NL2014362A - Ferris wheel. - Google Patents

Description

Title: Ferris wheel

The present invention relates to a Ferris wheel.

Ferris wheels, in particular giant wheels or observation wheel type rides are common in cities and on fairgrounds. Due to their height and their slow movement they generally provide an impressive view over the surrounding area. These types of wheels are large structures. That is to say, the height is at least 30 meters and preferably 100m or more.

Ferris wheels usually include a fixed support structure and a wheel, which is rotatably mounted in the support structure. The mounting is usually accomplished by a central axle or shaft, which is supported in corresponding bearings of the support structure. The wheel further includes an annular structure, generally designated in the form of a ring or wheel, which supports a plurality of passenger cabins. Typically, the wheel or ring comprises two circular structures located some distance apart, between which the cabins are fitted with the aid of a transverse construction. The connection between the circular structures and the central axle or spindle is usually accomplished by a plurality of connecting bars or steel cables, generally designated as “spokes”.

The cabins of these Ferris wheels are pivotally supported, thus allowing the cabins, more in particular the floor of the cabins, to maintain horizontal with the aid of gravitation while the wheel is rotated. The passenger cabins thus each function as a pendulum having its point of support (and center of oscillation) at the pivot point at which the cabin is supported by the wheel.

Uneven load distribution in the cabin, for example caused by passengers all standing on one side of the cabin, and/or an uneven load distribution on the outside of the cabin, for example caused by cross winds, may cause the passenger cabin to be pivoted from their neutral position, in which the cabin floor is substantially horizontal, into a pivoted position, in which the cabin floor is tilted. A tilted cabin floor is in particular unwanted when the passengers enter and/or exit the passenger cabin, since the tilted cabin floor may hamper the passengers, thus slowing down the process of embarking and disembarking the passenger cabins, and may even cause the passengers to trip and/or fall and thus to cause injuries. Furthermore, a pivoting movement of the passenger cabin while passengers enter and/or exit the passenger cabin, is unwanted for the same reasons.

It would therefore be desirable and advantageous to provide an improved observation wheel type ride to obviate or reduce the one or more above mentioned shortcomings.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an alternative Ferris wheel, more in particular to provide an observation wheel type ride, with pivotally mounted passenger cabins which observation wheel type ride is configured for enhancing safety of passengers while they enter and/or exit the passenger cabin.

According to the present invention, this object is achieved by providing a Ferris wheel or observation wheel type ride according to claim 1. A Ferris wheel, more in particular an observation wheel type ride, according to the invention comprises a wheel, a support structure, multiple passenger cabins, a passenger platform, and at least one docking device.

The support structure supports the wheel, which has a central wheel pivot axis, in a substantially vertical position.

The multiple passenger cabins each extend between two opposed ends in a longitudinal direction substantially perpendicular to the central wheel pivot axis, and thus the passenger cabin pivot axis. Each of the passenger cabins comprises one or more cabin doors, preferably sliding doors, for providing entrance to the passenger cabin. The passenger cabins are each supported by the wheel for movement along a substantially circular trajectory and are each supported by the wheel such that they can pivot about a substantially horizontal cabin pivot axis.

The passenger platform is located along a section of the substantially circular trajectory to enable passengers to embark and/or disembark the passenger cabins via the one or more cabin doors, of a passenger cabin positioned relative to the passenger platform in a docking zone. A passenger cabin located in the docking zone is located relative to the passenger platform such that passengers are able to embark and/or disembark the passenger cabin via the one or more cabin doors. In theory each passenger cabin is stopped at the same location relative to the passenger platform to enable passengers to enter and exit the passenger cabin. However, in practice these locations differ. These differences can for example be caused by inaccuracies in the drive and/or stopping system of the wheel, by loads exerted upon the wheel and thus the drive rotating it, for example by cross winds, by an unequal distribution of passengers over the different passenger cabins, etc. Therefore the term “docking zone” is used instead of “docking location” when referring to the location a passenger cabin is stopper relative to the passenger platform.

The at least one docking device is configured to pivot a passenger cabin located in the docking zone about its cabin pivot axis into a docking position, i.e. pivot the passenger cabin into its upright position in which the cabin floor extends in substantially horizontal direction, and preferably to secure the passenger cabin in that docking position while passengers embark and/or disembark the passenger cabin.

The docking device comprises a cradle, a cradle support, a cradle centering device, and a cradle alignment device.

The cradle of the docking device extends between two opposed ends in a longitudinal direction substantially perpendicular to the central wheel pivot axis. It is configured to engage a passenger cabin from below, for in a support position relative to a passenger cabin supporting that passenger cabin in its docking position. The support position is the position in which the cradle is located relative to a passenger cabin when it supports that passenger cabin in its docking position, i.e. the position of the cradle in which the at least two cam followers are both located in the cabin support recess defined by their associated cam track.

The cradle support is configured to movable support the cradle relative to a passenger cabin in the docking zone, such that the cradle can be moved in a substantially horizontal direction, preferably perpendicular to the passenger cabin pivot axis, relative to a neutral position, and in a substantially vertical direction, between a lowered position in which it allows the passengers cabins to move along their circular trajectory and a raised position for engaging from below a passenger cabin located in the docking zone.

