WO1999066131A2 - Redundant array control system for water rides - Google Patents

Abstract

A redundant array pumping system (10) and associated control and diagnostics system (300) is provided for water rides (90) for ensuring continuous and non-disruptive supply of water. The pumping system (10) incorporates a redundant pump and filter array (12) in conjunction with a nozzle system (N1-N11) for injecting water onto a ride surface (70). The nozzle system may incorporate a plurality of redundant or quasi-redundant nozzles or jets (J1-J11). The hydraulic pumping system (10) can include many levels of redundancy as applied to its various components, such as pumps (P1-P12), filters (F1-F12) and nozzles (N1-N11). Additionally, the system can be equipped with a plurality of pressure and flow sensors (PS, FS) for monitoring and controlling the performance of the pumps (P1-P12), filters (F1-F12) and nozzles (N1-N11) of the pumping system (10).

Description

REDUNDANT ARRAY CONTROL SYSTEM FOR WATER RIDES

Background of the Invention 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to water rides, and, more particularly to a redundant array pumping system and associated control and diagnostics for water rides of the type incorporating one or more high speed water jets for transferring kinetic energy to ride participants and or ride vehicles riding sliding on a low-fiiction slide or other ride surface. 2. Background of the Related Art

The past two decades have witnessed a phenomenal proliferation of family water recreation facilities, such as family waterparks and water oriented attractions in traditional themed amusement parks. Typical mainstay water ride attractions include waterslides, river rapid rides, and log flumes. These rides allow riders to slide down (either by themselves or via a ride vehicle) a slide or chute from an upper elevation or starting point to a lower elevation, typically a splash pool. Gravity or gravity induced rider momentum is the prime driving force that powers participants down and through such traditional water ride attractions.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,198,043 to Timbes, for example, discloses a typical gravity- induced water slide wherein a rider from an upper start pool slides by way of gravity to a lower landing pool. Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 4,196,900 to Becker discloses a conventional downslope waterslide with water recirculation provided. In each case, water is provided on the ride surface primarily as a lubricant between the rider and the ride surface and/or to increase the fun and enjoyment of the ride such as by splashing water. A more recent phenomenon are the so-called "injected sheet flow" water rides.

These rides typically employ one or more high-pressure injection modules which inject a sheet or jet of high-speed water onto a ride surface to propel a participant in lieu of, or in opposition to, or in augmentation with the force of gravity. The location and configuration of the nozzles and the velocity and volume of the injected flow prescribes the resultant water flow pattern and user path/velocity for a particular ride. A wide variety of fun and entertaining water rides and ride configurations are possible using injected sheet flow technology. For example, one such injected sheet flow water ride is sold and marketed under the name Master Blaster®, and is available from NBGS of New Braunfels Texas. The Master Blaster® ride attraction is also sometimes referred to as a "water coaster" style water ride because it provides essentially the water equivalent of a roller coaster ride. In particular, it has both downhill and/or uphill portions akin to a conventional roller-coaster and it also powers ride participants up at least one incline.

In a typical water coaster style water ride high-pressure water injection nozzles are located along horizontal and/or uphill portions of the ride to provide high-speed jets which propel the participant in the absence of or in addition to any gravity-induced rider momentum. Such high speed jets can also be used to accelerate participants horizontally or downhill at a velocity that is greater than can be achieved by gravity alone. High speed jets can also be used to slow down and/or regulate the velocity of ride participants on a ride surface so as to prevent a ride participant from achieving too much velocity or becoming airborne at an inopportune point in the ride. See, for example, U.S. Patent No. 5,213,547 incorporated herein by reference.

Another popular water ride of the injected sheet flow variety is the sheet flow simulated wave water ride. For example, one such simulated wave water ride is sold and marketed under the name Flow Rider®, and is available from Wave Loch, Inc. of La Jolla, California. The Flow Ridei® simulated wave water ride includes a sculptured padded ride surface having a desired wave-simulating shape upon which one or more jets of highspeed sheet water flow are provided. The injected sheet water flow is typically directed up the incline, thereby simulating the approaching face of an ideal surfing wave. The thickness and velocity of the sheet water flow is such that is creates simultaneously a hydroplaning or sliding effect between the ride surface and the ride participant and/or vehicle and also a drag or pulling effect upon a ride participant and or ride vehicle hydroplaning upon the sheet flow. By carefully balancing the upward-acting drag forces and the downward-acting gravitational forces, skilled ride participants are able to ride upon the injected sheet water flow and perform surfing-like water skimming maneuvers thereon for extended periods of time thereby achieving a simulated and/or enhanced surfing wave experience. See, for example, U.S. Patent No. 5,401,117 incorporated herein by reference.

In each of the injected sheet flow water rides described above, water is injected onto the ride surface by a high-pressure pumping system connected to one or more flow forming nozzles located at various positions along or adjacent to the ride surface. The pumping system serves as the primary driving mechanism and generates the necessary head or water pressure needed to deliver the required quantity and velocity of water from the various flow forming nozzles. Conventionally the pumping system comprises a bank of pumps with each pump providing water to a single nozzle located at a particular position along or adjacent to the ride surface. Where a series of nozzles are connected together, it is also known to use a single pump with a suitable manifold to provide the requisite water to each nozzle. The particular configuration and number of pumps chosen for a given system is typically dictated by factors such as the cost and pumping capacity of each pump, the size and nature of the particular ride and the type of ride effect desire Typically, the suction end of each pump is connected to a water filter, which, in turn, is linked to a water reservoir or sump.

Occasionally, however, it has been observed that one of the pumps in the water ride pumping system will fail or become sufficiently impaired such that it is no longer able to function at the required capacity and/or head. In such cases, the pump may have to be shut-off for replacement or repair. Similarly, an associated filter or nozzle may become congested or clogged such that the required flow rate is not achieved. In such cases the whole water ride is adversely affected and is typically required to be shut down to facilitate service and or repair of the malfunctioning component. This is an undesirable and disadvantageous situation because ride patrons may become upset or impatient waiting for the ride to be repaired and restarted. Also, patrons on the ride during a forced shut-down may be effectively stranded on the ride for some time while the affected components are being serviced and/or replaced. Excessive downtime can lead to lower overall rider throughput and, therefore, reduced profits for the ride owner/operator. For certain water rides there can also be safety implications if one or more of the injection nozzles should suffer a sudden collapse of water pressure due to pump failure or the like. For example, in water coaster type rides with both uphill and downhill portions, the sudden loss of localized nozzle water pressure on an uphill portion could possibly cause a ride participant(s) to stall and possibly fall back and collide with other ride participants entering the uphill portion, for example.

It would be a significant advance and commercial advantage in the industry if such disadvantages could be overcome or mitigated. Summary of the Invention

Accordingly, it is a principle object and advantage of the present invention to overcome some or all of these limitations and to provide a redundant array pumping system and an associated control and diagnostics system for water rides of the type incorporating one or more high speed water jets for transferring kinetic energy to ride participants and/or ride vehicles riding/sliding on a low-friction slide or other ride surface. In accordance with one embodiment the present invention provides a redundant array pumping system including a redundant pump array and a redundant filter array for ensuring uninterrupted water supply to an associated water ride. The redundant array pumping system preferably includes at least one primary pump and at least one auxiliary pump. Similarly, the redundant filter system preferably includes at least one primary filter and at least one auxiliary filter. Preferably, the nozzle system incorporates a plurality of quasi-redundant nozzles with each nozzle having a plurality of primary jets and at least one reserve jet. Each primary pump draws water from a water reservoir or sump via each respective primary filter and provides water to each respective nozzle. The nozzles are preferably spaced and positioned at predetermined locations along the water ride.

The pumps of the redundant array pumping system are preferably coupled by employing a pump bypass manifold. The redundant pumping system is preferably disposed with valve means, comprising manual or automated valves. The valve means permit looping out and looping in of each primary and auxiliary pump. Advantageously, this allows a primary pump to be isolated for inspection, servicing, repair or replacement while an auxiliary pump serves as a substitute, thereby ensuring that the water ride continues smooth and non-disruptive operation.

Similarly, the filters of the redundant filter array are preferably coupled by employing a filter bypass manifold. The redundant filter system is preferably disposed with valve means, comprising manual or automated valves. Again, the valve means permit looping out and looping in of each primary and auxiliary filter. Advantageously, this allows a primary filter to be isolated for inspection, servicing, repair or replacement while an auxiliary filter serves as a substitute, thereby ensuring that the water ride continues smooth and non-disruptive operation.

Preferably, each jet of a quasi-redundant nozzle is coupled with flow control means, such as manual or automated flow control valves. Also, the jets forming a particular nozzle are preferably substantially closely spaced. Thus, if a primary jet is partially blocked the associated flow control means can possibly be adjusted to compensate for the blockage. If the blockage is severe, the flow control means for an adjacent reserve jet can be adjusted to compensate for the blockage of the blocked reserve jet, thereby advantageously ensuring that the water ride continues to operate smoothly and with minimal effect on its quality.

In another preferred e mbodiment of the present invention, a plurality of pumps can be added in parallel to each one or some of the primary and auxihary pumps. Thus, one or more of the plurahty of pumps in parallel may serve in an auxihary capacity along with or without the auxihary pump(s) already present in the first-mentioned preferred embodiment. Similarly, a plurahty of filters can be added in parallel to each one or some of the primary and auxiliary filters. Thus, one or more of the plurahty of filters in parallel may serve in an auxiliary capacity along with or without the auxihary filter(s) already present in the first-mentioned preferred embodiment. Advantageously, this adds an extra degree of redundancy to the water ride hydraulic pumping system.

In yet another preferred embodiment, each or some primary pumps feed into a plurality of jets with each jet being part of a separate nozzle. Preferably, these nozzles are substantially closely spaced one behind the other and include primary and reserve jets which have associated flow control means, such as manual or automated flow control valves. In the case of jet blockage, appropriate adjacent reserve jets are activated by adjusting the flow control means to provide sufficient water to the water ride. Advantageously, this quasi-redundant nozzle configuration permits nozzle quasi- redundancy in two dimensions.

For purposes of summarizing the invention and the advantages achieved over the prior art, certain objects and advantages of the invention have been described herein above.

Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all such objects or advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment of the invention. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein. All of these embodiments are intended to be within the scope of the invention herein disclosed. These and other embodiments of the present invention will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments having reference to the attached figures, the invention not being limited to any particular preferred embodiments) disclosed.

Brief Description of the Drawings Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize the advantages and utility of the present invention from the detailed description provided herein having reference to the appended figures, of which: FIG. 1 is a perspective schematic view of one embodiment of an injected sheet water ride having features and advantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2a is a top view of a propulsion module for use in accordance with the injected sheet water ride of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 2b is a side view of the propulsion module of FIG 2b; FIG. 2c is a side view of a series of connected propulsion modules illustrating a rider thereon;

FIG. 3 a is a side perspective view of an upward accelerator incorporating multiple connected propulsion modules and illustrating a rider thereon;

FIG. 3b is a side perspective view of one of the connected propulsion modules of FIG. 3 a and illustrating a rider thereon;

FIG. 4 is a simplified schematic diagram of a redundant array pumping and filtration system having features and advantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a front elevation view of a redundant pump and filter array system having features and advantages in accordance with the present invention; FIG. 6 is a partial schematic cross-section view of a line filter for use in accordance with the redundant pump and filter array system of FIG. 5;

FIGS. 7a-d are schematic fluid circuit diagrams of the redundant pump and filter array system of FIG. 5, illustrating various modes of preferred operation thereof;

FIGS. 8a,b are schematic fluid circuit diagrams of an alternative embodiment of a redundant pump and filter array system having features and advantages in accordance with the present invention, illustrating various modes of preferred operation thereof; FIGS. 9a-d are schematic fluid circuit diagrams of a further alternative embodiment of a redundant pump and filter array system having features and advantages in accordance with the present invention, illustrating various modes of preferred operation thereof; FIG. 10 is a schematic fluid circuit diagram of a further alternative embodiment of a redundant pump and filter array system having features and advantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a partial schematic perspective view of a redundant nozzle array having features and advantages of the present invention; FIG. 12 is a simphfied schematic fluid circuit diagram of the redundant nozzle array ofFIG. il;

FIG. 13 is a simphfied schematic fluid circuit diagram of an alternative embodiment of a redundant nozzle array having features and advantages in accordance with the present invention; FIGS. 14a-c are schematic fluid circuit diagrams of a further alternative embodiment of redundant pump, filter and nozzle array systems having features and advantages in accordance with the present invention, illustrating the use of flow and pressure sensors therein; and

FIG. 15. is a simphfied control system logic diagram of a diagnostic and control system for a water ride having features and advantages in accordance with the present invention.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments For purposes of illustration and ease of understanding, the present invention is discussed primarily in the context of a water coaster style water ride, such as illustrated in FIG. 1. However, it should be recognized that some or all of the elements of the invention taught herein may also be used efficaciously for controlling other types of rides having multiple water injection nozzles, such as simulated wave water rides, flume rides, and the like.

FIG. 1 is a simplified schematic of a water-coaster style water ride 90 having features in accordance with the present invention. Water Coaster 90 commences with a conventional start basin 72, which allows ride participants 29 to enter the ride. The ride generally comprises a ride surface 70 forming a channel. The ride surface 70 may be made of any number of suitable materials, for example, resin impregnated fiberglass, concrete, gunite, sealed wood, vinyl, acrylic, metal or the like, which can be made into segments and joined by appropriate water-tight seals in end to end relation. Ride surface 70 is supported by suitable structural supports 71, for example, wood, metal, fiberglass, cable, earth, concrete or the like.

Ride attraction surface 70, although continuous, may be sectionalized for the purposes of description into a first horizontal top of a downchute portion 70a' to which conventional start basin 72 is connected, a first downchute portion 70b', a first bottom of downchute portion 70c', a first rising portion 70d' that extends upward from the downchute bottom 70c', and a first top 70e' of rising portion 70d'. Thereafter, attraction surface 70 continues into a second top of downchute portion 70a", a second downchute portion 70b", a second bottom of downchute portion 70c", a second rising portion 70d" that extends upward from downchute bottom 70c", and a second top 70e" of rising portion 70d". Thereafter, attraction surface 70 continues into a third top of downchute portion 70a'", a third downchute portion 70b'", a third bottom of downchute portion

70c'", a third rising portion 70d"' that extends upward from downchute bottom 70c'", and a third top 70e'" of rising portion 70d'". Thereafter, attraction surface 70 continues into a fourth top of downchute portion 70a"", a fourth downchute portion 70b"", a fourth bottom of downchute portion 70c"", a fourth rising portion 70d"" that extends upward from downchute bottom 70c"", and a fourth top 70e"" of rising portion 70d"" which connects to ending basin 73 in an area adjacent start basin 72 and the first top of downchute portion 70a'.

An upward accelerator module 42 is located in an upward portion 70d' of the attraction surface 70. A horizontal accelerator 40a is located in attraction surface 70 at the second bottom of the downchute portion 70c". A downward accelerator 44 is located in attraction surface 70 at third downchute portion 70b"'. A second horizontal accelerator 40b is located in attraction surface 70 at the fourth top of downchute portion 70a"". The various accelerator modules are adapted to inject a sheet flow of water onto the ride surface 70 to propel a rider and/or ride vehicle thereon. Overflow water, Whitewater (ie.. splash) and rider transient surge build up is eliminated by venting the slowed water over the outside edge of the riding surface, or through openings provided along the bottom and/or side edges of the channel. See, e.g., U.S. Patent No. 5,213,547 incorporated herein by reference. Water to the various accelerator modules 40, 42, 44 and to start basin 72 is provided via a high pressure source described in more detail later.

Turning now to FIG. 2A (top view) and FIG. 2B (side view) there is illustrated a propulsion module 21 comprising a high flow / high pressure water source 22; a flow control valve 23; a flow forming nozzle 24 with adjustable aperture 28; all of which work together to form a discrete jet-water flow 30 with arrow indicating the predetermined direction of motion. The aperture 28 of the flow-forming nozzle 24 preferably has an elongated rectangular shape, as shown, so as to extrude a sheet-like jet of water. The aperture may be sized from about Vz cm x 20cm to about 40cm x 200cm in height and width, respectively. Alternatively, other shapes and sizes may be used with efficacy.

The propulsion module further includes a substantially smooth segment of riding surface 25 over which jet-water flow 30 flows. Riding surface 25 preferably has sufficient structural integrity to support the weight of a human rider(s), vehicle, and water moving thereupon. It is also preferred that riding surface 25 have a low-coefficient of friction to enable jet- water 30 to flow and rider 29 to move with minimal loss of speed due to drag.

Module 21 may be fabricated using of any number of suitable materials, for example, resin impregnated fiberglass, concrete, gunite, sealed wood, vinyl, acrylic, metal or the like, and is joined by appropriate water-tight seals in end to end relation.

FIG.2C (side view) depicts a rider 29 (with arrow indicating the predetermined direction of motion) sliding upon a series of connected modules 21a, 21b, 21c.

Connections 26a, 26b and 26c between modules 21a, 21b, and 21c permit any desired degree of increase in overall length of the connected propulsion modules, as operationally, spatially, and financially desired. Connection 26 can result from bolting, gluing, or continuous casting of module 21 in an end to end fashion. When connected, the riding surface 25 of each module is preferably substantially in-line with and flush to its connecting module to permit a rider 29 who is sliding thereon and the jet-water 30 which flows thereon to respectively transition in a safe and smooth manner. When a module has nozzles 24 that emerge from a position along the length of the riding surface 25 (as depicted in FIG. 1C), it is preferred that the non-nozzle end of the riding surface 25 extend to and overlap the top of a connecting nozzle 24 at connection 26. Further to this configuration, it is also preferred that the bottom of nozzle 24 extend and serve as riding surface 25. The length of each propulsion module 21 can vary depending on desired operational performance characteristics and desired construction techniques or shipping parameters. Module 21 width can be as narrow as will permit one participant to ride in a seated or prone position with legs aligned with the direction of water flow, roughly 50 cm (20 inches), or as wide as will permit multiple participants to simultaneously ride abreast in a passenger vehicle or inner-tube.

Each nozzle 24 is formed and positioned to emit jet-water flow 30 in a direction substantially parallel to and in the lengthwise direction of riding surface 25 through adjustable aperture 28. To enable continuity in rider throughput and water flow, when modules are connected in series for a given attraction (e.g., FIG. 2c), all nozzles are preferably ahgned in the same relative direction to augment overall momentum transfer and rider movement. The condition of jet-water flow 30 (i.e., temperature, turbidity, pH, residual chlorine count, salinity, etc.) is standard pool, lake, or ocean condition water suitable for human swimming. FIGS. 3a, 3b illustrate the use and operation of an upward accelerator 42 for propelling a rider 29 along a portion of ride surface 25 from a lower elevation to a higher elevation. A rider 29 enters the accelerator module 21 at the end nearest nozzle 24 and moves upward along its length as shown in FIG. 3b. On each accelerator module (FIG. 3b) jet-water flow 30 from water source 22 is injected by nozzle 24 through adjustable aperture 28 onto the ride surface, preferably between the rider and the ride surface. Flow control valve 23 and adjustable aperture 28 permit adjustment to water flow velocity, thickness, width, and pressure. The thickness and velocity of the sheet water flow is preferably adjusted such that is creates simultaneously a drag or pulling effect upon the ride participant and/or ride vehicle and also a hydroplaning or sliding effect between the ride surface and the ride participant and/or vehicle. The hydroplaning effect eliminates or reduces friction between the rider/vehicle and the ride surface, while the drag or pulling effect tends to pull the rider/vehicle along the ride surface 25.

In the case of the accelerator module 21 the velocity of jet-water flow 30 is moving at a rate greater than the speed of the entering rider 29 and, thus, a transfer of momentum from the higher speed water to the lower speed rider causes the rider to accelerate and approach the speed of the more rapidly moving water. During this process of transferred momentum, a small transient surge 33 will build behind the rider. Transient surge 33 can be minimized by allowing excess build-up to flow over and off the sides of the ride surface 25. Alternatively, other vent mechanisms, e.g., side drains or porous vents, could also be used as desired.

Upward accelerator 42 can comprise a single accelerator module 21 (FIG. 3b) or multiple modules 21a, 21b, 21c, et seq. (FIG. 3a), as desired. In the multiple module embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3a a rider 29 can move from module 21a to module 21b to module 21c, et seq. with corresponding increases in acceleration caused by the progressive increase in water velocity issued from each subsequent nozzle 24a, 24b, 24c, et seq., until a desired maximum velocity is reached. The water pressure at each nozzle aperture 24a, 24b, 24c can be adjusted to provide such desired operational characteristics.

In a typical injected sheet flow water ride nozzle pressure can range from approximately 5 psi to 250 psi depending upon: (1) size and configuration of nozzle opening; (2) the weight and friction of a rider relative to the riding surface; (3) the consistency of riding surface friction; (4) the speed at which the rider enters the flow; (5) the physical orientation of the rider relative to the flow; (6) the angle of incline or decline of the riding surface; and (7) the desired increase or decrease in speed of rider due to flow- to-rider kinetic energy transfer. In an injected sheet flow water ride attraction that utilizes vehicles, nozzle pressure range can be higher, given that vehicles can be designed to withstand higher pressures than the human body and can be configured for greater efficiency in kinetic energy transfer. The flow control valve 23 of the accelerator module

21 (FIG. 3b) can be used to adjust nozzle pressure and flow as operational parameters dictate and can be remotely controlled and programmed.

The driving mechanism or energy source which provides the required water flow and pressure at the water source 22 of each propulsion module 21 is a plurahty of pumps contained, for example, within a suitable pump house or building 92 (FIG. 1). Such pumps are in fluid communication with each of the accelerator modules 40a, 40b, 42, 44 via pressurized supply lines 102, 106, 100, 104, respectively. The pumps are also in fluid commination with the start basin 72 and an optional surge tank 94. The surge tank 94 provides a low point reservoir to collect and facilitate re-pumping of vented water and also provides a holding and/or filtration tank for recycled water.

In conventional water ride architecture, a single large pump may be used to provide water to a plurality of accelerator modules and/or other water injection units using a suitable distribution manifold. It is also know to use separate smaller pumps for each accelerator module or a series of modules connected together. The particular configuration and number of pumps chosen for a given system is typically dictated by factors such as the cost and pumping capacity of each pump, the size and nature of the particular ride and the type of ride effect desired. In normal operation the particular pump configuration chosen does not affect the performance of the ride.

Occasionally, however, it has been observed that one of the pumps in the water ride pumping system will fail or become sufficiently impaired such that it is no longer able to function at the required capacity and/or head. In such cases, the pump may have to be shut-off for replacement or repair. Similarly, an associated filter or nozzle may become congested or clogged such that the required flow rate is not achieved. In such cases and with water rides configured in a conventional manner the whole water ride is adversely affected and is typically required to be shut down to facilitate service and/or repair of the malfunctioning component. Consider, for example, the upward accelerator 42 of FIG. 3a If a pump feeding the furthest downstream nozzle 24c of the ride becomes impaired or non-operational for whatever reason, the remaining injected water flows from nozzles 24a, 24b may be inadequate to push the rider 29 up the remaining portion of the incline. In that event the rider 29 will stall on the ride surface. If the ride is not shut down, there may be a risk that other riders may be accelerated up the incline by upward accelerator 42, possible colliding with the stalled rider and causing injury.

But, shutting down the ride is an undesirable and disadvantageous situation because ride patrons may become upset or impatient waiting for the ride to be repaired and restarted. Also, patrons on the ride during a forced shut-down may be effectively stranded on the ride for some duration until such time as it can be successfully repaired and restarted. Excessive down-time can lead to lower overall rider throughput and, therefore, reduced profits for the ride owner/operator. It is analogously obvious that the blockage and clogging of water filters and nozzles and the like in a water ride hydraulic pumping system could also have similar detrimental effects on the safety, quahty and profitability of the ride.

Redundant Pump and Filter Array Advantageously, the present invention overcomes some or all of these limitations by providing a pumping system comprising a redundant pump and filter array for facilitating rapid ride recovery following a pump failure or related component failure. FIG. 4 is a simplified schematic plumbing diagram illustrating one possible embodiment of a pumping system 10 comprising a redundant pump and filter array 12 which exploits the advantages of the present invention.

The pumping system 10 of FIG. 4 is best discussed and understood in the context of the water coaster style ride illustrated in FIG. 1. As illustrated and discussed above, the water ride 90 generally includes a water reservoir or sump 94 and a pumping system contained within a pump house 92. Feedlines 100, 102, 104 and 106 originate from the pump house 92 and are connected to respective nozzles N2, N5, N7 and N10 of accelerator modules 42, 40a, 44, 40b, respectively.

With the water ride 90 of FIG. 1 in operation, a rider 29 (with or without a vehicle) enters a start basin 72 and commences a descent in the conventional manner along downhill section 74. Upon entering an uphill section 76 the rider 29 encounters an upward nozzle N2 which injects a high-speed flow that accelerates and enhances the elevation of the rider 29 to the top of the uphill section 76. Thereafter, the rider 29 continues onto the bottom of a downhill section 78 where the rider 29 encounters a horizontal nozzle N5 which injects a high-speed flow that accelerates and enhances the elevation of the rider 29 to the top of an uphill section 80. Further, moving down a downhill section 82 the rider 29 encounters a downward nozzle N7 which injects a high-speed flow that accelerates the rider 29 downhill eventually imparting enough momentum to enable the rider 29 to ascend over the top of an uphill section 84. The rider then encounters a horizontal nozzle N10 which injects a high-speed flow that accelerates the rider eventually imparting enough momentum to enable the rider 29 to ascend over the top of the uphill section 86, wherein the ride of the rider 29 terminates in an end basin or splash pool 73.

Preferably, the pumping system 10 (FIG. 4) provides a sufficient quantity of high pressure water to each of the nozzles N2, N5, N7 and N10 to enable the rider 29 to complete the afore-described path. In this regard, those skilled in the art will recognize that the nozzles N2, N5, N7 and N10 may either be operated simultaneously and continuously, such as for continuous rider throughput; or successively and intermittently (ie. only as needed), such as for individual or spaced riders. In either case, the velocity of water that issues from each respective nozzle N2, N5, N7 and NIO is dictated by factors such the size and shape of the nozzle, hydraulic pressure at the nozzle inlet, friction (or flow blockages) within the hydraulic pumping system, and the free flow path at the nozzle outlet. Hydraulic pressure at each nozzle inlet is preferably maintained by a pumping system 10 (FIG. 4). Generally, the pumping system 10 comprises a pump and filter array 12 arranged in an N+l redundant array~in this case four primary pump/filter combinations 201-204 and one reserve pump/filter combination 205. Each primary pump/filter combination in the array 12 is adapted to supply water under pressure to a corresponding accelerator module 42, 40a, 40b, 44 (FIG. 1) via supply lines 100, 102, 104, 106. At least one reserve pump/filter combination 205 is provided and hydrauhcally coupled to the system such that any one of the primary pump/filter combinations 201-204 can be hydrauhcally disconnected or bypassed from the system and effectively replaced with the reserve pump/filter combination 205. In this manner, if one pump/filter combination should suffer a failure or impairment it can be bypassed from the system and replaced hydrauhcally with the reserve pump.

Preferably the various pumps and filters comprising the pumping system 10 are hydrauhcally arranged and coupled through suitable valves 215, check valves 217, bypass manifolds 219, 221 and the like such that the various pump/filter combinations can be "hot swapped" with one or more reserve pump/filter combinations. In this manner, a failed pump or other component may be easily and transparently removed or disconnected from the pumping system while the system is operating without affecting the remaining pumps or ride performance. Most preferably, this "hot swapping" is effected automatically by a suitable control and diagnostics system, described in more detail later. If desired, an additional line filter 225 ("make up line") may be provided as part of the pumping system 10 so as to provide, in effect, an N+l+1 redundancy of line filters. Assume, for example, that one of the primary pump/filter combinations fails and the reserve pump/filter combination 205 is switched into the circuit to make up for the lost pumping capacity. But, before the failed primary pump/filter combination can be repaired or replaced, one of the associated line filters becomes clogged. In this event, the N+l+1 filter redundancy would enable the clogged filter to be hydrauhcally disconnected from the fluid circuit to facilitate cleaning or repair while the make up line and filter 225 provide a hydraulic "stand-in" for the clogged filter. Again, suitable valves 215, check valves 217, bypass manifolds 219, 221 and the like are preferably provided such that the clogged filter can he "hot swapped" (preferably automatically) with the make up line and filter 225. Alternatively, those skilled in the art will recognize that the various line filters may themselves be arranged in an N+l or N+2 redundant array and connected together using one or more suitable valves 215, check valves 217, manifolds 219, 221 and the like.

In the particular pumping system 10 illustrated in FIG. 4, an optional filter pump 230 and associated line filter 232 is advantageously provided so as to facilitate parallel or "off-line" filtering of recirculated water via filter tanks 235, 237. These are typically sand filters or replaceable cartridge filters and, if desired, may be arranged in an N+l redundant array, as shown. Again, suitable valves 215, check valves 217, bypass manifolds 219, 221 and the like are preferably provided such that one filter 235 can be "hot swapped" (preferably automatically) with the other filter 237 (or vice versa) so as to ensure continuous ride operation. If desired, a portion of the water flow from filter pump 230 may be selectively diverted via a bypass line 241 to drive an associated water ride, such as a lazy river or the like, if desired.

FIGS. 5-7 are schematic illustrations of an altemative embodiment of a pumping system 10 having features and advantages of the present invention. In this case, the pumping system 10 includes both a redundant pump array 16 and a redundant filter array 18 feeding an array of nozzles 13. The nozzles Nl-11 each preferably include an associated flow control valve FCV1, FCV2, FCV3, FCV4, FCN5, FCN6, FCN7, FCN8, FCV9, FCV10 and FCN11, as shown in FIG. 7a, to provide localized adjustment and control of the injected flow to achieve a desired ride effect.

Preferably, the redundant pump array 16 includes a plurality of primary pumps PI, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6, P7, P8, P9, P10 and PI 1, and at least one auxiliary or reserve pump

PI 2. Preferably, the redundant filter array 18 includes a plurahty of primary filters FI, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6, F7, F8, F9, F10 and Fl l, and at least one auxihary or reserve filter F12. Preferably, the nozzle system 13 includes a plurahty of nozzles Νl, Ν2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N9, N10 and Nll. The redundant pump array 16, the redundant filter array 18, and the plurahty of nozzles 13 are hydrauhcally coupled to one another, as illustrated in FIG. 5, by a variety of standard plumbing fittings such as pipes, tees, elbows, collars, flanges, bushings, bells, valves and the hke (not shown). The sump 94 (FIG.6) is the water source for providing water for an injected sheet flow water ride (e.g. FIG. 1) or other water ride having multiple water injection nozzles. The plumbing leading out of the sump 94 includes valves SN1, SV2, SV3, SN4, SN5, SV6, SV7, SV8, SN9, SN10, SV11 and SN12 which connect the sump to filters FI to F12, respectively (see, e.g. FIG. 6).

The valves SN1 to SV12 are preferably open-close type valves, such as butterfly valves, and are preferably electro-mechanically or hydro-mechanically operated such as via a solenoid, piston or other convenient actuator responsive to an actuation signal from an associated controller. Alternatively, other suitable valves and actuators may also be used with efficacy, including gate valves, plug valves and ball valves among others. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that throttle valves may also be used, as desired, to provide flow control.

Preferably, and as shown more particularly in FIGS. 5 and 6, the redundant pump array 16 includes a pump bypass manifold 20. Preferably, the pump bypass manifold 20 and the piping leading to the nozzles Νl to Νl 1 has a nominal diameter of about 25-30cm

(10-12 inches). The bypass manifold 20 permits the output from the auxihary pump P12 to be fed to one of the nozzles Νl to Νl 1 positioned along the water ride 90 as will be discussed in more detail later herein. The pump array 16 preferably also includes a plurality of valves PV1, PV2, PV3, PV4, PV5, PV6, PV7, PV8, PV9, PN10 and PV11 positioned downstream of the discharge end of respective pumps PI to Pll. The settings of the valves PV1 to PV11 are used to manage the output from the respective pumps PI to PI 1 to the respective nozzles Νl to Νl 1. Preferably, the pump array 16 further includes a plurality of valves PMVl, PMV2, PMV3, PMV4, PMV5, PMV6, PMV7, PMV8, PMV9, PMV10 and PMNl l disposed in communication with the pump manifold 20, and valves APV12 and APV13 associated with the auxiliary pump P12. The settings of the valves

PMVl to PMNll and the valves APV12 and APV13 in conjunction with the settings of the valves PV1 to PV11 are responsible for directing the water output from the pumps PI to P l l, and P12 as needed or desired, along predetermined paths to predetermined destinations as will be discuss .id at greater length later herein. Again, these various valves are preferably open-close type valves, such as butterfly valves, and are preferably electro- mechanically or hydro-mechanically operated such as via a solenoid, piston or other convenient actuator responsive to an actuation signal from an associated controller. Alternatively, other suitable valves and actuators may also be used with efficacy, including gate valves, plug valves and ball valves among others. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that any one of a number of throttle valves may also be used, as desired, to provide flow control. In the preferred embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7a the redundant pump array 16 includes eleven primary pumps PI to Pll and one auxiliary pump P12. Of course, the number of primary pumps may be increased or decreased, as desired or needed, and is partly dependent on the nature of the ride. Similarly, more than one auxihary pump may be incorporated into the hydraulic pumping system described herein if additional backup capacity is required or desired. Moreover, a grouping of pumps may be substituted for a particular pump by connecting a plurahty of pumps in series, parallel or a combination thereof. It will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that the redundant pumping system of the present invention can include N+x pumps, where N is the number of primary pumps, x is the number of auxihary pumps, and N and x are both integers greater than or equal to one, with x preferably being equal to one.

Preferably, the pumps PI to P12 of the redundant pump array 16 shown in FIG. 5 are centrifugal pumps, having a pressure head from about 23-37m (75 to 120 feet) of water and a capacity of about 60-110 L/s (1000 to 1800 GPM), though various other types of pumps may be used such as rotary action pumps (employing vanes, screws, lobes, or progressive cavities), jet pumps and ejector pumps among others. Preferably, the maximum pumping power available from each one of the pumps PI to P12 is about 37- 74kw (50 to 100 horsepower). The pumps PI to P12 can preferably provide water at a pressure of about .35-17.2 Bar (5 psi to 250 psi) to the nozzles Nl to Nil. In a most preferred embodiment, the pumps PI to P12 are ITT Marlow pumps manufactured by Flygt of Trumbull, Connecticut.

Similarly, and as shown in FIG. 7a, the redundant filter system 18 includes a filter bypass manifold 22. Preferably, the filter bypass manifold 22, its associated piping and the piping leading to the pumps PI to P12 has a nominal diameter of about 15-30 cm (6-12 inches). The filter bypass manifold 22 permits the auxihary filter F12 to serve as a substitute for one of the primary filters FI to FI 1 as will be discussed in more detail later herein. The filter system 18, preferably, also includes a plurality of valves FV1, FV2, FV3, FV4, FV5, FV6, FV7, FV8, FV9, FV10 and FV11 positioned downstream of the outlet of respective filters FI to Fll. The settings of the valves FN1 to FV11 are used to manage the water flow through the respective filters FI to FI 1 to the respective pumps PI to Pl l. Preferably, the filter system 18 further includes a plurahty of valves FMV1, FMV2, FMV3, FMV4, FMV5, FMV6, FMN7, FMN8, FMN9, FMV10 and FMN11 disposed in the filter manifold 22, and valves AFN12 and AFN13 associated with the auxiliary filter F12.

The settings of the valves FMV1 to FMN11 and the valves AFN12 and AFN13 in conjunction with the settings of the valves FN1 to FN11 are responsible for directing the water flow through the filters FI to Fll, and F12 as needed or desired, along predetermined paths to the pumps PI to Pll, and P12 as needed or desired, as will be discussed at greater length later herein. Again, these various valves are preferably open- close type valves, such as butterfly valves, and are preferably electro-mechanically or hydro-mechanically operated such as via a solenoid, piston or other convenient actuator responsive to an actuation signal from an associated controller. Alternatively, other suitable valves and actuators may also be used with efficacy, including gate valves, plug valves and ball valves among others. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that any one of a number of throttle valves may also be used, as desired, to provide flow control.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7a the redundant filter system 18 includes eleven primary filters FI to FI 1 and one auxihary filter F12. These can be any of a wide variety of commercially available strainer baskets or line filters as are well known in the art. The filter element of each of the filters FI to F12 may be a replaceable strainer basket or filter cartridge 175, such as illustrated in FIG. 6. In a most preferred embodiment, the filters FI to F12 are strainer baskets manufactured by ETA USA, a subsidiary of ΝBGS International of New Braunfels, Texas. The inlet and outlet openings of the filters

FI to F12 preferably have a nominal diameter of about 15-30cm (6 inches to 12 inches). The pressure drop through each line filter FI to F12 is preferably relatively small (less than 5% total head) at full rated capacity.

Of course, the number of primary filters may be increased or decreased, as desired or needed. Similarly, more than one auxiliary filter may be incorporated into the hydraulic pumping system described herein, and more than one filter may be associated with a particular pump by connecting a plurality of filters in series, parallel or a combination thereof, as desired. Preferably, the redundant filter system of the present invention includes N+x filters, where N is the number of primary pumps, x is the number of auxiliary pumps, and N and x are both integers greater than or equal to one, with x preferably being equal to one. In normal operation of the water pumping system 10 the pumps PI to Pll are operated and draw water through respective line filters FI to Fll. Pumps PI to Pll increase the head of the water and thereby provide the requisite pressurized water flow to the respective nozzles Nl to Nil. Thus, the water flow to nozzle Nl begins from the sump 94, and flows through valve SV1, filter FI, valve FV1, pump PI, valve PV1 and ultimately to nozzle Nl . Water to nozzles N2 to Nl 1 follows a similar respective path. In normal operation, the auxiliary pump P12 and the auxihary filter F12 are generally not active.

FIG. 7b depicts the settings of the various valves in the pumping system 10 during normal operation. An open (conducting) valve is shown as "white" or "x" and a closed (blocked) valve is shown as "black" or ">^■*" During normal operation sump valves SV1 to

SV11 are open, filter manifold valves FMV1 to FMV 11 are closed, filter valves FV1 to FV11 are open, pump manifold valves PMVl to PMVl 1 are closed, pump valves PV1 to PV11 are open. This enables primary pumps PI to Pll to draw water, through respective primary filters FI to Fl l, from the sump 94 and provide it to respective nozzles Nl to Nl 1. Also, valves SV12, AFV12, AFV13, APV12 and APV13, which are associated with the auxiliary pump P12 and the auxiliary filter F12, can either be open or closed though it is preferred that they are closed, as illustrated in FIG. 7b, to totally isolate the redundant auxiliary pump P12 and auxiliary filter F12 during normal operation of the hydraulic pumping system 10. As discussed above, the auxihary pump P12 and the associated auxiliary filter F12 provide redundancy to the pumping system 10 and ensure smooth operation of an associated water ride in the event that one of the pumps PI to PI 1 has to be shut-off for maintenance or replacement or if one of the primary filters FI to FI 1 has to be cleaned or replaced.

FIG. 7c illustrates the situation where primary pump PI, for example, has to be shut-off. In that case, auxiliary pump P12 is switched in to make up for the lost capacity and to ensure that the pumping system 10 provides the requisite water supply to nozzle Nl. Procedurally, this is accomplished by turning off primary pump PI, turning on auxihary pump P12, closing valve PV1, and opening valves PMVl, SV12, AFN13 and APV12, so that the water flow to nozzle Νl is substantially not disrupted or is only briefly interrupted. Preferably this is all done automatically, as will be discussed in more detail below, although manual operation of the system in this manner is also effective. In this PI bypass configuration auxiliary pump P12 draws water from the sump 94 through valve SV12, auxiliary filter F12, valve AFN13, and provides it to the nozzle Νl through valve APV12, the pump manifold 20 and valve PMVl. Valves SV1 and FN1 may remain open or be closed, but it is preferred that they be closed, as shown in FIG. 7c, to totally isolate the primary pump PI and associated primary filter FI. The looping out of primary pump PI and the re-routing of water flow from auxihary pump P12 to nozzle Νl is preferably accomplished while the remaining pumps and the ride remains in operation, thus providing "hot swapping" of the affected components.

When primary pump PI is ready to be turned on again (after inspection, servicing, repair or replacement) the above-described procedure is simply reversed and auxihary pump P12 is looped out of the redundant pumping system 16 and the water is again routed from primary pump PI to the nozzle Νl, to restore normal operation of the hydraulic pumping system 10, all without shutting down the ride. Procedurally, this is accomphshed by turning off auxiliary pump P12, turning on primary pump PI, closing valve PMN1, and opening valves SV1, FV1 and PV1, so that the water flow to the ride 90 (FIG. 1) is not disrupted or interrupted. Again, valves SV12, AFV13 and APV12 may remain open or be closed during normal operation of the hydraulic pumping system 10, though it is preferred that they be closed as illustrated in FIG. 7c.

The above-described looping out of the primary pump PI utilizes the auxihary pump P12 in conjunction with the auxiliary filter F12. Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that by minor modification of the hydraulic pumping system 10 the auxiliary pump P12 can be used in conjunction with a primary filter. For example, if primary pump PI needs to be shut-off but primary filter FI is operational, the auxihary pump P12 may be used with the primary filter FI. This can be realized, for example, by having a pipe, disposed with a valve, connecting the outlet of the filter FI to the suction end of primary pump PI 2. Then by adjustment of the appropriate valves the primary filter

FI and the auxiliary pump P12 can be coupled to provide water flow to nozzle Νl. Similarly, primary filters F2 to FI 1 may be connected to the auxiliary pump P12. Since such a modification to the hydrauhc pumping system 10 would be obvious to those skilled in the art it will not be discussed in detail herein and is not shown in the drawings, but this modification lies within the scope of the present invention.

FIG. 7d illustrates the situation where primary filter FI, for example, becomes clogged and has to be cleaned or replaced. In that case, a similar "hot swapping" methodology can again be used to safely perform the inspection, servicing or replacement of the primary filter, while re-routing the water flow through the auxihary filter F12, without interruption or disruption of the water pumping system or associated water ride. For example, if primary filter FI has to be looped out, auxihary filter F12 takes over the responsibility of filtering the water being drawn by primary pump PI, as illustrated by the valve settings of FIG. 7d (open valves are shown as "white" or "x" and closed valves are shown as "black" or "►^•<"). This is accomphshed by opening valves SV12, AFN12 and FMV1, and closing valve FV1, so that the water flow to nozzle is not disrupted or is only briefly interrupted. In this manner primary pump PI draws water from the sump 94 through valve SV12, auxiliary filter F12, valve AFN12, the filter manifold 22, valve

FMN1 and provides it to the nozzle Νl through valve PV1. Valve SV1 may remain open or be closed, but it is preferred that it be closed, as shown in FIG. 7d, to totally isolate the primary filter FI.

When primary filter FI is ready to be used again (after inspection, servicing or replacement) the above-described procedure is reversed and auxihary filter F12 is looped out of the redundant filter system 18 and the water is again routed through primary filter FI to primary pump PI, to restore normal operation of the hydrauhc pumping system 10, all without shutting down the ride. This is accomphshed by closing valve FMV1, and opening valves SV1 and FV1, so that the water flow to the ride 90 (FIG. 1) is not disrupted or interrupted. Valves SV12 and APV12 may remain open or be closed during normal operation of the hydraulic pumping system 10, though it is preferred that they be closed as illustrated in 7d.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that by minor modification of the pumping system 10 the auxiliary pump PI 2 can be used in conjunction with a primary filter. For example, if primary pump PI needs to be shut-off while retaining the operation of primary filter FI, the auxiliary pump P12 may be used with the primary filter FI. This can be realized, for example, by having a pipe, disposed with a valve, connecting the outlet of the filter FI to the suction end of primary pump P12. Then by adjustment of the appropriate valves the primary filter FI and the auxihary pump P12 can be coupled to provide water flow to nozzle Nl . Similarly, primary filters F2 to FI 1 may be connected to the auxiliary pump P12. Since such a modification to the hydrauhc pumping system 10 would be obvious to those skilled in the art it will not be discussed in detail herein and is not shown in the drawings, but this modification hes within the scope of the present invention.

FIGS. 8a-8d illustrate a further alternative embodiment of a pumping system 10' having features and advantages of the present invention. For ease of illustration and brevity of description like elements are designated using like reference numerals and the descriptions thereof are not repeated herein. The pumping system 10' is similar to that described above, except that it an additional auxihary filter F12¹ is provided along with open-close valves SV13 and AFV13', of the type mentioned herein above. FIG. 8a depicts the settings of the various valves of the hydrauhc pumping system 10' during normal operation. Again, an open (conducting) valve is shown as "white" or 'W and a closed

(blocked) valve is shown as "black" or "►^•«". During normal operation sump valves SV1 to SV11 are open, filter manifold valves FMV1 to FMV11 are closed, filter valves FV1 to FV11 are open, pump manifold valves PMVl to PMV11 are closed, pump valves PV1 to PV11 are open, thereby allowing primary pumps PI to Pll to draw water, through respective primary filters FI to FI 1, from the sump 94 and provide it to respective nozzles Nl to Ni l . Also, valves SV12, SV13, AFV12, AFV13, AFV13', APV12 and APV13, which are associated with the auxihary pump P12 and the auxihary filters F12 and F12¹, can either be open or closed though it is preferred that they are closed, as illustrated in FIG. 8a, to totally isolate the redundant auxiliary pump P12 and auxihary filters F12 and F12' during normal operation of the hydrauhc pumping system 10'.

Advantageously, the pumping system 10' depicted in FIG. 8a not only allows auxihary pump P12 to draw water through either one of the auxihary filters F12 and F12', thereby providing a second level of filter redundancy, but also permits the auxihary pump P12 and the auxiliary filter F12 to be independently operative. For example, and as illustrated by the valve settings in FIG. 8b, auxiliary pump P12 may substitute for primary pump PI while auxiliary filter F12 is simultaneously substituting for primary filter F6. The looping out of pump PI is accomplished by turning off primary pump PI, turning on auxihary pump P12, closing valve PV1, and opening valves PMVl, SV13, AFV13' and APV12, so that the water flow is substantially not disrupted or is only briefly interrupted. In this manner auxihary pump P12 draws water from the sump 94 through valve SV13, auxihary filter F12', valve AFV13¹, and provides it to the nozzle Nl through valve APV12, the pump manifold 20 and valve PMVl. Valves SVl and FVl may remain open or be closed, but it is preferred that they be closed, as shown in FIG. 8b, to totally isolate the primary pump PI and associated primary filter FI. Similarly, the isolation of filter F6 is achieved by opening valves SV12, AFV12 and FMV6, and closing valve FV6, so that the water flow again is not substantially dismpted or interrupted. In this manner primary pump P6 draws water from the sump 94 through valve SV12, auxihary filter F12, valve AFV12, the filter manifold 22, valve FMV6 and provides it to the nozzle N6 through valve PV6. Valve SV6 may remain open or be closed, but it is preferred that it be closed, as shown in FIG. 8b, to totally isolate the primary filter F6.

Referring to FIGS. 8a, 8b, when primary pump PI is ready to be turned on again (after inspection, servicing, repair or replacement) auxihary pump PI 2 is looped out of the redundant pumping system 16' and the water is again routed from primary pump PI to the nozzle Nl , to restore normal operation of the hydrauhc pumping system 10', all without shutting down the ride. This is accomphshed by turning off auxihary pump PI 2, turning on primary pump PI, closing valve PMVl, and opening valves SVl, FVl and PV1, so that the water flow is not disrupted or interrupted. Again, valves SV13, AFV13' and APV12 may remain open or be closed during normal operation of the hydrauhc pumping system 10', though it is preferred that they be closed as illustrated in FIG. 8a

Similarly, when primary filter F6 (see FIGS. 8a, 8b) is ready to be used again (after inspection, servicing or replacement) the auxiliary filter F12 is looped out of the redundant filter system 18' and the water is again routed through primary filter F6 to primary pump

P6, to restore normal operation of the hydraulic pumping system 10', all without shutting down the ride. Referring to FIGS. 8a, 8b, this is accomphshed by closing valve FMV6, and opening valves SV6 and FV6, so that the water flow to the ride 90 (FIG. 1) is not substantially disrupted or is only briefly interrupted. Valves SV12 and APV12 may remain open or be closed during normal operation of the hydrauhc pumping system 10', though it is preferred that they be closed as illustrated in FIG. 8a FIGS. 9a-9d illustrate a further alternative embodiment of a pumping system 10" having features and advantages of the present invention. For ease of illustration and brevity of description like elements are designated using hke reference numerals and the descriptions thereof are not repeated herein. The pumping system 10" is similar to the embodiments described above, except that it is advantageously symmetrically and identically configured such that any one of the pump and filter combinations (either in combination or separately) can be designated as "reserve" or "auxihary" for pxuposes of practicing the invention. For example, it may be desirable to rotate reserve designations in the ordinary course of ride operations over several months or years in order to provide for routine maintenance/service of pumps/ filters and/or to more evenly distribute wear and tear over the various components.

FIG. 9a depicts one such pumping system 10" with the settings of the various valves configured for normal operation. Again, an open (conducting) valve is shown as "white" or "><" and a closed (blocked) valve is shown as "black" or "*^■<" Assume, for example, that pump P12 and filter F12 are designated as reserve or auxihary system components. Thus, during normal operation sump valves SVl to SVl 1 are open, filter manifold valves FMV1 to FMV 11 are closed, filter valves FVl to FV11 are open, pump manifold valves PMVl to PMV11 are closed, pump valves PV1 to PV11 are open. This enables primary pumps PI to Pll to draw water, through respective primary filters FI to Fll, from the sump 94 and provide it to respective nozzles Nl to Nil. Valves SV12, FV12, FM VI 2 and PMV12, which are associated with the designated auxihary pump P12 and the designated auxiliary filter F12, can either be open or closed, though it is preferred that they are closed, as illustrated in FIG. 9a, to totally isolate the designated redundant auxiliary pump P12 and designated auxiliary filter F12. As discussed above, the designated auxiliary pump P12 and the designated associated auxihary filter F12 may be selectively designated to provide the desired redundancy to the pumping system 10" and ensure smooth operation of an associated water ride in the event that one of the pumps PI to PI 1 has to be shut-off for maintenance or replacement or if one of the primary filters FI to FI 1 has to be cleaned or replaced. Alternatively, any one of the other pumps Pl-11 or fillers Fl-1 1 can be selectively designated as reserve or auxiliary components and pump

PI 2 and filter FI 2 as primary components, as desired. FIG. 9b illustrates the situation where primary pump PI, for example, has to be shut-off. In that case, designated auxiliary pump P12 is switched in to make up for the lost capacity and to ensure that the pumping system 10" is able to provide the requisite water supply to nozzle Nl. Procedurally, this is accomphshed by turning off primary pump PI, turning on designated auxihary pump P12, closing valve PV1, and opening valves PMVl,

FMV12 and PMVl 2, so that the water flow to nozzle Nl is substantially not disrupted or is only briefly interrupted. Again, this is preferably done automatically although manual operation of the system in this manner is also effective. In this "PI bypass" configuration auxihary pump P12 draws water from the sump 94 through valve SVl, through primary filter FI and valves FVl and FMV1, through filter bypass manifold 22 and valve FMV12 and provides it to the nozzle Nl under pressure through valves PMV12, pump bypass manifold 20 and valve PMVl . Valves SV12 and FV12 may remain open or be closed, but it is preferred that they be closed, as shown in FIG. 9b, to totally isolate the designated auxihary filter F12. The looping out of primary pump PI and the re-routing of water flow from auxiliary pump P12 to nozzle Nl is preferably accomphshed while the remaining pumps and the ride remains in operation, thus providing advantageous "hot swapping" of the affected components.

When primary pump PI is ready to be turned on again (after inspection, servicing, repair or replacement) the above-described procedure is simply reversed and designated auxiliary pump P12 is looped out of the pumping system 10" and the water is again routed from primary pump PI to the nozzle Nl, to restore normal operation of the pumping system 10", all without shutting down the ride. Those skilled in the art will note that the above-described looping out of the primary pump PI continues to utilize associated primary filter FI so that independent N+l redundancy is still provided for filter array 18". FIG. 9c illustrates the situation where primary filter FI, for example, becomes clogged and has to be cleaned or replaced. In that case, designated auxihary filter F12 is switched in to make up for the lost filter capacity and to ensure that the pumping system 10" is able to provide the requisite water supply to nozzle Nl. Procedurally, this is accomplished by closing valve FVl, and opening valves SV12, FMV1, FMV12 and FV12, so that the water flow to nozzle Nl is substantially not dismpted or is only briefly interrupted. Again, this is preferably done automatically although manual operation of the system in this manner is also effective. In this "FI bypass" configuration primary pump PI draws water from the sump 94 through valve SV12, through designated auxihary filter F12 and valves FV12 and FMV12, through filter bypass manifold 22 and valve FMV1 and provides it to the nozzle Nl under pressure through valve PV1. Valve SVl may remain open or be closed, but it is preferred that it be closed, as shown in FIG. 9c, to totally isolate the clogged filter FI . The looping out of primary filter FI and the re-routing of water flow from designated auxiliary filter F12 to nozzle Nl is preferably accomphshed while the remaining pumps and the ride remains in operation, thus providing advantageous "hot swapping" of the affected components.

When primary filter FI is ready to be turned on again (after inspection, servicing, repair or replacement) the above-described procedure is simply reversed and designated auxihary filter F12 is looped out of the pumping system 10" and the water is again routed through primary filter FI to the nozzle Nl, to restore normal operation of the pumping system 10", all without shutting down the ride. Those skilled in the art will note that the above-described looping out of the primary filter FI does not affect the operation of the associated primary pump PI so that independent N+l redundancy is still provided for the pump array 16".

FIG. 9d illustrates the situation where both a primary pump (e.g., P3) and primary filter (e.g., F6) need to be serviced or replaced at the same time. In that case, designated auxiliary filter F12 is switched in to make up for the lost filter capacity and designated auxiliary pump P12 is switched in to make up for lost pump capacity. This ensures that the pumping system 10' is able to provide the requisite water supply to nozzles N3 and N7 even when both a primary pump P3 and a non-associated filter F6 are required to be shut down and/or replaced. Procedurally, this is accomphshed by closing valve FV6, and opening valves SV12, FMV6, FMV12 and FV12, so that the water flow to nozzle N6 is substantially not disrupted or is only briefly interrupted. At the same time or sequentially

(depending upon timing of the malfunctions) primary pump P3 is turned off and designated auxiliary pump P12 is turned on. Valve PV3 is closed, and valves PMV3, FMV3 and PMVl 2 are opened, so that the water flow to nozzle N3 substantially without being disrupted or being only briefly interrupted. Again, each of these steps is preferably done automatically, although manual operation of the pumping system 10" in this manner is also effective. In this "P3/F6 bypass" configuration primary pump P6 draws water from the sump 94 through valve SV12, through designated auxiliary filter F12 and valves FN12 and FMV12, through filter bypass manifold 22 and valve FMV6 and provides it to the nozzle Ν6 under pressure through valve PV6. Auxiliary pump P12 draws water from the sump 94 through valve SV3, through primary filter F3 and valves FV3 and FMV3, through filter bypass manifold 22 and valve FMV12 and provides it to the nozzle N3 under pressure through valves

PMVl 2, pump bypass manifold 20 and valve PMV3. The looping out of primary filter F6 and primary pump P3 and the re-routing of the various water flows is preferably accomplished while the remaining pumps and the ride remains in operation, thus providing advantageous "hot swapping" of the affected components. When primary filter F6 and/or primary pump P3 are ready to be activated again

(after inspection, servicing, repair or replacement) the above-described procedure is simply reversed and designated auxiliary filter F12 and pump PI 2 are looped out of the pumping system 10" and the water is again re-routed to restore normal operation of the pumping system 10" without shutting down the ride. Optionally, in any of the above-described embodiments auxihary pump P12 may als _• be used to provide pressurized water to an alternate less-critical destination 32, such as a 1 izy river water ride attraction, a recirculation filter or other non-essential destination. Th is, with the pump manifold valves PMVl to PMNll and valve APN12 closed, the vaives SV12, AFV13, APV12 and APV13 may be opened and the pump P12 turned on. The pump P12 then draws water from the sump 94 through valve SV12, filter F12, valve AFV13 and pumps it through valves APV12, pump manifold 20 and valve APV13 to the alternate destination 32.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily comprehend that the scope of the present invention permits increasing the redundancy level of the hydrauhc pumping systems 10, 10', 10" in numerous other ways to achieve significant commercial and practical advantages. Another preferred embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 10. Again, for ease of illustration and brevity of description hke elements are designated using like refc.ence numerals and the descriptions thereof are not repeated herein. In this case, and by way of example, the primary pump PI and valve PV1 of previously described embodiments have been replaced by a parallel pump set-up 26, and the primary filter FI and valve FVl have been replaced by a parallel filter set-up 28. Of course, any of the other primary pumps P2 to PI 1 and auxiliary pump P12, and primary filters F2 to FI 1 and auxiliaiy filter F12 may be replaced with such a paraUel set-up. This paraUel set-up of pumps and filters is desirable if one of the nozzles, for example nozzle Nl, supplies water to a very critical section of a water ride. Advantageously, the preferred embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10 provides extra assurance that the flow of water to nozzle Nl wiU not be interrupted or disrupted.

Referring to FIG. 10 pumps PI and PI' are arranged in parallel with valves EPV1 and EPVl¹, respectively, at their respective suction ends and valves PV1 and PV1', respectively, at their respective discharge ends. Similarly, filters FI and FI' are arranged in parallel with valves EFV1 and EFV1', respectively, at their respective inlets and valves FVl and FVl¹, respectively, at their respective outlets. Preferably, these valves are open- close valves of the type mentioned herein above. In typical normal operation, one of the pumps PI, PI¹ and one of the filters FI, FI* is looped out. For example, pump PI¹ is looped out by closing valves EPVl¹ and PV1', and filter FI' is looped out by closing valves EFVl' and FVl'. Of course, during normal operation valves SVl, EFV1, FVl, EPVl and PV1 are open while valves FMV1 and PMVl are closed. Thus, water from the sump 94 flows through the filter FI and is pumped by pump PI to the nozzle Nl.

If pump PI fails or has to be shut-off, pump PI' can take over the responsibility of providing the requisite water supply to nozzle Nl. This is accomphshed by turning off pump PI, turning on pump PI', closing valves EPVl and PV1, and opening valves EPVl' and PV1', thereby isolating pump PI but without disrupting or interrupting the water flow to the ride. When pump PI is ready to be turned on again the above-described procedure is reversed and pump PI¹ is looped out and the water is again routed from pump PI to the nozzle Nl , to restore typical normal operation, all without shutting down the ride. This is accomplished by turning off pump PI', turning on pump PI, closing valves EPVl* and PV 1 ', and opening valves EP V 1 and PV1 , so that the water flow to the ride is not dismpted or interrupted. Advantageously, the extra redundancy provided by the auxihary pump P12 (e.g. FIGS. 7-9) will be available if both the pumps PI and PI' fail or have to be shut-off. In an alternative normal mode of operation, both pumps PI and PI' may be operated simultaneously at a reduced pumping rate, with each pump having sufficient pumping capacity to independently supply nozzle Nl if one of the pumps PI or PI¹ fails or needs to be shut-off. Similarly, if filter FI becomes clogged or needs to be replaced, filter FI¹ can take over the responsibility of filtering the water being supphed to nozzle Nl. This is accomplished by closing valves EFVl and FVl, and opening valves EFVl' and FVl', thereby isolating filter FI but without disrupting or interrupting the water flow to the ride. When filter FI is ready to be used again the above-described procedure is reversed and filter FI' is looped out and the water is again routed through filter FI to the nozzle Nl, to restore typical normal operation, all without shutting down the ride. This is accomphshed by closing valves EFVl' and FVl', and opening valves EFVl and FVl, so that the water flow to the ride is not disrupted or interrupted. Advantageously, the extra redundancy provided by the auxiliary filter F12 (e.g. FIGS. 7-9) wiU be available if both the filters FI and FI' become clogged or need to be replaced. In an alternative noπnal mode of operation, both filters FI and FI' may be used simultaneously.

Referring again to FIG. 10, which shows two pumps PI, PI' in parallel and two filters FI, FI' in parallel, it will be readily apparent to those skiUed in the art that any number of pumps or filters may be used in parallel. Additionally, pumps PI and PI' may be in parallel with a filter connected in series to the parallel pump set-up or filters FI and FI' may be in parallel and connected to a pump in series. Moreover, a paraUel set-up may employ a filter and a pump connected in series on each one of its branches. Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that many other similar modifications are within the scope of the invention described herein.

Redundant Nozzle Array

As discussed previously, the nozzle system 13 includes plural nozzles Nl to Nil as shown, for example, in FIGS. 7-9. These are positioned at predetermined positions along a water ride (e.g. FIG. 1) to provide the desired transfer of momentum to a rider or ride vehicle and/or to provide other desired ride effects. As with the pump and filters described above, occasionally, it has been observed that one of the nozzles in the water ride will fail become fully or partially clogged or blocked by a leaf, twig or other debris in the water or on the ride surface. In such case, the nozzle may no longer able to function at the required capacity and/or to produce the required velocity and volume of water to achieve the desired effect. In such cases, the ride may have to be shut-down for service or repair. But, as noted above, shutting down the ride is an undesirable and disadvantageous situation because ride patrons may become upset or impatient waiting for the ride to be repaired and restarted. Also, patrons on the ride during a forced shut-down may be effectively stranded on the ride for some duration until such time as it can be successfuUy repaired and restarted. Excessive down-time can lead to lower overaU rider throughput and, therefore, reduced profits for the ride owner/operator. Accordingly, another feature and advantage of the present invention is to overcome or mitigate these problems by providing a redundant or quasi-redundant nozzle system, such as schematically exemplified in FIGS. 11 and 12. In this embodiment of the present invention the nozzle system 13 is preferably quasi-redundantly configured. That is, one or more of the nozzles Nl to Nl 1 may advantageously composed of a plurahty of smaUer nozzles or jets, as can be seen schematicaUy in FIGS. 11 and 12 for nozzle Nl. Thus, Nl is preferably composed of jets Jll, J12, J13, J14 and J15 which are preferably closely spaced and substantially in-line. The quasi-redundantly configured nozzle Nl further includes a plurality of flow control valves FCV11 to FCV15 with each such valve being associated with a respective jet of the nozzles Nl. These flow control valves control the amount of water flow through each one of the jets of the nozzle Nl . For brevity, only the flow control valves of nozzle Nl are shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, although it may be appreciated that nozzles N2 to Nl 1 may be equivalently constructed. Thus, the amount of water flow through jets Jl 1 to J15 is controlled by the flow control valves FCVl 1, FCV12, FCV13, FCVl 4 and FCVl 5, respectively, which are located upstream of respective jets Jl l to J15. hi the preferred embodiment, illustrated in FIGS 11, 12 the quasi-redundant nozzle Nl has five jets. Of course, the number of jets associated with each quasi-redundant nozzle Nl to Nl 1 may be increased or decreased, as desired or needed. Moreover, each quasi-redundant nozzle Nl to Nl 1 may have a different number of jets associated with it. Preferably, the aperture of the jets of quasi-redundant nozzles Nl to Nl 1 is rectangular in shape though other shapes such as circular, elhpsoidal or polygonal, alone or in series, may be used with efficacy. Preferably, the height of the aperture of each jet can range from about ¹/2 cm to 40 cm and the width can range from about 4 cm to 40 cm. AdditionaUy, the aperture sizes of the jets of a given nozzle, for example, the jets Jll to J15 of quasi- redundant nozzle Nl, can be different. Similarly, the apertures of jets of quasi-redundant nozzles Nl to Nl 1 may be differently dimensioned. Also, the aperture size of jets Jll to J15 can be adjusted, for example, as shown in FIG. 11, by employing a bolted aperture plate 24.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the flow control valves FCVl 1 to FCV15 associated with the respective jets Jl l to J15 of the quasi-redundant nozzle Nl are preferably butterfly valves, though various other types of valves may be used with efficacy including globe valves, angle valves and needle valves among others. Preferably, these flow control valves may be automatically adjusted, such as by electro-mechanical and/or hydro- mechanical actuators, and are chosen and adjusted to provide a balanced jetted flow during noπnal operation. In one preferred mode of operation, and as illustrated in FIG. 12, flow control valves FCVl 1, FCV13 and FCV15 are normally open (conducting, denoted by "white" or "><") at the required or desired setting while flow control valves FCV12 and FCV14 are normally fully closed (blocked, denoted by "black" or "*^■■*"). In this manner, the jets J13 and J15 provide quasi-redundancy to the nozzle Nl and, hence, to the nozzle system 13 by serving in a reserve capacity. Advantageously, the quasi-redundant jets minimize the undesirable effects of fully or partially clogged or blocked jets on a water ride.

For example, and referring to FIG. 12, in case of blockage of one or more of the primary jets Jl 1, J13 and J15 the flow control valves FCVl 2 and/or FCV14 can be opened to the required setting to allow the needed quantity of water to flow out of reserve jets J12 and/or J14 so as to compensate for the blocked primary jet(s) Jl 1, J13 and J15. The partial or full blockage can be detected by monitoring associated pressure and/or flow sensors (discussed later) Of course, in the case of partial blockage of one or more of the primary jets Jll, J13 and .115, adjustment of the flow control valves FCVll, FCV13 and FCV15 independently or in conjunction with the opening of the flow control valves FCV12 and/or FCV14 may be needed. Also, the jet flow control valves may be adjusted in conjunction with a change in the pumping rate. Thus, the quasi-redundancy provided by the reserve jets, for example, the reserve jets J12 and J14 of the quasi-redundant nozzle Nl, assists in permitting an associated ride (e.g., FIG. 1) to continue uninterrupted operation even when a jet becomes clogged until required maintenance or repairs of the affected jet(s) can be conveniently performed. Of course, the specific number and configuration of the primary and reserve jets, of all the nozzles Nl to Ni l, is dependent on the nature of the ride. Also the particular settings of the jet flow control valves, is dependent on the water flow requirements and the degree of the jet blockage.

FIG. 13 schematically illustrates another alternative embodiment of a redundant or quasi-redundant nozzle system having additional advantageous features in accordance with the present invention. In the particular embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13, a pump PI" feeds into a plurality of jets with each one of the plurahty of jets being part of a separate nozzle. Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily comprehend that this pump-jet configuration can be incorporated into any of the hydraulic pumping systems 10, 10', 10" described above. FIG. 13 shows a pump PI" that feeds into a jet JAl which is part of a nozzle NA, a jet JB2 which is part of a nozzle NB and a jet JC3 which is part of a nozzle

NC. The pump PI" is preferably a primary pump of a hydrauhc pumping system 10, 10' or 10" (FIGS. 7-9). The nozzles NA, NB and NC are preferably substantiaUy closely spaced one behind the other along a section 30' of a water ride (e.g., FIG. 1). The flow rate through jets JAl, JB2 and JC3 is controlled by means of respective flow control valves VA1, VB2 and VC3. Similarly, it will be understood that a pump P2" feeds into jets JA2,

JB3 and JCl, and a pump P3" feeds into jets JA3, JBl and JC2 (connections omitted for clarity of drawings). Preferably, the pumps, nozzles, jets and valves of FIG. 13 are of a similar type as discussed herein above.

In normal operation, and referring to FIG. 13, only a certain number (less than aU) of the jets will be used. The: exact number will depend on the size and nature of the ride and the desired effect. For example, if jets JAl, JA3, JB2 and JC2 are used in normal operation and jet JAl becon es blocked, then the flow control valves VA2, VB1 and VC1 leading to surrounding jets such as JA2, JBl and JCl, respectively, can be adjusted, concuπently with an adjustn ent to the pumping rate of one or more pumps P2", P3", so as to compensate for the re l iced water flow out of the blocked jet JAl. Of course, if jet

JAl is only partially blocked an adjustment to its associated flow control valve VA1, independently or concurrently with adjustments to other jet flow control valves, may be sufficient to maintain sufficic nt aggregate water flow and velocity.

Alternatively, all the jets may be used normally at somewhat less than full flow capacity or velocity. Blockage of any one of the jets could then be compensated by adjusting the other flow conirol valves to increase their flows. If, for example, jet JB3 is blocked the flow control valves VA3, VB2 and VC3 leading to surrounding jets such as JA3, JB2 and JC3 could be adjusted concurrently so as to compensate for the lack of water flow out of blocked jet JB2. Again, if jet JB2 is only partially blocked an adjustment to its associated flow control valve VB2, independently or concurrently with adjustments to other jet flow control valves, may be sufficient to maintain normal water flow. Thus, the redundant nozzle array of FIG. 13 provides means to permit a ride to continue uninterrupted operation even when a jet becomes clogged until required maintenance or repairs of the jet(s) can be conveniently performed. Again, the specific number and configuration of the pumps, nozzles and jets, as well as the particular settings of the flow control valves, is dependent on the nature of the ride, the location of the blocked jet(s) and the degree or likelihood of jet blockage. Pressure and Flow Sensors

Optionally, in any of the above described redundant pump, filter or nozzle arrays, each operating component in the redundant aπay may include one or more associated pressure sensors, such as illustrated in FIGS. 14a-c. Thus, a pressure sensor PSSl may be provided on the suction end of pump PI and a pressure sensor PSDl may be provided on the discharge end of pump PI, as illustrated in FIG. 14a. Advantageously, the pressure sensors PSSl and PSDl may be used to monitor the performance of pump PI and the amount of head generated thereby. Advantageously, this information can be provided to an automated control and diagnostics system, discussed in more detail later, which provides automated diagnosis and "hot swapping" of malfunctioning pumps. Pressure sensors PSSl and PSDl may comprise any one of a number of commercially available pressure measuring devices well-known in the art, such as pressure gauges, pressure transducers, strain gauges, diaphragm gauges, and the like.

Similarly, each filter in a redundant filter array may include one or more associated pressure sensors, a illustrated in FIG. 14b. Thus, a pressure sensor PSI1 may be provided on the inlet end of filter FI and a pressure sensor PSO1 may be provided on the outlet end of filter FI. Advantageously, the pressure sensors PSSl and PSDl may be used to monitor the pressure drop across each filter F1-F12. Advantageously, this information can be provided to an automated control and diagnostics system, discussed in more detail later, which provides automated diagnosis and "hot swapping" of clogged filters. Pressure sensors PSI1 and PSO1 may comprise any one of a number of commercially available pressure measuring devices well-known in the art, such as pressure gauges, pressure transducers, strain gauges, diaphragm gauges, and the like.

If desired, various sensors may also be provided for monitoring the performance of each of the Nozzles Nl-11. For example, each nozzle Nl-Nl 1 may include an associated pressure and/or flow sensor, as illustrated in FIG. 14a, to monitor the head and flow rate at the inlet of the nozzle. A more sophisticated version of a nozzle sensor system is illustrated in FIG. 14c, wherein pressure and flow sensors are provided at the inlet of the nozzle Nl and at the inlets of each of a plurality of jets J11-J15. In each of the embodiments described above, the pressure sensor PSI may comprise any one of a number of commercially available pressure measuring devices well-known in the art, such as pressure gauges, pressure transducers, strain gauges, diaphragm gauges, and the like. Likewise, the flow sensor FS 1 may comprise any one of a number of commercially available flow measuring devices such as rotameters, venturi meters, static pressure probes, pitot tubes, hot-wire meters, magnetic flow meters and mass flow meters among others. Advantageously, the information provided by the pressure sensor(s) and/or flow sensor(s) can be provided to an automated control and diagnostics system to diagnose potential malfunctions and take coπective or compensating measures accordingly. Such a control and diagnostics system is described in more detail below. Control/Diagnostics System As noted above, an array of pressure and flow sensors may be provided in association with any one of a number of the various operating components of the redundant pump, filter and nozzle/jet arrays, as desired, so that such components may be advantageously monitored. Such control and diagnostics system preferably monitors the various active components and automatically takes corrective action. For example, FIG. 15 shows a simplified schematic flow chart logic diagram of one such control/diagnostics system 300 having features and advantages in accordance with the present invention. The control logic and system illustrated and discussed below may be programmed into a suitable PLC, computer or other control or logic circuitry (electronic, hydrauhc or otherwise) as is well-known in the art. The control system starts at step 310, wherein the system queries whether it is safe to start the ride. The query is tested by checking the status of various fault interrupt circuits, operator inputs, key interlocks and the like. If the query is not satisfied, then the system proceeds to step 312 wherein an output signal is generated indicating to the operator that the ride needs to be cleared and any fault interrupt circuits need to be reset or checked.

Assuming that the ride is safe for start-up, the system then proceeds to step 314 and waits for an operator input to start the ride. For example, this input may be a start button, a key interlock or the like. Alternatively, more sophisticated computer control interlocks, remote access controls and the like are also possible and are embraced by the present invention. Once a "start" input is received the system proceeds to step 316, wherein the PLC initiates the main boot-up sequence. In this sequence, the various pumps comprising the ride pumping system are started up in a predetermined sequence and mode, preferably with at least 10 seconds delay between each. Optionally, step 318 enables the operator to adjust the start-up mode and/or to identify the particular pumps selected for operation via a switchboard or other input interface.

Once the various pumps are started at step 316, the PLC queries the various pressure and flow sensors (described above) at step 320. This data (or digestedprocessed data) is also outputted to a display screen or a remote data access port (step 324) wherein it may be monitored by an operator. This may be provided to a remote monitoring station, for example, via internet or direct modem connection. Thus, if the operator should detect or observe that a sensed condition, such as pressure or flow rate, indicates a problem with an operating component of the ride system, the operator can diagnose the problem and take coπective measures such as looping the affected component(s) out of the pumping system and servicing and/or repairing it. Optionally, the PLC may be programmed to automatically diagnose certain fault conditions, such as a failed pump, and to take coπective measures automatically by sending an appropriate actuation signal(s) to one or more remote actuated valves (described above).

The PLC also routinely monitors a series of fault interrupt circuits, such as emergency "kill" switches and the like, which may be provided at various points along a ride. These may be actuated by one or more operators who monitor the ride and ensure the safety of ride participants thereon. If the ride malfunctions or if a rider is behaving recklessly, for example, the observing operator could hit a kill button to shut down the ride or a portion thereof so he can take appropriate coπective action. In the logic diagram illustrated in FIG. 15, three such "kill" switches are provided at steps 326, 328 and 330, coπesponding to designated zones 1, 2 and 3 of the ride. If any of the fault conditions 326,

328 and 330 occur, then pumps are progressively stopped in each of the zones 1, 2 and 3, according to steps 336, 338 and 340, respectively. If no fault conditions are present, then the system reaches step 342 and thereafter continues to loop through the various steps. Optionally, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that more sophisticated sensors and logic programming may advantageously be used, such as rider position sensors, velocity sensors and the like. Such sensors may be used, for example, to monitor rider velocity and spacing between successive riders at critical portions of the ride to ensure optimal safety and rider throughput. Position sensors could also be used to trigger intermittent operation of various injection nozzles so that they operate only when a rider is present, for example. This could result in significant energy and costs savings. Additional useful inputs/outputs and system functions are listed in TABLE 1 below:

TABLE 1 - Control Inputs/Outputs/Functions Sensor Inputs P Pressure Transducer before strainer basket

P Pressure Transducer after strainer basket

P Pressure Transducer at pump discharge

P Pressure Transducer at nozzle

F Flow Transducer L Position Sensors (Proximity or Photo Eye) as required on slide path

A Ammeter

Advisory Outputs to Operator

• Notification to clean strainers • Rider location in ride (by zone)

• Rider speed at specific locations

• Alert that rider has stopped (by zone)

• Fault indication in case of automatic shutdown

• Signal clear to launch

Functional Outputs (Automatic Controls)

• Sequence pump starters on "Start" command

• Auto shut down in case of rider stoppage or E-Stop activation

• Control Variable Speed Motor Drives to Optimize performance and save energy • Slow pump motors until rider approaches nozzle

• Increase pump speed to compensate for dirty strainers or other conditions

• Activate fiber optic light effects in closed ride sections as riders approach

Statistics and Diagnostics • Rider count (cumulative over any period)

• R idcr speed (individual or average over any period) Ride time (last to average)

Number of ride stoppages and cause of each

Total uptime or downtime

Histograms of all pressures and flows

Energy consumption (peak, cuπeiit and cumulative)

All information available via local computer screen or modem connection

The above-described control and diagnostics system also lends itself well to remote recording and monitoring of data so that ride operations can be improved and refined using actual data from operating ride attractions. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize the utility and advantages of the present invention. Though the various prefeπed embodiments have been described in conjunction with specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention can be practiced in a wide variety of different embodiments aU having the unique features and advantages described herein.. Thus, while the present invention has been described with a certain degree of particularity, it is manifest that many changes may be made in the specific designs and constructions herein-above described without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. It is understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments set forth herein for purposes of exemplification, but is to be defined only by a fair reading of the appended claims, including the fuU range of equivalency to which each element thereof is entitled by law.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A redundant aπay hydraulic pumping system for a water ride, comprising: an plurality of pumps configured in an N+x redundant array wherein N equals the number of primary pumps required to achieve a design flow capacity for the water ride and wherein x equals a predetermined number of reserve pumps; a pump bypass manifold for selectively bypassing any one or more of said primary pumps; a plurality of valves associated with each of said primary and reserve pumps, said valves being aπanged and configured such that any one or more of said primary pumps can be hydraulically disconnected from said pumping system and hydraulically replaced with a coπesponding one or more of said reserve pumps; whereby a malfunctioning primary pump can be hot swapped with a reserve pump substantially without interrupting the water supphed by said pumping system or the operation of the water ride.

2. The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 1, wherein said redundant aπay of pumps includes at least one primary pump and at least one reserve pump.

3. The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 2, wherein each one of said primary pump and each one of said reserve pumps are fluidly coupled by said pump bypass manifold.

4. The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 1, wherein each of said primary and reseive pumps includes an associated line filter for removing debris from said water. 5. The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 1, in combination with a nozzle system including at least one quasi-redundant nozzle.

6. The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 5, wherein each said quasi- redundant nozzle includes at least one primary jet and at least one reserve jet.

7. The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 13, wherein each said jet is coupled to (low control means.

(S. The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 13, wherein each said jet has an adjustable aperture size.

9. The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 1, further comprising pressure and/or How measuring means for monitoring the performance of said primary and reserve pumps.

10. The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 9, further comprising a control system for receiving data from said pressure and/or flow sensing means representative of pump performance and for generating an output signal indicating when one of said primary pumps is malfunctioning.

1 1. The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 10, wherein said valves are hydro-mechanically or electro-mechanically actuable and wherein said control system is further adapted to generate one or more output valve actuation signals when one of said primary pumps is malfunctioning to automatically loop the pump out of the pumping system and to loop in a reserve pump.

12. The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 1 further comprising a redundant aπay filtration system, comprising: an plurality of line filters configured in an N+x redundant aπay wherein N equals the number of primary line filters required to achieve a design filter capacity and w herein x equals a predetermined number of reserve line filters; a filter bypass manifold for selectively bypassing any one or more of said primary line filters; and a plurality of valves associated with each of said primary and reserve line filters, said valves being aπanged and configured such that any one or more of said primary filters can be hydraulically disconnected from said filtration system and hydraulically replaced with a coπesponding one or more of said reserve filters; whereby, when one or more of said primary filters becomes clogged and requires service or replacement, said clogged filter can be hot swapped with one or more of said reserve filters substantially without interrupting the flow of water from said pumping system or the operation of the water ride.

13. The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 12, wherein each one of said primary filler and each one of said reserve filters are hydraulically coupled by said filter bypass manifold.

14. The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 12, further comprising pressure and/or flow measuring means to monitor the performance of said primary and reserve line filters.

15. The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 14, further comprising a control system for receiving data from said filter pressure and/or flow sensing means representative of filter performance and for generating an output signal indicating when one of said primary filters needs to be cleaned or replaced.

16. The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 15, wherein said valves are hydro-mechanically or electro-mechanically actuable and wherein said control system is further adapted to generate one or more output valve actuation signals when one of said primary filters is clogged to automatically loop the clogged filter out of the pumping system and to loop in a reserve filter.

17. A hydraulic pumping system for a water ride, comprising: a redundant pumping system including a plurahty of primary pumps and at least one auxiliaiy pump, said redundant pumping system including valve means for looping out and looping in each said primary pump and each said auxihary pump; and a redundant filter system including a plurality of primary filters and at least one auxiliaiy filter, said redundant filter system including valve means for looping out and looping in each said primary filter and each said auxihary filter, whereb} , said hydraulic pumping system continuously and non-disruptedly provides water ^"or said water ride.

18. The hyoraulic pumping system of Claim 17, wherein said pumps of said redundant pumping system are coupled by a manifold. 1 . The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 17, wherein said filters of said redundant filter system are coupled by a manifold.

20 The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 17, wherein each said jet is coupled lo (low contro means.

21 . The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 17, wherein said hydraulic pumping system includes N primary pumps, N primary filters, N nozzles, one auxiliary pump and one auxiliary filter.

22. The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 17, wherein said redundant pumping system includes a plurality of open-close valves which permit water to be directed from each said primary pump to each said respective nozzle and a plurality of open-close manifold valves which permit looping in and looping out of each said primary pump and each said auxiliary pump.

23. The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 17, wherein said redundant filter system includes a plurality of open-close valves which permit water to be directed fi-om each said primary filter to each said respective primary pump and a plurality of open-close manifold valves which permit looping in and looping out of each said primary filter and each said auxiliary filter.

24. The hydraulic pumping system of Claim 17, wherein said hydraulic pumping system is equipped with pressure and/or flow measuring means to monitor the performance of said pumps, said filters, said nozzles, and said jets.

25. A method for continuous operation of a water ride using the hydraulic pumping system of Claim 1, comprising the steps of: turning on said plurality of primary pumps to provide a flow of water from a sump to said wal _r ride; channeling said flow from said sump through said primary line filters; and monitoring said plurality of primary pumps and primary filters and, w hen a malfunc tioning pump or filter is detected, looping out said malfunctioning pump or filter and hydraulically substituting said auxiliary pump or filter.

26. The methc of Claim 25 wherein the step of monitoring includes using pressure and/or flow sensors for remote monitoring of said primary pumps and filters.

27. The method of Claim 25 comprising the further step of monitoring a riders position or velocity on said ride using proximity sensors.