JP2833863B2 - Water ride with water propulsion - Google Patents

Abstract

A method and apparatus for controllably injecting, subsequent to the start of a water ride, a high velocity water flow (30) over the water ride surface (25). A rider (29) (or vehicle) that rides into such injected flow (30), as a result of water-to-rider momentum transfer, either be accelerated, matched, or decelerated in a downhill, horizontal or uphill straight or curvilinear direction by such injected flow (30). Flow emitting nozzles (24) can be either positioned above, along side, or from any position along the length of the water ride surface (25).

Description

BACKGROUND The present invention relates to water riding, and in particular, to the following mechanisms and processes. 1) Transfer the kinetic energy of the high velocity water stream safely to the participant (with or without a vehicle) on a low friction surface, and accelerate the participant downward, horizontal or upward in a straight or curved direction It can be so. 2) Safely stabilize and equalize the coefficient of friction and trajectory as participants of different sizes and weights slide on a water ride with a steep descent section followed by a large upward section. Removes temporary swells / water jumps that occur in horizontal or upwardly inclined waterride channels.

In the 1980s, family-based recreational facilities such as water parks and water-powered attractions in traditional themed amusement parks grew significantly. Water slide attraction genres such as water slides, rapids river descent and log descent require participants to walk or be lifted by machine,
Water must be pumped to a high point. In such cases, gravity forces the water, rider and vehicle (where appropriate) to slide down the chute or ramp to reach a low landing. The above cycle is repeated. Gravity and the momentum of the rider caused by gravity are the main thrusts that give participants the power to slide down traditional water ride attractions. A novel feature of the present invention is the use of high-speed jet water to propel participants. This jet water replaces gravity,
It functions as opposed to or increases gravity. Except for the starting part, conventional water ride attractions did not employ water to pump objects horizontally or downwards, and a propulsion mechanism to accelerate the rider downwards along the flow. Similarly, today's water ride attractions did not use jet water to propel riders uphill on slopes. With the high-speed jet stream described above, the present invention can create a water-oriented amusement ride and experience there that has not heretofore been used in the recreational industry. In particular, the embodiments of the invention described herein enable a rider on a water attraction surface to: It accelerates downward beyond the acceleration due to gravity (this embodiment is hereinafter referred to as "downward accelerator"). Accelerate in the horizontal direction (this embodiment is hereinafter referred to as "horizontal accelerator"). Accelerating upward (this embodiment is hereinafter referred to as "upper accelerator"). Sliding down a conventional ramp, entering a stream of water of equal or slower speed, and returning to a position that is the same as or higher than that obtained using gravity alone (this embodiment is hereinafter referred to as the "stabilization / homogenization process"). "). Sliding down a conventional water ride attraction and returning to a higher position above the height that would be obtained using gravity alone (this embodiment is hereinafter referred to as the "altitude increase process"). Combining the previously described embodiment with a downwardly inclined water slide to create an embodiment called a "water coaster".

The amusement industry is rich in inventions that use water as a means of moving riders, but none has described the improvements devised by the present invention. The results of a survey of typical conventional citations are shown below.

U.S. Patent 3,387, issued to Meyers on December 2, 1975
Nos. 923 and 301 reshape the inclined part so that a water slide embedded in the ground can be obtained. here,
Riders slide from the upper starting pool through the gravity trajectory over the recycled water to reach the lower landing pool. The structure and function of Meyers is not relevant to the present invention.

U.S. Pat.No.4, granted to Timves on August 15, 1980
198,043 discloses a water slide made of modular molded plastic. Here, from the starting pool above, riders follow a gravity trajectory and glide over the recycled water to reach a low landing pool. The structure and function of Timbs is not relevant to the present invention.

US Patent 4,19, granted to Becker on August 8, 1980
No. 6,900 discloses the combination of a conventional downward tilt water slide with a simplified support structure. The support structure is low cost due to the reduced number of parts and has a conventional water pipe extending from the pump to the starting point of each slide. Becker further suggests that the water pipe has a thrust nozzle tip that provides additional force to push out the person sitting there. For this reason, it is possible to prevent a person once getting in from stopping there and blocking the slide (Column 2, 34 to 39).
line). Becker's suggestion was often used at the entrance to a very ordinary water slide. Becker's proposal does not devise the performance characteristics described by the present invention. Its performance characteristics are to obtain acceleration in the downward inclined portion exceeding acceleration due to gravity, and to accelerate horizontally in excess of the force necessary to prevent stagnation at the entrance portion, Recovering height, having multiple propulsion positions, etc. The "extra push" proposed by Becker is limited in its position to the starting point of the slide and is limited to the force required to prevent the departing rider from stagnating. Conversely, the water stream introduced according to the invention is located downstream from the conventional starting point proposed by Becker. Further, a desirable feature of the present invention is to accelerate an already active rider, rather than the person remaining in place and stopping slipping. Becker's proposal is limited to the starting pool portion of existing conventional water slides and therefore has no relevance to the present invention.

U.S. Patent No. 4,778,430, issued to Goldfarb on October 18, 1988, discloses a water slide toy. Here, a mechanically actuated conveyor lifts a humanoid sliding object from a low place to the top of a sliding section, which slides down a gravitational trajectory and over water, which is used repeatedly, causing the conveyor to slide down. Reach the starting point. The structure and function of the gold ferb are not relevant to the present invention.

U.S. Patent granted to Duerwald on July 12, 1983
No. 4,392,434 has a boat guided in a channel between an upper starting point and a lower arrival point, and a chain conveyor adapted to prevent slippage when transporting the boat from the arrival point to the starting point. Discloses a turbulent waterway. The structure and function of the dual belt is not relevant to the present invention.

U.S. Patent No.4, issued to Moody on February 21, 1989,
805,896 discloses a swimming water ride that moves a large amount of water having a swimming depth in a linear direction (essentially horizontal or downward). Moody has the property of the "down or horizontal accelerator" of the embodiment of the present invention, that is, the ability to move a participant horizontally or down with water rather than through water. However, Moody can be distinguished from the present invention in the following ways. All of Moody's pushing forces are used to provide the heavy water to the gentle downward slope to move the swimmer desirably.
This water ride is limited to swimming only, and requires a large amount of water having a weight that is substantially heavier than the weight of the participant and a depth at which the floating or swimming participant does not touch the bottom of the waterway. Have. To move such a large volume of water, Moody describes a "deep head large capacity pump" (col. 3, line 27). However, the preferred embodiment of the present invention uses a small volume pump with a high head. This high head pump, in conjunction with a suitably shaped nozzle, produces a powerful, concentrated stream of water that works well below 1 inch. Furthermore, swimming is not required, and the participant naturally contacts the slipping bottom surface. Further, the amount of water required to move one participant in Moody is 10 to 20 times the amount of water required in the preferred embodiment of the present invention. Regarding the problem of reducing friction, Moody uses enough water to float the rider incompletely, so that the rider can be accelerated by the relatively low kinetic energy of the slow water. However, the present invention can be accelerated by the impact of water (i.e., extreme momentum transfer) and does not require the rider to float to reduce frictional forces. An even more important difference is the ability to drive participants upwards (such capabilities have not been devised by Moody). As a result of these differences, Moody claims to differ from the propulsion mechanism disclosed in the present invention.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,832, issued to Barber on June 6, 1989
6,521 discloses an amusement device comprising a round pond in which water is rotated by a jet to form a vortex.
The rotating member gives the participant space to move along the edge of the giant spiral due to the centrifugal force generated therein. The structure and function of the barber is not relevant to the present invention.

U.S. Patent No. 4.80 granted to Dobita on February 21, 1989
5,897 shows an improvement of the water slide system. There, a vertically standing reservoir located at the upstream end of the water slide (preferably at the beginning of the flow) is appropriately drained at regular intervals into the channel of the downwardly sloping water slide. The valve has been adjusted. Like the Moody described above, the dobiter has one of the features of some embodiments of the present invention, the ability to push participants primarily with water, rather than through water, by pushing them down. I have. However, dovita differs from the present invention in the following points. Dobiter thrust is performed to increase rider safety by providing intermittent water discharge to provide adequate spacing for riders riding down water slides. Dovita states:

"Because the release is done for each rider and the rider is actively carried throughout the rider's journey ... the riders on the slide are spaced apart from each other as they go down the slide. Can prevent the accidents that frequently occur in the steady flow rate system described above. ”(No. 6
Col., Lines 57-64).

Importantly, the water released by the dobiter is intended to move at substantially the same speed as the rider is designed to slide down the waterway (fifth.
Col., Lines 14-18). Structurally, the preferred embodiment of the dobiter uses a storage tank with a head of 7 feet. From a functional point of view, this low head allows the rider to carry "actively over the entire slide" by ejection. However, the preferred embodiment of the present invention does not require such a mechanism and does not have to discharge water down the slide at intervals. Conversely, constant flowing water can function to achieve its intended purpose. In addition, embodiments of the accelerator of the present invention are 1.5 to 1
Utilizes a 5 times larger range head pressure. Such head pressure, in cooperation with an appropriately shaped nozzle, produces a powerful, concentrated stream of water that accelerates, resulting in a velocity that is greater than that which can be obtained by simply sliding down the waterway (dovita water discharge). With or without). Another important difference is that the invention works without a vertically standing water storage tower located upstream from the end of the slide. Also, the inventor has the ability to advance the participant horizontally or upwards (this ability was not devised by Dovita). The final difference is that the participant in the Dobiter improvement is always located downstream of the discharge valve before the valve opens and water gushes. In the present invention, water is already flowing to propel the participant as it enters the stream. For the reasons set out above, Dovita is different from the propulsion mechanism claimed in the present invention.

Canadian Patent 1,204,629 granted to Atlantic Bridge Company discloses a transfer device for carrying fragile items such as fish and vegetables,
There the articles are moved at high speed by suction and gravity.
The article is to be decelerated with minimal damage, as the article is carried into the fluid pool at a steep angle so that the object strikes the liquid surface obliquely and there is less shock shock. The structure and function of the Atlantic Bridge Company has no relevance to the present invention.

U.S. Patent 3,387, issued to Frenzl on August 10, 1971
No. 598,402 most closely relates to the structure of the "upper accelerator" of the present invention in the cited references mentioned above. Frentzl discloses a device for practicing water sports such as surfing, water skiing and swimming, which device comprises a large tank. The bottom of the large tank slopes upwards,
It has a longitudinal portion indicating a recess facing upwards. Water released from the nozzle to the lower end surface of the bottom,
It flows upward on the bottom. The slope of the large tank can be adjusted by pivoting about a horizontal axis. This makes it possible to adjust the device to accommodate, for example, low-angle inclinations for water skiing and tight inclinations for surfing. In addition, the speed of the water can be changed from a torrent for sliding on the surface of the water such as surfing to a river flow in which the speed of the water matches the speed of a swimmer.

However, Frenzl '402 does not specify or suggest any of the problems solved by the present invention. For example, the use of upward flowing water as a means of pushing a rider up a slope and over a flow generator. Frentzl describes the function of his structure in the case of "torrents" as follows:

“I can practice surfing and other similar sports.
This is because the inclination of the tank bottom balances the water skier in equilibrium. The balance is maintained between the upward force due to the drag or resistance of the board immersed in the water flow and the downward force created by the element of gravity of the water skier in a direction parallel to the bottom of the tank. " (Frentzl column 1, lines 49-57).

In the "river-type flow" example, Frenzl describes the function of his structure as follows.

"Swimming practice is also possible. To do so, the swimmer sets the bottom 1 in a slightly sloping position, and fills the water up to the top edge of the tank. The swimmer then takes advantage of the slow speed of the water flow. The water flow can be adjusted to match the speed of the swimmer ... "(Frentzl column 4, lines 14-22).

In both types of flow, what Frentzl discloses is that the user of the device is in equilibrium, so that the user can practice water sports. The user is in a static equilibrium when sliding on the surface of the water and in a static equilibrium when swimming in the water. All equipment adjustments are made to create or maintain this equilibrium.

