WO2024168221A1 - Système d'attraction de transfert de trajet pour parc d'attractions - Google Patents

Système d'attraction de transfert de trajet pour parc d'attractions Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2024168221A1
WO2024168221A1 PCT/US2024/015119 US2024015119W WO2024168221A1 WO 2024168221 A1 WO2024168221 A1 WO 2024168221A1 US 2024015119 W US2024015119 W US 2024015119W WO 2024168221 A1 WO2024168221 A1 WO 2024168221A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
track
ride vehicle
attraction system
along
ride vehicles
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/US2024/015119
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Lee Marvin WILSON
Eric Allan VANCE
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Universal City Studios LLC
Original Assignee
Universal City Studios LLC
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US18/436,933 external-priority patent/US20240269573A1/en
Application filed by Universal City Studios LLC filed Critical Universal City Studios LLC
Priority to CN202480011569.XA priority Critical patent/CN120659651A/zh
Priority to JP2025546086A priority patent/JP2026506900A/ja
Priority to EP24709609.2A priority patent/EP4661980A1/fr
Priority to KR1020257029152A priority patent/KR20250144421A/ko
Publication of WO2024168221A1 publication Critical patent/WO2024168221A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63G—MERRY-GO-ROUNDS; SWINGS; ROCKING-HORSES; CHUTES; SWITCHBACKS; SIMILAR DEVICES FOR PUBLIC AMUSEMENT
    • A63G21/00—Chutes; Helter-skelters
    • A63G21/14—Chutes; Helter-skelters with driven slideways
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63G—MERRY-GO-ROUNDS; SWINGS; ROCKING-HORSES; CHUTES; SWITCHBACKS; SIMILAR DEVICES FOR PUBLIC AMUSEMENT
    • A63G7/00—Up-and-down hill tracks; Switchbacks

