 1987-01-22 | 1988-08-09 | Trade Source International | Wave surfing simulation apparatus |
US4774731A (en) * | 1987-05-27 | 1988-10-04 | Nippon Kokan Kabushiki Kaisha | Wave pool |
US4792260A (en) * | 1987-05-27 | 1988-12-20 | Sauerbier Charles E | Tunnel-wave generator |
US4806048A (en) * | 1987-02-27 | 1989-02-21 | Nippon Kokan Kabushiki Kaisha | Apparatus for producing artificial wave |
US4810129A (en) * | 1986-12-04 | 1989-03-07 | Principia Recherche Developpement S.A. | Arrangement for generating waves in a body of water |
US4812077A (en) * | 1987-12-17 | 1989-03-14 | The Great Wave Company, Inc. | Pneumatic/hydraulic wave generator |
US4905987A (en) * | 1984-11-22 | 1990-03-06 | Otto Frenzi | Water sports apparatus |
US4954014A (en) * | 1987-05-27 | 1990-09-04 | Thomas J. Lochtefeld | Surfing-wave generators |
US4976570A (en) * | 1986-05-15 | 1990-12-11 | Water Parks, Inc. | Apparatus and method for generating waves in a body of water |
US4979244A (en) * | 1988-05-23 | 1990-12-25 | Dirk Bastenhof | Wave valve |
US4999860A (en) * | 1985-03-08 | 1991-03-19 | Chutter Geoffrey P | Apparatus for generating waves in a swimming pool |
US5098222A (en) * | 1989-10-02 | 1992-03-24 | Wet Design | Wave generator |
USRE34042E (en) * | 1987-01-22 | 1992-08-25 | Wave surfing simulation apparatus | |
US5171101A (en) * | 1987-05-27 | 1992-12-15 | Light Wave, Ltd. | Surfing-wave generators |
US5205670A (en) * | 1991-09-04 | 1993-04-27 | Hill Kenneth D | Rotating surfing wave simulator |
US5207531A (en) * | 1991-09-03 | 1993-05-04 | Gary Ross | Artificial surfing reef |
US5213547A (en) * | 1990-08-15 | 1993-05-25 | Light Wave, Ltd. | Method and apparatus for improved water rides by water injection and flume design |
US5226747A (en) * | 1991-04-23 | 1993-07-13 | Tianjin University | Adaptive control artificial wavemaking device |
US5236280A (en) * | 1987-05-27 | 1993-08-17 | Blade Loch, Inc. | Method and apparatus for improving sheet flow water rides |
USRE34407E (en) * | 1984-11-22 | 1993-10-12 | Light Wave, Ltd. | Water sports apparatus |
US5271692A (en) * | 1987-05-27 | 1993-12-21 | Light Wave, Ltd. | Method and apparatus for a sheet flow water ride in a single container |
US5285536A (en) * | 1991-08-26 | 1994-02-15 | Arthur Long | Wave generating system |
US5320449A (en) * | 1990-03-15 | 1994-06-14 | S.A. Wow Company | Device designed to create a movement in a liquid especially at its surface |
US5342145A (en) * | 1993-04-21 | 1994-08-30 | Cohen Albert D | System for producing surfing waves for tube riding or wind surfing |
US5387159A (en) * | 1993-08-30 | 1995-02-07 | Hilgert; Rick L. | Continuous wave generating apparatus for simulated surfriding |
Family Cites Families (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6629803B1 (en) * | 2002-03-19 | 2003-10-07 | Mcfarland Bruce C. | Wave forming apparatus and method |
US7326001B2 (en) * | 2002-03-19 | 2008-02-05 | American Wave Machines, Inc. | Wave forming apparatus and method |
-
2008
- 2008-03-06 US US12/074,849 patent/US20080286048A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2008-03-06 WO PCT/US2008/002974 patent/WO2008112120A1/en active Application Filing
Patent Citations (50)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US586983A (en) * | 1897-07-27 | Amusement apparatus | ||
US2002043A (en) * | 1933-11-16 | 1935-05-21 | Price Owen Alfred | Means for producing artificial waves |
US3350724A (en) * | 1964-07-07 | 1967-11-07 | Walter J Leigh | Method and apparatus for generating artificial waves in a body of water |
US3477233A (en) * | 1966-03-07 | 1969-11-11 | F Andersen | Wave machine installations |
US3598402A (en) * | 1967-08-11 | 1971-08-10 | Otto Frenzl | Appliance for practicing aquatic sports |
US3473334A (en) * | 1968-06-24 | 1969-10-21 | Phillip Dexter | Apparatus and method for producing waves |
US3557559A (en) * | 1969-05-12 | 1971-01-26 | Douglas W Barr | Wave-generating apparatus |
US3693105A (en) * | 1971-01-18 | 1972-09-19 | Nasa | Active tuned circuit |
US3802697A (en) * | 1971-10-14 | 1974-04-09 | Mehaute B Le | Wave generator for simulated surfriding |