Thus, the cradle support comprises a lifting device for moving the cradle in the vertical direction, and for supporting the cradle in a vertical position, more in particular in its support position relative to a passenger cabin located in the docking zone. The cradle support furthermore comprises a movable support, such as a guide or track and cart or wagon, for supporting the cradle such that it can be moved in the horizontal direction.

The cradle centering device is configured to move the cradle towards its neutral position. The centering device can be a passive centering device in which case the centering device is provided with one or more resilient means, for example spring elements, pneumatic cylinders, rubber elements, etc., for resiliently positioning the cradle in its neutral position. Alternatively, the cradle centering device can be an active centering device, in which case the centering device is provided with drive means for example in the form of an electric motor or spindle and a control system to actively position the cradle relative to a passenger cabin located in the docking zone.

The cradle alignment device forms an interface between the cradle and the passenger cabins. It enables a passenger cabin located in the docking zone to be pivoted into its docking position and the cradle to be positioned relative to that passenger cabin into its support position, by moving the cradle in a substantial vertical direction towards that passenger cabin,

To achieve this, the alignment device comprises at least two cam followers, for example wheels or skid bodies, and at least two associated cam tracks, for example in the form of a curved track, guide surface, or rail for guiding a cam follower. Each cam track defines positioning trajectories for guiding the associated cam follower to pivot the passenger cabin and align the cradle relative to the passenger cabin, the positioning trajectories ending in a central cabin support recess for receiving the associated cam follower when the cradle is in its support position.

In an embodiment according to the invention, the two cam tracks are provided on the bottom side of each passenger cabin, one at each end of the passenger cabin, and the two associated cam followers are provided on the cradle, one at each end of the cradle. In an alternative embodiment, the two cam tracks are provided on the cradle, one at each end of the cradle, and the two associated cam followers are provided on the bottom side of each passenger cabin, one at each end of the passenger cabin.

It is observed that multiple parallel cam tracks and/or cam followers can be provided, which are provided parallel to each other.

As mentioned earlier, a passenger cabin located in the docking zone is located relative to the passenger platform such that passengers are able to embark and/or disembark the passenger cabins via the one or more cabin doors. Due to forces exerted upon the passenger cabin, for example due to the weight of the passengers inside the passenger cabin or due to cross winds blowing against the outside of the passenger cabin, the cabin may be tilted such that the cabin floor is at an angle with the horizontal and thus at an angle with the passenger platform. A tilted passenger cabin, more in particular a tilted passenger cabin floor, complicates embarking and/or disembarking of the passengers.

By providing a Ferris wheel with a docking device according to the invention, a tilted passenger cabin located in the docking zone is pivoted about its cabin pivot axis into a docking position. Thus, the cabin is pivoted into its upright position, with its cabin floor substantially horizontal. This facilitates embarking and disembarking of the passenger cabin by the passengers. Furthermore, according to the invention the docking device secures the passenger cabin in that docking position while passengers embark and/or disembark the passenger cabins, thus preventing a pivoting movement of the passenger cabin while passengers enter and/or exit it.

The cradle is configured to engage the passenger cabins from below, and to thus provide a secure support of the passenger cabin.

However, as already has been noted, although in theory a passenger cabin is stopped at the same location each time it is stopped in the docking zone, in practice these locations differ. These differences can for example be caused by inaccuracies in the drive and/or stopping system of the wheel, by cross winds, by an unequal distribution of passengers over the passenger cabins, etc.

Because the docking device is provided with a cradle support that movably supports the cradle, and a cradle alignment device that aligns the cradle with the passenger cabin in the docking zone, the docking device can adapt to these differences in the stopping location in the docking zone.

In case the passenger cabin is stopped in the docking zone short of the intended stopping location, or past the intended stopping location, the alignment device takes care the cradle is correctly positioned relative to the passenger cabin to securely engage the passenger cabin from below. The cradle centring device returns the cradle into its neutral position after the cradle has disengaged the passenger cabin. In this neutral position, the cradle is positioned for engaging from below the next passenger cabin to be stopped in the docking zone, and to allow the alignment device to correctly align the cradle with the passenger cabin.

Therefore, the docking device according to the invention can be used with large type Ferris wheels without the need of an enhanced positioning system that makes the passenger cabins stop each time in exactly the same location.

By supporting the cradle in its cradle support position, the cradle support a according to the invention can secure a passenger cabin in its docking position during embarking and disembarking by passengers, even when the passenger cabins are not always stopped at the same location in the docking zone.

In a further embodiment according to the invention, the cradle is provided with one or more coupling devices, such as electrical plugs, drive means, etc. for coupling with associate coupling devices provided on the passenger cabins. Thus, by positioning the cradle relative to the passenger cabin using the cradle support and the cradle alignment device, the coupling means provided on that cradle are correctly positioned relative to the passenger cabin also, independent of the location the passenger cabin is stopped in the docking zone.