Definitions

  • an amusement park may include an attraction system, which may have a ride vehicle.
  • a guest may be positioned within the ride vehicle, and the ride vehicle may travel along a path. Movement of the ride, such as along the path, may entertain the guest. For instance, movement of the ride vehicle earn ing the guest may impart various sensations onto the guest and/or transport the guest to various locations.
  • the attraction system may also provide show effects to entertain the guest positioned within the ride vehicle.
  • an amusement park attraction system includes a first track, a second track configured to move relative to the first track, one or more ride vehicles configured to move along the first track and toward the second track, and one or more carriages coupled to the second track.
  • the one or more carriages are configured to receive the one or more ride vehicles from the first track and to move along and/or about the second track to drive movement of the one or more ride vehicles along and/or about the second track.
  • an amusement park attraction system includes a first track, a second track, and one or more ride vehicles configured to move along the first track, transition from the first track to the second track, and move along the second track.
  • the second track is configured to rotate relative to the first track, thereby driving rotation of the one or more ride vehicles relative to the first track while the one or more ride vehicles move along the second track.
  • an attraction system for an amusement park includes a first track, a guide, a second track, and one or more ride vehicles configured to move along the first track, transition from the first track to the second track, and move along the second track.
  • the second track is configured to move along the guide while the one or more ride vehicles move along the second track.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an amusement park attraction system, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure
  • FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of an amusement park attraction system having a ride vehicle configured to travel along a track, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure
  • FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of an amusement park attraction system having a ride vehicle configured to transition between different tracks, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure
  • FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of an amusement park attraction system having a ride vehicle configured to travel along a track, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of an amusement park attraction system having a ride vehicle configured to transition between different tracks, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure
  • FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of an amusement park attraction system having a ride vehicle configured to travel along a track, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an amusement park attraction system, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 8 is a flowchart of an embodiment of a method for operating an amusement park attraction system, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.
  • the terms “approximately,” “generally,” “substantially,” and so forth, are intended to convey that the property value being described may be within a relatively small range of the property value, as those of ordinary skill would understand. For example, when a property value is described as being “approximately” equal to (or, for example, “substantially similar” to) a given value, this is intended to convey that the property value may be within +/- 5%, within +/- 4%, within +/- 3%, within +/- 2%, within +/- 1%. or even closer, of the given value.
  • the present disclosure is directed to an amusement or theme park.
  • the amusement park may include a variety of attraction systems, such as rides (e.g.. a roller coaster), theatrical shows, set designs, performers, and/or decoration elements, to entertain guests.
  • An attraction system may employ different features to provide guests with a unique experience.
  • the attraction system may include a ride vehicle that moves along a path, such as a track.
  • the ride vehicle may carry a guest, and movement of the ride vehicle may impart movement sensations onto the guest carried by the ride vehicle, thereby entertaining the guest.
  • More unique ways to entertain amusement park guests are desirable to satisfy the guests’ increasing expectations.
  • an attraction system that entertains guests in a unique manner may increase guest satisfaction.
  • a ride vehicle that moves along a path in a unique manner may impart new movement sensations to guests positioned within the ride vehicle and provide a unique experience to the guests.
  • embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to an attraction system having a ride vehicle configured to transition between different tracks and move along and/or about each track in various manners (e.g., directions).
  • the attraction system may include a first track (e.g., a transferor track) along and/or about which the ride vehicle may move.
  • the first track may direct the ride vehicle to move toward a second track (e.g., an intermediate track).
  • the ride vehicle may then move along and/or about the second track, the second track may direct the ride vehicle to a third track (e.g., a recipient track), and the ride vehicle may move along and/or about the third track.
  • the ride vehicle may transition from the first track to a camage coupled to the second track.
  • the carriage may be configured to move along and/or about the second track to drive movement of the ride vehicle along and/or about the second track.
  • the carriage may also be configured to cause other movement, such as a roll movement, ayaw movement, and/or a pitch movement, of the ride vehicle while driving movement of the ride vehicle along and/or about the second track.
  • the second track may be configured to move relative to the first track and/or relative to the second track.
  • the second track may be configured to rotate relative to the first track and/or relative to the second track.
  • the second track and/or the carriage may cooperatively drive different movements of the ride vehicle.
  • the transition of the ride vehicle between the different tracks and/or the various movements of the ride vehicle caused by the different tracks may provide a unique experience to entertain the guests.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an attraction system 50, such as a roller coaster, a dark ride, or a water ride, that may be used in conjunction with the disclosed embodiments.
  • the attraction system 50 includes a ride vehicle 52 in which a guest may be positioned during operation of the attraction system 50.
  • the ride vehicle 52 may be configured to travel (e.g., translate) along and/or about a track system 54.
  • the track system 54 may include multiple tracks, such as one or more transferor tracks 56, one or more recipient tracks 58, and one or more intermediate tracks 60. These may be referred to herein as the tracks 56, 58, 60.
  • the ride vehicle 52 may be configured to transition between and travel along and/or about each of the tracks 56, 58, 60.
  • the tracks 56, 58, 60 may cause the ride vehicle 52 to move in different manners, such as in different directions (e.g., a linear direction, a rotational direction), which may not be easily enabled by a single track (e.g., a single, unified, integral track).