US4062192A (en) * | 1974-06-03 | 1977-12-13 | Offshore Technology Corporation | Method of and mechanism for generating waves suitable for surfing |
US3981612A (en) * | 1975-06-27 | 1976-09-21 | Charles Bunger | Wave Producing apparatus |
US4276664A (en) * | 1979-01-30 | 1981-07-07 | Baker William H | Apparatus for wave-making |
US4276661A (en) * | 1979-01-30 | 1981-07-07 | Baker William H | Wave-making apparatus |
US4339122A (en) * | 1980-05-12 | 1982-07-13 | Croul Richard D | Surfing slide |
US4564190A (en) * | 1982-06-07 | 1986-01-14 | Otto Frenzl | Appliance for practicing aquatic sports |
US4467483A (en) * | 1982-10-08 | 1984-08-28 | Ecopool Design Limited | Pneumatic wave generator |
US4558474A (en) * | 1982-10-08 | 1985-12-17 | Ecopool Design Limited | Wave generator |
US4522535A (en) * | 1983-08-08 | 1985-06-11 | Ecopool Design Limited | Surf wave generator |
US4662781A (en) * | 1983-08-15 | 1987-05-05 | Tinkler Michael R | Apparatus for creating water sports ramp |
US4515500A (en) * | 1983-11-15 | 1985-05-07 | Ecopool Design Limited | Combustion powered wave generator |
US4730807A (en) * | 1983-11-30 | 1988-03-15 | Wavetek International, Inc. | Surf pool gate valve |
US4539719A (en) * | 1984-02-08 | 1985-09-10 | Automated Swimpools, Inc. | Pneumatic surf wave production for pools |
US4905987A (en) * | 1984-11-22 | 1990-03-06 | Otto Frenzi | Water sports apparatus |
USRE34407E (en) * | 1984-11-22 | 1993-10-12 | Light Wave, Ltd. | Water sports apparatus |
US4999860A (en) * | 1985-03-08 | 1991-03-19 | Chutter Geoffrey P | Apparatus for generating waves in a swimming pool |
US4692949A (en) * | 1985-12-11 | 1987-09-15 | Wavetek International, Inc. | High-head, low-volume surfing wave pool |
US4720210A (en) * | 1986-02-17 | 1988-01-19 | Stonor William F | Apparatus for generating waves |
US4730355A (en) * | 1986-05-08 | 1988-03-15 | Kreinbihl Mark L | Pneumatic wave generator employing four-way valve arrangement |
US4976570A (en) * | 1986-05-15 | 1990-12-11 | Water Parks, Inc. | Apparatus and method for generating waves in a body of water |
US4810129A (en) * | 1986-12-04 | 1989-03-07 | Principia Recherche Developpement S.A. | Arrangement for generating waves in a body of water |
US4762316A (en) * | 1987-01-22 | 1988-08-09 | Trade Source International | Wave surfing simulation apparatus |
USRE34042E (en) * | 1987-01-22 | 1992-08-25 | Wave surfing simulation apparatus | |
US4806048A (en) * | 1987-02-27 | 1989-02-21 | Nippon Kokan Kabushiki Kaisha | Apparatus for producing artificial wave |
US5171101A (en) * | 1987-05-27 | 1992-12-15 | Light Wave, Ltd. | Surfing-wave generators |
US4774731A (en) * | 1987-05-27 | 1988-10-04 | Nippon Kokan Kabushiki Kaisha | Wave pool |
US4954014A (en) * | 1987-05-27 | 1990-09-04 | Thomas J. Lochtefeld | Surfing-wave generators |
US4792260A (en) * | 1987-05-27 | 1988-12-20 | Sauerbier Charles E | Tunnel-wave generator |
US5271692A (en) * | 1987-05-27 | 1993-12-21 | Light Wave, Ltd. | Method and apparatus for a sheet flow water ride in a single container |
US5236280A (en) * | 1987-05-27 | 1993-08-17 | Blade Loch, Inc. | Method and apparatus for improving sheet flow water rides |
US4812077A (en) * | 1987-12-17 | 1989-03-14 | The Great Wave Company, Inc. | Pneumatic/hydraulic wave generator |
US4979244A (en) * | 1988-05-23 | 1990-12-25 | Dirk Bastenhof | Wave valve |
US5098222A (en) * | 1989-10-02 | 1992-03-24 | Wet Design | Wave generator |
US5320449A (en) * | 1990-03-15 | 1994-06-14 | S.A. Wow Company | Device designed to create a movement in a liquid especially at its surface |
US5213547A (en) * | 1990-08-15 | 1993-05-25 | Light Wave, Ltd. | Method and apparatus for improved water rides by water injection and flume design |
US5226747A (en) * | 1991-04-23 | 1993-07-13 | Tianjin University | Adaptive control artificial wavemaking device |
US5285536A (en) * | 1991-08-26 | 1994-02-15 | Arthur Long | Wave generating system |
US5207531A (en) * | 1991-09-03 | 1993-05-04 | Gary Ross | Artificial surfing reef |