On the contrary, the content of the present invention is to avoid equilibrium.
A rider's equilibrium is inconsistent with the purpose of a water ride designed to push the rider up a ramp. Furthermore, the equilibrium is dangerous in this case. This is because there is a possibility that a rider who gets on the apparatus and advances upward may hit a rider in an equilibrium state. Frenzl is designed for equilibrium and differs from the propulsion mechanism claimed in the present invention.

US Patent No. 4,90, issued to French on March 6, 1990
No. 5,987 shows an improvement on the device disclosed in the Frenzl '402 patent (described above). In addition, the ranges associated with swimming, non-swimming and swirling are shown, utilizing water after flowing out of the Frenzl'402 device. French '98
The primary objective of 7 is to improve the departure and exit characteristics of the Frentzl'402 device. In particular, it provides a means for a user to enter, ride, and even exit the device so that the fast flow does not stop. But French '98
The seven patents do not add to the claim that users of the '402 portion of the structure require propulsion (for water flow) to lift the bottom slope, but rather the original' 402 portion of the structure. The goal is to "carry a waterslide sport" in addition to being able to flow upwards. In addition, the French rider gets into the device and slides in from beyond the flow-feed nozzle. On the other hand, the rider of the present invention always gets in front of the flow feed nozzle and starts to slide. Finally, French does not consider moving the rider from the '402 portion of the structure to another portion (eg, a swimming channel or swirl pool). In fact, French describes a catch grid as a right angle end. This grid prevents the rider and the device on which he / she is riding from moving to other parts of the flow system. For the reasons mentioned above, the content of French is far from the present invention.

U.S. Pat. No.4, issued to Frenzl on January 14, 1986,
No. 564,190 shows an improvement in a water sports practice device using a sliding device (disclosed in the Frenzl '402 patent). Specifically, a device that removes the water that has slowed down due to friction at the boundary surface from the bottom surface of the upward slope and returns the water to the pump system to increase the flow velocity and remove the adverse effect of low-speed water is introduced. . Frenzl '190 is easily distinguished from the present invention for two reasons. First, the structure and function of Frentzl'190 is limited to water sports practice devices that use a sliding device. As a result, it is desirable for Frenzl riders to glide over water that has been recharged into an upwardly sloping stream. Conversely, it is desirable that the rider of the present invention be embraced by the re-entered water and be accelerated or decelerated so as to approach the flow of the re-entered water. Gliding over the refilled water hinders this "carrying" purpose.
Second, Rentzl '190 riders begin to slip past the opening to recharge accelerated water. On the other hand, the rider of the present invention always begins to slide in before re-entering and encountering accelerated water. For the reasons mentioned above,
Frentzl '190 is far from the content of the present invention.

U.S. Patent 3,833, granted to Bacon on August 20, 1974
No. 0,161 discloses a waterway type amusement vehicle installation. In the vehicle installation, water is pumped into the waterway at the top of the vehicle equipment, boaters are mechanically transported to the top of this waterway, and the boat guided by the waterway walls is placed on a steep chute. move on. The chute section has two adjacent waterways, and the boat is alternately distributed to the two waterways by the gate. In this way, the departure interval between each boat in the waterway vehicle facility can be safely increased. After the initial descent, the boat gains speed ascending the leap, which causes the boat to ascend above the leap and return to the channel landing. As the boat ascends the track, the water flowing through the channel is flowing down the gutter below the track.
The boat does not come into contact with the water until it comes off the jumping platform.
The similarity of the Bacon '161 to the present invention is limited to vehicle equipment. Functionally, the boat is not in contact with the water when it begins to tilt upwards, but rather the boat is on track and the movement is similar to a roller coaster driven by gravity. As a result, Bacon '161 is not relevant to the present invention.

US Patent 3,85, granted to Bacon on December 10, 1974
3,067 discloses a boat amusement vehicle facility. There, water is pumped into a waterway at the top of the vehicle equipment, boaters are transported by machine to the top of this waterway, and the boat guided by the waterway walls tilts down steeply at an angle. The boats flow down to the chute section, and the boats individually descend to the lower points of the vehicle equipment and are restored by water to a considerable height in the same channel.
A dam is provided at the top of the descending chute to facilitate departure. When enough water accumulates behind the dam, the dam is opened and a large amount of water descends on the descending chute, then rises up the rising section, thus "watering" the vehicle equipment.

Superficially, Bacon '067 is very similar to the "stabilization / homogenization process", "altitude increase process" and "water coaster" embodiments of the present invention. However, there are four important structural and functional differences. First
In addition, Bacon '067 is limited to "boat amusement vehicle equipment". The present invention is not so limited, and works great when a rider in a swimsuit slides without the help of a "boat" type vehicle. Second, the water at Bacon '067 is introduced only at the "top point where vehicle equipment starts" (see column 2, line 36). In the present invention, water is introduced after the rider has obtained an initial departure speed in a conventional manner known to those skilled in the art. This water introduction, by definition, does not take place at the point of departure of the vehicle. Third, the Bacon '067 is "moved solely by gravity" with boats carrying water and people once it has been raised to the highest point of the vehicle facility (Box 2, 37).
Look at ~ 40 lines). The present disclosure discloses that rider and vehicle movement is enhanced by high velocity jet water, and this increase in velocity may function to further increase or oppose gravity. Further, when one of the acceleration embodiments described herein results in such an increase in speed, (a) the rider slides down quickly and (b)
Sliding further in the horizontal direction, (c) Sliding further upwards than in the case where the present invention was not used. Fourth, Bacon clarifies and proposes measures to solve the problem of carrying water on the rising part of the waterway, especially during the departure mode of the vehicle installation. Bacon has a dam at the departure of the vehicle equipment. When a sufficient amount of water has accumulated behind the dam, the dam is opened and the water moves along the lower chute and up the next following ascent, thus "pulling" the vehicle equipment. The present invention redesigns the sliding surface to eliminate the problems associated with water flowing upwards during the departure mode, either by venting or in the subsequent ascent of the vehicle equipment to facilitate drainage. The problem is solved. For the reasons mentioned above, Bacon '067 is far from the subject of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION It is a first object of the present invention to provide a safe, fun and convenient water ride in which a participant is advanced downward, horizontally or upward by a high-speed water flow.

The benefits of such attractions are countless. First
In particular, the example of an accelerator propulsion allows for a full range of water ride operations that are not currently publicly available. In particular, the participant can experience the thrill of sliding downwards at an acceleration faster than that obtained by gravity. In addition, participants can slide horizontally and accelerate without having to reduce their vertical height. What's more unique is that participants can glide upwards,
This is similar to an inverted water slide. In addition, the power of the propulsion water allows the participant to reach a height beyond the initial departure height. Such an embodiment allows for an escalator with water. That is, participants can be moved without the need for ascending stairs, which is recently used as a standard in most water recreation facilities. In addition, this embodiment can be designed such that a disabled person who cannot climb the stairs can slide on an attraction that is standing at the level of the ground and slides on water.

It is a second object of the present invention to inject a non-accelerated water stream into the water ride. The injected water recovers its height after passing through the bottom of the lower chute. Such an injection has the advantage of stabilizing the rider or the vehicle, especially when the rider or the vehicle has a different coefficient of friction.

The third object of the present invention is not only to allow the rider or the vehicle to move upward, but also to make a temporary swell at the time of departure,
It serves to resolve temporary swells that occur when the rider is traveling at a low speed on an upwardly inclined slide surface.

A fourth object of the present invention is to connect the present invention to a standard water slide or water ride and form a water slide or water ride similar to a roller coaster in series. This "water coaster" attraction has the following advantages over existing water slides (and even existing roller coaster ride equipment): The continuation of the rider's slip (kinetic energy) is not limited to the initial potential energy obtained up the top of the slide. Rather, by injecting a suitably shaped high-speed jet stream in a timely manner, the kinetic energy of the jet stream shifts and accelerates the rider, and the rider can reach a height (increased) that exceeds the height obtained without the jet stream. Potential energy)
Can be obtained. The degree of "excess height" that the rider obtains is determined by the speed and amount of water that is in contact during the climb. When the top is reached, the rider moves on to the next stage. It may be blown up by additional jets to continue rising, blown horizontally, or descend along a path. It then slides down into a standard landing pool or transition zone in a standard water slide or water ride manner, or reaches another stream of stabilizing or accelerating water. Further, the water coaster embodiment includes all of the standard twists, bends, jumps and loops commonly found on roller coasters.

A fifth object of the present invention is to create a water-based vehicle installation in which a closed pipe can be raised upward by a conventional pump. The advantage of this improvement is that the existing state can be made more efficient. That is, if the water is always pumped upwards (eg, for use in reservoirs, water slides, or other gravity driven water attractions),
There is a benefit (with minimal extra cost) to slide the water already pumped up.

Other objects and goals will become apparent from the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1A is a top view of a propulsion module.

 FIG. 1B is a side view of the propulsion module.

FIG. 1C is a side view of a series of connected propulsion modules and riders.

FIG. 2 shows a nozzle having an opening for adjusting the size used in the water slide propulsion module for one person.

 FIG. 3A is a top view of a module with right-angled sidewalls.

 FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the module with right-angled side walls.

FIG. 3C shows a module having a sliding surface integrated in a parabolic half-pipe shape with respect to the side wall.

FIG. 4A shows a rider in a half-pipe-shaped module passing through a turn.

FIG. 4B shows a top view of the module containing the nozzle from the side wall.

FIG. 4C shows a perspective view of a module having a nozzle entering through a side wall.

FIG. 4D shows a perspective view of the module with a nozzle located above the rider.

FIG. 5A shows a module with side walls and a “hole drain” mechanism.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of an “overflow discharge” mechanism, which is an example of a triple waterway.

 FIG. 5C is a cross section of the triple waterway.

 FIG. 5D shows a rider in a triple waterway.

FIG. 5E is the first of three figures showing the self-discharge capability of the upwardly inclined triple waterway continuously over time.

FIG. 5F is the second of three drawings showing the self-discharge capability of the upwardly inclined triple waterway continuously over time.

FIG. 5G is the third of three drawings showing the self-discharge capability of the upwardly inclined triple waterway continuously over time.

FIG. 5H is a perspective view of an “overflow discharge” mechanism, which is an example of a double water channel.

 FIG. 5I is a cross section of a double waterway.

FIG. 5J shows the rider in various stages at the turn of the dual channel.

FIG. 5K is the first of three drawings that show, over time, the self-discharge capability of a two-sided water channel that is obliquely directed upward.

FIG. 5L is the second of three drawings that show, over time, the self-discharge capability of a two-slope waterway inclined upward.

FIG. 5M is the third of three drawings that show, over time, the self-draining capability of a two-slope channel inclined upward.

FIG. 6A shows a schematic diagram of three horizontal acceleration modules on which a rider rides.

 FIG. 6B shows the horizontal accelerator in operation.

FIG. 7A shows a schematic diagram of an upper accelerator consisting of three modules on which a rider rides.

 FIG. 7B shows the upper accelerator in operation.

FIG. 8A shows a schematic diagram of a three-module lower accelerator on which a rider is riding.

 FIG. 8B shows the lower accelerator in operation.

FIG. 9 shows a schematic view of a horizontal non-accelerated propulsion device.

 FIG. 10 shows a schematic diagram of an upward non-accelerated propulsion device.

 FIG. 11 shows a schematic view of a downward non-accelerated propulsion device.

FIG. 12 illustrates a problem that occurs in the prior art when different riders touch the cross-sectional profile of a water amusement ride whose height is partially restored.

FIG. 13 shows a water solution that solves the problem shown in FIG.
It is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional profile of an amusement ride,
5 is an example of a stabilization / homogenization process.

FIG. 14 illustrates the limitations that occur in the prior art when different riders touch the cross-sectional profile of a water amusement ride whose height is partially restored.

FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional profile of a water amusement ride to overcome the limitations shown in FIG. 14, and is an example of a height increase process.

FIG. 16 illustrates a water coaster embodiment of the present invention that emphasizes accelerator technology and height increasing process.

FIG. 17 illustrates a water coaster embodiment of the present invention that emphasizes propulsion technology and the stabilization / equalization process.

Drawing reference number 21 Module 22 Water source 23 Flow control valve 24 Flow forming nozzle 25 Smooth sliding surface 26 Module connection 27 Side wall 28 Variable nozzle opening 29 Rider 30… Jet water flow 31… Plate with opening 32… Tunnel arch 33 …… Temperature swell 34 …… Drain opening 35 …… Third water channel 36 …… Overflow water channel 37 …… Overflow water 38 …… Overflow discharge with hole Outlet 39… Dual water channel 40… Horizontal accelerator 41… End of horizontal accelerator 42… Upper accelerator 43… End of upper accelerator 44… Lower accelerator 45… End of lower accelerator 46 …… Horizontal non-acceleration propulsion machine 47 …… End of horizontal non-acceleration propulsion machine 48 …… Sliding continuous path (horizontal non-acceleration propulsion machine) 49 …… Upper non-acceleration propulsion machine 50 …… End of upper non-acceleration propulsion machine 51… … Sliding continuous passage (upper non-acceleration propulsion machine) 52 …… Lower non-acceleration propulsion machine 53 …… bottom End of accelerating propulsion machine 54 ... Sliding continuous orbit (lower non-accelerating propulsion machine) 55 ... Departure tank (prior art) 56 ... Attraction surface (prior art) 57 ... Preferred orbit 58 ... Flying orbit 59 ... Failure Orbit 60 ... Attraction surface (stabilization / uniformization) 61 ... Departure pool (without altitude increase process) 62 ... Attraction surface (without altitude increase process) 63 ... Unassisted orbit 64 ... Unassisted Top 65 65 Attraction surface (altitude increase process) 66 Top vertex (altitude increase process) 69 Water coaster 70 Attraction surface (water coaster) 71 Structure support 72 Water departure pool (water coaster) 73: End pool (water coaster) 74: Wave-raising tank The present invention is composed of several embodiments, It functions even one respectively, may be linked to function for recreational purposes mentioned herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION In order to concisely describe various embodiments of the present invention and to avoid excessive duplication, the description will proceed in a modular fashion to clarify the set of common elements that are the main parts of each embodiment. To The modules are grouped for convenience only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention and the structure and function of each assembly that includes the module. Furthermore, the size of the assembly containing the module depends on the application. The preferred embodiment described below is for one person and is similar to a common water slide.
One of ordinary skill in the art would also be able to allow more than one person to ride the present invention at the same time by appropriately increasing the size. Similarly, by appropriately adjusting the weight, friction, and surface shape, the present invention can be applied to a single-seater or multi-seater downhill vehicle, vehicle or boat so that the user can get wet when wearing a swimsuit or use ordinary clothes. You can also prevent it from getting wet.

1A (plan view) and FIG. 1B (side view) show a propulsion module 21 which has a high flow rate /
A high-pressure water source 22, a flow regulating valve 23, a flow forming nozzle 24 having a variable opening 28, a separate jet water flow 30 flowing in a predetermined direction indicated by an arrow, and a substantially smooth sliding surface through which the jet water flow 30 flows. 25 and. The module 21 is made of a suitable material such as resin-impregnated fiberglass, concrete, gunite, waterproof wood, vinyl resin, acrylic resin, metal, and the like, and is connected end-to-end by an appropriate watertight seal. Rider 29 shown in Figure 1c (side view)
Is downhill on a series of connected modules (arrows indicate predetermined directions of movement). Module 21a, 21
The connections 26a, 26b, 26c between b, 21c allow the overall length of the invention to be increased as desired for operation, space and economy. The connecting portion 26 can be formed by bolting, bonding, or casting such that the ends of the module 21 are continuous with each other. When connected, the sliding surface 25 of each module must be substantially continuous and coplanar with the mating module, so that the rider 29 can slide down and the jet stream 30 is safe and It can smoothly flow through each boundary. When the module has a nozzle 24 that opens in the longitudinal direction of the sliding surface 25 (shown in FIG. 1C), the end of the sliding surface 25 on the side opposite to the nozzle side has a connecting portion 26 portion, It preferably extends so as to cover the upper end of the nozzle 24. In addition to this shape, it is also preferable that the lower end of the nozzle 24 extends so as to be a sliding surface 25. The module 21 may also be connected in a conventional manner to standard water slides or channel water rides existing in the art.

The length of the module 21 can be varied depending on the required operating characteristics and the desired building technology and transport elements. The width of the module 21 can be set to be narrow to at least a width (about 0.5 m (20 inches)) in which one user can ride in a sitting position or a prone position with the legs extended along the water flow direction, and It can be set wide enough that the user can ride side by side at the same time or the vehicle functions. As a driving mechanism for generating water pressure for the water source 22, a pump or a reservoir disposed above can be used. If a series of modules are connected, the essential function can be obtained using a single high pressure water source or pump with a properly designed manifold, or alternatively, a separate pump can be used for each module. It may be provided. The pipe size of the water source 22 is the nozzle
Sufficient shape and pressure of the jet stream 30 flowing out of 24 must be obtained. The water pressure at the nozzle opening can be varied according to the required operating characteristics. For a water slide for one person, the pressure of the nozzle is within this range (1) the size and shape of the nozzle opening,
(2) load and friction of the rider on the sliding surface, (3)
(4) the speed at which the rider enters the flow, (5) the physical direction of the rider relative to the flow, (6) the inclination angle of the slide surface, and (7) the rider from the flow. It is set in the range of about 5 psi to 250 psi, depending on factors such as the required adjustment of the rider speed based on the transfer of kinetic energy to the motor. In a water ride type with a vehicle, the nozzle pressure depends on whether the vehicle is designed to withstand higher pressures than the human body and is shaped to be more efficient with respect to kinetic energy transfer. , Higher or lower. The flow regulating valve 23 is used to regulate the pressure and the flow according to the parameters involved in the operation, and can be remotely controlled and programmed. nozzle
24 is formed and arranged such that through a variable opening 28 the jet stream 30 is jetted substantially parallel and over the entire length of the sliding surface 25. When the modules are connected continuously for a given recreational facility, all nozzles are arranged in the same relative direction to increase the rider's travel so that the rider's throughput and water flow can be consistent. There must be. The sliding surface 25 must have sufficient structural integrity to support the rider, vehicle and water loads traveling thereon. It is also preferable that the sliding surface 25 has a low coefficient of friction so that the jet water stream 30 can flow and the rider 29 can be moved with a minimum speed loss due to friction. The conditions of the jet stream 30 (ie, temperature, density, pH, residual chlorine, salt concentration, etc.) are the standard conditions for pools, lakes or seas suitable for human swimming.

The dimensions of the nozzle 24 are a function of the available water volume and pressure, the desired operation and performance characteristics of the module described below.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the nozzle 24 of the flat-bottom water slide module for one person. In the case of a curved sliding surface, it can be performed more efficiently by using the nozzle 24 and the opening 28 provided at the bottom portion that match the cross-sectional shape. nozzle
The openings 28 of the 24 may be fixed or adjustable. In this preferred embodiment, an adjustable variable aperture is used. Ideally, the adjustment changes the thickness and width of the jet stream 30. For example (but not limited to), the width c of the opening 28 may be 1/2 cm to 40 c
m. The length d of the opening 28 is 20 cm to 200 cm
May be within the range. Adjusting tools (eg screws or bolted plates, welded plates, valves,
With a movable weir or slit, appropriate opening control can be performed. Many of these adjusters are capable of automatic remote control and program control. FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of a bolted aperture plate 31 fixed for adjusting the aperture required during operation. Although only one large nozzle 24 is shown, similar flow and aperture dimensional characteristics with satisfactory results can be achieved with multiple small nozzles. For multi-person or large vehicles, the nozzles may be juxtaposed laterally to increase the horizontal flow area, or one large nozzle may be used. As intended herein, it is possible to vary the number and relative position of nozzles 24 within a given module, as long as the rider or vehicle can be propelled.

Module 21 may function with or without sidewalls. Furthermore, the side walls can be of multiple shapes and can also act as sliding surfaces as appropriate. 1A, 1B and 1C,
Shown is a module 21 without sidewalls. 3A (plan view) and FIG. 3B (perspective view) show a module 21 having right-angled side walls 27a, 27b. FIG. 3C shows a module 21 having side walls 27c and 27d in the shape of a half-split pipe, in which the sliding surface 25 and the side wall 27 are integrated in a parabolic manner. The sidewall shape is substantially varied within the ranges shown in FIGS. 1A-C and 3A-C. Functionally, compared to a flat sliding surface,
The addition of sidewalls has three important advantages: First
In addition, as shown in FIG.4A, in the module 21 having appropriately shaped side walls 27e and 27f, a compound curve can be introduced into the sliding surface 25, whereby the rider 29 and the jet water flow 30 can be inclined. To get on the side of the side wall, and when it comes out of the curved part, it is twisted between both sides, and the side walls 27e, 27
It can stop in the slip surface area defined by f. Without the sidewalls, the rider would be restricted to the initial direction of travel and would not be able to turn without external force. The second advantage of the side wall is that FIGS. 4B (top view) and 4C
(Perspective view). There, the nozzles 24a, 24b can easily be made to emerge from the sides of the module 21 instead of the bottom, from the original shape of the side walls 27a, 27b. When the nozzle 24 is disposed on the side, the jet water stream 31 can be ejected from the nozzle 24 in the direction of the center line of the rider 29 and at an angle slightly inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the slide surface 25. Yes, this ensures that the jet stream 30 is actively contacted by the rider 29. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 4D, the nozzles 24a, 24b can be located above the sliding surface 25 in the arched portion 32 of the tunnel or similar. A third advantage of the side wall is its safety. That is, the side wall holds the rider within the range of the flow path and prevents the rider from unnecessarily jumping out or being injured by preventing the rider from falling off the inclined sliding surface.

In contrast to the advantages of the side walls described above, which guide the rider and the water within the range defined by the side walls of the channel, the side walls confine excess water and create undesirable stagnation flows that can adversely affect the operation of the module 21. May have the disadvantage of causing This undesired stagnation flow is particularly severe in upward flow and can also be a problem in horizontal water flow. In both cases, this stagnant flow
It is considered that it often occurs in the next three stages during operation. (2) when the kinetic energy of the high-speed water flow is transferred to the low-speed rider, and (3) when the water flow is started without a rider.
This is when water spouted from a row of nozzles along the downhill course gradually increases and stagnates. In the starting condition (1), the initial water flow is often smaller in volume, speed and pressure than in later ones, due to the gradual stagnation of the water flow in connection with starting the pump / motor or opening the valve. . This causes the water at this initial start to be pushed by the later stronger flow, stronger pressure or faster water. Such a push, at the tip of the water stream,
This can result in water stagnation (bounce or temporary swell). The upward slope of the sliding surface complicates the problem, as the greater the swell, the greater the energy required to keep the swell up. Therefore, if the temporary swell is continuously formed and is not eliminated, the speed of the water flow will be reduced as a whole. That is, low velocity water causes additional water accumulation, resulting in a turbulent state of bubbling white water which basically indicates a cessation of jet flow in one direction. In the case of kinetic energy transfer (2), when a slow rider enters a fast current, a temporary swell is formed behind the rider. Similarly, if this temporary swell becomes too large, the higher velocity unidirectional jet flow will be suppressed,
The flow diminishes. In cases where excessive pooling of water occurs between a series of nozzles along the downhill course (3), the interference of the forward flow with the downstream flow may cause undesirable temporary swells and flow weakening, resulting in the two streams In the vicinity of the point where they meet. Under all three conditions, it is possible to eliminate the temporary swell by instantaneously increasing the pressure of the flow and forcing the temporary swell off the sliding surface. However, the amount of water arriving too high is too great to apply excessive force in all practical purposes and, at best, is more costly than inexpensive solutions. Become. An inexpensive solution is possible by providing an outlet. Modules without sidewalls (or with relatively low sidewalls) drain themselves. That is, the slower water exits from both sides. By providing the side wall with an outlet, it is possible to obtain the self-draining function obtained without the side wall, together with the above-mentioned advantages of the side wall (i.e., guiding function, structural advantage and safety), and at the same time, at the start. The problem of temporary swell, temporary swell caused by rider and temporary swell caused by excessive accumulation is eliminated.