  • the ride vehicle 52 may initially travel along and/or about the transferor track 56.
  • the transferor track 56 may direct the ride vehicle 52 onto the intermediate track 60, and the ride vehicle 52 may travel along and/or about the intermediate track 60.
  • the intermediate track 60 may direct the ride vehicle 52 onto the recipient track 58, and the ride vehicle 52 may travel along and/or about the recipient track 58. In this manner, the ride vehicle 52 may travel from the transferor track 56, to the intermediate track 60, and to the recipient track 58.
  • a track may include any of various different path structures with which the ride vehicle 52 is configured to engage either directly (e.g., via wheels of the ride vehicle 52) or indirectly (e.g., via a carriage system that couples to the track and ride vehicle 52).
  • a track may include a beam or set of beams with cross-sectional geometry features that facilitate engagement with a wheel system (e.g., roller coaster wheels, including road wheels, up-stop wheels, and guide wheels) of the ride vehicle 52 or an intermediate transfer mechanism.
  • a wheel system e.g., roller coaster wheels, including road wheels, up-stop wheels, and guide wheels
  • one track may differ from another track.
  • the transferor track 56 may have characteristics that differ from the intermediate track 60 and may even engage with different features of the ride vehicle 52 or a separate transfer mechanism.
  • features of the tracks may include or cooperate with a carriage system, as will be discussed further below.
  • the ride vehicle 52 may move or transfer between other components, such as an open ride path (e.g., that does not include coupling or securement features), a cab, a cable, or a support, using the technique discussed herein.
  • the ride vehicle 52 may be directly engaged with (e.g., coupled to) any of the tracks 56. 58, 60, and the tracks 56, 58, 60 may contact the ride vehicle 52 to direct movement of the ride vehicle 52.
  • an intermediate component referred to as a carriage system 61 may be used to direct movement of the ride vehicle 52 along and/or about any of the tracks 56, 58, 60.
  • a base 62 of the carriage system 61 may be directly engaged with (e.g., coupled to) one of the tracks 56, 58, 60, and the base 62 may be configured to move (e.g., translate, rotate) along and/or about the corresponding track 56, 58, 60.
  • a carriage 64 of the carriage system 61 may be coupled to the base 62, and movement of the base 62 along and/or about the corresponding track 56, 58, 60 may drive movement of the carriage 64 along and/or about the corresponding track 56, 58, 60.
  • the carriage 64 may be configured to receive and secure to the ride vehicle 52. As such, movement of the base 62 along and/or about one or more of the corresponding tracks 56, 58, 60 may further drive movement of the ride vehicle 52 along and/or about the corresponding track 56, 58, 60 when the ride vehicle 52 is coupled to the carriage 64.
  • the carriage 64 may also be configured to move (e.g., rotate, translate) relative to the base 62, thereby driving corresponding movement of the ride vehicle 52 relative to the base 62.
  • the carriage 64 may cause additional movement of the ride vehicle 52 as the ride vehicle 52 moves along and/or about the corresponding track 56, 58. 60.
  • the carnage 64 may also release the ride vehicle 52 to allow it to engage with a track or another carriage 64.
  • each of several tracks (e.g., tracks 56, 58, 60) may include a respective carriage system 61, and the ride vehicle 52 may be transferred between these carriage systems 61 as the ride vehicle 52 progresses through an overall ride course or path.
  • any of the tracks 56, 58, 60 may be configured to move relative to one another. Relative movement between the tracks 56, 58, 60 may also cause movement of the ride vehicle 52. In this manner, the ride vehicle 52 may move along and/or about a corresponding track 56, 58, 60, and the corresponding track 56, 58, 60 may drive additional movement of the ride vehicle 52.
  • one of the tracks 56, 58, 60 may be coupled to a guide 66, and the track 56, 58, 60 may be configured to move along and/or about the guide 66.
  • the attraction system 50 may include a controller 68 (e.g., an automation controller, a programmable controller, an electronic controller, a cloud-computing system, control circuitry) configured to operate the attraction system 50.
  • the controller 68 may include a memory 70 and a processor 72 (e.g., processing circuitry).
  • the memory 70 may include volatile memory, such as random-access memory (RAM), and/or non-volatile memory. such as read-only memory (ROM), optical drives, hard disc drives, solid-state drives, or any other non-transitory computer-readable medium that includes instructions to operate the attraction system 50.
  • the processor 72 may be configured to execute such instructions.
  • the processor 72 may include one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), one or more general purpose processors, or any combination thereof.
  • the controller 68 may be communicatively coupled to an actuator 74 (e.g., representative of one or more actuators), such as an electromechanical actuator, a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, and the controller 68 may instruct the actuator 74 to drive movement of the track 56, 58, 60 along and/or about the guide 66.
  • ASICs application specific integrated circuits
  • FPGAs field programmable gate arrays
  • the controller 68 may be communicatively coupled to an actuator 74 (e.g., representative of one or more actuators), such as an electromechanical actuator, a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, and the controller 68 may instruct the actuator 74 to drive movement of the track 56, 58, 60 along and/or about the guide 66.
  • the guide 66 may physically direct movement of the track 56, 58, 60.
  • the guide 66 may include a rail track, a channel, and/or a slide to which the track 56, 58, 60 may be coupled, and the physical coupling between the track 56, 58, 60 and the guide 66 may direct or steer movement of the track 56, 58, 60 along and/or about the guide 66 in a particular manner (e.g., a particular direction).
  • the track 56. 58. 60 may direct movement of the track 56, 58, 60 along and/or about the guide 66 via a different technique.
  • the controller 68 may receive input data (e.g., light, such as visible light, infrared light, ultraviolet light emitted by or deflected off the guide 66, data output via a wired or wireless connection, sound emitted by or deflected off the guide 66, a radio wave emitted by or deflected off the guide 66) indicative of a position of the track 56, 58, 60 relative to the guide 66.
  • the controller 68 may instruct the actuator 74 to drive movement of the track 56, 58, 60 along and/or about the guide 66 based on the input data to direct movement of the track 56, 58, 60 along and/or about the guide 66 in a particular manner.
  • the ride vehicle 52 may move along and/or about the track 56, 58, 60, as well as along and/or about the guide 66.
  • Such compound movement of the ride vehicle 52 (e.g., via movement of one or more of the tracks 56, 58, 60 in conj unction with the guide 66) may provide a unique experience to a guest positioned within the ride vehicle 52.
  • the controller 68 may also instruct the actuator 74 to cause movement of the ride vehicle 52.
  • the actuator 74 may be a motor (e.g., of the ride vehicle 52) and may cause the ride vehicle 52 to move along and/or about any of the tracks 56, 58, 60.
  • the actuator 74 may drive relative movement between any of the tracks 56, 58, 60.
  • the actuator 74 may drive movement of the base 62 along and/or about a corresponding track 56, 58. 60. Further still, the actuator 74 may drive movement of the carriage 64 relative to the base 62.
  • the controller 68 may instruct the actuator 74 to cause any suitable movement of the ride vehicle 52 to entertain a guest. In an additional or alternative embodiment, movement of the ride vehicle 52 may be caused without being actively driven by the actuator 74. By way of example, movement of the ride vehicle 52 may be naturally induced.
  • a gravitational force, inertia, and/or momentum may cause movement of the ride vehicle 52 along and/or about any of the tracks 56, 58, 60, movement of the tracks 56, 58, 60 relative to one another, movement of the base 62 relative to a corresponding track 56, 58, 60, and/or movement of the carriage 64 relative to the base 62.
  • the actuator 74 may be representative of one or more actuators that may coordinate or operate separately to facilitate movement of components (e.g., the ride vehicle 52, the tracks 56, 58, 60, and/or the carriage system 61) of the attraction system 50.
  • the attraction system 50 may include show effects 76 that may be activated to provide further entertainment for the guests.
  • the show effects 76 may include, for instance, at least a visual output (e.g., an image, a video, a light), audio output (e.g., music, a sound effect), a fluid output (e.g., a mist effect, a fog effect, a smoke effect, water fountain), a solid output (e.g., confetti), or an animated figure.
  • the ride vehicle 52 may move a guest to different locations along the track system 54, and certain show effects 76 adjacent to the ride vehicle 52 may be activated (e.g., via the controller 68) to entertain the guest.
  • the movement of the ride vehicle 52 and the activation of the show effects 78 may cooperatively entertain the guest.
  • the show effects 76 may visually conceal certain components of the attraction system 50, such as any of the tracks 56, 58, 60.
  • the show effects 76 may provide a visual cover (e.g., a layer of output light) and/or a physical coating (e.g., colorized fluid droplets) to obscure visibility of any of the tracks 56, 58, 60. In this manner, the guest may not be able to see any of the tracks 56, 58, 60 during operation of the attraction system 50.
  • movement of the ride vehicle 52 may appear to be more realistic, mysterious, or unexpected, thereby further enhancing the experience provided to the guest.
  • FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of the attraction system 50.
  • the illustrated attraction system 50 includes the transferor track 56, two intermediate tracks 60, and the recipient track 58.
  • the ride vehicle 52 is coupled to the transferor track 56 and is configured to move along and/or about the transferor track 56 and toward a first intermediate track 60A.
  • the ride vehicle 52 may be directly engaged or in contact with the transferor track 56 (e.g.. a rail of the transferor track 56).
  • the illustrated first intermediate track 60A is coupled to the base 62. and the base 62 is coupled to a first carriage 64, 64A.
  • the transferor track 56 may be aligned with the first carriage 64, 64A in a manner that allows the ride vehicle 52 to move out of engagement with the transferor track 56 and into engagement with the first carriage 64, 64A.
  • the ride vehicle 52 may be configured to move in a first direction 100 (e.g., a first linear direction, a tangential direction) toward the first carriage 64, 64A and toward the first intermediate track 60 A.
  • the ride vehicle 52 may engage with the carriages 64, 64A (e.g., a rail component shaped like the transferor track 56) and then be secured on or in the carriage 64, 64A with a lock.
  • the base 62 may be configured to move along and/or about the first intermediate track 60A, such as in a second direction 102 (e.g.. a second linear direction, a radial direction) toward the recipient track 58 and crosswise to the first direction 100.
  • the ride vehicle 52 may move in a different direction along and/or about the first intermediate track 60A relative to the direction of movement along and/or about the transferor track 56.
  • the transferor track 56 and the recipient track 58 may be positionally fixed relative to one another.
  • the first intermediate track 60A may be configured to move in a third direction 104 (e.g., a rotational direction) relative to the transferor track 56 and/or relative to the recipient track 58.
  • the first intermediate track 60A may be coupled to a first guide 66A (e.g., an inner guide).
  • the first guide 66A may extend in a circular or oval configuration about a rotational axis 106.
  • the first intermediate track 60A may be configured to travel along, about, and/or with the first guide 66A.
  • at least one bogey 107 may be coupled to the first guide 66A and to the first intermediate track 60 A.
  • the bogey 107 may move along and/or about the first guide 6 A and drive movement of the first intermediate track 60A coupled to the bogey 107 along and/or about the first guide 66 A.
  • the first intermediate track 60A maybe configured to rotate about the rotational axis 106 in the third direction 104, thereby driving the first carriage 64A and the ride vehicle 52 coupled to the first carriage 64A about the rotational axis 106 in the third direction 104.
  • the ride vehicle 52 may travel in the second direction 102 and/or in the third direction 104 while coupled to the first carriage 64A.
  • one or both of the intermediate tracks 60A. 60B may be coupled to or integral with the first guide 66A, which may be caused to rotate via a rotation actuator of a supporting structure.
  • the first intermediate track 60A may be coupled to and/or configured to move along and/or about a second guide 66B (e.g., an outer guide).
  • the second guide 66B may be implemented with or without the first guide 66A.
  • the second guide 66B may also extend in a circular or oval configuration about the rotational axis 106 to enable the first intermediate track 60A to move in the third direction 104.
  • the first guide 66A and the second guide 66B may be concentrically aligned with one another (e.g.. the rotational axis 106 may extend through a centroid of a cross section of each guide 66 A, 66B).
  • the illustrated attraction system 50 includes a second intermediate track 60B.
  • the second intermediate track 60B may be coupled to a second carriage 64B (e.g., via an additional base (not shown) coupled to the second intermediate track 60B), which may be configured to receive an additional ride vehicle (not shown) of the attraction system 50.
  • the second intermediate track 60B may further be configured to rotate in the third direction 104.
  • the intermediate tracks 60A, 60B may be positionally fixed to one another such that movement of one of the intermediate tracks 60 A, 60B drives corresponding movement of the other of the intermediate tracks 60 A, 60B.
  • the operation of multiple intermediate tracks 60A, 60B may increase efficiency of the attraction system 50 to entertain guests.
  • the second intermediate track 60B may be moved to prepare to receive an additional ride vehicle (not shown).
  • the intermediate tracks 60A, 60B may receive respective ride vehicles 52 and collectively direct multiple ride vehicles 52 from the transferor track 56 toward the recipient track 58. Any number of intermediate tracks 60 may be employed to accommodate a size of the attraction system 50.
  • the first intermediate track 60A may move (e.g., in the third direction 104) away from the transferor track 56.
  • the second intermediate track 60B may move (e.g., in the third direction 104) toward the transferor track 56.
  • the second intermediate track 60B may then position the second carriage 64B in alignment with the transferor track 56 while the first carriage 64A is still in engagement with the ride vehicle 52 or is otherwise not able to receive an additional ride vehicle.
  • the second intermediate track 60B may readily receive an additional ride vehicle before the first intermediate track 60A is able to receive the additional ride vehicle.
  • separate ride vehicles 52 may simultaneously move along and/or about the respective intermediate tracks 60A, 60B.
  • the track system 54 may readily receive ride vehicles 52 of the attraction system 50 more frequently as compared to operation of a single intermediate track 60 to transition the ride vehicle 52 from the transferor track 56 to the recipient track 58.
  • movement of the first carriage 64A along and/or about the first intermediate track 60A may drive movement of the ride vehicle 52 toward the recipient track 58.
  • the first intermediate track 60A may be configured to transition the ride vehicle 52 to the recipient track 58.
  • the first intermediate track 60A may align the first carriage 64A with the recipient track 58, and the ride vehicle 52 may transition from the first carriage 64A to the recipient track 58 (e.g., a flume, a slide, a track segment with or without a camage system). This applies to the second carriage 64B and the second intermediate track 60B as well.
  • the first guide 66A forms or defines an opening 108. and a portion of the recipient track 58 may extend into the opening 108.
  • the carriage 64 may move (e.g., in the second direction 102) toward the opening 108 and drive movement of the carriage 64 through the opening 108 to transition the ride vehicle 52 onto the recipient track 58.
  • the first intermediate track 60A may cause the ride vehicle 52 to move toward the recipient track 58 along an inwardly spiraling course via the second direction 102 and the third direction 104.
  • the recipient track 58 may be positioned in any suitable manner with respect to the transferor track 56 and/or the first intermediate track 60A, and the first intermediate track 60A may cause the ride vehicle 52 to move in any suitable direction from the transferor track 56 to the recipient track 58.
  • the intermediate tracks 60A, 60B may travel relative to the transferor track 56 and/or relative to the recipient track 58 in a linear direction to align the carriages 64 A, 64B with the recipient track 58 and enable the ride vehicle 52 to transition to the recipient track 58.
  • the intermediate tracks 60A. 60B may be fixed relative to the transferor track 56 and/or relative to the recipient track 58.
  • the carriages 64A, 64B may drive movement of the ride vehicle 52 toward the recipient track 58, while the intermediate tracks 60A, 60B remain fixed relative to the transferor track 56 and/or relative to the recipient track 58.
  • the transferor track 56 and the intermediate tracks 60 A, 60B include generally linear configurations in the illustrated attraction system 50, the transferor track 56 and/or the intermediate tracks 60A, 60B may have any other suitably shaped configuration in an additional or alternative embodiment.
  • the transferor track 56 and/or the intermediate tracks 60A, 60B may have a turn or curve and may drive movement of the ride vehicle 52 in a curved or rotational direction (e.g., at least partially in the third direction 104).
  • the transferor track 56 and/or the intermediate tracks 60A, 60B may include other features, such as a hill, a drop, an inversion, a corkscrew, a roll or twist, and so forth.
  • the attraction system 50 also includes a concealment 110 (e.g., a part of the show effects 76) that may be used to obscure visualization of the track system 54 (e.g., the recipient track 58, the intermediate tracks 60A, 60B, the guides 66A, 66B), from the transferor track 56 and/or from the carriages 64A, 64B.
  • a concealment 110 e.g., a part of the show effects 76
  • the ride vehicle 52 may be positioned on or in a first side 112 (e.g..
  • each carriage 64A, 64B may be respectively coupled to the intermediate tracks 60A. 60B at the second side 114, and each carriage 64A, 64B may extend from the second side 114 to the first side 112 to position the ride vehicle 52 at the first side 112 while secured to the ride vehicle 52.
  • the concealment 110 may include colored objects (e.g., water droplets, fog, granular material) and/or a light (e.g., a laser) output across the track system 54.
  • the concealment 110 may include a physical, contiguous object (e.g., a sheet, a block, a vessel or container) extending across the track system 54, and the object may include an opening or slot to enable the carriages 64 A. 64B to extend from the second side 114 to the first side 1 12.
  • a physical, contiguous object e.g., a sheet, a block, a vessel or container
  • the object may include an opening or slot to enable the carriages 64 A. 64B to extend from the second side 114 to the first side 1 12.
  • the concealment 110 may reduce visualization of various parts of the track system 54 without affecting movement of the ride vehicle 52 (e.g., movement of the intermediate tracks 60A, 60B along and/or about the guides 66A, 66B, movement of the carriages 64 A, 64B along and/or about the intermediate tracks 60 A, 60B). Reducing the visualization of the concealment 110 may further enhance the experience of a guest in the ride vehicle 52, such as by causing more realistic, mysterious, unexpected, unpredictable, or thrilling movement of the ride vehicle 52 along and/or about the track system 54.
  • surface coloring and/ or texturing of the parts of the track system 54 may provide camouflage with respect to the concealment 110.
  • FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the attraction system 50 illustrating transition of the ride vehicle 52 from the transferor track 56 to the first carriage 64 A configured to travel along and/or about the first intermediate track 60 A.
  • the first carriage 64A may include a platform 130.
  • the platform 130 may be aligned with the transferor track 56 to enable receipt of the ride vehicle 52.
  • the first intermediate track 60A may be moved (e.g., in the third direction 104) to position a first end 132 of the first intermediate track 60 A adjacent to the transferor track 56.
  • the base 62 may be moved to position the first carriage 64A at the first end 132 of the first intermediate track 60 A to align the platform 130 with the transferor track 56.
  • rails of the transferor track 56 may align with corresponding rails of the platform 130, and the ride vehicle 52 may move (e.g., slide) along and/or about the rails to translate from the transferor track 56 to the platform 130.
  • the ride vehicle 52 may then be secured to the platform 130 to fix the ride vehicle 52 and the platform 130 to one another and enable movement of the first carriage 64A to drive movement of the ride vehicle 52.
  • a lock 134 e.g., of the ride vehicle 52, of the platform 130