US5205670A (en) * | 1991-09-04 | 1993-04-27 | Hill Kenneth D | Rotating surfing wave simulator |
US5342145A (en) * | 1993-04-21 | 1994-08-30 | Cohen Albert D | System for producing surfing waves for tube riding or wind surfing |
US5387159A (en) * | 1993-08-30 | 1995-02-07 | Hilgert; Rick L. | Continuous wave generating apparatus for simulated surfriding |
Cited By (15)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20110143846A1 (en) * | 2008-06-17 | 2011-06-16 | Davis Richard P | Motorized Retractable Line for a Water Sports Facility |
US20110171618A1 (en) * | 2008-08-08 | 2011-07-14 | Madea Concept Sas | System for Artificially Creating the Practice of a Water Board Sport |
US20120183353A1 (en) * | 2011-01-19 | 2012-07-19 | Davis Richard P | Water Sports Facility |
US9457290B2 (en) | 2011-02-04 | 2016-10-04 | Kenneth Douglas Hill | Wave simulator for board sports |
US9649569B2 (en) | 2011-02-04 | 2017-05-16 | Kenneth Douglas Hill | Wave simulator for board sports |
US11040289B2 (en) | 2013-03-21 | 2021-06-22 | Whitewater West Industries, Ltd. | Padded grate drainage system for water rides |
US10918960B2 (en) | 2015-11-12 | 2021-02-16 | Whitewater West Industries Ltd. | Method and apparatus for fastening of inflatable ride surfaces |
US10195535B2 (en) | 2015-11-12 | 2019-02-05 | Whitewater West Industries Ltd. | Transportable inflatable surfing apparatus and method |
US10335694B2 (en) | 2015-11-12 | 2019-07-02 | Whitewater West Industries Ltd. | Method and apparatus for fastening of inflatable ride surfaces |
US10376799B2 (en) | 2015-11-13 | 2019-08-13 | Whitewater West Industries Ltd. | Inflatable surfing apparatus and method of providing reduced fluid turbulence |
US9982448B2 (en) * | 2016-02-08 | 2018-05-29 | Phillip James Fricano | Articulated plow |
US10662664B2 (en) | 2017-01-20 | 2020-05-26 | The Wave Pool Company, LLC | Systems and methods for generating waves |
US10119285B2 (en) | 2017-01-20 | 2018-11-06 | The Wave Pool Company, LLC | Systems and methods for generating waves |
US11542716B2 (en) * | 2017-09-25 | 2023-01-03 | Upsurfdown Gmbh | Artificial surfing system |
US11273383B2 (en) | 2017-11-10 | 2022-03-15 | Whitewater West Industries Ltd. | Water ride attraction incorporating a standing wave |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2008112120A1 (en) | 2008-09-18 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20080286048A1 (en) | Sheet flow water ride apparatus and method | |
USRE48000E1 (en) | Wave generating apparatus and method | |
US5741189A (en) | Retrofit water play structure and method | |
US10233660B2 (en) | Apparatus for producing waves for surfing using staggered wave generators extended along a curved stagger line | |
US7568859B2 (en) | Wave forming apparatus and method | |
KR102140904B1 (en) | System and method for generating waves in multiple directions | |
US20220259878A1 (en) | Systems and Methods for Generating Waves | |
US6932541B2 (en) | Wave forming apparatus and method | |
US6210287B1 (en) | Interactive arena play structure | |
US9457290B2 (en) | Wave simulator for board sports | |
US8602685B1 (en) | Wave generating apparatus and method | |
US7717645B2 (en) | Adjustable physical structures for producing hydraulic formations for whitewater recreationalists | |
EP2634327B1 (en) | Sequenced chamber wave generator apparatus and method | |
US7073977B2 (en) | Gliding device for surfboards | |
US20080286047A1 (en) | River water ride apparatus and method | |
USRE49215E1 (en) | Wave generating apparatus and method | |
WO2019018573A1 (en) | Wave generating system | |
CA2089580C (en) | Water ride with water propulsion devices | |
US7478441B2 (en) | Wave slide ride | |
KR102257360B1 (en) | Artificial surfing wave pool | |
US7537414B1 (en) | Small pneumatic wave generator | |
RU2003120106A (en) | UNIVERSAL SPRAYING DEVICE |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: WAVEYARD DEVELOPMENT, LLC, ARIZONA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:CARNAHAN, BRANDON;CARNAHAN, RICHARD;REEL/FRAME:021269/0528 Effective date: 20080620 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |