WO2021217237A1

WO2021217237A1 - Apparatus, system, and method for determining an attribute of a ride vehicle

Info

Publication number: WO2021217237A1
Application number: PCT/CA2021/000036
Authority: WO
Inventors: Claudio Javier BARRERA; Bruce Bradley; Reza SAMADI
Original assignee: Whitewater West Industries Ltd.
Priority date: 2020-04-29
Filing date: 2021-04-29
Publication date: 2021-11-04

Abstract

An apparatus, system, and/or method for determining data and/or acceptable use of a device or object, such as a ride vehicle to continue upon an amusement attraction.

Description

Apparatus, System, and Method for Determining an Attribute of a Ride Vehicle

BACKGROUND

[0001] Amusement attractions, such as water rides, water slides, or other water-based or non-water-based entertainment attractions have conventionally employed ride vehicles for facilitating travel along a travel path of the attraction. The travel path of the attraction may be defined by the form of a flume, slide, or other surface that one or more riders travel along, while riding within or upon the ride vehicle, from an entrance to an exit. The path of travel, speed of travel, and/or other aspects of the travel (e.g., amount of rotation, etc.) that the ride vehicle experiences during travel along the travel path may be impacted by the amount of inflation of the ride vehicle and/or its material properties. For example, a conventional ride vehicle may be an inflatable raft that is filled at least partially with air to provide a cushioned, yet buoyant object or device for one or more riders to sit on or in while the inflatable raft travels along a sliding surface, typically along with a stream or flow of water.

[0002] The amount of inflation of the inflatable raft may impact the performance of the inflatable raft as it travels along the sliding surface. The raft may not be properly inflated by being either over-inflated or being under inflated. Either condition may provide complications or adverse experiences during the ride.

[0003] Determining that a particular ride vehicle or other object or device is appropriately inflated and/or has other material properties such that the ride experience may be optimized is desired. Conventionally, the amount of inflation or other material property is estimated by an operator or employee, such as a lifeguard or other individual, stationed at an entrance to the attraction. Conventional ride vehicles (e.g., inflatable rafts) use valves for input/output of air within the ride vehicle that has not traditionally allowed for connection of a pressure gauge or other measuring device to accurately determine the amount of inflation of the ride vehicle. Accordingly, the operator or employee typically uses their hand, foot, knee, etc. to press down upon a portion of the ride vehicle and make a manual estimation or guess as to how inflated a particular ride vehicle is, and whether such inflation is suitable for the particular amusement attraction, prior to allowing the ride vehicle to begin travel along the attraction. Such manual estimation can be difficult, particularly as different ride vehicles may respond to the operator or employee force in different ways, such as if the ride vehicles are made from different manufacturers and/or have different materials or shapes. Inflation amount can further be difficult to estimate as it can be impacted based upon ambient temperature, whether the ride vehicle is to be used in a wet or dry environment, and/or any of a variety of other possible factors.

SUMMARY

[0004] Exemplary embodiments of the system, device, and/or methods described herein may provide a more accurate determination of an inflation and/or other characteristics of an object or device. Exemplary embodiments may take into account one or more other variables as the determination of the characteristic of the object is being determined.

[0005] Exemplary embodiments of the system, device and/or methods described herein may improve the detection of inflation and/or deflection of a ride vehicle or other object or device. Exemplary embodiments may account for one or more of a variety of passible variables, such as temperature, manufacturer, materials used, and/or other attribute or characteristic associated with a ride vehicle or other object and/or its environment or intended usage to help determine whether the ride vehicle is within optimal or desired parameters for travel upon the amusement attraction. Exemplary embodiments of the apparatus, system, or methods described herein may provide an indication as to the pass/fail of a particular ride vehicle or other object without relying solely upon a manual estimation of permitted deflection by an operator or employee.

DRAWINGS

[0006] FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart of operation for a system to determine inflation and/or deflection of a ride vehicle, according to one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0007] FIG, 2 A illustrates a top-down view of a system to determine inflation and/or deflection of a ride vehicle, according to one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; [0008] FIG. 2B illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the system of FIG. 2A to determine inflation and/or deflection of a ride vehicle, according to one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0009] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of a system to determine inflation and/or deflection of a ride vehicle as part of an amusement attraction, according to one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0010] FIG. 4A illustrates a block-diagram of components for a system to determine inflation and/or deflection of a ride vehicle, according to one exemplary embodi ment of the present disclosure;

[0011] FIG. 4B illustrates data stored as part of a memory component of the system of FIG. 4A, according to one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0012] FIG. 5A illustrates an initial stage of operation of an apparatus for establishing PASS/FAIL criteria based on ride vehicle inflation and/or deflection, according to one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0013] FIG. 5B illustrates a zoomed-in view of the initial stage of operation of the apparatus of FIG. 5A for establishing PASS/FAIL criteria based on ride vehicle inflation and/or deflection, according to one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 5C illustrates a baseline stage of operation of the apparatus of FIG. 5A for establishing PASS/FAIL criteria based on ride vehicle inflation and/or deflection, according to one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 5D illustrates a weight-induced deflection stage of operation of the apparatus of FIG. 5A for establishing PASS/FAIL criteria based on ride vehicle inflation and/or deflection, according to one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0016] FIG. 6 illustrates a graph of pressure vs. deflection for a ride vehicle for calibration of a system that establishes PASS/FAIL criteria for the ride vehicle, according to one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [0017] FIGS. 7-8 illustrate exemplary systems according to embodiments described herein.

[0018] FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary indicator according to embodiments described. herein.

DESCRIPTION

[0019] The following detailed description illustrates by way of example, not by way of limitation, the principles of the invention. This description will clearly enable one skilled in the art to make and use the invention, and describes several embodiments, adaptations, variations, alternatives and uses of the invention, including what is presently believed to be the best mode of carrying out the invention. It should be understood that the drawings are diagrammatic and schematic representations of exemplary embodiments of the invention, and are not limiting of the present invention nor are they necessarily drawn to scale.

[0020] It is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0021] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Preferred methods, devices, and materials are described, although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present disclosure. All references cited herein are incorporated for all purposes by reference in their entirety.

[0022] Following long-standing patent law convention, the terms "a", "an”, and "the" refer to "one or more" when used in this application, including the claims. Thus, for example, reference to "a includes mixtures of one or more _ , two or more _ , and the like.

[0023] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, reaction conditions, measurement, dimensions, and so forth used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the present specification and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by the present application. Generally the term "about", as used herein when referring to a measurable value such as an amount of weight, time, dose, etc. is meant to be understood by a person of skill in the art to include variations that permit the desired function and/or result. The term “about” may be based on tolerances of the manufacturing process, conventional measurement tolerances, etc. The term “about” may encompass, in one example, variations of ±15% or ±10%. in another example ±5%, in another example ±1%, and in yet another example±0.1 % from the specified amount, as such variations are appropriate to perform the disclosed method.

[0024] Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the disclosure. That the upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges can independently be included in the smaller ranges is also encompassed within the disclosure, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the disclosure. Where a list of values is provided, it is understood that ranges between any two values in the list are also contemplated as additional embodiments encompassed within the scope of the disclosure, and it is understood that each intervening value to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper and lower limit of said range and any other listed or intervening value in said range is encompassed within the disclosure; that the upper and lower limits of said sub-ranges can independently be included in the sub-ranges is also encompassed within the disclosure, subject to any specifically excluded limit.

[0025] As used herein, the verb “comprise” as is used in this description and in the claims and its conjugations are used in its non-limiting sense to mean that items following the word are included, but items not specifically mentioned are not excluded.

[0026] Exemplary embodiments of the apparatus described herein may be for determining a parameter of a ride object. The apparatus may include any combination of a system for transporting the object a system for determining the parameter of the ride object a system for communicating the parameter to a user, or a system for removing an object with a parameter outside of a permissible range from continued use in an amusement ride.

[0027] Exemplary embodiments may be used for measuring and/or determining a parameter of an object for use on an amusement ride. The object may be a ride vehicle or other object used on and/or with the amusement ride. The object may be an inflatable ride structure, such as a raft, tube, etc. The parameter of the object may be used in an assessment or as an indication of the suitability of the object for use on the amusement ride. For example, the inflation amount of an inflatable ride vehicle may be used to assess whether the ride vehicle is proper for use on an amusement ride as a ride vehicle for use with one or more riders.

[0028] Exemplary embodiments described herein may include systems and methods for determining a parameter of the ride object. In an exemplary embodiment, the system and methods are configured to non-in vasively measure an attribute of the object. The measured attribute may be of the parameter itself and/or may be used to determine the parameter. The system and methods may therefore be configured to determine the parameter from the measured attribute.

[0029] In an exemplary embodiment, the system and methods for determining a parameter of the ride object includes a sensor for measuring the measured attribute. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor may measure the attribute non-invasively. Exemplary embodiments of non-invasive measurements are those that do not require puncturing the object, and/or entry of the sensor to an interior or through a surface of the object. The measurement of the attribute may be a physical property of the object. The physical property of the object may be used to determine a suitability of the object for use on an amusement ride. For example, the physical property may relate to the inflation of the object, the wear of the object, a surface condition that would affect the frictional interaction with another surface, etc.

[0030] The systems and methods described herein may use different component parts for generating a condition on the object and/or sensors for measuring the measured attribute either alone or in response to the generated condition. [0031] In an exemplary embodiment, the system may include a system and/or method for deflecting a surface of the object. The deflector may be through a jet of gas and/or liquid configured to provide a pressure on an exterior surface of the object. The deflector may be through an arm that rotates and contacts an exterior surface of the object. The deflector may be in an arm that translate and squeezes a portion of the object by contacting an exterior surface of the object. The deflector may be a plate that contacts and squeezes a portion and/or the entirety of the object The deflector may be an arm that pokes or translates onto and against an exterior surface of the object. The deflector may be one or more rollers in which the object is passed by, and/or between to provide a squeezing pressure on the object. The deflector may be configured to apply pressure to the object such as at an exterior surface of the object over an entirety of a surface of the object (such as along an entire side), and/or over the object itself to impose a deflection of not such the surface but on the object to bend. The sensor may be configured to measure the deflection of the exterior surface of the object. From the deflection, the system may be configured to determine an inflation amount (such as inflation pressure) of the object.

[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, the system may include an arm configured to pivot about an axis that is released to contact an exterior surface of the object. The sensor may be configured to measure the deflection of the exterior surface of the object. The sensor may be configured to measure a deceleration of the rotation of the arm as it contacts the exterior surface of the object. The sensor may be configured to measure the acceleration, deceleration, speed, direction, or other characteristic of the arm as it contacts the exterior surface of the object and/or as it rebounds from the contact with the exterior surface of the object.

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment, the system may include a system and/or method for determining a pressure of the object. In an exemplary embodiment, the object may include an indicator. The indicator may, for example, include a film, covering, portion, surface, etc. that may be configured to change with the application of an exterior force. The object may, for example, include a material that changes a visual effect when stretched. The change in visual effect may be in a color, pattern shape/orientation/relational position, or combinations thereof. The indicator may change condition based on the condition of the measured attribute. The indicator may therefore be a first sensor. Exemplary embodiments of the system may include a sensor or measuring the condition of the indicator. For example, an optical sensor may be used to detect and analyse a visual image of the object to determine the condition of the indicator and then determine the parameter of the object based on the condition of the indicator. For example, the surface may include a material that change a pattern configuration as it is stretch and/or color as it is stretched. The system may include a sensor that receives an image, pattern recognition, color indicator to measure the indicator. The system may then analyse the image, pattern, and/or color to determine the corresponding parameter, such as the amount the material is stretch and thereby an inflation amount of the object.

[0034] In an exemplary embodiment, the system and methods for determining a parameter of the ride object includes a processor, memory, and/or electronics. The system may receive an input from the sensor and store the input in memory. The system may use the input of the measurement from the sensor to determine the parameter of the object and/or determine a suitability of the ride object for continued use on the attraction. Exemplary embodiments may therefore include software that is stored in memory and, when executed by a processor, is configured to perform the functions described herein. The functions may include calculating a parameter of the object form the measured attribute of the sensor. The functions may include using the measured attribute of the sensor to determine whether the object falls within a threshold parameter range to continue to be used on the attraction.

[0035] In an exemplary embodiment, the system may include systems and methods for communicating the parameter and/or the suitableness of the object for continued use on the attraction. In an exemplary embodiment, the system for communicating may include the system for removing the object outside of a suitable parameter range from continued use from the attraction as described herein with respect to the system for removing the object. The system for communicating the parameter and/or the suitableness of the object for continued use on the attraction may be through a computer system that indicates the results of the measurement and/or determination to a viewer through a screen. The system for communicating the parameter and/or suitableness of the object for continued use on the attraction may be an indicator positioned on the object. The system for communicating the parameter and/or suitableness of the object for continued use on the attraction may be in storing the measurement and/or determination in memory. The memory may be related and/or attached to the object and/or in a system in communication therewith. For example, an object may include a unique identifier such as an RFID tag. The object may store a parameter condition (such as the PASS/FAIL described herein) so that the object may be detected through an RFID reader and information conveyed to the detector.

[0036] Exemplary embodiments of the system and methods described herein may include a system for transporting an object. The object may be the object that is measured and/or for which comprises or has the parameter. The object may be transported for use on an attraction. For example, the system and method for transporting an object may be configured to receive the object at a first location. The first location may be proximate an exit of an attraction and/or may be at a low elevation (such as ground level). The system and methods for transporting the object may be configured to receive the object and transport the object to a second location. The second location may be proximate an entrance of an attraction and/or may be at a high elevation (such as above the low elevation and/or at an elevation approximate with the top of the attraction and/or the entrance to the attraction). Exemplary embodiments of the system for transporting the object may be configured to transport the object for the user. Exemplary embodiments of the system for transporting the object may include a conveyor.

[0037] Exemplary embodiments of the system and methods for determining a parameter of an object may be incorporated or positioned at a location along the system for transporting the object. The system and methods may therefore include conducting the measurement and/or determining the parameter (or the suitability of the object for continued use on the attraction) during the transportation of the object from the first location to the second location.

System for removing an object with a parameter outside of a permissible range from continued use

[0038] Exemplary embodiments of the system and methods described herein may include a system for removing an object with a determined parameter outside of a permissible range from continued use. For example, the system for removing the object may be integrated into the system for transporting the object The system for removing the object may be used to separate the second location objects based on the determined parameter. For example, the system for removing the object may be used in conjunction with the system for transporting an object so that objects for continued use and those with determined parameters within a permissible range are transported to the second location adjacent an entrance of the attraction. The system for removing the object may also be configured to redirect those object having a determined parameter outside of the permissible range to a third location that is different from the second location. The third location may be a location that can detect the parameter and/or providing service to the object to get the parameter into a permissible range. For example, the location may be configured to inflate the object. The third location may simply be a storing location that is separate from the second location so that the objects with determined parameters outside a permissible range are not in use on the attraction.

[0039] Exemplary embodiments, may include a system for transporting an object that includes a conveyor. The system for removing an object may include a selector for directing an object on a first path of the conveyor or a second path of a conveyor. The selector may, for example, be a pivot arm, pusher arm, or other selector for positioning the object on a first path of the conveyor or a second path of the conveyor. The first path of the conveyor may lead to the second location adjacent a ride entrance for continued use with the attraction. The second path of the conveyor may be to the third location separate from the second location. The system for removing an object may include a selector that simply removes an object form the conveyor. For example, the system and method for transporting the object may move the object from the first location to the second location. The system and method for removing the object may simply remove the object from the transportation system. If the transportation system is a conveyor, the system for removing the object may include a selector. The selector may be a pivot arm, a translation arm, or other object that directs or pushes the object off of the conveyor. The object is therefore removed during the transportation and does not make it to the second location.

[0040] Different exemplary embodiments of the system and methods are described herein. These are exemplary only and not intending to be limiting. Any combination of features and/or components parts may be used herein. For example, any combination of systems for determining the parameter may be used with any combination of systems for transporting the object and/or systems for removing the object. Exemplary embodiments show representative components for these component selections, but the system is not so restrictive. Therefore, although one combination of the sensor may include an arm that is translated to deflect a surface of the object along a conveyor to transport the object does not restrict other such sensors and/or deflectors from also or alternatively being used.

[0041] An apparatus, system, and/or method has been disclosed for determining a parameter of an object, data and/or acceptable use of a device or object, such as a ride vehicle, to continue upon an amusement attraction. In one exemplary embodiment, an apparatus for establishing a desired characteristic for a ride vehicle may include a substantially vertical base, a substantially horizontal arm connected with the base and configured to translationally move vertically along the base, wherein the arm is configured to contact a portion of the ride vehicle, and a weight configured to be located such that the weight operates to produce a force upon the ride vehicle. A height of the arm in contact with the portion of the ride vehicle may be configured to be determined both before the weight produces the force upon the ride vehicle and after the weight produces a force upon the ride vehicle. Other configurations of the arm and/or system for deflecting the surface of the object are contemplated and included herein.

[0042] In another exemplary embodiment, a system for determining allowance of a ride vehicle onto an amusement attraction may include a processor, a memory in communication with the processor, the memory configured to store a plurality of attributes corresponding to the ride vehicle, and a measurement arm configured to move to a vertical height position for making contact with the ride vehicle. The processor may be configured to determine allowance of the ride vehicle onto the amusement attraction based upon the vertical height position. A display may be provided that is in communication with the processor and configured to display information concerning the determination of allowance of the ride vehicle onto the amusement attraction.

[0043] In another exemplary embodiment, a method for determining allowance of a ride vehicle onto an amusement attraction may include providing a processor, providing a memory in communication with the processor, establishing a characteristic associated with the ride vehicle for allowance of the ride vehicle onto the amusement attraction, storing the characteristic in the memory, providing a measurement arm for making contact with the ride vehicle, making contact between the measurement arm and the ride vehicle, communicating, to the processor, a measurement of the measurement arm when the measurement arm makes contact with the ride vehicle, providing a display in communication with the processor, determining, using the processor, allowance of the ride vehicle based upon the measurement of the measurement arm, communicating, from the processor, the determination of allowance to the display, and displaying the determination of allowance on the display.

[0044] The present invention relates to an apparatus, system, and/or method for determining operational characteristics for an object or device. More particularly, the present invention may relate to an apparatus, system, and/or method for a ride vehicle, such as an inflatable raft in an amusement attraction context, whereby an inflation and/or deflection characteristic for the ride vehicle may be determined.

[0045] Data may be established by determining an amount of deflection that is desired or permitted for a given application of the ride vehicle, based upon one or more attributes or characteristics of the ride vehicle, the amusement attraction, and/or the environment An apparatus may be configured to provide an amount of force to one or more locations of the ride vehicle and measure the deflection of the ride vehicle thereto. The data may be stored as part of a system, such that PASS/FAIL or other criteria for evaluating the ride vehicle can be calculated or looked- up for future tests of the ride vehicle. The system may be fully automated, partially automated, or manually performed for determining approval status of the ride vehicle.

[0046] FIG. 1 shows an exemplary flowchart 100 of operation for a system to determine inflation and/or deflection of a ride vehicle. The system may be in the context of an amusement attraction (e.g., a water slide) and/or may be in any other context where inflation and/or deflection is a desired parameter, attribute, and/or characteristic to be monitored and/or determined. The flowchart 100 includes a start step 105 whereby operation to determine inflection and/or deflection of a ride vehicle is initiated. The start step 105 may be by way of a user indicating a desire to proceed with such determination, such as by entering an area, placing a ride vehicle or other component to be measured into a predetermined location, placing a ride vehicle or other component to be measured onto a portion of the system (such as the system for transporting an object), interacting with a user interface or control, and/or by any alternative manner. At step 110, an ambient temperature is established and/or measured. The establishment of ambient temperature may be by way of a component, device, system, lookup, and/or sensor that is configured to sense or establish the ambient temperature, for example, at an instantaneous or particular time. The establishment of ambient temperature may alternatively be an input that is manually entered by a user and/or is automatically input by a further system, for example, based upon a previously determined temperature. The ambient temperature may be a temperature that is associated with ambient air substantially in or surrounding the location where the determination of inflation and/or deflection of the ride vehicle is to take place. In certain embodiments, step 110 may not occur and no temperature data or information is obtained or used in determining inflation and/or deflection of the ride vehicle.

[0047] At step 115, a selection and/or input of one or more attributes corresponding to the ride vehicle or other object or device, amusement attraction, and/or environment may be made. For example, the one or more attributes may include whether the amusement attraction is indoors or outdoors, whether the amusement attraction is a wet attraction (e.g., a waterslide) or a dry attraction (e.g., a slide without fluid), what manufacturer made the ride vehicle, what material(s) make up the ride vehicle, the number of passengers the ride vehicle is designed for, the number of passengers in the ride vehicle, the maximum number of passengers that may ride in the ride vehicle, identification of a particular ride vehicle (e.g., one already stored and/or particularly identified as part of the system), identification of a size, shape, or other characteristic of the ride vehicle, etc. In an alternative embodiment, any other attribute that may impact or aid in establishing a desired inflation or deflection amount for a ride vehicle may be selected and/or input at step 115.

[0048] The selection and/or input at step 115 may be made by manual entry by a user. For example, the user may enter a number, word, phrase etc. for the attribute. In another example, the user may select from a list of predefined options (e.g., a drop-down menu or available choices).

[0049] The selection and/or input at step 115 may be made by the system. In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more attributes may be automatically selected by the system. For example, one or more cameras may be deployed to identify the one or more attributes and automatically select the one or more attributes accordingly for the system, with or without any additional user interaction. In another example, one or more other sensors or equipment (e.g.. scales, lasers, Radio Frequency Identification (“RFID”) readers, etc.) may be used to aid in detecting and/or automatically selecting one or more attributes associated with the ride vehicle, amusement attraction, and/or environment. For example, the system may use a camera or sensor to detect an image of the ride vehicle. Through object recognition, one or more attributes of the ride vehicle may be determined. For example, the ride vehicle may include an identifier, such as a label, digital tag (such as a radio frequency identification -RFID- tag), or other identifier that can be sensed by the system. The system may therefore sense the identifier and receive one or more attributes of the object.

[0050] In certain embodiments, step 115 may not occur and therefore no one or more attributes are obtained or used in determining inflation and/or deflection of the ride vehicle. In certain embodiments, selection and/or input at step 115 may cause further selection and/or input at step 115 to occur (e.g., selection and/or input of a particular attribute may occur after and/or based upon selection and/or input of a prior attribute).

[0051] At step 120, the ride vehicle is placed (e.g., automatically and/or manually by a user or rider) into a desired location and/or position (e.g., into an apparatus, device and/or component of the system for determination of inflation and/or deflection). In one embodiment, and as discussed in greater detail for FIGS. 2A and 2B, the ride vehicle may be positioned adjacent to a measuring arm that is configured to contact one or more portions of the ride vehicle and aid in detecting inflation and/or deflection for determining a PASS/FAIL of the ride vehicle to continue further on the amusement attraction. The positioning of the ride vehicle may be entirely manual by a user, entirely automatic, and/or a combination thereof.

[0052] At step 125, one or more test cases are run upon the ride vehicle to determine if the ride vehicle exhibits permissible or allowable properties of inflation and/or deflection. For example, a test case may be run wherein deflection is measured (e.g., via a measuring arm) at a location of the ride vehicle between joints or seams of the ride vehicle. In another example, a test case may be run wherein deflection is measured (e.g., via a measuring arm of an apparatus, device and/or component of the system) at a location of the ride vehicle at one or more joints or seams. Multiple test cases (e.g., at differing locations of the ride vehicle) may be run before determining whether the ride vehicle has a given PASS/FAIL status. Multiple test cases may be run automatically by the system and/or may require user intervention to instigate and/or setup a subsequent test case. In certain embodiments, whether a subsequent test case is run may depend upon a result of a previous test case. Once all desired test cases are run, operation continues to step 130.

[0053] At step 130, the system determines the status of the ride vehicle based upon the results of the one or more test cases. For example, a ride vehicle may be determined to PASS (e.g. , be permitted or allowed for further travel upon the amusement attraction) if one or more (e.g., all, a single test case, some percentage of prior test cases, etc.) of the prior run test cases have results within a predetermined range and/or have met some predetermined threshold. The predetermined range or threshold may be established through an algorithm that is run and/or calculated at the time of determination of status and/or may be a previously run algorithm, whose results are stored as part of the system. In one embodiment, a memory and/or database of appropriate values (e.g., values and/or ranges of deflection for a particular raft, raft manufacturer, etc.) may be stored as part of the system. Based upon the information entered and/or determined in all or any combination of steps 110 through 125, the memory and/or database is queried and a PASS or FAIL status is determined for the ride vehicle. For example, for a particular ambient temperature determined from step 110, for a particular raft determined from step 115, and for a particular test case (e.g., a measured amount of deflection), a PASS or FAIL status may be determined via lookup in the memory and/or database. In certain embodiments, additional information corresponding to the status may be determined from step 130, for example, underlying data concerning why the status was determined. For example, a FAIL status may be determined because one or more of the test case(s) of step 125 indicated a value of deflection that was lower than desired and an indication of this lower-than-desired data and/or the lower-than -desired data is provided for further use by the system (e.g. , to suggest and/or to automatically begin performing remedial action in order to attempt to result in a PASS status in a future test case). In another example, a FAIL status may be determined because the test case(s) of step 125 indicated a value of deflection that was higher than desired. The value of deflection being lower or higher than desired or permitted may similarly be determined at step 130.

[0054] At step 140, a notification and/or indication is provided based upon the status determined from step 130 and/or may include such additional information corresponding to the status (e.g.. whether a FAIL occurred due to one or more test case values being too low or too high). For example, a device may be provided (e.g., a display, light, etc.) that indicates whether a particular ride vehicle has a PASS or FAIL status to continue upon the amusement attraction. If the ride vehicle has a PASS status determined from step 130 and displayed in step 140, operation continues to step 180 wherein the ride vehicle is deemed acceptable for continued use on the amusement attraction (e.g.. may be permitted to continue with travel along the amusement attraction. However, if the ride vehicle has a FAIL status determined from step 130 anddisplayed in step 140, operation continues to either step 145 or step 155.

[0055] At step 145, if the status and/or additional information from step 130 indicates the ride vehicle was underinflated (e.g., had a deflection value higher than a predetermined value and/or range), then operation continues to step 150 wherein the ride vehicle is inflated further or otherwise manipulated in order to lower its deflection measurement during step 125. The ride vehicle then continues back to step 120 where the above-described process continues again. Likewise, at step 155, if the status and/or additional information from step 130 indicate the ride vehicle was overinflated (e.g., had a deflection value lower than a predetermined value and/or range), then operation continues to step 160 wherein the ride vehicle is deflated further or otherwise manipulated in order to raise its deflection measurement during step 125. The ride vehicle then continues back to step 120 where the above-described process continues again. In certain embodiments, steps 145, 155, 150, and/or 160 may not be utilized and/or may take place at a future time (e.g., overnight). For example, in such an embodiment, a ride vehicle that has a FAIL status indicated at step 140 may simply be put to the side and remain unused at the immediate time rather than cycling back to step 120 for testing again at the instant time. Various embodiments may utilize additional, fewer, and/or modified steps from those explicitly shown and described for FIG. 1 and/or may perform steps of FIG. 1 in a different order from those explicitly shown.

[0056] FIG. 2A shows a top-down view of an exemplary system 200 to determine inflation and/or deflection of a ride vehicle. Certain features of the system 200 may be the same as or similar to those discussed throughout. Exemplary embodiments of the system 200 and components parts described with respect to FIGS. 2A-2B may be used in any combination with any other embodiment described herein. As shown, the system 200 may include a device arm 215 (e.g. , a measurement arm) that is configured to engage (e.g. , make contact with) a portion of a ride vehicle 205. The device arm 215 may be configured to engage with different portions of the ride vehicle 205 for different test cases, such as between one or more joints or seams 210 of the ride vehicle 205, as shown in FIG. 2A or upon the one or more joints or seams 210 of the ride vehicle 205. For example, the ride vehicle 205 may be configured to change its position and/or orientation to accommodate a changed engagement via the device arm 215 and/or the device arm 215 maybe configured to change its position and/or orientation to accommodate a changed engagement with the ride vehicle 205. Other configurations of the device arm are also contemplated herein. The device arm may be configured to contact only a portion of an exterior surface of the ride vehicle. The device arm may be configured to contact an entirety of one side of an exterior surface of the ride vehicle. The device arm may be translationally moved and/or rotationally moved to contact an exterior surface of the ride vehicle.

[0057] FIG. 2B shows a side cross-sectional view of the exemplary system 200 of FIG. 2A to determine inflation and/or deflection of a ride vehicle. As shown, the ride vehicle 205 may be positioned upon a base 260 (e.g. , a ground or other surface) and the device arm 215 may engage 255 with the ride vehicle 205 via touching or making physical contact with a top surface or portion of the ride vehicle 205. An amount of force (e.g., weight) may be applied to and/or by the device arm 215 such that an amount of deflection (e.g., movement) for the ride vehicle 205 is measured (e.g., by determining an amount of movement, such as vertical and/or rotational movement of the device arm 215 towards the base 260 when the amount of force is applied).

This measurement of deflection may then be referenced and/or calculated by the system 200, for example, as discussed in greater detail throughout, to determine if the ride vehicle 205 has a PASS or FAIL status to continue with use upon the amusement attraction. In certain embodiments, multiple test cases (e.g.. different positioning of the device arm 215 and/or different amounts of weight or force applied by or to the device arm 215 may be run for the ride vehicle 205 before a status is determined). The exemplary system may include other components for creating a deflection in the surface of the ride vehicle as described herein. The deflection component may be in an arm that contacts an exterior surface of the ride vehicle as shown in FIGS. 2A-2B. The deflection component may be a system for spraying or applying a force of a gas or liquid onto a surface over an area of the exterior surface of the ride vehicle. The deflection may also be measured in different ways. For example, the amount of movement of the deflection component may be used, or the surface of the ride vehicle may be detected, located, and a different measured during the application of a force through the deflection component and without the application of the force with the deflection component The surface detection may be through sonar, light visual, etc.

[0058] FIG. 3 shows a side view of an exemplary system 300 to determine inflation and/or deflection of a ride vehicle as part of an amusement attraction. Certain features of the system 300 may be the same as or similar to those discussed throughout. Exemplary embodiments of the system 300 and components parts described with respect to FIG. 3 may be used in any combination with any other embodiment described herein. As shown, an amusement attraction may include a queue area 305 whereby one or more riders wait (e.g„ in a line) for travel upon the amusement attraction. The amusement attraction may include a ride area 310, that may be made up of one or more slides, ride surfaces, and/or other features for rider travel and/or participation. The amusement attraction may include an entry or staging area 320 whereby the one or more riders have not yet entered the ride area 310, but wait for and/or with a ride vehicle 360 associated with their further travel and/or participation on the ride area 310 to be approved, permitted, and/or allowed. The system 300 may determine this approval, permission, and/or allowance of the ride vehicle 360 once the ride vehicle 360 has entered the entry or staging area 320. In an alternative embodiment, the determination of approval, permission, and/or allowance may occur at a different location and/or time {e.g., at an area prior to the queue area 305).

[0059] The system 300 includes a device 325 for determining approval status {e.g., PASS/FAIL) of the ride vehicle 360. The device 325 may include a measurement portion 330 that includes one or more additional components or features {e.g., a measuring arm, laser components, optical components, one or more gauges, such as pressure gauges, etc.) for measuring the inflation and/or deflection of the ride vehicle 360. The measurement of the inflation and/or deflection of the ride vehicle 360 may include features that are the same as or similar to those discussed throughout. The device 325 may include an information entry or selection portion 340 that includes one or more additional components or features for entry or selection of attributes corresponding to the ride vehicle 360, the amusement attraction, and/or the environment. The information entry or selection portion 340 may include features that are the same as or similar to those discussed throughout The device 325 may include a display portion 350 for communicating {e.g., displaying or otherwise notifying) to one or more users or individuals the status information, based at least in part upon the measurement portion 330 and/or the information entry portion 340. The display portion 350 may include features that are the same as or similar to those discussed throughout.

[0060] Any of a variety of possible components and/or features may be provided by the measurement portion 330 (such as exemplary embodiments for the system for determining a parameter), information entry portion 340, and/or display portion 350. For example, the measurement portion 330 may use mechanical components (e.g., rulers, wheels, measurement arms, bearings, etc.), optical components (e.g., lights, light sensors, etc.), laser components, and/or any other type of components that permit determination of an amount of deflection or a ride vehicle or other object or device. For example, the information entry portion 340 may be a touch screen whereby users can make selections or input via touch of the screen, incorporate additional user interface elements (e.g., knobs, wheels, buttons, touchpads, etc.) and/or communication components (e.g., network devices, whether wired and/or wireless, etc.) that permit determination of desired options or selections. For example, the display portion 350 may be a display, such as a monitor, television, or other screen, one or more lights or lamps, an alphanumeric display, and/or any other component or set of components that allow communication to a user of information.

[0061] FIG. 4A shows a block-diagram of exemplary components for a system 400 to determine inflation and/or deflection of a ride vehicle. Certain features of the system 400 may be the same as or similar to those discussed throughout. The system 400 may include a processor 405 that is in communication (e.g., wired and/or wireless) with a memory 410. The memory 410 may be configured to store information relating to one or more ride vehicles or other objects or devices, one or more amusement attractions or other systems, and/or one or more environments. For example, the memory 410 may include one or more databases with attributes associated with a ride vehicle (e.g., a ride vehicle identification, size, shape, configuration, number of riders, manufacturer, material(s) used, etc.), an amusement attraction (e.g., an attraction identification, size, shape, configuration, material(s) used, whether wet or dry, etc.), and/or an environment (e.g., geographic location, temperature, humidity, elevation, etc.). In certain embodiments, the processor 405 and the memory 410 may be combined within one hardware device. In certain embodiments, the processor 405 and/or memory 410 may be part of a cloud-based system. [0062] An input 415 is configured to be communicated to the processor 405. The input 405 may be entered and/or selected by a user and/or automatically determined or detected by one or more components of or associated with the system 400. Based upon the input 415, the processor 405 may communicate with the memory 410 to determine and/or generate an output 420, for example, a determination of the status for a particular ride vehicle to continue upon a particular amusement attraction and/or other information associated with the status (e.g., why the particular ride vehicle achieved such a status. The input 415 may include one or more of a variety of possible attributes for a ride vehicle, amusement attraction, environment, or other feature in alternative embodiments or contexts, which are used by the processor 405 for determining an appropriate status to be determined and generated as the output 420.

[0063] FIG. 4B illustrates one passible embodiment of data, contents, or information 450 in a database and/or otherwise stored in the memory 410 that may be used by the processor 405 for determining and/or generating the output 420. As shown, the data 450 may include a ride vehicle ID) number 455. whether the environment is wet vs. dry 460, outer diameter information for a ride vehicle 465, a maximum number of riders for a ride vehicle 470, a manufacturer of a ride vehicle 475, and a shape for a ride vehicle 480 for a variety of possible data entries. In alternative embodiments, the data 450 of the memory 410 may include additional, fewer, and/or different data as desired for determining status of a ride vehicle or other product to be approved for continued operation.

[0064] As previously discussed, one or more criteria and/or attributes may be used by a system for determining whether a particular ride vehicle (or other component or device in alternative contexts), is determined to be allowed for further use and/or operation, such as for further travel upon an amusement attraction. FIGS. 5A-5D show exemplary stages of operation for an apparatus to establish and/or calibrate a system for determining allowable further use and/or operation. FIG. 5A shows an exemplary initial stage of operation 500 for an apparatus for establishing PASS/FAIL criteria based on ride vehicle inflation and/or deflection. As shown, the initial stage of operation 500 for the apparatus includes a first component 502 (e.g., a substantially vertical component) that is coupled with a base 505 (e.g., a floor, ground, or other surface). The base 505 may be substantially perpendicular to the first component 502. The base 502 may include, incorporate, and/or be coupled with a ruler, scale, or other form of measurement 504 having one or more units of measurement printed thereon or otherwise associated therewith. Second component 510 may be movably coupled with the first component 502. The second component 510 may be substantially perpendicular to the first component 502 and/ormay be substantially parallel with the base 505. The second component 510 may be configured to move along and/or with respect to the first component 502 and its position with respect to the first component 502 determined via the ruler, scale, or other form of measurement 504. The second component 510 may include and/or be coupled with a portion 515 configured to hold one or more weights for applying a desired amount of force. As discussed in greater detail herein, for example, in FIG. 5D, an amount of deflection for a ride vehicle may be determined for a given amount of force applied by the second component 510 with the portion 515 upon the ride vehicle.

[0065] FIG. 5B illustrates a zoomed-in view of the exemplary initial stage of operation of the apparatus of FIG. 5A for establishing PASS/FAIL criteria based on ride vehicle inflation and/or deflection. The second component 510 may be movably coupled with the first component 502 via one or more guide tracks 530 that permit one or more extruding portions of the second component 510 to slide within the one or more guide tracks 530 that may extend along a length of the first component 502. The second component 510 may therefore be configured to translate linearly along the first component 502. In an alternative embodiment, the one or more guide tracks 530 may be disposed on or in the second component 510 and the one or more extruding portions may be disposed on or with the first component 502. hi an alternative embodiment, other manners of providing a movably coupled first component 502 and second component 510 may be used, such as via wheels, bearings, lubricant, etc. The portion 515 of the second component 510 may be shaped so as to permit one or more weights or other objects (e.g. , see FIG. 5D) to be placed thereon (e.g., at a top surface) and/or shaped to exhibit a desired force in desired manner and/or profile upon a ride vehicle (e.g., a ride vehicle that is positioned under the portion 515. For example, the portion 515 may be elongated with a rounded bottom surface and a substantially flat top surface as shown in FIGS. 5B and/or 5C. hi an alternative embodiment, different shapes and/or configurations for the second component 510 and/or the portion 515 may be used for exhibiting an amount of force in a desired configuration upon a ride vehicle or other object. [0066] A guiding or measuring component 540 may also be coupled with the second component 510. The guiding or measuring component 540 may provide a convenient manner of visually determining an amount of deflection of a ride vehicle or other object that is acted on by the second component 510, for example, via the scale 504. In one embodiment, the measuring component 540 may be a horizontally-positioned, elongated element that extends from the second component 510 towards the ruler, scale, or other form of measurement 504 such that a position of the second component 510 with reference to the ruler, scale, or other form of measurement 504 may be determined. Thus, as the second component 510 moves with respect to the first component 502 {e.g., moves vertically), the change in position of the second component 510 with respect to the first component 502 can be visually determined by examination of the guiding or measuring component 540 in combination with the ruler, scale, or other form of measurement 504.

[0067] Exemplary embodiments illustrated with respect to FIGS. 5A-5C use an extended arm that translates vertically to variably change a distance between a base level and the arm. The arm is configured to apply an external force onto an exterior surface of the ride vehicle when the ride vehicle is positioned between the arm and the reference surface. Other configurations of the variable distance and/or application of a known force onto the ride vehicle may also be used. For example, the arm may be rotationally coupled to the support and contact the ride vehicle. In an alternative embodiment, other possible manners of determining positioning may be used, for example, through the use of lasers, light beams, etc. such that a visual inspection of the ruler, scale, or other form of measurement 504 may not be needed. As described herein, other components for deflecting the surface of the ride vehicle are also contemplated herein.

[0068] FIG. 5C illustrates an exemplary baseline stage of operation 550 of the apparatus of FIG. 5A for establishing PASS/FAIL criteria based on ride vehicle inflation and/or deflection.

[0069] In the baseline stage of operation 550, the portion 515 of the second component 510 is positioned such that it makes initial contact 560 with a ride vehicle 555 that is positioned underneath the portion 515 of the second component 510. The baseline position 565 of the second component 510 with respect to the first component 510 can be determined via the guiding or measuring component 540 and the ruler, scale, or other form of measurement 504. FIG. 5D illustrates an exemplary weight-induced deflection stage of operation 575 of the apparatus of FIG. 5A for establishing PASS/FAIL criteria based on ride vehicle inflation and/or deflection.

As shown, one or more weights or objects 580 have been placed such that the portion 515 of the second component 510 produces a force (e.g., is lowered by the additional one or more weights or objects 580 acting thereon) upon the ride vehicle 555, causing deflection of the ride vehicle 555. The amount of deflection 590 is determined via inspection of the guiding or measuring component 540 and the scale 504 with comparison to the previous baseline position 565 of FIG. 5C. In an alternative embodiment, inspection of the guiding or measuring component 540 may not be necessary in order for a system to detect the amount of deflection 590 exhibited by the ride vehicle 555 or other object or device. As illustrated, the use of an external weight is positioned on the arm configured to deflect a surface of the ride vehicle. Such configuration is illustrative only. The weight of the arm and/or force applied by the arm onto the ride vehicle may be controlled by the system. The applied force may be mechanically applied and/or determined by the system, such as in the weight of component parts and/or in an application of a system to apply a force to the ride vehicle.

[0070] The amount of deflection 590 may be determined for and/or representative of a particular inflation amount for the ride vehicle 555 for a particular application. For example, a ride vehicle 555 of a particular type (e.g. , a raft holding a particular maximum number of riders, a raft made by a particular manufacturer, etc.) and/or configuration (e.g., a raft having a circular configuration, etc.) may desirably operate on a particular application (e.g., use on a particular waterslide) at an inflation pressure of 0.5 PSI and/or within a range of inflation pressures, such as 0.4 PSI to 1 PSI. A series of measurements or data (e.g.. deflection amounts) may be obtained for the ride vehicle 555 while the ride vehicle is inflated at a plurality of different inflation pressures for the purposes of calibrating a system and/or apparatus. For example, the ride vehicle 555 may be inflated to 0.5 PSI and a weight of SOlbs applied to the ride vehicle 555 to determine the amount of deflection 590 that results for such a test case. Different test cases may be run (e.g., using different raft types and/or configurations, different weight amounts, different ambient temperatures, different inflation pressures, etc.) in order to determine the amount of deflection that results for the varying parameters. Such measurements or data may then be used for establishing PASS/FAIL criteria for the ride vehicle 555. [0071] Although FIGS. 5A-5D have been exemplary described for a system used in establishment of PASS/FAIL criteria, the same and/or similar system may be used for determining approval of an object (e.g., a ride vehicle) to continue with further operation (e.g., be allowed to proceed further on a waterslide ride if determined to have adequate inflation and/or deflection value(s)). For example, an apparatus the same or similar to that shown in FIGS. 5A-5D may be placed at or near an entrance to an amusement ride such that a ride vehicle is similarlyconfigured to be positioned therewith and an amount of deflection measured (e.g., using a predefined amount of weight) for the ride vehicle by the apparatus, in a same or similar manner. The amount of deflection may be used (e.g., visually inspected by an operator or the apparatus, communicated to a further system or component, such as a processor, etc.) to determine whether the ride vehicle is established as PASS or FAIL to proceed further on the amusement ride. Other inputs or criteria, such as those previously discussed like ambient temperature, humidity, and/or other characteristics of the raft or ride, etc.) may be used in determining the PASS or FAIL, in combination with the amount of deflection measured.

[0072] FIG. 6 illustrates a graph 600 of exemplary pressure vs. deflection data for a ride vehicle. This data may be obtained and/or used for calibration and/or configuration of a system that establishes PASS/FAIL criteria for the ride vehicle. The system may include features the same as or similar to those discussed throughout As shown, the graph 600 includes a y_^axis defining deflection values 602 (e.g., in millimeters) and an x-axis defining pressure values 604 (e.g., in PS I). The graph 600 shows the correspondence between pressure and deflection that has been measured and/or determined for a particular raft (e.g. , Raft ID 115), as indicated by a legend 610 for the graph 600, which may represent a product of a particular manufacturer, in a particular configuration (e.g. , circular), etc. Various sets of data for different ride vehicles and/or ride vehicle environments may be obtained. The sets of data may be used as desired to establish PASS/FAIL criteria or otherwise allow for determinations as to acceptable use of a ride vehicle or other object or device. Depending on the particular circumstances during which a ride vehicle or other object or device is being tested for determination of acceptable use (e.g., based upon one or more attributes selected, for example, as discussed at steps 110 and/or 115 of FIG. 1 ), different data from the sets of data may be used for determination of acceptable use. [0073] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of an exemplary system 700 to determine inflation and/or deflection of a ride vehicle as part of am amusement attraction. Certain features of the system 700 may be the same as or similar to those discussed throughout Exemplary embodiments of the system 700 and components parts described with respect to FIG. 7 may be used in any combination with any other embodiment described herein. As shown, an amusement attraction may include a queue area whereby one or more riders wait (e.g., in a line) for travel upon the amusement attraction. The amusement attraction may include a ride area 702, that may be made up of one or more slides, ride surfaces, and/or other features for rider travel and/or participation.

[0074] The system 700 includes a device 708 for determining approval status (e.g., PASS/FAIL) of the ride vehicle 755. The device 708 may include a measurement portion 715 that includes one or more additional components or features (e.g., a measuring arm, laser components, optical components, one or mure gauges, such as pressure gauges, etc.) for measuring the inflation and/or deflection of the ride vehicle 755. The measurement of the inflation and/or deflection of the ride vehicle 755 may include features that are the same as or similar to those discussed throughout.

[0075] As illustrated the device 708 may be included along a transportation device 706. The transportation device 706 may include a conveyor that moves the ride vehicle 755 from a first location to a second location. The device 708 may be positioned along the transportation system to determine an appropriateness of the ride vehicle as it is transported between the first location and the second location.

[0076] Any of a variety of possible components and/or features may be provided by the measurement portion 715. For example, the measurement portion 715 may use mechanical components (e.g., translated and/or rotational arms, rulers, wheels, measurement arms, bearings, etc.), optical components (e.g., lights, light sensors, etc.), laser components, and/or any other type of components that permit determination of an amount of deflection or a ride vehicle or other object or device. Other examples use interfaces for detecting a condition of the ride vehicle (such as if an indicator is used on the ride vehicle). [0077] FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of an exemplary system to determine inflation and/or deflection of a ride vehicle as part of am amusement attraction. Certain features of the system may be the same as or similar to those discussed throughout. Exemplary embodiments of the system and components parts described with respect to FIG. 8 may be used in any combination with any other embodiment described herein.

[0078] The system includes a device 815 for determining approval status (e.g., PASS/FAIL) of the ride vehicle 808. The device 808 may include a measurement portion that includes one or more additional components or features (e.g., a measuring arm, laser components, optical components, one or more gauges, such as pressure gauges, etc.) for measuring the inflation and/or deflection of the ride vehicle. The measurement of the inflation and/or deflection of the ride vehicle 808 may include features that are the same as or similar to those discussed throughout. As illustrated., the device 808 may include a nozzle that imposes a pressure onto an exterior surface of the ride vehicle 808 and determines a deflection of an exterior surface of the ride vehicle based on the application of the pressure. The pressure may be through physical contact, such as compression of the ride vehicle, and/or may be through the application of a jet of gas and/or liquid onto a surface of the ride vehicle. The exemplary system may also include a display 820, and communication links 825 between the component parts of the system.

[0079] As illustrated the device 815 may be included along a transportation device 810.

The transportation device 810 may include a conveyor that moves the ride vehicle 808 from a first location to a second location. The device 815 may be positioned along the transportation system to determine an appropriateness of the ride vehicle as it is transported between the first location and the second location.

[0080] As illustrated, the system may also include a device 830 for removing the ride vehicle from the transportation device 810 if the ride vehicle has a determined condition outside a permissible range (e.g. the deflection amount is outside a desired range, and/or the condition is determined to be a FAIL). As illustrated, the device 830 is an arm that extends across the conveyor belt and pushes the ride vehicle 808 from the conveyor surface. Other configurations are also contemplated herein, such as alternative conveyor paths, pivot arms, tilting of the transportation surface, and combinations thereof. [0081] Any of a variety of possible components and/or features may be provided by the measurement portion. For example, the measurement portion may use mechanical components (i e.g ., translated and/or rotational arms, rulers, wheels, measurement arms, bearings, etc.), optical components (e.g., lights, light sensors, etc.), laser components, and/or any other type of components that permit determination of an amount of deflection or a ride vehicle or other object or device. Other examples use interfaces for detecting a condition of the ride vehicle (such as if an indicator is used on the ride vehicle).

[0082] FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a ride vehicle 908 comprising an indicator 910 on an exterior surface thereof. The visual indicator may be any surface indicator to correlate an inflation amount of the ride vehicle. As illustrated, a patch or material is provided on a surface of the ride vehicle having a pattern provided thereon. The pattern is configured to change upon the inflation of the ride vehicle. The indicator may also include color coding and/or other patterns. Exemplary embodiments of the system may include sensor or detecting a condition of the indicator and providing an assessment of the ride vehicle and/or its parameter based thereon.

[0083] While some specific embodiments of the invention have been shown, the invention is not to be limited to these embodiments. For example, most functions performed by electronic hardware components may be duplicated by software emulation. Thus, a software program written to accomplish those same functions may emulate the functionality of the hardware components in input-output circuitry. The invention is to be understood as not limited by the specific embodiments described herein, but only by scope of the appended claims. Similarly, while some specific embodiments of the invention have been described as an independent and/or stand-alone system or equipment for determining inflation and/or deflection of an object or device, in other embodiments, all or a portion of the disclosed hardware components, software or other steps, or other system operations or functionality may be used in combination with other inflation- determination processes. For example, one or more gauges (e.g„ pressure gauges) or other equipment or processes may be used to initially determine inflation and/or deflection and the hardware components, software or other steps, or other system operations or functionality may thereafter be used for confirming, verifying, or otherwise checking the accuracy or providing additional information or data concerning such inflation and/or deflection determinations. [0084] Exemplary embodiments of the system described herein can be based in software and/or hardware. While some specific embodiments of the invention have been shown the invention is not to be limited to these embodiments. For example, most functions performed by electronic hardware components may be duplicated by software emulation. Thus, a software program written to accomplish those same functions may emulate the functionality of the hardware components in input-output circuitry. The invention is to be understood as not limited by the specific embodiments described herein, but only by scope of the appended claims.

[0085] Although embodiments of this invention have been fully described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be noted that various changes and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications are to be understood as being included within the scope of embodiments of this invention as defined by the appended claims. Specifically, exemplary components are described herein. Any combination of these components may be used in any combination. For example, any component, feature, step or part may be integrated, separated, sub-divided, removed, duplicated, added, or used in any combination and remain within the scope of the present disclosure. Embodiments are exemplary only, and provide an illustrative combination of features, but are not limited thereto.

[0086] When used in this specification and claims, the terms "comprises¹' and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components.

[0087] The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

Claims

The invention claimed is:

1. An apparatus for establishing a desired characteristic for a ride vehicle. comprising: a component for imposing a deflect of an exterior surface of the ride vehicle; a component for measuring the deflection of the exterior surface of the ride vehicle when the component for imposing a deflection imposes the deflection of the exterior surface of the ride vehicle; and memory having machine readable instructions stored thereon and a processor configured to execute the machine readable instructions and determine an inflation amount of the ride vehicle from the measured deflection from the component for measuring the deflection.

2. A system for determining allowance of a ride vehicle onto an amusement attraction, comprising: a processor; a memory in communication with the processor, the memory configured to store a plurality of attributes corresponding to the ride vehicle; a component for imposing a deflect of an exterior surface of the ride vehicle; a component for measuring the deflection of the exterior surface of the ride vehicle when the component for imposing a deflection imposes the deflection of the exterior surface of the ride vehicle; and a display in communication with the processor and configured to display information concerning the determination of allowance of the ride vehicle onto the amusement attraction based on a measurement of the deflection from the component for measuring the deflection. 3, A method for determining allowance of a ride vehicle onto an amusement attraction. comprising: establishing a characteristic associated with the ride vehicle for allowance of the ride vehicle onto the amusement attraction; deflecting an exterior surface of the ride vehicle to create an amount of deflection of the exterior surface of the ride vehicle; detecting the amount of deflection of the exterior surface of the ride vehicle; and determining, using a processor and the detected amount of deflection of the exterior surface of the ride vehicle, an allowance of the ride vehicle.

4. An apparatus for establishing a desired characteristic for a ride vehicle, comprising: a deflection arm configured to move and impose a force upon the ride vehicle by contacting a portion of the ride vehicle; and memory having machine readable instructions stored thereon and a processor configured to execute the machine readable instructions and use an amount of movement of the arm when in contact with the portion of the ride vehicle to determine a suitability of the ride vehicle for continued use on an attraction.

5. A system for determining allowance of a ride vehicle onto an amusement attraction, comprising: a processor; a memory in communication with the processor, the memory configured to store a plurality of attributes corresponding to the ride vehicle; a measurement arm configured to move for making contact with the ride vehicle, wherein the processor is configured to determine allowance of the ride vehicle onto the amusement attraction based upon the movement of the measurement aim; and a display in communication with the processor and configured to display information concerning the determination of allowance of the ride vehicle onto the amusement attraction. 6. An apparatus for establishing a desired characteristic for a ride vehicle, comprising: a component for measuring an attribute of the ride vehicle; and memory having machine readable instructions stored thereon and a processor configured to execute the machine readable instructions and determine a parameter of the ride vehicle from the measured attribute.

7. A system for determining allowance of a ride vehicle onto an amusement attraction, comprising: a processor; a memory in communication with the processor, the memory configured to store a plurality of attributes corresponding to the ride vehicle; a component for measuring an attribute of the ride vehicle; and memory having machine readable instructions stored thereon and a processor configured to execute the machine readable instructions and determine a parameter of the ride vehicle from the measured attribute.

8. The system of claim 7, further comprising: a transportation component to move the ride vehicle from a first location to a second location.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the component for measuring an attribute of the ride vehicle is positioned along the transportation component. lO.The system of claim 7, wherein the component for measuring an attribute of the ride vehicle is configured to detect a visual indicator on a surface of the ride vehicle.

1 l.The system of claim 7. wherein the component for measuring an attribute of the ride vehicle is configured to impose a deflection of an exterior surface of the ride vehicle and detect a deflection of the exterior of the ride vehicle.

12.The system of claim 11, wherein the component for measuring that imposes a deflection is a nozzle that imposes a jet of gas, liquid, or a combination thereof.

13. The system of claim 11 , wherein the component for measuring that imposes a deflection is an arm that compresses a portion of the ride vehicle through rotational or translational movement of the arm.

14.The system of claim 11, wherein the component for measuring that imposes a deflection comprises rollers in which the ride vehicle is positioned between.

15. The system of claim 11 , wherein the component for measuring that imposes a deflection comprises a conveyor as a surface for imposing a force on the ride vehicle.

16.The system of claim 11, further comprising a removal component for removing a ride vehicle from the transportation component if the parameter of the ride vehicle is outside a range.

17. A method for determining allowance of a ride vehicle onto an amusement attraction, comprising: establishing a characteristic associated with the ride vehicle for allowance of the ride vehicle onto the amusement attraction; deflecting an exterior surface of the ride vehicle to create an amount of deflection of the exterior surface of the ride vehicle; detecting the amount of deflection of the exterior surface of the ride vehicle; and determining, using a processor and the detected amount of deflection of the exterior surface of the ride vehicle, an allowance of the ride vehicle.

18. A method for determining allowance of a ride vehicle onto an amusement attraction, comprising: providing a processor; providing a memory in communication with the processor; establishing a characteristic associated with the ride vehicle for allowance of the ride vehicle onto the amusement attraction; storing the characteristic in the memory; providing a measurement device for determining a characteristic of the ride vehicle; communicating, to the processor, a measurement of the measurement device; and determining, using the processor, allowance of the ride vehicle based upon the measurement device.