  • the lock 134 may secure the ride vehicle 52 (e.g., wheels of the ride vehicle 52) to the rails of the platform 130.
  • the movement of the first carriage 64A e.g., driven by movement of the base 62 along and/or about the first intermediate track 60A. driven by movement of the first intermediate track 60A along and/or about the first guide 66A
  • the ride vehicle 52 may move away from the transferor track 56.
  • FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view of the attraction system 50 illustrating movement of the ride vehicle 52 along and/or about the first intermediate track 60 A, as driven by the first carriage 64A.
  • the base 62 may move in the second direction 102 along the first intermediate track 60A from the first end 132 of the first intermediate track 60A toward a second end 160 of the first intermediate track 60 A.
  • Such movement of the base 62 may drive movement of the first carriage 64A and the ride vehicle 52 secured to the platform 130 of the first carriage 64A toward the recipient track 58 (e.g., toward the rotational axis 106, toward the first guide 66A, toward the opening 108).
  • the first intermediate track 60A may move in the third direction 104.
  • the ride vehicle 52 may move in the second direction 102 and in the third direction 104 while secured to the platform 130. This creates a spiraling movement effect. In other words, the ride vehicle 52 is moved in a spiraling manner toward the toward the rotational axis 106.
  • the first carriage 64A may drive movement of the ride vehicle 52 relative to the base 62.
  • the first carriage 64A may include an extension 162 coupled to the base 62, and the platform 130 may be coupled to the extension 162.
  • the extension 162 may be configured to move relative to the base 62 and/or the platform 130 may be configured to move relative to the extension 162.
  • the extension 162 may be configured to extend (e.g., translate) the platform 130 toward and/or retract (e.g., translate) the platform 130 away from the base 62, thereby adjusting a distance (e.g., a height) between the ride vehicle 52 and the first intermediate track 60A.
  • the extension 162 may be configured to rotate the platform 130 about a first axis 164 (e.g., a radial axis) or an axis parallel to the first axis 164, such as to cause a roll motion of the ride vehicle 52, to rotate the platform 130 about a second axis 166 (e.g., a vertical axis) or an axis substantially parallel to the second axis 166, such as to cause a yaw motion of the ride vehicle 52, and/or to rotate the platform 130 about a third axis 168 (e.g., a tangential axis) or an axis substantially parallel to the third axis 168, such as to cause a pitch motion of the ride vehicle 52.
  • a first axis 164 e.g., a radial axis
  • a second axis 166 e.g., a vertical axis
  • an axis substantially parallel to the second axis 166 such as to cause
  • the ride vehicle 52 may be moved in the second direction 102, in the third direction 104, about the first axis 164, about the second axis 166, and/or about the third axis 168 to impart different movement sensations onto a guest positioned in the ride vehicle 52, thereby entertaining the guest.
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the attraction system 50 illustrating transition of the ride vehicle 52 from the first intermediate track 60A to the recipient track 58.
  • the base 62 may be positioned at the second end 160 of the first intermediate track 60A, thereby positioning the platform 130 and the ride vehicle 52 coupled to the platform 130 adjacent to the opening 108 and adjacent to the recipient track 58.
  • the platform 130 may be rotated in a fourth direction 190 (e.g., about the third axis 168) to align the platform 130 with a first segment 192 of the recipient track 58.
  • rails of the platform 130 may align with corresponding rails of the recipient track 58.
  • the recipient track 58 (e.g., a flume) may form a channel or groove, and the platform 130 may align with the channel. Movement of the platform 130 in the fourth direction 190 may position the platform 130 and/or the ride vehicle 52 at least partially into the opening 108.
  • the ride vehicle 52 may then be coupled to and/or engaged with and may move along the aligned rails to transition from the platform 130 to the recipient track 58.
  • the lock 134 may be decoupled and/or disengaged to enable movement of the ride vehicle 52 relative to the platform 130.
  • a force may then cause the ride vehicle 52 to move (e.g., translate) in a fifth direction 194. which may be crosswise to the first direction 100 along the transferor track 56 and/or the second direction 102 along the first intermediate track 60A, to transition from the platform 130 to the recipient track 58.
  • a gravitational force e.g. applied in a downward direction
  • the platform 130 may actively drive movement of the ride vehicle 52 in the fifth direction 194.
  • the platform 130 may include a conveyor or slider that may move to initiate movement of the ride vehicle 52 in the fifth direction 194. Movement of the ride vehicle 52 in the fifth direction 194 may cause the ride vehicle 52 to disengage from the platform 130 (e.g., the rails of the platform 130) and to engage with the recipient track 58 (e.g., the rails of the recipient track 58).
  • the first intermediate track 60A may be moved relative to the transferor track 56 and relative to the recipient track 58 to drive movement of the first carriage 64A to prepare for receipt of an additional ride vehicle.
  • the first intermediate track 60A may continue to move in the third direction 104 along the guides 66A, 66B, and the base 62 may translate along the first intermediate track 60A, such as in a sixth direction 196 that is opposite the second direction 102, toward the first end of the first intermediate track 60A.
  • movement of the first intermediate track 60A and of the base 62 may cooperatively position the platform 130 toward alignment with the transferor track 56 to enable the platform 130 to readily receive another ride vehicle 52.
  • FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the attraction system 50 illustrating movement of the ride vehicle 52 along the recipient track 58.
  • the ride vehicle 52 may travel along the first segment 192 of the recipient track 58 in the fifth direction 194, which may extend at least partially in a downward direction.
  • the first segment 192 of the recipient track 58 may include a drop, and the ride vehicle 52 may move through the opening 108 via the first segment 192. Movement of the ride vehicle 52 from the platform 130, to the first segment 192, and/or along the first segment 192 may cause the ride vehicle 52 to move through the concealment 110.
  • the recipient track 58 may also include a second segment 220 coupled to the first segment 192, and the first segment 192 and the second segment 220 may extend crosswise to one another.
  • the ride vehicle 52 may transition from the first segment 192 to the second segment 220 and travel along the second segment 220 in a seventh direction 222.
  • the seventh direction 222 may be another radial direction, such as a direction parallel to movement along the transferor track 56 and/or parallel to movement along the first intermediate track 60A.
  • the second segment 220 may extend toward a portion of the second guide 66B, and the ride vehicle 52 may move tow ard the portion of the second guide 66B in the seventh direction 222. However, the second segment 220 may position the ride vehicle 52 sufficiently away from or clear of the second guide 66B to block contact between the ride vehicle 52 and the second guide 66B as the ride vehicle 52 travels along the second segment 220.
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the attraction system 50 having multiple openings 108 and multiple recipient tracks 58 disposed in the respective openings 108 and configured to receive the ride vehicle 52.
  • the controller 68 may be configured to instruct the actuator 74 to move the ride vehicle 52 toward any of the recipient tracks 58 via a corresponding opening 108.
  • the ride vehicle 52 may be configured to move along and/or about the intermediate track 60
  • the intermediate track 60 may be configured to move along and/or about the guide 66. Movement of the intermediate track 60 may adjust the position of the intermediate track 60 relative to the openings 108.
  • movement of the intermediate track 60 may cause the intermediate track 60 to align with one of the recipient tracks 58 positioned within its corresponding opening 108. While the intermediate track 60 is aligned with the recipient track 58, movement of the ride vehicle 52 along the intermediate track 60 may enable the ride vehicle 52 to be transferred from the intermediate track 60 to the recipient track 58. The ride vehicle 52 may then travel along and/or about the recipient track 58. It should be noted that the ride vehicle 52 may transfer from the intermediate track 60 to a different one of the recipient tracks 58 during different ride cycles. As an example, for a first ride cycle, the intermediate track 60 may transfer the ride vehicle 52 to a first recipient track 58A of a first opening 108A.
  • the intermediate track 60 may transfer the ride vehicle 52 to a second recipient track 58B of a second opening 108B.
  • the intermediate track 60 may transfer the ride vehicle 52 to a third recipient track 58C of a third opening 108C.
  • each recipient track 58 may direct movement of the ride vehicle 52 in different manners (e g., at different speeds, in different movement directions). Additionally or alternatively, different show effects 76 may be provided for the different recipient tracks 58.
  • first show effects 76A that include a jungle theme may be provided for the first recipient track 58 A
  • second show effects 76B that include a desert theme may be provided for the second recipient track 58B
  • third show effects 76C that include an arctic theme may be provided for the third recipient track 58C.
  • each recipient track 58 may provide a unique experience to entertain the guests.
  • the controller 68 may receive one or more user inputs and may operate to cause the ride vehicle 52 to transfer to a particular recipient track 58 based on the user input(s). For instance, the user input(s) may directly indicate a target recipient track 58, and the controller 68 may instruct the actuator 74 to move the intermediate track 60 and/or the ride vehicle 52 to transfer the ride vehicle 52 to the target recipient track 58. In an additional or alternative embodiment, the controller 68 may cause the ride vehicle 52 to transfer to a particular recipient track 58 using a different technique, such as based on a random determination (e.g., provided by a random number generator).
  • a random determination e.g., provided by a random number generator
  • FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a method 250 for operating an attraction system (e.g.. the attraction system 50 of FIGS. 1-6). Any suitable device may perform the method 250.
  • the operations may be implemented by executing instructions stored in a tangible, non-transitory, computer-readable medium (e.g., the memory 70 of the controller 68 of FIG. 1).
  • the method 250 may be performed at least in part by one or more software components, one or more software applications, and the like. While the method 250 is described as having operations performed in a specific sequence, additional operations may be performed, the described operations may be performed in a different sequence than the sequence illustrated, and/or certain described operations may be skipped or not performed altogether.
  • a ride vehicle may be directed along and/or about a transferor track.
  • the ride vehicle may be directly coupled to the transferor track (e.g., a rail of the transferor track) and may translate along the transferor track.
  • the transferor track may be aligned with a carriage coupled to an intermediate track.
  • movement of the ride vehicle along and/or about the transferor track may cause the ride vehicle to move toward the carriage.
  • the ride vehicle may be transitioned from the transferor track to the carriage.
  • the ride vehicle and the carriage may be secured to one another after the ride vehicle is transferred to the carriage. Thus, relative movement between the ride vehicle and the carriage may be blocked.
  • the carriage may be moved along and/or about the intermediate track.
  • a base may couple the carriage to the intermediate track, and the base may move along and/or about the intermediate track to drive movement of the carriage along and/or about the intermediate track.
  • the carriage may drive movement of the ride vehicle along and/or about the intermediate track, such as toward a recipient track.
  • the carriage may drive additional movement of the ride vehicle, such as rotational movement (e.g.. to roll, to yaw, to pitch), relative to the base and relative to the intermediate track.
  • the intermediate track may be moved relative to the transferor track.
  • the intermediate track may be rotated, thereby driving rotation of the carriage and of the ride vehicle secured to the carriage.
  • a bogey may be coupled to the intermediate track and may travel along and/or about a guide to drive movement of the intermediate track along and/or about the guide.
  • the ride vehicle may move with the intermediate track along and/or about the guide.
  • the different movements of the ride vehicle may impart movement sensations that entertain a guest positioned in the ride vehicle.
  • Movement of the carriage along and/or about the intermediate track may also align the carriage with the recipient track.
  • the ride vehicle may be transitioned from the carriage to the recipient track.
  • the carriage such as a conveyor, may move to urge movement of the ride vehicle toward the recipient track.
  • a gravitational force may cause movement of the ride vehicle from the carriage to the recipient track.
  • the ride vehicle may be directed along and/or about the recipient track.
  • the ride vehicle may be directly coupled to the recipient track (e.g., a rail of the recipient track) and may translate along and/or about the recipient track after transitioning from the carriage to the intermediate track. As such, the ride vehicle may move from the transferor track, to the intermediate track, and to the recipient track during operation of the attraction system.
  • the method 250 may be continually performed during operation of the attraction system.
  • the ride vehicle may be directed along and/or about the recipient track toward the transferor track to re-initiate performance of the method 250.
  • multiple cycles of the attraction system may be operated, and a ride vehicle may be directed along and/or about the transferor track, transitioned from the transferor track to the carriage, transitioned from the carriage to the recipient track, and directed along and/or about the recipient rack during each cycle.

Landscapes

  • Toys (AREA)
  • Platform Screen Doors And Railroad Systems (AREA)

Abstract

Un système d'attraction de parc d'attractions comprend une première piste, une seconde piste conçue pour se déplacer par rapport à la première piste, un ou plusieurs véhicules de manège conçus pour se déplacer le long de la première piste et vers la seconde piste, et un ou plusieurs chariots couplés à la seconde piste. Le ou les chariots sont conçus pour recevoir le ou les véhicules de manège à partir de la première piste et pour se déplacer le long et/ou autour de la seconde piste afin d'entraîner le mouvement du ou des véhicules de manège le long et/ou autour de la seconde piste.
PCT/US2024/015119 2023-02-10 2024-02-09 Système d'attraction de transfert de trajet pour parc d'attractions Ceased WO2024168221A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CN202480011569.XA CN120659651A (zh) 2023-02-10 2024-02-09 用于游乐园的路径转移景点系统
JP2025546086A JP2026506900A (ja) 2023-02-10 2024-02-09 遊園地の経路転移アトラクションシステム
EP24709609.2A EP4661980A1 (fr) 2023-02-10 2024-02-09 Système d'attraction de transfert de trajet pour parc d'attractions
KR1020257029152A KR20250144421A (ko) 2023-02-10 2024-02-09 놀이 공원을 위한 경로 이송 어트랙션 시스템

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US202363444706P 2023-02-10 2023-02-10
US63/444,706 2023-02-10
US18/436,933 2024-02-08
US18/436,933 US20240269573A1 (en) 2023-02-10 2024-02-08 Path transfer attraction system for amusement park

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WO2024168221A1 true WO2024168221A1 (fr) 2024-08-15

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PCT/US2024/015119 Ceased WO2024168221A1 (fr) 2023-02-10 2024-02-09 Système d'attraction de transfert de trajet pour parc d'attractions

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EP (1) EP4661980A1 (fr)
JP (1) JP2026506900A (fr)
KR (1) KR20250144421A (fr)
CN (1) CN120659651A (fr)
WO (1) WO2024168221A1 (fr)

Citations (5)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN203540039U (zh) * 2013-10-30 2014-04-16 万达文化旅游规划研究院有限公司 活动式过山车轨道
US20160288809A1 (en) * 2014-01-28 2016-10-06 Mack Rides Gmbh & Co.Kg Device for Changing the Direction of Travel of a Rail-Bound Vehicle, Rail-Bound Ride Having Such a Device, and Method for Operating Such a Device
US20190161099A1 (en) * 2016-05-20 2019-05-30 Mack Rides Gmbh & Co. Kg Device For Moving A Guide Track Section Of A Guide Track System For Vehicles On A Fun Fair Ride
EP3265193B1 (fr) * 2015-03-04 2019-10-30 Dynamic Attractions Ltd. Élément de commutation de voie d'inclinaison et de chute
US20200338462A1 (en) * 2019-04-29 2020-10-29 Universal City Studios Llc Coaster transportation system

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN203540039U (zh) * 2013-10-30 2014-04-16 万达文化旅游规划研究院有限公司 活动式过山车轨道
US20160288809A1 (en) * 2014-01-28 2016-10-06 Mack Rides Gmbh & Co.Kg Device for Changing the Direction of Travel of a Rail-Bound Vehicle, Rail-Bound Ride Having Such a Device, and Method for Operating Such a Device
EP3265193B1 (fr) * 2015-03-04 2019-10-30 Dynamic Attractions Ltd. Élément de commutation de voie d'inclinaison et de chute
US20190161099A1 (en) * 2016-05-20 2019-05-30 Mack Rides Gmbh & Co. Kg Device For Moving A Guide Track Section Of A Guide Track System For Vehicles On A Fun Fair Ride
US20200338462A1 (en) * 2019-04-29 2020-10-29 Universal City Studios Llc Coaster transportation system

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JP2026506900A (ja) 2026-02-27
KR20250144421A (ko) 2025-10-10
EP4661980A1 (fr) 2025-12-17
CN120659651A (zh) 2025-09-16

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