Therefore, the cradle can be provided with one or more coupling devices which need to be correctly positioned relative to a passenger cabin to be coupled with corresponding coupling devices provided on the passenger cabin.

In a further embodiment, the passenger cabins are each provided with a door mechanism for opening and closing the one or more doors of the passenger cabins, and the cradle is provided with a coupling device in the form of a drive for activating the door mechanism. The drive is mounted on the cradle such that when the cradle is in its support position the drive can engage the door mechanism for opening and closing the doors. Since the cradle is each time positioned in a predetermined position relative to the passenger cabin, independent of the location of the passenger cabin in the docking zone, the drive for activating the door mechanism of the passenger cabins can engage the door mechanism of the passenger cabin to enable open and/or close the doors.

In a further embodiment, the drive for activating the door mechanism of the passenger cabins is movably mounted on the cradle for movement between an operable position, for coupling with the door mechanism, and an inoperable position, to enable positing the drive relative to the door mechanism by moving the cradle. In such an embodiment, the cradle positions the drive in the correct position for engaging the door mechanism.

In an embodiment, the cradle is furthermore provided with a device to facilitate embarking and/or disembarking by passengers, for example is provided with a tread board for passengers to stand on when embarking and/or disembarking the passenger cabin. The treadboard can also be provided to bridge a gab between the passenger cabin and the passenger platform, when the passenger cabin is positioned in its docking position. In addition to the tread board, or as an alternative, the cradle can be provided with a hand rail or other grip, with lighting means to mark the entrance of the passenger cabin, etc. Again, because the cradle support and the cradle centering device correctly position the cradle, the device to facilitate embarking and/or disembarking by passengers, is also correctly positioned relative to the passenger cabin.

In a further embodiment, the cradle is provided with a tread board, which tread board is movably supported by the cradle, such that the tread board can be moved between an active position to facilitate embarking and disembarking of the passenger cabin, and a passive position to enable positioning the cradle relative to the passenger cabin.

In an embodiment according to the invention, multiple docking devices are provided, such that multiple passenger cabins can be supported in their docking position at the same time. Is such an embodiment, when the wheel is stopped in the correct position, one passenger cabin is located above each of the docking devices, and can thus be positioned by the docking device in a docking position. Such an embodiment allows for parallel embarking and/or disembarking of multiple passenger cabins.

For example, the passenger platform located along a section of the substantially circular trajectory may extend over a distance such that three passenger cabins can be positioned in a docking zone relative to the passenger platform at the same time. In an embodiment, the platform comprises multiple platform sections, each associated with a docking zone, which sections are each provided at different heights such that when the wheel is stopped in the correct position, the passenger cabins are each located at substantially the same relative height with respect to their associated section of the relative to platform section in a docking zone. In an alternative embodiment, the passenger platform is not staggered but comprises multiple separate platform platforms.

In an embodiment, the cradle is provided with a tread board, which tread board is movably supported by the cradle, such that the tread board can be moved relative to the cradle between an active position to facilitate embarking and disembarking of the passenger cabin, and a passive position to enable positioning the cradle relative to the passenger cabin. In an embodiment, the tread board is for example tilted in an upright position to enable the cradle to be positioned relative to the passenger cabin, and is only pivoted into a lowered position, to enable passengers to step on it when embarking or disembarking the passenger cabin, when the cradle supports the passenger cabin in its docking position. For example an electric or hydraulic drive can be provided in combination with a control system to automatically pivot the treadboard when the cradle is in its support position and the doors are opened. In an alternative embodiment, tilting of the treadboard is mechanically linked to the opening of the door.

In a further embodiment, the multiple docking devices are moveably supported, such that the can move along with a passenger cabin supported by the rotating wheel, to thus enable positioning of the passenger cabins in a docking position while the passenger cabins move along the circular track. In such an embodiment, the cradle support, cradle centering device and cradle alignment device are for example mounted on a rail cart or other transport device to move them along with the passenger cabin. Thus the wheel does not have to be stopped to enable the passengers to embark and/or disembark the passenger cabins. This is for example beneficial with large observation type wheels that are rotated at low speeds.

In such an embodiment, when the docking device is moved along a substantially horizontal trajectory while supporting the passenger cabin, the cradle support may be configured to compensate for variations in the height at which the passenger cabins are supported due to the rotation of the wheel. Alternatively or in combination, the docking device is moved along a curved trajectory while supporting the passenger cabin, the curved trajectory at least substantially matching the curved trajectory along which the cabin is moved by the rotating wheel.

It is noted that due to the curvature of the wheel the passenger cabins are moved along a circular trajectory. Therefore, the location at which a passenger cabin is stopped has a horizontal and a vertical component. A change in the location at which the passenger cabin is stopped thus changes the horizontal location and the height at which the passenger cabin is stopped. Depending on the diameter of the wheel and the length of the trajectory over which the passenger cabins are supported in their docking position, the changes in the vertical component may be more or less substantial.

In an embodiment, the cradle support is configured to compensate for substantial variations in the height at which the passenger cabins are stopped in the docking zone. The cradle support is configured to adjust the height at which the cradle is supported when in its docking position to match the height at which the passenger cabin is supported.

In an embodiment, the docking device is provided with an active or passive vertical positioning device for positioning the cradle in a vertical direction relative to a passenger cabin located in the docking zone. Such a vertical positioning device is especially useful when there is a substantial variation in the heights at which the wheel supports the passenger cabins in the docking zone. These changes in height can for example be caused variations in the positions at which the wheel supporting the passenger cabins is stopped, especially when the wheel has a comparatively small diameter, or due to external loads, such as cross winds, acting on the wheel.

In an embodiment, the cradle support comprises an active vertical positioning device for correctly positioning the cradle in the vertical direction relative to the passenger cabin located in the docking zone. For example an electronic detection device comprising sensors coupled with the drive for moving the cradle in the vertical direction to stop the drive from moving the cradle upwards when it correctly engages the passenger cabin. The sensors can for example be optical sensors, for example a camera or a laser for measuring the distance between cradle and passenger cabin, a pressure sensor which contacts the passenger cabin when the cradle is correctly positioned, etc.

In an alternative embodiment, the cradle support comprises a passive vertical positioning device for correctly positioning the cradle in the vertical direction relative to the passenger cabin located in the docking zone. The passive vertical positioning device allows for variations in the height at which the passenger cabin is supported. For example, the cradle support can be provided with resilient means in the form of spring elements, a hydraulic cylinder, etc. to resiliently adapt the position of the cradle when the passenger cabin is stopped in a location lower than the intended stopping location. In such an embodiment, the drive or lifting device for positioning the cradle in the vertical direction is configured to lift the cradle upward to the top of the docking zone. The resilient means are compressed when the passenger cabin is located at a lower height, thus preventing the cradle to be pressed against the passenger cabin with too much force by the lifting device. Alternatively, or in addition, the cam followers can be resiliently supported. Again, in such an embodiment, the drive for positioning the cradle in the vertical direction is configured to lift the cradle up to a height fit for engaging a passenger cabin located at the maximum height a passenger cabin could be located in the docking zone.

For example, when the passenger cabin is stopped in the docking zone the cradle support will lift the cradle up and towards the passenger cabin. When the cradle engages the passenger cabin it is blocked from moving further upwards by the passenger cabin. However, the cradle support will continue moving the cradle upwards because the cradle has not yet reached the intended height. In this situation, the resilient means of the passive positioning device get compressed, or extended, such that the drive for lifting the cradle does not get damaged.

It is observed that a passive positioning device for the cradle, in particular a resilient support of the cradle, allows for a self-regulating device and a smooth engagement of the passenger cabin by the cradle.

In a further embodiment, the cradle support according to the invention further comprises an active vertical positioning device and a passive vertical positioning device. In such an embodiment, the passive vertical positioning device can compensate for positioning errors made by the active vertical positioning device.

It is furthermore observed that when the variations in the height at which the passenger cabins are stopped in the docking zone are limited, the docking device can be configured to position the cradle at a standard height, and no additional vertical positioning device is required to compensate for variations in the vertical position of the passenger cabins. This can for example be the case with wheels having a large diameter, and of which the passengers enter and exit only the passenger cabins when positioned at the lowest region of the wheel (at which the circular trajectory of the passenger cabins extends in mainly the horizontal direction).

In an embodiment of a Ferris wheel according to the invention, the positioning trajectories are configured for mainly aligning the cradle relative to the passenger cabin and each cam track further defines a passenger cabin pivot trajectory, configured for mainly pivoting a passenger cabin from a pivoted position into a docking position, in such an embodiment, the cradle positioning trajectories are flat curves extending in mainly the diagonal direction, and the passenger cabin pivoting trajectory is a flat curve extending in mainly the horizontal direction.

When the cam runs along the substantially diagonal orientated positioning trajectory, the contact force enacted by the cam follower onto the cam track is directed in a substantially diagonal or even substantially horizontal direction, which will cause the cradle to be moved in a horizontal direction, more in particular to be moved into its support position.

When a cam follower runs along the passenger cabin pivot trajectory, which is a flat curve extending in mainly the horizontal direction, the contact force enacted by the cam follower onto the cam track is directed in a substantially vertical direction, which will cause the passenger cabin to be pivoted in an upright position. Providing the cam tracks with a passenger cabin pivot trajectory enables the docking device to cope with passenger cabins that are pivot over larger angles than cam tracks without an additional cabin pivot trajectory.

The location of the passenger cabin pivot trajectories relative to the cabin support recesses depend on the configuration of the docking device. When the cam tracks are provided on the cradle, the passenger cabin pivot trajectories are provide on the inside, i.e. between, the cabin support recesses. When the cam tracks are provided on the passenger cabin, the passenger cabin pivot trajectories are provided on the outside of the passenger cabin support recess.

The passenger cabin pivot trajectory of each cam track is only engaged when the passenger cabin has to be pivoted over a substantially large angle. In case of small displacements and/or small angles of the cabin located in the docking zone, only the positioning trajectories are engaged by the cam followers.

It is noted that in practice the functions of the passenger cabin pivot trajectory and the positioning trajectory will overlap. During the pivoting of a passenger cabin into its upright position, the cradle will also be moved towards its support position. During the alignment of the cradle the cabin may be pivoted in its upright position.

Advantageous embodiments of a Ferris wheel according to the invention and the method according to the invention are disclosed in the subclaims and in the description, in which the invention is further illustrated and elucidated on the basis of a number of exemplary embodiments, of which some are shown in the schematic drawing.

In the drawings

Fig. 1 schematically shows an embodiment of a Ferris wheel, more in particular of an observation wheel type ride, comprising a docking device according to the invention;

Fig. 2 schematically shows an enlarged view of the docking device from Fig. 1 while supporting a passenger cabin in a docking position;

Fig. 3 schematically shows a second embodiment of a docking device according to the invention;

Fig. 4 schematically shows a side view of the docking device of Fig. 3;

Figs. 5a-c schematically show a third embodiment of a docking device according to the invention, the docking device pivoting a cradle into its docking position;

Figs. 6a-b schematically show the cradle of the docking device of Fig. 4 being aligned with the passenger cabin; and

Fig. 7 shows an enlarged view of the docking device of Figs. 5 and 6.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic side view of an embodiment of a Ferris wheel 1, more in particular of an observation wheel type ride, according to the invention. The Ferris wheel comprises a wheel 2, a support structure 3 and multiple passenger cabins 4, a passenger platform 5 and a docking device 6.

The support structure 3 supports the wheel in a substantially vertical position such that the wheel can be rotated about a central wheel pivot axis 7.

In the particular embodiment shown, the wheel comprises two parallel rings 8, of which one is visible in the side view shown in Fig. 1. The passenger cabins 4 are each pivotally supported between these two rings 8 of the wheel 2, such that they can freely pivot solely about a substantially horizontal cabin pivot axis 9. Thus, due to gravity the passenger cabins are always pivoted in a substantial horizontal position, independent of the position of the wheel. Each passenger cabin pivot axis extends parallel to the Ferris wheel pivot axis. Thus, the passenger cabins are each supported by the wheel for movement along a substantially circular trajectory.

It is observed that because the passenger cabin is pivotally supported, cross winds may cause the cabins to pivot into a tilted position.

The multiple passenger cabins 4 each extend between two opposed ends in a longitudinal direction substantially perpendicular to the central wheel pivot axis. The longitudinal direction is indicated in Fig. 1 with arrow 10. The passenger cabins 4 each comprise one or more cabin doors 11, preferably sliding doors, for providing entrance to the passenger cabin.

The passenger platform 5 is provided at the base of the wheel 2, and extends along a section of the substantially circular trajectory along which the passenger cabins 4 are moved when the wheel is rotated. It is noted that the trajectory of the passenger cabins in the station extends substantially in the horizontal direction. The passenger platform enables passengers to embark and/or disembark the passenger cabins via the one or more cabin doors, when the passenger cabins are positioned relative to the passenger platform in a docking zone.

It is observed that it is a well known solution to provide such a passenger platform adjacent a Ferris wheel, such that the platform does not block movement of the passenger cabins along the circular trajectory provided by the wheel, and to enable passengers to embark and disembark the passenger cabins. When a passenger cabin is located adjacent the passenger platform, passengers can step out of the passenger cabin onto the passenger platform and vice versa. Preferably, the passenger platform is provided substantially level with a floor surface of the passenger cabins when the cabins are located adjacent the passenger platform to further facilitate embarking and disembarking.

The docking device 6 is configured to pivot a passenger cabin 4, when located in the docking zone, about its passenger cabin pivot axis 9 into a docking position, i.e. an upright position in which the cabin floor is substantially horizontal. This facilitates embarking and disembarking of the passenger cabin by the passengers. Furthermore, the docking device is configured to secure the passenger cabin in that docking position while passengers embark and/or disembark the passenger cabin.

In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the Ferris wheel 1 is provided with a single docking device 6. The docking device is positioned for engaging and supporting a passenger cabin supported at the lowest section of the wheel, hanging adjacent the passenger platform. In an alternative embodiment, multiple passenger cabins can be located adjacent the passenger platform at the same time, and multiple docking devices are provided, such that multiple passenger cabins can be entered and/or exited by passengers.

In the particular embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the docking device is shown in its lowered position. In this position the cradle of the docking device does not engage the passenger cabin, and is lowered to such an extent that a passenger cabin can pass by it. When the docking device is in this retracted position, the passenger cabins thus can freely move along their circular trajectory into and out of the docking zone above the docking device.

Fig. 2 shows an enlarged view of the docking device 6 of Fig. 1 according to the invention.

The docking device 6 comprises a cradle 12, a cradle support 13, a cradle centering device 14 for poisoning the cradle relative to the cradle support, and a cradle alignment device 15 for positioning the cradle relative to a passenger cabin. In Fig.2 only the docking device 6 and a passenger cabin 4’ are depicted. The docking device 6, more in particular the cradle 12 of the docking device 6 engages the passenger cabin 4’, which is thus supported in its upright position, i.e. its docking position.

The cradle 12 of the docking device 6 extends between two opposed ends in a longitudinal direction, indicated with arrow 16, substantially perpendicular to the central wheel pivot axis (not shown). The cradle 12 is configured to engage a passenger cabin 4’ from below, for in a support position relative to a passenger cabin supporting that passenger cabin in its docking position.

The cradle support 13 is configured to lift the cradle into its support position and to support the cradle 12 in its support position relative to the passenger cabin 4’ in the docking zone. The cradle support furthermore supports the cradle such that it can be moved in a substantially horizontal direction.

In the particular embodiment shown, the cradle support 13 comprises a telescopic lifting device 19 for moving the cradle 12 in a substantially vertical direction, between a lowered position in which it allows the passengers cabin 4’ to move along its circular trajectory, which position is shown in fig. 1, and a raised position for engaging from below a passenger cabin 4’ located in the docking zone, which position is shown in Fig.2. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 2, the docking device comprises a table 18 that is supported by the telescopic lifting device 19. The table 18 in turn supports the cradle 12 such that it can move in the horizontal direction. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 2, the cradle 12 is via roller bodies supported on a track 17 (not shown), which track is provided on the table 18. Thus, the cradle 12 can move relative to the table 18 in a substantially horizontal direction.

According to the invention, the cradle 12 is thus moveably supported such that it can move in a substantially horizontal direction and perpendicular to the passenger cabin pivot axis, relative to a neutral position. In its neutral position the cradle is centered on the cradle support, in the particular embodiment shown in table 18. In this position the cradle can engage a passenger cabin and be aligned relative to that cabin. The cradle is aligned with a passenger cabin stopped in the docking zone by moving the cradle in the horizontal direction into a central support position beneath the passenger cabin.

The cradle centering device 20 is configured to move the cradle towards its neutral position, which in the embodiment shown is at the center of the table. In the exemplary embodiment depicted in Fig. 2 the cradle centering device comprises two spring elements 17, provided on opposite sides of a central element connect to the table, which spring elements are both connected with one end to the central element and with an opposite end to the cradle, such that the spring elements pull the cradle towards the central element and thus into its neutral position. It is noted that in the condition depicted in Fig. 2, the passenger cabin was positioned directly above the docking device. Therefore, the cradle 17 has not been moved out of its neutral position to assume its support position, in which it fully engages the passenger cabin 4’.

The cradle alignment device forms an interface between the cradle 12 and the passenger cabins 4’. The cradle alignment device of the exemplary embodiment shown comprises two cam tracks 21 provided on the bottom end of the passenger cabin 4’, one at each end of the passenger cabin, facing the passenger cabin docking device 6 when the passenger cabin 4 is located in the docking zone.

The cradle alignment device furthermore comprises two cam followers 24, which are each provided on the cradle 12, one at each end of the cradle, and are associated with the cam tracks 21.

According to the invention, the cradle alignment device enables the passenger cabin, when located in the docking zone, to be pivoted into its docking position while the cradle is moved in a vertical direction towards the passenger cabin. Furthermore, the cradle alignment device positions the cradle relative to the passenger cabin into its support position, while the cradle is moved in a vertical direction towards the passenger cabin. Thus, the cradle can support that cabin in its support position while passengers embark and disembark the passenger cabin.

Therefore each cam track 21 comprises positioning trajectories 22 for guiding the associated cam follower and to thus pivot the passenger cabin and align the cradle relative to the passenger cabin. The positioning trajectories end in a cabin support recess 23 for receiving the associated cam follower when the cradle is in its support position.

The working of the cradle alignment device will be further elucidated below.

Fig. 3 shows an alternative embodiment of a docking device 26 according to the invention. Those elements that are similar to those of the docking device shown in fig. 2 are provided with the same reference signs.

The docking device 26 shown in fig. 3 differs from the one shown in Figs. 1 and 2 in the configuration of the cradle support and the configuration of the cradle alignment device.

The cradle support 26 comprises a linkage system 25 combined with a drive in the form of a hydraulic cylinder 27 for moving the cradle 12 in a substantially vertical direction between a lowered position, in which it allows the passengers cabin 4’ to be moved along its circular trajectory, and a raised position, for engaging from below a passenger cabin 4’.

The cradle alignment 115 device differs in that the two cam tracks 21 are provided on the cradle 12, one at each end of the cradle, and the two associated cam followers 24 are provided on the bottom side of each passenger cabin 4’, one at each end of the passenger cabin.

It is noted that, when the cam tracks are provided on the cradle, during pivoting a cabin into its upright docking position a cam follower runs along the cam track in a direction away from the center of the cradle. When the cam tracks are provided on the passenger cabin, as is shown in Fig. 2, in the same situation the cam follower runs along the cam track in a direction towards the center of the cradle. Thus, the shape of a cam track on a cradle may differ, for example be a mirror image, of the shape of a cam track provided on a passenger cabin.