Two types of drainage mechanisms may be used for module 21. A first example “discharge opening” is shown in FIG. 5A, where a rider 29 rides on a tilt module 21 having side walls 27a, 27b. The jet stream 30 has already flowed out of the nozzle 24 when the rider 29 enters the stream. Since the velocity of the jet stream 30 is greater than the velocity of the incoming rider, a temporary swell 33 will form behind the rider. This stagnation can be removed by draining slow water through drain openings 34a, 34b, 34c or 34d along side walls 27a, 27b, or drain openings 34e along the bottom of slide surface 25. The discharge opening 34 must be large enough to allow the temporary swell 33 to be drained, but will adversely affect the stability or function of the rider or vehicle traveling along the slide surface 25. Must not be too large to affect. Acceptable outlet opening shapes include a plurality of small holes, a porous structure, slits, grids, and the like. Once drained, the water source
It can be recycled to 22.

A second example of a drainage mechanism that can be used with module 21 is:
It can be described as an overflow-type outlet or "in-water channel". Two preferred embodiments in this example are hereinafter referred to as a triple waterway and a double waterway. The triple canal has the advantage of being able to increase the angle of the straight-line inclination, especially the forward rise, as compared with the double canal, while the dual canal has a curved uphill that is impossible with the triple canal. It has the advantage that it can be used for shape curves. Modules for 3 canals and 2 canals
Although described with reference to 21, both are also applicable to individual attachments attached to conventional non-injectable waterrides for the purpose of self-draining as described above.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the triple water channel 35 in which the self-draining function of the module 21 is improved. FIG. 5c shows a cross-sectional profile of the triple water channel 35. Structurally, three canals 35
Has a sliding surface 25 and two adjacent overflow channels 36
a, 36b. The sliding surface 25 is formed or connected integrally to the two side walls 27f, 27g having substantially the same height and being low. The overflow channel 36a is
7f abuts and is integrated, connected or integrated, and is integrated or connected to the high side wall 27h on the other side. The overflow channel 36b is integrated with, connected to, or integrally formed with the lower side wall 27g, and is integrated or connected with the higher side wall 27i on the other side. The direction of the triple water channel 35 is basically such that the jet water flow and the rider move upward on the sliding surface 25 and the overflow water overflowing in the overflow water channels 36a and 36b moves downward by gravity. It is inclined upward. It is also appropriate to arrange the triple water channel 35 in the horizontal direction in a state where the formed temporary swell interferes with the smooth jet water flow. However, in the case of a horizontal arrangement, the overflow channels 36a, 36b need to be maintained at a sufficient inclination to allow the overflowed water to drain properly. In the triple channel 35, the lower side walls 27f, 27
The height of g depends on various factors (eg, the initial pressure and flow, the time required to reach the desired pressure and flow, the capacity of sliding surface 25 (ie, the product of sliding surface and wall height), The velocity difference between the length and angle of inclination of the sliding surface 25 and the rider entering at a low angle and the high velocity water flow, the amount of stagnant water, and the rider transfer from the channel to the next channel should be accelerated Is changed in accordance with a design requirement regarding whether or not As shown in FIG.5D, at least the height of the lower side walls 27f, 27g separates the upward jet stream 30 from the downward overflow water 37 and also easily holds the rider 29 on the substantially sliding surface 25. Must be enough to do that. Moreover, the lower side walls 27f, 27g, at most, must not be higher than the height that would prevent the temporary swell 33 from being discharged. From the viewpoint of practically avoiding overlap, it is desirable that the lower side walls 27f, 27g are always set lower than the height required for the higher side walls 27h, 27i. The overflow channels 36a, 36b are at least large enough to contain the overflow water 37, and may be large in size to function as a sliding surface for a rider moving downward. In the latter case, ride the rider upward on the main sliding surface 25 and
It would be possible to carry two riders downward at 36a and 36b. The high side walls 27h and 27i are three canals 35
It has a standard height to prevent undesired riders from getting out of the way.

As mentioned above, one of the functional advantages of the unique design of the triple waterway 35 is that it can be used when the rider starts to flow without a rider, or when a low-speed rider enters the high-speed flow, or It is mainly obtained in horizontal or upward water flow in the case of excessive accumulation of injected water. In a standard start stroke, there is usually a time lag between the water flow and water pressure at initial departure and the water flow and water pressure during full open operation. This delay is caused by the time required for the flow regulating valve 23 to fully open, or, if already open, the time required for the pump or other water supply means to rise to full open speed or full open efficiency. . Figure
5E, 5F and 5G show how, over time, the design of the triple channel 35 works to eliminate the pressure and water flow time lag problem at departure. In FIG. 5E, jet stream 30 has already flowed upward from nozzle 24.
As the jet stream 30 moves up the sliding surface 25,
The velocity of the water stream tip is reduced by the downward gravity and the friction of the sliding surface 25. As a result, the tip of the water stream is displaced and pushed up by faster and stronger water streams coming from the nozzles 24 one after another. Due to this dynamic change of the flow, a temporary swell 33 begins to form. However,
When the temporary swell 3 is formed, it becomes lower side wall 27g, 27
It reaches the height of g and begins to overflow into the overflow channels 36a and 36b. Since the overflow water channels 36a and 36b are inclined, the overflow water 37a and 37b are accelerated by gravity and flow to the overflow overflow outlets 38a and 38b that are opened. As a result, overflow water is drained and pumped to water source 22 for reuse or otherwise utilized. FIG.5F shows its starting action after a short period of time, in which the pressure and rate of water from the water source 22 or the flow regulating valve 23 has already increased, and the temporary swell 33 has tilted. Has moved to some extent above the part. The overflow water 37a, 37b overflows continuously,
It continuously drops from overflow drains 38a, 38b.
FIG. 5G shows the final stage at the start, where the temporary swell 33 has already been pushed above the top of the slide surface 25 and the jet stream 30 is flowing steadily. As with the launch cycle, temporary swelling can occur when a low-speed rider enters the high-speed water flow, or when the continuously injected water flow causes accumulation of stagnant water. In a similar manner, temporary swells would be removed by spilling over into the overflow channel. In operation, the triple channel 35 is basically limited to a straight section. The height of the lower side walls 27f and 27g is
This is not enough to keep the rider on an inner slope with a significant curvature curve. That is, if a substantially curved triple channel 35 is used, the centrifugal force created by the high velocity water will cause the rider and the water to jump over the outer low side wall and into the overflow channel. Despite not changing direction significantly, the triple channel 35 is basically superior to the conventional one because it forms a smooth jet stream at a large angle of inclination under a wide range of stream changes and This is because they have the ability to maintain.

FIG. 5H is a perspective view of a modified example of overflow drainage (ie, an example of “in-channel waterway” type self-drainage, hereinafter referred to as dual waterway 39), and FIG. 5I is a cross-sectional view thereof. Structurally, the double channel 39 includes a sliding surface 25 and an overflow channel 36c. One of the sliding surfaces 25 is integrally formed or connected to one side of the lower side wall 27j, and the other is integrally formed or connected to the higher side wall 27k. The overflow channel 36c abuts and is integral with, connected to, or integrally formed with the lower side wall 27j, and is integrated or connected with the higher side wall 27l on the opposite side. For one thing, as a result of draining only one side, the two-way channel 39 cannot drain as efficiently as the three-way channel 35, and as a result, achieves a steep slope as much as the three-way channel 35. It is not possible. However, since the high side wall 27k is integral with the sliding surface 25, the double waterway 39
It is possible to form a strong curve while safely stopping the rider 29 in the inclined portion surrounded by the high side wall 27k. FIG.
Shows the ability of the dual channel 39 to be able to bend upwards. FIG. 5J shows the rider 29 at various stages of the turn in the dual channel 39, where a portion of the temporary swell 33 flows into the overflow channel 36c. As a result, the overflow water 37c is discharged to the overflow outlet 38c by gravity. The ability of the double channel 39 to allow it to bend while rising, let alone self-draining capacity, is unique and a significant advantage over the prior art. The radius of the arc, the degree of curvature, the left-right direction, and the connectivity and runout of the bends between the bends (achievable by the triple waterway 39) are well known to those skilled in the construction and operation of general descending waterrides. Is substantially similar to the one currently used. However, unlike the conventional descending water ride, the direction of the double channel 39 is basically superior in the upward inclination, where the jet stream and the rider move upward on the slide surface 25. Then, the overflow water overflowing into the overflow circuit 36c moves downward by gravity. Horizontally arranging the double water channel may be appropriate in situations where temporary swells are formed that impede smooth jet flow. However, in the horizontal arrangement, the overflow channel 36c is
A sufficient angle of inclination must be maintained so that the overflow water is properly drained. From the viewpoint of operation, 2
Like the triple waterway 35, the waterway 39 functions to solve the problem of the temporary swell that occurs at the start of use, when the rider enters, and when the water stays. However, the overflow water 37c is discharged only from the lower side wall on one side. 5K, 5L and 5
M shows over time how the dual channel 39 self-drains at the start of operation and easily forms the desired smooth flow. In this sequence, as the jet stream 30 rises along the slide surface 25, a temporary swell 33 is formed and the overflow channel 36c
You can see that it overflows. Here, the overflow water 37c is discharged by gravity to the outlet 38c.

To ensure that the functional propulsion effect provided by module 21 is achieved, the approaching vehicle or rider 29
Preferably have an initial speed prior to entry into module 21. In order to achieve such processing speeds, there are many prior arts available. For example, there are a descending type water slide and a slide without water utilizing gravity, and a mechanical spring and a pump driven by hydraulic / atmospheric pressure. It is also preferable that the approach direction of the vehicle or the rider 29 substantially coincides with the direction of the jet water flow 30. Such coincidence is particularly important in the accelerators described below for the most efficient momentum transfer from water to rider. As a rider or vehicle, it is possible to enter the jet stream 30 in a mismatched state or in a direction against the flow. Such an approach causes a large temporary swell and a large speed reduction. However, care must be taken to avoid falls and injuries that can be caused by the impact of the angled jet stream.

The last element of the module 21 that requires explanation is the relative speed of the jet stream 30 flowing out of the nozzle 24 with respect to the speed of the object (ie, vehicle or rider 29) sliding or entering the jet stream 30. This "relative" speed will vary depending on the functional purpose of the module 21. If acceleration of the incoming object is required, the speed of the water will exceed the speed of the object in the predetermined direction of flow. This is described in more detail in the horizontal, upper and lower accelerator embodiments (described below).
If neither acceleration nor deceleration is required, the velocity of the jet stream 30 will be equal to or less than the velocity of the incoming object. This will be described later with respect to the next non-accelerated propulsion device.

Description of Horizontal Accelerator FIG. 6A shows a preferred embodiment, hereinafter referred to as horizontal accelerator 40, which comprises one or more modules 21a, 21b and 21c and the like. Horizontal accelerator 40
Both ends 41a, 41b are well-known water attractions
Rides (eg, standard water slides and waterway equipment) serve as extensions and improvements to them. Both ends 41a, 41b can be connected to other embodiments of the present invention. As further shown in FIG. 6B, the horizontal accelerator 40 has two novel features. (1) the direction of each module 21 is substantially perpendicular to gravity, where the nozzle 24 and the opening 28 that directs the jet stream 30 are substantially parallel to the sliding surface 25; At least the portion of the sliding surface 25 closest to the nozzle 24 is horizontal and perpendicular to gravity. (2) Jet water flow 30 flowing out of nozzle 24
Moves at a speed exceeding the speed at which the rider 29 flows in the predetermined water flow direction. The portion of the sliding surface 25 that follows the portion closest to the nozzle 24 has a gradually changing angle of inclination to facilitate connection to another embodiment of the invention or other known water attraction rides. It is important to be able to

Many advantages of the horizontal accelerator 40 become apparent from the above description.

(A) Unlike conventional attractions, the horizontal layout of the present embodiment eliminates the altitude loss that would necessarily occur to accelerate a participant for a predetermined distance.

(B) The sights, sounds and sensations caused by the high-speed jets of water that impact the rider are a thrilling experience for both participants and viewers. In addition, the rider gains speed, so that he can increase his thrill and be prepared for subsequent water slide movements (eg, twisting, bending, jumping, falling, finale, etc.).

(C) The increased velocity of the rider, accelerated by the high velocity jet stream, leads to a higher throughput capability within a given time. As a result, the satisfaction of the participants increases, and the income of the vehicle operator increases.

(D) In a facility in which the acceleration of the rider is a function of the increase in the height of the attraction, the present embodiment enables the acceleration without increasing the cost required for increasing the facility.

Operation of the Horizontal Accelerator To operate the horizontal accelerator 40, it is assumed that the rider (or the vehicle on which the rider rides) has obtained an initial departure speed by conventional methods well known to those skilled in the art. Having obtained this initial departure speed, the rider 29 first enters the end of the horizontal accelerator closest to the nozzle 24 and moves along its length as shown in FIG. 6B. The jet stream 30 emerging from the water source 22 has already flowed out of the nozzle 24 when the rider 29 enters the stream. Since the speed of the jet stream 30 is faster than the speed of the invading rider 29, the momentum that moves from the high-speed stream to the low-speed rider accelerates the rider, bringing the speed of the faster moving water closer . The flow control valve 23 and the variable opening 28 allow the speed, thickness, width and pressure of the water flow to be adjusted, thereby ensuring proper acceleration of the rider. Small temporary swells during this momentum transfer process
33 can occur behind the rider. Temporary swell
The stagnation of 33 can be minimized (if desired) by draining excess stagnation over both sides of sliding surface 25. When the rider 29 is in the waterway, this stagnation is caused by the discharge holes 34a, 34a formed along the side walls 27a and 27b.
It can be removed by discharging the temporary swell 33 through b or by discharging through a discharge opening 34 formed in the sliding surface 25. Other drainage mechanisms, such as triple or double canals, can also function as a solution to the temporary swell problem. The horizontal accelerator 40 is composed of one or more modules 21a, 21b, 21c, etc. (as shown in FIG. 6A), and these modules are properly aligned so as to be substantially in the same direction. In order for rider 29 to move from module 21a to module 21b
It is possible to move to 21c with an increase in acceleration caused by a stepwise increase in the speed of the water flowing out of each of the following nozzles 24a, 24b, 24c and the like. Finally, the desired maximum acceleration value is reached. For those skilled in the art, the ends of the horizontal accelerator can be connected to well-known water attractions rides as extensions and improvements thereof. Furthermore, both ends can be connected to other embodiments of the present invention.

As a result, the following becomes clear in the embodiment of the horizontal accelerator according to the present invention. Horizontal accelerators are used for water ride attractions and can replace the gravity and accelerate the rider with a loss of vertical height. It is also important that the water stagnation and transient swells resulting from the high velocity jets impacting the low velocity riders are eliminated by proper design of the sliding surfaces and / or sidewalls. In addition, the horizontal accelerator has the following advantages.

-Allow acceleration without the cost of construction to get higher altitude.

-Allow riders to experience the sight, sound and sensation of horizontal acceleration caused by the high velocity jet stream. This experience excites the participants and the audience. further,
Participants will be able to gain speed,
You will be able to enjoy more thrills and be prepared for the next conventional water slide movement (eg twist, bend, jump, drop, finale, etc.).

Fast changes in rider speed lead to higher participant throughput and higher sliding capacity, resulting in higher rider satisfaction and higher operator revenue.

Description of the upper accelerator Turning now to FIG. 7A, one or more modules 21a,
A preferred embodiment is shown, consisting of 21b and 21c, hereinafter referred to as upper accelerator 42. Both ends 43a, 43 of the upper accelerator 42
b is a well-known water attraction ride (eg, standard water slide or waterway equipment)
To serve as extensions and improvements to conventional vehicle equipment. Both ends 43a, 43b can be connected to other embodiments of the present invention. As further shown in FIG. 7B, there are two novel features of the upper accelerator 42. (1) The orientation of the module 21 is substantially upwardly inclined, where the portion of the sliding surface 25 closest to the nozzle 24 is upwardly inclined from a horizontal line, and directs the nozzle 24 and the jet water stream 30. Opening 28 is substantially parallel to sliding surface 25 and points upward from the horizontal. (2) Nozzle 24
The jet stream 30 flowing out of the
Move at a speed exceeding 29. To facilitate connection to the other embodiments described herein or other well-known water attractions rides, the portion of the slide surface 25 that follows the portion closest to the nozzle 24 is angled. It can be in a gradually changed state.

From the above description, a number of advantages of the upper accelerator 42 become apparent.

(A) The upwardly sloping layout of this embodiment allows for upward acceleration. Such performance reduces or eliminates the altitude loss previously required to accelerate a participant a predetermined distance.

(B) The sight, sound and sensation of upward acceleration caused by the high velocity jets of water that impact the rider is a thrilling experience for both participants and viewers. In addition, the rider gains speed, which can increase the thrill and the subsequent conventional water slide movement (eg, twisting, bending,
Jump, fall, finale, etc.).

(C) When the speed of the rider is increased by accelerating the high-speed jet stream, a high throughput capability within a predetermined time is obtained.

(D) Upward acceleration may reduce or eliminate the need for participants to walk to a higher position before boarding the attraction. This lowers the cost of stairs, walkways, elevators, and other systems for transporting participants and vehicles.

Operation of the Upper Accelerator To operate the upper accelerator 42, it is assumed that the rider (or rider in the vehicle) has obtained the initial departure speed in a conventional manner known to those skilled in the art. Having obtained this initial departure speed, the rider 29 rides on the end of the upper accelerator closest to the nozzle 24 and moves along its length as shown in FIG. 7B. The jet stream 30 flowing out of the water source 22 has already emerged from the nozzle 24 through the variable opening 28 when the rider 29 enters the stream. Since the speed of the jet stream 30 is higher than the speed at which the rider 29 rides in, the momentum of the transition from the high speed water to the low speed rider accelerates the rider to bring the faster moving water closer to the speed. The flow control valve 23 and the variable opening 28 allow the speed, thickness, width, and pressure of the water flow to be adjusted, so that the rider can be appropriately accelerated. During this momentum transfer process, small temporary swells 33 may occur behind the rider. Temporary swell 33 slides over water stagnation
It can be minimized by letting it go over 25 and discharging it to the side. As shown, when the rider 29 is in the dual channel 39, this stagnation can be eliminated by draining the temporary swell 33 over the lower side wall 27j and further down the overflow channel 36c. Other drainage mechanisms, such as triple canals and outlet structures, can also help solve the problem of transient swell. Since the upper accelerator 42 is composed of one or more modules 21a, 21b, 21c and the like (as shown in FIG. 7A), the rider 29 moves from the module 21a to the module 21d and further to the module 21c. . During this movement, the speed of the water coming out of each of the following nozzles 24a, 24b, 24c, etc. gradually increases, and the acceleration of the rider increases accordingly, and finally reaches the desired maximum acceleration value. I do. For those familiar with this field,
Can be connected to both ends of conventional water attraction rides and other embodiments of the invention disclosed herein as an improvement thereof.

Thus, it is clear that the upper accelerator embodiment of the present invention can be used in water ride attractions to accelerate a rider in a direction opposite to gravity and upward. The water, which was conventionally pumped up high inside the closed pipe by the pump, is used for the participant's enjoyment and also to save the attraction operator's operation. It should be noted that temporary swells caused by high-speed jet streams impacting slow-speed riders can be eliminated by properly designing the sliding surface and / or side wall. In addition, the upward accelerator has the following advantages.

・ The upwardly sloping layout allows upward acceleration. Such performance accelerates the participant for a predetermined distance, eliminating altitude losses previously inevitable.

-Riders can experience the sight, sound and sensation of upward acceleration caused by the high speed jet stream. This experience is exciting for the participant and the viewer. In addition, the speed gained allows the rider to increase thrills and be prepared for subsequent conventional water slide movements (eg, twisting, bending, jumping, falling, finale, etc.).

Increased rider speed leading to higher participant throughput capacity and higher sliding capacity, thereby increasing rider satisfaction and further increasing operator revenue.

-Riders can be elevated without the cost of building stairs, walkways, elevators or transport structures and mechanisms that carry them up.

FIG. 8A shows one or more modules 21a, 21b, and 21c
A preferred embodiment, hereinafter referred to as downward accelerator 44, is shown. Both ends 45a, 45b of the lower accelerator can be connected to well-known water attraction rides (eg, standard water slides or waterway equipment) and serve as extensions and improvements thereof. Both ends 45a, 45b can be connected to other embodiments of the present invention. As further shown in FIG. 7B, there are two novel features of the downward accelerator 44. (1) The direction of each module 21 is substantially inclined downward, and the portion of the sliding surface 25 closest to the nozzle 24 is inclined downward from the horizontal line, and the opening which directs the nozzle 24 and the jet stream 30 is provided. 28 is substantially parallel to the sliding surface 25 and points downward from the horizontal. (2) The jet water flow 30 coming out of the nozzle 24 moves at a speed exceeding the speed of the rider 29 in the predetermined water flow direction. Please pay attention to the following points. The sliding surface 25 following the portion closest to the nozzle 24 is provided with a gradually changing angle of inclination to facilitate connection to other embodiments of the present invention or other known water attraction rides. it can.

From the above description, a number of advantages of the lower speed machine 44 become apparent.

(A) The downward inclined layout of the present embodiment enables downward acceleration beyond acceleration caused by gravity. Such performance enhances the conventional sliding characteristics of conventional water ride attractions.

(B) The sight, sound, and sensation of downward acceleration caused by the high velocity jet stream impacting the rider is a thrilling experience for the participant and the viewer. In addition, speeded riders will be more thrilled and will be prepared for subsequent conventional water slide movements (eg, twisting, spinning, jumping, falling, finale, etc.).

(C) The increased speed of the rider due to acceleration according to the invention leads to a higher throughput capability within a given time.

Operation of the Lower Accelerator To operate the lower accelerator 44, it is assumed that the rider (or the rider in the vehicle) has obtained an initial departure speed by conventional methods known to those skilled in the art. Having obtained this initial departure speed, rider 29 first enters the end of lower accelerator 44 closest to nozzle 24 and moves along its length as shown in FIG. 8B. The jet stream 30 coming out of the water source 22 has already flowed out of the nozzle 24 and the opening 28 when the rider 29 enters the stream. The flow rate control valve 23 and the variable opening 28 allow the speed, thickness, width, and pressure of the water flow to be adjusted, thereby ensuring proper acceleration of the rider. Since the speed of the jet stream 30 is faster than the speed of the riding rider 29, the momentum of shifting from the high speed stream to the low speed rider accelerates the rider,
Get closer to the speed of the faster moving water. During this momentum transfer process, small temporary swells 33 may occur behind the rider. The temporary swell 33 can be minimized (if desired) by allowing excess stagnation out across both sides of the slide surface 25. If the rider 29 is in a channel, this stagnation will cause a temporary swell 33 to exit 34
By discharging along the side walls 27a, 27b through a, 34b, it can be removed through the outlet 34e provided in the sliding surface 25. Other drainage mechanisms, such as triple or dual canals, can also help solve the problem of transient swell. The downward accelerator 44 includes one or more modules 21a, 21b,
Rider 29 moves from module 21a to module 21b and further to module 21c because it is composed of 21c and the like (as shown in FIG. 8A). During this movement, the acceleration of the participant increases in each module due to the gradual increase in the water flow velocity flowing out from each of the subsequent nozzles 24a, 24b, 24c, and finally reaches the desired maximum acceleration value. For those familiar with this field, the lower accelerator 44
Obviously, it can be connected to a conventional water attraction ride or other embodiments of the invention disclosed herein as an improvement.

Thus, the downward accelerator embodiment of the present invention can be used in water ride attractions to increase gravity downward. In addition, the downward accelerator has the following advantages.

-The downward slope layout allows for acceleration below gravity. Such performance can minimize the linear distance required to accelerate the participant to the desired speed. By reducing the required straight-line distance, the conventional “gravity propulsion”
Overall costs can be reduced by reducing the amount of material normally used in the system and the required structural height.

-Riders can experience abrupt changes in sight, sound and sensation during downward acceleration caused by high speed jets. In addition, the rider can increase speed so he can enjoy more thrills and be prepared for a subsequent conventional water slide movement (eg, twisting, bending, jumping, falling, finale, etc.).

Allowing the rider to increase speed leading to higher participant throughput capacity and higher sliding capacity, thereby providing greater satisfaction to the rider and greater operator revenue.

Description of non-accelerated propulsion planes horizontally, upwards and downwards In a water ride using a sliding surface with a downward slope, followed by an upward slope, followed by a flat or downward curve, at the bottom of the up-down The problem arises that the rider's kinetic energy is insufficient to overcome the drag and move the rider from the bottom to the top of the upward ramp. In this situation, the rider cannot climb up and either stops halfway to the top or slides down and stops at the bottom. Conversely, if the kinetic energy of the rider at the bottom of the up-down is substantially greater than the drag that the rider encounters from the bottom to the top, a subsequent flat or downward curve will occur. If the arc has a sufficiently short radius, the rider may take a dangerous flight trajectory. The drag at a water ride attraction is not always constant, for example, changing the conditions of the sliding surface, changing the conditions of riders and vehicles, changing the conditions of water. For that reason, it is desirable to introduce a mechanism that promotes rider stability and equalization of the coefficient of friction for different riders, for rider safety and consistency, capacity and enjoyment. The non-accelerated propulsion embodiments described below serve to achieve the objectives described above. Similar to the corresponding part of the "accelerator", the non-accelerator propulsion embodiment utilizes the format of module 21. As a result, the non-accelerated propulsion module can be connected in series as desired.

FIG. 9 shows a preferred embodiment, hereinafter referred to as horizontal non-accelerated propulsion unit 46. Both ends 47a, 47b of the horizontal non-accelerator thruster 46 are connected to conventional water attraction rides (eg, standard water slides and waterway equipment) or to other embodiments of the present invention, and are extensions and improvements thereof. Used as The continuous downhill track 48 is indicated by broken lines 48a and 48b with arrows indicating movement in a predetermined direction. The horizontal non-accelerator thruster 46 has four novel features. (1)
The position of the horizontal non-accelerator is the next part of the rider's 29 starting position. The orientation of the horizontal non-accelerator thruster 46 is substantially perpendicular to gravity, where the nozzle 24 and the opening 28 directing the jet stream 30 are substantially parallel to the sliding surface 25, At least the portion of 25 that is closest to the nozzle 24 is at least horizontal and perpendicular to gravity. The jet stream 30 flowing out of the nozzle 24 moves at or below the speed of the rider 29 in the predetermined stream direction. (4) The portion of the sliding surface 25 next to the portion closest to the nozzle 24 eventually curves to an upwardly inclined portion. Other embodiments of the present invention or other well-known water
To make it easier to connect to attraction rides,
The sliding surface 25 following the upper curve portion can be in a state where the inclination is gradually changed along the length direction.

FIG. 10 shows a preferred embodiment, hereinafter referred to as an upper non-accelerator thruster 49. The upper non-accelerated propulsion unit 49 has two units 50a, 50b,
Connected to known water attraction rides (eg, standard water slides and waterway equipment) and other embodiments of the present invention to serve as extensions and improvements thereof. The continuous downhill track 51 is indicated by bankruptcy 51a, 51b with arrows whose movement is directed in a predetermined direction. The upper non-accelerator thruster 49 has three novel features. (1) The position of the upper non-accelerated propulsion device 49 is the portion following the departure position of the rider 29. (2) The direction of the upper non-accelerated propulsion device 49 is substantially inclined upward, and the portion of the sliding surface 25 closest to the nozzle 24 is inclined upward from the horizontal line, and directs the nozzle 24 and the jet water stream 30. The opening 28 is substantially parallel to the slide surface 25. (3) The jet stream 30 flowing out of the nozzle 24 moves at a speed equal to or lower than the speed of the rider 29 in the predetermined stream direction.
To facilitate connection to other embodiments of the present invention or other well-known water attraction rides, a sliding surface 25 is provided.
In the above, the portion following the portion closest to the nozzle 24 can be in a state where the inclination changes gradually along the length direction.

FIG. 11 shows a preferred embodiment, hereinafter referred to as the lower non-accelerated propulsion device 52. Both ends 53a, 53b of the lower non-accelerator thruster 52 are connected to known water attraction rides (eg, standard water slides and waterway equipment) or to other embodiments of the present invention, extensions and improvements thereof. Useful as. The continuous descent track 54 is indicated by broken lines 54a and 54b with arrows whose movement is directed in a predetermined direction. The lower non-accelerator thruster 52 has four novel features. (1) The position of the lower non-acceleration propulsion device 52 is located at a portion following the starting position of the rider 29. (2) Lower non-acceleration propulsion unit
The orientation of 52 is substantially downwardly inclined, where the portion of the sliding surface 25 closest to the nozzle 24 is inclined downwardly from the horizon, with an opening 28 that orients the nozzle 24 and the jet stream 30. Is substantially parallel to the sliding surface.
(3) The jet stream 30 flowing out of the nozzle 24 moves at a speed equal to or less than the speed of the rider 29 in the predetermined flow direction. (4) The portion following the portion closest to the nozzle 24 on the sliding surface 25 eventually curves to an upwardly inclined portion. To facilitate connection to other embodiments of the present invention and other well-known water attractions rides, the sliding surface 25 following the upper curve portion has a gradually changing inclination angle along its length. Can be.

From the above description, a number of advantages of the horizontal, upper and lower non-accelerator propulsion become apparent.

(A) If additional water flow is ordered on the sliding surface, it will eventually stabilize the rider moving upwards. In addition, the injection of additional water streams tends to equalize performance standards for riders and vehicles that eventually move upward over a large area.

(B) The sight, sound and sensation when the rider hits the injected stream is a thrilling experience for the participant and the viewer. In addition, riders can stabilize their posture for safety and then follow conventional water slide movements (eg, twisting, bending, jumping, falling,
Finale, etc.).

(C) The injected water flow increases the stability of the rider and the uniformity of the coefficient of friction, so that abnormal throughput of the rider is eliminated, thereby obtaining a higher throughput capability over a predetermined period of time. This high throughput capability increases participant satisfaction and allows the vehicle equipment operator to earn more revenue.

Operation of the horizontal, upper and lower non-accelerators. To operate the horizontal, upper and lower non-accelerators, the riders (riders and vehicles) have obtained an initial departure speed by conventional methods well known to those skilled in the art. I do.

FIG. 9 shows the horizontal non-accelerated propulsion unit 46 in operation. The rider 29 first rides on the module end closest to the nozzle 24, moves lengthwise, and finally rises up as shown by the dashed line 48b.

FIG. 10 shows the upper non-accelerator thruster 49 in operation. Rider 29 rides on the module end closest to nozzle 24,
It moves along the length direction and continues to rise upward as shown by the broken line 51b.

FIG. 11 shows the lower non-accelerator thruster 52 in operation. The rider 29 first rides in from the module end closest to the nozzle 24, moves along its length, and finally rises up as shown by the dashed line 54b.

In all three propulsion embodiments, the jet stream 30 has already flowed out of the nozzle 24 as the rider 29 enters the stream. The speed of the jet stream 30 emerging from the water source 22 is less than or equal to the speed of the onboard rider 29. If the rider 29 is moving at a speed greater than the jet stream 30, the momentum of the transition from the slow stream to the fast rider will decelerate the rider to approach the slow stream speed. The flow control valve 23 and the variable opening 28 allow the speed, thickness, width and pressure of the water flow to be adjusted, thereby ensuring proper stabilization of the rider and uniformity of the friction coefficient. During the momentum transfer process or the downhill departure period described above, small temporary swells may occur. Temporary undulations can be minimized (if desired) by flushing out over both sides of the sliding surface 25. If temporary swells occur in the channel, as previously mentioned, this stagnation is achieved by allowing the temporary swells to drain through outlets formed along the sides and bottom of the channel. Alternatively, it can be removed by a double waterway or a triple waterway. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the ends of the horizontal, upper and lower non-accelerators can be connected to known water attractions rides as extensions and improvements thereof. In addition, both ends can be connected to other embodiments of the invention disclosed herein.

Therefore, the horizontal, upward and downward non-accelerated propulsion devices, which are embodiments of the present invention, can be adopted for water ride attractions to stabilize and equalize riders and vehicles having various friction coefficients over a wide range. It becomes clear. Another feature is that temporary swells caused by a high-speed rider hitting a low-speed jet stream can be eliminated by properly designing the sliding surface and side walls. In addition, horizontal, upper and lower non-accelerated propulsion vehicles have the following advantages:

-A scene when a rider encounters the injected water flow,
You can experience sound and feeling. This experience is thrilling for the audience as well as the participants. Furthermore, the rider can stabilize his or her own posture, ensure safety, and prepare for the next following conventional water slide movement (for example, twisting, bending, jumping, falling, finale, etc.).

-The injected water flow increases the stability of the rider and further equalizes the coefficient of friction. As a result, the anomalous portions are removed from the rider's movement, so that the throughput capability over a predetermined period is higher. As a result, the rider's satisfaction increases and the operator's income increases.

Description and Operation of the Stabilization / Equalization Process To understand the functions and solutions provided by the stabilization / equalization process, it is necessary to understand the context in which this process is needed. FIG.
1 shows a representative cross-sectional profile of the prior art in a water amusement ride. In this example, altitude is partially recovered, but no stabilization / homogenization process is employed. Rider 29 (with or without a vehicle) enters conventional departure pool 55 and begins to descend on prior art attraction surface 56 in a conventional (gravity only) manner. The attraction surface 56, which is actually continuous, is separated for illustrative purposes as follows. Lower chute top 56a, lower chute 56b, lower chute bottom 56c, rising part 56 extending upward from lower chute bottom 56c
d, the top 56e of the rising portion 56d. A conventional water ride departure is obtained, with rider 29 gaining average speed at lower shoot top 56a, and each section 56a, 56b, 56
If the rider 29 gains an average energy loss due to his own drag while sliding on c and 56d, the rider 29 follows the preferred trajectory 57 shown in FIG. 12 with a solid arrow. Will be. The speed of the rider 29 at the top of the lower chute 56a is greater than the designed average, and the energy loss caused by its own drag when the rider 29 slides on each part 56a, 56b, 56c and 56d is averaged. If so, or if either occurs, rider 29 follows a trajectory 58 shown in dashed lines in FIG. Conversely, the speed of the rider 29 at the lower chute top 56a is lower than the average designed by design, and the rider 29
If the energy loss caused by its drag while passing b, 56c and 56d is greater than the average, or either, the rider 29 will follow the failed trajectory shown by the dotted line in FIG. Will be.

The uneven coefficient of friction caused by the instability of the rider and the different riders and conditions of the rider over a wide range is due to the inability of the rider to move well up the altitude recovery section as represented by the failed trajectory 59, This leads to a delay in the rider's departure. Moreover, such instability and unevenness can lead to rider injury. For example, a rider whose upward recovery curve bends at a high speed may pass through the flight trajectory 58, or a second rider who slides along the lower chute portion 56b may first slide down the failed trajectory at the lower chute bottom portion 56c. And colliding with. As a result, it is desirable to inject a stream of water following the rider's departure for safe sliding, consistency, capacity, and enjoyment. The rider is then stabilized or the different coefficients of friction are equalized among the riders, as the rider moves further from the lower chute top 56a through the top 56e as represented on the preferred trajectory 57.

The stabilization / homogenization process in which the additional injection of water is performed safely is shown in FIG. FIG. 13 shows a ride profile similar to FIG. 12, but the cross-sectional profile of the water amusement ride of FIG.
Shows where the horizontal non-accelerator thruster 46 and the upper non-accelerator thruster 49 may be located, and in this way a stabilization / homogenization process may be performed.