In the exemplary embodiment of a docking device according to the invention shown in Fig. 3, the cradle 12 is furthermore provided with a coupling device in the form of a drive 28 for activating a door mechanism 29 provided on the passenger cabins 4. The drive 28 comprises a hook mounted on a cylinder. The hook is configured for engaging a rod shaped handle that is part of the door mechanism. The cylinder is pivotably mounted such that it can move between an operable potion, in which the hook is in engagement with the rod, and an inoperable position, in which the hook is disengaged from the rod. Thus, when the cradle 12 is in its support position, the cylinder can be pivoted from its inoperable position into its operable position such that the hook engages the rod of the door mechanism, and the doors of the passenger cabin can be opened and closed by activating the cylinder. In Fig. 3, the coupling device 28 is depicted in full lines in its operable or active position, and in dotted lines in its inoperable or inactive position.

In the exemplary embodiment of a docking device 26 according to the invention shown in Fig. 3, the cradle 12 is furthermore provided with a device to facilitate embarking and/or disembarking by passengers in the form of a tread board 30 for passengers to stand on when embarking and/or disembarking the passenger cabin 4. The tread board 30 is movably supported by the cradle 12, such that the tread board can be moved relative to the cradle between an active position to facilitate embarking and disembarking of the passenger cabin 4, and a passive position to enable positioning the cradle relative to the passenger cabin. In Fig. 4, the passenger cabin 4 and docking device 26 including the tread board 30 are shown in side view. The tread board 30 is depicted in full lines in its active position, and in dotted lines in its inactive position.

In a preferred embodiment a control system is provided to automatically control the positioning of coupling devices such as drives, mechanisms, etc. for interacting with the passenger cabin provided on the cradle. The control system is provided with sensors that detect when the cradle is in its support position, engaging the passenger cabin in its upright docking position, and if that is the case, subsequently positions the coupling devices into their active position in which they are coupled with the corresponding devices provided on the passenger cabin and can thus interact with the passenger cabin, for example engage a door mechanism to open and close the doors of the passenger cabin.

Figs 5, 6 and 7 show a third embodiment of a docking device 31 according to the invention. The docking device shown in Figs. 5, 6 and 7 is similar to the one shown in Figs 3 and 4. Those elements that are similar to those of the docking device shown in Figs 3 and 4 are provided with the same reference signs.

When the wheel is being rotated the passenger cabins are moved along a circular trajectory. During the movement of the passenger cabins along their circular trajectory, the docking device, more in particular the cradle of the docking device, is in the lowered position. Thus, the docking device does not obstruct movement of the passenger cabins through the docking zone.

To enable passengers to embark or disembark a passenger cabin, the passenger cabin is located relative to a passenger platform in a docking zone. The passenger cabin is located in the docking zone by rotation of the wheel. When the passenger cabin is located in the docking zone above the docking device, rotation of the wheel is stopped.

Figs. 5a-c schematically show how a passenger cabin 4, which is located in a docking zone, is pivoted into a docking position by the cradle being moved in a vertical direction towards the passenger cabin. The passenger cabin, which is pivotably supported by the wheel (not shown) is suspended in a pivoted position. Such a position can for example be caused passengers standing all on one side of the passenger cabin, by cross winds blowing against the passenger cabin, etc.

When the wheel has stopped rotating, the cradle of the docking device is moved in the vertically upward direction to engage the passenger cabin from below. In the embodiment shown in figs 5a-c, the cradle is moved upward using a drive in the form of a hydraulic cylinder coupled with a linkage system.

Fig. 5a shows the cradle of the docking device coming into contact with the passenger cabin. More in particular, the cam track of the cradle is pushed against the cam follower located on the lower end of the passenger cabin.

It is observed that in the exemplary embodiment shown, the two cam followers on each passenger cabin are provided on a bottom side of that passenger cabin, and on opposite sides of a vertical plane comprising the cabin pivot axis of that cabin. Thus, when the passenger cabin is in a tilted position, one of the cam followers is positioned below the other cam follower. It is the lower of the two cam followers that will contact a cam track first and thus pivot the passenger cabin into its upright position, i.e. its docking position.

When the cradle is moved further in the upward direction, the cam follower is guided along the cam track. Thus, the passenger cabin is pivoted into its upright position, i.e. towards its docking position. This stage of the process is depicted in Fig. 5b.

The cradle is further moved upward, until the cam follower is guided into the cabin support recess. Thus, the passenger cabin is pivoted upright and the cam follower at the opposite end of the passenger cabin is received in the opposite cabin support recess as well. When both cam followers are positioned in the cabin support recesses, the passenger cabin is in its upright position, and the cradle is its support position.

It is noted that in Figs. 5a-c the passenger cabin is stopped in the docking zone precisely above the docking device. Therefore the cradle is already aligned with the passenger cabin, and does not need to be moved out of its neutral position to achieve its support position.

The exemplary embodiment shown in Figs 5-6 comprises sensors in the cabin support recesses of the cradle. These sensors register when the respective cam followers are located in the recesses, and signal this to a control system that controls the drive moving the cradle in the upward direction. When the sensors indicate that both cam followers are located in their associated recesses, the control system stops the drive. The cradle is thus fixed in its support position. In this support position the cradle keeps the passenger cabin in its upright position and prevents the cabin from pivoting out of the docking position. With the passenger cabin in its docking position, the doors of the cabin can be opened to allow passengers to safely embark and/or disembark the passenger cabin.