The stabilization / homogenization process requires at least one along the appropriately shaped attraction surface 60 at a point prior to the peak 60e.
One or more propulsion devices 52, 46 or 49 are configured and operated appropriately. The rider 29 passes from the lower chute top 60a to the top 60e by one or more injection streams created by the propulsors 52, 46 or 49. The water injected has a velocity equal to or lower than the velocity of the rider 29. During the course from the lower chute top 60a to the top 60e, a sufficient amount of injected water is in contact with the rider 29, such water flow stabilizing the rider 29 and reducing the coefficient of friction for a wide range of slip variables. Make uniform. For example, the slip variable
The sliding surface, the vehicle surface, the consistency of the water flow, the swimsuit of the rider, the presence or absence of the rider's skill, etc.

As a result, the stabilization / equalization process devised by the present invention can be used for water ride attractions, allowing participants to consistently enjoy altitude recovery that is better than recovery in the absence of injected water flow. Furthermore, once the desired altitude has been obtained, the participant can use the reacquired potential energy to move the other downslope in a conventional manner, or use one of the other embodiments devised by the present invention. Powered by

Description and operation of the altitude increase process In order to understand the functions and solutions provided by the altitude increase process, it is necessary to understand the background where this process is needed. FIG. 14 shows a cross-sectional profile of a water ride where altitude recovery has been partially performed but the altitude increase process has not been employed. Rider 29 (with or without vehicles) enters departure pool 61,
Start descending over the attraction surface 62 in a conventional (gravity only) manner. The attraction surface 62 is continuous but is divided as follows for explanation. Lower chute top 62a, lower chute portion 62b, lower chute bottom 62c, rising portion 62 extending upward from lower chute bottom 62c
d and the top 62e of the rising portion 62d. There are three conditions (conventional water ride departure, rider 29 getting average speed in lower chute 62a,
a, 62b, 62c and 62d, when the rider 29 is slipping, the drag generated by himself has provided an average energy loss).
Then, the rider 29 reaches the unassisted peak 64 through the unassisted orbit 63 indicated by a dotted line. In the absence of any other external influences, the maximum recovery height of the altitude indicated by the unassisted peak 64 will always be less than the departure height indicated in the departure pool 61 by the aforementioned drag. This is an important limitation of conventional water riding. As a result, if the contour of the attraction surface 62 is raised by extending the raised portion 62d and further lifting the peak 62e, the raised portion 62d 'and the raised
When modified to obtain 2e ', rider 29 remains limited to a recovery height as shown at the top 64' without assistance. In order for rider 29 to overcome this limitation in recovery height and reach peak 62e ', additional energy must be taken in to offset the energy lost by drag. The altitude increase process in which such additional energy is safely introduced by a horizontal, upward or downward accelerator is shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 15, in the altitude increase process, at least one or more appropriately positioned and operating accelerators, namely, a lower accelerator 44, a horizontal accelerator 40, and an upper accelerator 42,
A portion of the unassisted crest 64 'is configured along an appropriately shaped attraction surface 65 at a portion in front of the altitude.
Rider 29 is accelerated by one or more of the high velocity jets produced by accelerators 44, 40 or 42 on its way from lower apex 65a to apex 65e. Rider 29 receives from the high velocity water stream a minimum amount of momentum (additional kinetic energy) to advance rider 29 to top 62e and reach top 66.

As a result, the altitude increase process devised by the present invention is used for water ride attraction,
Obviously, water attraction participants are able to reach their destinations beyond the heights that can only be obtained by gravity. Furthermore, once this target height is obtained, the participant can use the reacquired or newly acquired potential energy to transition to another downriding, or use a different accelerator to raise or lower the potential energy. It can be empowered to go faster or leave the vehicle facility at a height substantially equal to the time of departure. In addition, the altitude increase process has the following advantages:

(1) Due to the altitude increase process, the rider and the vehicle can safely obtain a height that exceeds that obtained by the conventional gravity drive system.

(2) increasing the thrill of the participant by having the rider entertain larger and more rapid changes in angular momentum;

(3) Extend the length of the vehicle equipment.

Description of the Water Coaster The water coaster embodiment integrates existing water slide and water ride attraction technologies with horizontal, upper, lower, lower non-accelerator, horizontal non-accelerator, and upper non-accelerator. It is linked to the new technologies disclosed in the accelerator propulsion, stabilization / homogenization processes and altitude increase processes. Two drawings of the water coaster are used to write the description so as to avoid confusion and to be easily understood. FIG. 16 highlights the accelerator technology and altitude increase process employed within the water coaster 69a. FIG. 17 highlights the propulsion technology and the stabilization / homogenization process employed within the water coaster 69b.

FIG. 16 shows a conventional water pool starting from departure pool 72.
The coaster 69b is shown. After departure pool 62,
Following is an attraction surface 70 made of a suitable material, for example, resin impregnated fiberglass, concrete, gunite, waterproof wood, vinyl resin, acrylic resin, metal, and the like. This surface can be divided into parts and formed end-to-end with a suitable watertight seal. The attraction surface 70 is a suitable structural support 71, for example, wood, metal,
Supported by fiberglass, cable, earth, concrete, etc. Although the attraction surface 70 is really continuous, it can be divided as follows for illustrative purposes. The first horizontal top 70a 'of the lower chute to which the conventional departure pool 72 is connected, the first lower chute 70
b ', a first bottom portion 70c' of the lower chute, a first rising portion 70d 'extending upward from the lower chute c', and a first top 70e 'of the rising portion 70d'. This is followed by the attraction surface 7
0 continues as follows: Second summit of lower chute 70
a ", the second lower chute 70b", the second lower chute 70b "
There is a bottom 70c ", a second rise 70d" extending upward from the lower chute bottom 70c ", and a second top 70e" of the rise 70d ". Thereafter, the attraction surface 70 continues as follows. A third top portion 70a, a third lower chute portion 70b, a third bottom portion 70c of the lower chute portion, a third rising portion 70d extending upward from the lower chute bottom portion 70c, and a third top portion 70e of the rising portion 70d. This is followed by the attraction surface 70 as follows: the fourth top 70a "" of the lower chute, the fourth lower chute 70b "", the fourth bottom 70c "" of the lower chute, the lower chute bottom 70.
a fourth rising portion 70d "" extending upward from c "", and a rising portion 70d "connecting the final pool 73 in the area adjacent to the starting pool 72 and the first top portion 70a 'of the lower chute portion. ″
Is the fourth peak 70e "".

The upper accelerator 42 has an attraction surface 70 at a first riser 70d 'extending upward from the lower chute bottom 70c'.
Are arranged to form a part of Horizontal accelerator 40
a is arranged to form part of the attraction surface 70 at the second bottom 70c "of the lower chute. The lower accelerator 44 forms part of the attraction surface 70 at the third lower chute 70b. The horizontal accelerator 40b is located at the fourth top 70 of the lower chute.
a "" is arranged to form part of the attraction surface 70. The structural support 71 is the basis of the water coaster 69a.

Water source 22 supplies high-pressure water streams to accelerators 40, 42 and 44, as well as providing a normal water stream to conventional starting pool 72. Overflow and temporary swelling of riders on departure can be caused by slow water passing over the outer edge of the sliding surface, through openings formed in the bottom or sides of the channel, or by the three-way or It is discharged and removed by the double waterway. The wake tank 74 holds water when the system is shut down and also functions as a low point reservoir to collect the drained water and make it easier to pump it up again.

FIG. 17 shows a water coaster 69b starting with a conventional start departure pool 72. Following the departure pool 72 follows. First top 70a 'of the shooting chute,
The first lower chute 70b ', the first bottom 7 of the lower chute.
0c ', a first rising portion 70d' extending upward from the lower chute bottom portion 70c ', and a first top 70e' of the rising portion 70d '.
This is followed by the attraction surface 70 as follows. The second top portion 70a ″ of the lower chute portion, the second lower chute portion 7
0b ", a first bottom portion 70c" of the lower chute portion, a second rising portion 70d "extending upward from the lower chute bottom portion 70c", and a second top 70e "of the rising portion 70d". After this, the attraction surface 70 continues as follows. A third top portion 70a of the lower chute portion, a third lower chute portion 70b, a third bottom portion 70c of the lower chute portion, a third rising portion 70d extending upward from the lower chute bottom portion 70c, and a third top portion 70e of the rising portion 70d
It is. This is followed by the attraction surface 70 as follows. The fourth top 70a "" of the lower chute, the fourth lower chute 70b "", and the fourth bottom 70 of the lower chute.
c "", a fourth extending upward from the lower chute bottom 70c ""
The rising part 70d "" and the fourth top 70e "" of the rising part 70d ""
It is. This is followed by the attraction surface 70 as follows. A fifth top 70a "" of the lower chute, a fifth lower chute 70b "", and a fifth bottom 70c "" of the lower chute connected to the final pool 73 in the area below the starting pool 72. '.

The upper accelerators 42a, 42b are arranged to form part of the attraction surface 70 at a first rise 70d '. The upper non-accelerator thruster 49 is arranged to form part of the attraction surface 70 at the second rising portion 70d ". The horizontal non-accelerator thruster 46 is located at the third bottom of the lower chute.
It is arranged to form part of the attraction surface 70 at 70c "". The lower non-accelerator thruster 52 is positioned to form part of the attraction surface 70 at a fourth lower chute 70b "". The structural support 71 is the basis of the water coaster 69b.

Water source 22 supplies high-pressure water to accelerators 42a, 42b and non-accelerated propulsors 49, 46, and 52. Normal departure pool 72
Needless to say, it is supplied to Overflow at departure and stagnation due to temporary swelling of the rider may mean that the slow water is drained over the outer edge of the sliding surface, through an opening formed along the bottom or side of the channel, It is removed by the above-mentioned two-way waterway or two-way waterway. The wake tank 74, in addition to holding water when the system is shut down, functions as a low point reservoir to facilitate collecting and pumping the discharged water again.

Similar to conventional roller coasters, there are countless possibilities for the layout and design of the water coaster as shown. Examples of possibilities include changing the contour of the sliding surface, changing the length, width, height and angle of the sliding surface, functionally adjusted to fit the newly formed sliding surface and contour. Changes in the layout and connection of accelerators or propulsion systems, allowing multiple riders to enter the vehicle, connecting to other vehicle facilities and attractions, and special light, sound and theme May add effect. All such possibilities will be subject to design, construction and operational guidelines that exist in the industry and are limited or extended by the disclosure herein.

From the above description, a number of advantages of the water coaster become apparent.

(1) The physical profile of a "gravity-only" water ride attraction no longer needs to be ramped from the top to the bottom of the attraction due to functional needs. Rather, by connecting a lower, horizontal or upper accelerator or propulsor to a conventional water ride attraction, and by utilizing an altitude recovery and stabilization / equalization process, the water coaster becomes a standard roller coaster. You can have similar functional physical contours, and ascend, descend,
Can climb over, drop, twist, loop, rotate, etc.

(2) The length of the vehicle does not depend on the height of the starting position.

(3) The change in the contour height of the vehicle equipment can exceed the initial departure height.

(4) Connect the departure position and end position to “endless
You can provide loop "vehicle equipment" or connect to other attractions.

(5) The starting pool and the ending pool of the vehicle equipment can be adjacent to each other, or can be connected at substantially the same height. In addition, the final pool can be higher than the starting pool.

(6) It can accommodate a plurality of riders, sliding vehicles and special effects.

Operation of Water Coaster In FIG. 16, the water source 22 is in operation. Rider 29 (with or without a vehicle) enters departure pool 72 and rides over the top of lower chute 70a 'and begins descending in a conventional manner. Then, it goes to the first lower chute 70b 'and the first bottom 70c' of the lower chute. Lower chute bottom 7
When entering the first rising portion 70d 'extending upward from 0c', the rider 29 encounters the upper accelerator 42 and is accelerated by the upper accelerator 42 to increase the altitude, and the rising portion 70d 'and the first top 70e' Leads to. Thereafter, the rider 29 continuously moves to the second top portion 70a "of the lower chute portion and further to the second lower chute portion 70b". Upon entering the second bottom 70c "of the lower chute, rider 29 encounters horizontal accelerator 40a, and is accelerated by horizontal accelerator 40a to an increased height and extends upward from lower chute bottom 70c". The climbing section 70d "further reaches the second top section 70e" of the rising section 70d ". Thereafter, the rider 29 continuously moves to the third top section a of the lower chute section. The rider 29 enters the third lower chute section 70b. Immediately, the rider 29 encounters the lower accelerator 44. The lower accelerator 44 accelerates the rider 29 (eventually increasing the rider's altitude), and from the third bottom part 70c of the lower chute part and the lower chute bottom part 70c. The upwardly extending third rising portion 70d is further moved to the third top portion 70e of the rising portion 70d.When entering the fourth top portion 70a "" of the lower chute portion, the rider 29 encounters the horizontal accelerator 40b. Horizontal accelerator 40b accelerates rider 29 (eventually Increases the rider's altitude), the fourth lower chute 70b "", the fourth bottom 7 of the lower chute.
0c, the rider 29 finishes sliding in the conventional final pool 73 after passing through the fourth rising part 70d "" extending upward from the lower chute bottom part 70c and the fourth top part 70e "" of the rising part 70d "". Go to

Water source 22 supplies high pressure water to accelerators 42, 40a, 40b and 44 and provides a normal water flow to a conventional starting pool 72. The speed of the water flowing out of each accelerator 42, 40a, 40b or 44 will depend on the flow required to overcome friction, transfer momentum, and propel rider 29 to the top of the continuous climb. ing. The overflow on departure and the temporary swelling of the rider are described above by draining slow water from the outer edge of the sliding surface or from openings formed along the bottom and sides of the channel. It is removed by discharging through a three-way or two-way water channel. The wake tank 74 holds water in the event of a system outage and also acts as a low point reservoir to facilitate the collection and re-pumping of drained water.

In a variation of the water coaster shown in FIG. 17, the water source 22 is active. Here, a rider 29 (with or without a vehicle) enters the departure pool 70 and begins to descend in a conventional manner over the top 70a 'of the lower chute. Thereafter, the rider 29 reaches the first lower chute 70b 'and the lower chute first bottom 70c'. First rising portion 70d 'extending upward from the lower chute bottom 70c'
Upon entry, rider 29 encounters two upper accelerators 42a, 42b. These accelerators accelerate the rider 29 and increase its altitude to reach the first top 70e 'of the climb 70d'. After that, the rider 29 moves to the second top 70 of the lower chute.
a ", a second lower chute 70b" and a second bottom 70c "of the lower chute. Upon entering a second riser 70d" extending upwardly from the lower chute bottom 70c ", the rider 29 is lifted up. A non-accelerated propulsion vehicle 49 is encountered, which stabilizes / homogenizes the rider 29 over the second top 70e "of the ascent 70d". It moves continuously with the third lower chute b. Upon entering the third bottom 70c of the lower chute, the rider 29 encounters the horizontal non-accelerator thruster 46. This thruster has a lower chute 70c. Rising part 70d extending upward from the third part 70e of the rising part 70d
The rider 29 is stabilized / equalized and sent out. After that, the rider 29 moves to the fourth top 70 of the lower chute.
The state continuously shifts to a ″ ″, and the downward non-accelerated propulsion device 52 is encountered. This thruster stabilizes / uniforms the rider 29 on the fourth lower chute 70b "", and in this state, the fourth bottom 70c "" of the lower chute and the lower chute bottom 70c "".
Rising section 70d "" extending upward from the
d "" to the fourth top 70e "". Then,
Rider 29 has a fifth top 70a """of the lower chute,
The fifth lower chute 70b ″ ″ ″ continuously moves to the final bottom 70c ″ ″ ″ of the lower chute connected to the final pool 73.

Water source 22 supplies high pressure water to accelerators 42a, 42b and also to non-accelerated propulsors 49, 46, and 52, and a normal stream of water to a conventional starting pool 72. The speed of the water flowing out of each of the non-accelerated propulsors 49, 46 and 52, respectively, depends on the flow required to stabilize / equalize the rider 29 to the top of the continuous climb. Overflow and temporary swelling of riders on departure are achieved by draining the slowed water over the outer edge of the sliding surface, through openings along the bottom and sides of the channel. Alternatively, it is removed by discharging through the above-described three-way or two-way waterway. The wake tank 74 functions as a low point reservoir to hold the water when the system is shut down and to collect the drained water and facilitate pumping it again.

The water coaster 69 described herein is similar to a roller coaster or conventional hydrographic vehicle equipment.
There are various variations on the operation of. For example, the specification of a vehicle or boat that allows one or more riders to be wet or non-wetted by the water, increasing the capacity of the water coaster to allow multiple riders to slide, water coaster 69 Is to enhance the water coaster 69 by adding special light, sound and thematic effects. All of these possibilities are in accordance with design, construction and operation guidelines existing in the industry and extended by the content herein.

Therefore, the water devised by the present invention
The coaster 69 allows participants to slide on water attractions that have contours and sliding characteristics similar to roller coasters. In addition, the water coaster 69 has the following advantages.

-A rider can experience the sight, sound and sensation of up, down and horizontal acceleration caused by a high speed jet stream with a single slide. This experience is exciting for the participants and the viewer. In addition, riders can gain thrill by gaining speed,
And it is provided for the following conventional water slide movement (for example, twisting, bending, jumping, falling, finale, etc.).

-Riders and vehicles can safely achieve a height of recovery that exceeds that provided by conventional gravity drive systems through the altitude increase process.

Creates rider safety and performance consistency through the stabilization / equalization process.

• Entertain riders with greater and more rapid changes in angular momentum, increasing the thrill of participants.

-An endless loop can be formed if desired.

While the above description includes many embodiments, these should not be considered as limiting the scope of the invention, but merely as showing some of the presently preferred embodiments of the invention. For example, the modules that make up the horizontal, upper and lower accelerators or propulsors can have multiple nozzles instead of one, and water coasters can be, for example, meandering, circular,
Spiral, spiral, parabolic, sinusoidal shapes, etc., can be modified to have shapes, ratios and contours substantially different from those shown. Vehicles used in water rides can have wheels and can be on track. Riders can enter the water stream at an angle rather than parallel to the flow line. The water flow can be cycled on and off at a given time, which allows the rider to have more space and uses the water flow more efficiently.

Thus, the scope of the present invention should be determined by the claims and the equivalents thereof, and not by the specific examples.

Continuation of the front page (56) References JP-A-63-309290 (JP, A) JP-A-63-147486 (JP, A) JP-A-2-30394 (JP, U) JP-A-3-27290 (JP U.S. Pat. No. 4,805,896 (US, A) U.S. Pat. No. 5,011,134 (US, A) U.S. Pat. No. 4,805,897 (US, A) (58) Fields investigated (Int. Cl. ⁶ , DB names) A63G 21/18 A63G 21 / 00-21/06 A63G 3/00

Claims (16)

(57) [Claims] 1. A water slide facility for use in an amusement park, a water park and the like, comprising: a sliding surface (25) supporting a moving slide (29) or a sliding vehicle (29a); At least one flow forming nozzle (24) arranged along the sliding surface (25) at a selected position, the flow forming nozzle (24) being elongated in the width direction of the sliding surface (25). An opening extending and located between the sliding surface (25) and the sliding hand (29) or the sliding vehicle (29a) for forming a sheet-like jet stream (30) on the sliding surface (25); The jet stream (30) such that the speed of the jet stream (30) is greater than, less than or equal to the speed of the slide (29) or the slide vehicle (29a) at the preselected location. A mechanism capable of adjusting the speed of the jet. Water flow (30) is the slip hand (29) or sliding vehicle when the slip hand (29) or sliding vehicle (29a) moves beyond said flow forming nozzle (24) (29
a) the sliding surface (29) or the sliding vehicle (29a) having an acceleration or velocity greater than that obtained by moving the sliding surface without the aid of a jet stream. (2
5) A water slide facility that is movable along. 2. The jet stream (30) may be configured such that the jet stream (30) is provided by the slipper (29) or the slide vehicle (29).
The water slide facility according to claim 1, wherein the water slide facility has a speed sufficient to increase the speed of the slide (29) or the slide vehicle (29a) when contacting the body of a). 3. The water slide facility according to claim 1, wherein the sliding surface (25) follows an elongated curved road (57) having an upward slope and a downward slope. 4. The sliding surface (25), wherein the sliding hand (29) is movable on the sliding surface (25) on a sliding vehicle (29a). Water slide facility as described in. 5. The sliding surface (25) according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein said sliding hand (29) is movable on said sliding surface (25) on a wheeled vehicle. Water slide facility. 6. The jet stream (30) is injected by an adjustable nozzle opening (28) and is propelled by a pressurized water source connected to the adjustable nozzle opening (28). Item 5. The water slide facility according to item 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5. 7. The sliding surface (25) has a predetermined length and width, and the excess water formed on the sliding surface (25) when the water is thrown into the sliding surface (25). 1, 2, 3, or 2, comprising a perforated discharge means serving as an outlet for removing water by itself.
The water slide facility according to 4, 5, or 6. 8. An overflow channel (36a) arranged parallel to and close to said slide surface (25), and receiving an overflow of slowly flowing excess water from said slide surface (25) and discharging it. Claim 1, 2, 3, further comprising:
The water slide facility according to 4, 5, 6, or 7. 9. The sliding surface (25) and the overflow channel (36a) are separated by a common wall (27) having a predetermined height, and the height is such that the excess water is removed from the sliding surface (25). To allow it to overflow and enter the overflow channel (36a) so that the jet stream (3
9. The water slide facility according to claim 8, wherein the speed of the sliding hand (29) or the sliding vehicle (29a) along the sliding surface (25) is not substantially slowed by the slow flowing excess water. . 10. The sliding surface (25) is in the form of an elongated curved path (57) having an upper slope and a lower slope.
The water slide facility according to claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9. 11. A water slide facility for use in an amusement park, a water park or the like, wherein the slide surface (25) receives and supports a slide (29) or a slide vehicle (29a) in a predetermined direction. And an elongated curved road with an upward slope and a downward slope (5
A plurality of structural supports (71) for supporting said sliding surface (25) to form 7), said sliding hand (29) or sliding vehicle (29a) arranged along said sliding surface (25); ) And at least one flow forming nozzle (24) for injecting a jet water stream (30) at a predetermined speed along the sliding surface (25), wherein the flow forming nozzle (24) is horizontal. A sheet-like jet stream (30) which is substantially linear or arcuate in the direction and is located between the sliding surface (25) and the sliding hand (29) or the sliding vehicle (29a) and on the sliding surface (25). The jet stream (30) influences the slide (29) or the slide vehicle (29a) along the slide surface (25) by a momentum transfer, The sliding surface (2
5) adjusting the speed and height of the sliding hand (29) or the sliding vehicle (29a) moving along the upper inclined portion and the lower inclined portion to adjust the predetermined speed of the jet water flow (30); Water slide facility that can be controlled by 12. The jet stream is provided on the sliding surface (25).
Along the slide (29) or the slide vehicle (29a)
The slide (29) or the slide vehicle (29a) substantially tangential to the predetermined direction and as the slide (29) or the slide vehicle (29a) moves past the flow forming nozzle (24). 12. The water slide facility of claim 11, wherein the water slide facility is oriented in a direction that impacts). 13. The jet stream (30) may be configured such that the jet stream (30) is provided by the sliding hand (29) or a sliding vehicle (29).
a) has a speed and volume sufficient to increase the speed of the slide (29) or the slide vehicle (29a) as it moves past the flow forming nozzle (24), 13. The sliding hand (29) or sliding vehicle (29a) is propelled to reach and cross the top of the upper slope of the sliding surface (25).
Water slide facility as described in. 14. The sliding surface (25) is provided with the sliding hand (29).
For moving on a wheeled vehicle in said predetermined direction along said sliding surface (25).
Or the water slide facility described in 13. 15. The sliding surface (25) has a predetermined length and width, and an excess amount of water formed on the sliding surface (25) when the water is thrown into the sliding surface (25). 12. The water slide facility according to claim 11, further comprising a porous discharge means serving as an outlet for removing the water itself. 16. An overflow water passage (36a) disposed parallel to and close to said slide surface (25), and receiving an overflow of slowly flowing excess water from said slide surface (25) to discharge it. Claims 11, 12, 13, 1 further comprising:
The water slide facility according to 4 or 15.