After the passengers have embarked and/or disembarked the passenger cabin, the doors of the passenger cabin are closed and the docking device, more in particular the cradle of the docking device is lowered such that the cradle disengages the passenger cabin and the passenger cabin can be moved from the docking zone by rotating the wheel.

When the passenger cabin is unequally loaded, for example because all the passengers that embarked the passenger cabin stand at one end of the passenger cabin, or due to cross winds pushing against the passenger cabin, the passenger cabin will assume a pivoted position when the cradle is lowered.

It is submitted that a problem with Ferris wheels is that the passenger cabins are not always stopped in exactly same location in the docking zone. In particular large Ferris wheels, such as observation type wheels, are subject of this problem. This because large the drive that rotates the wheel and/or the devices that stop rotation of the wheel are not always accurate enough to prevent any deviations in the positions at which the passenger cabins are stopped. Furthermore, loading of the wheel, by passengers, cross winds, etc. may be of influence on the position of the wheel and thus the positioning at which the passenger cabins are stopped.

Therefore, the position at which the cabins are stopped relative to the platform to allow passengers to enter and/or exit the cabin differs to a certain extent. Some passenger cabins are stopped in the docking zone precisely, i.e. in a central position above the docking device, i.e. aligned with the cradle of the docking device in its neutral position, which situation is shown in Fig. 5a-c. Some passenger cabins are however stopped in the docking zone off centre with respect to the docking device, and thus in a position in which they are not aligned with the cradle of the docking device. Some passenger cabins are thus positioned in the docking zone past the central position above the docking device, and some passenger cabins are thus positioned in the docking zone short of the docking device. A docking device according to the invention is therefore provided with a cradle that is movable supported such that it can move in a substantial horizontal direction about a neutral position relative to the cradle support. This feature in combination with the alignment device enables the cradle to be correctly positioned relative to the passenger cabin. Therefore, the docking device can be used with large type Ferris wheels without the need of for example an enhanced positioning system that makes the passenger cabins stop in exactly the same position.

Figs. 6a-b schematically show the cradle 12 of the docking device 31 of Fig. 4 being aligned with the passenger cabin 4’. In the situation shown, the passenger cabin 4’ is not stopped exactly above the docking device 31, but just past that position. Therefore, in contrast with the situation shown in Fig. 5, the cradle is not aligned with the passenger cabin, and needs to be moved out of its neutral position to achieve its support position. Because of the cam tracks of the cradle alignment device, which in the embodiment shown are provided on the cradle, the cam followers, provided on the passenger cabin, push the movably supported cradle into its support position when the cradle is lifted towards the passenger cabin. It is noted that in Fig. 6b the cradle is almost, but not yet fully in its support position. The last step of the process of bringing the cradle into its support position to support the passenger cabin in its docking position is not depicted.

The cradle support device 25 lifts the cradle 12 towards the passenger cabin 4’, and thus pushes the cam tracks of the cradle against the cam followers. The force resulting from the interaction between cam followers and cam track causes the cradle to be pushed into its support position, in the Figs. 6 towards the left. Thus, of the resilient means provided for positioning the cradle in its neutral position, the resilient body provided between the centre of the cradle support and the left end of the cradle is stretched, and the resilient body provided between the centre of the cradle support and the right end of the cradle is compressed. Thus, when the cradle is lowered such that it disengages the passenger cabin, more in particular the cam followers disengage the cam tracks, the resilient means of the cradle centring device will push and pull the cradle back towards its neutral position, in which it is ready to engage the next passenger cabin stopped in the docking zone.

As already noted, the exemplary embodiment shown in Figs 5-6 comprises sensors in the cabin support recesses of the cradle. These sensors register when the respective cam followers are located in the recesses, and signal this to a control system that also controls the cylinder moving the cradle in the upward direction. When the sensors indicate that both cam followers are located in the recesses, the cradle is in its support position and the control system stops the drive, in the embodiment shown a hydraulic cylinder, from further lifting the cradle.

It is noted that in the particular embodiments shown, the cam tracks are provided with a substantially U-shaped cabin support recess. Thus, when the passenger cabin is close to its upright position, not only the cam follower located nearest to the centre of the cradle, in Figs. 6 the cam follower provided on the right end of the passenger cabin, but also the cam follower located farthest away from the centre of the cradle, in figs. 6 the cam follower on the left end of the passenger cabin, engages a cam track. This is beneficial since this configuration provided a more even loading of the cradle, and prevents tilting of the passenger cabin while the cradle is pushed into its support position.

It is observed that in practice the situations shown in Figs. 5 and Figs. 6, i.e. a passenger cabin stopped in the docking zone in a pivoted position and a passenger cabin stopped in the docking zone not exactly above the docking device respectively, will often occur at the same moment, i.e. a passenger cabin will be stopped in the docking zone in a pivoted position and not exactly above the docking device. In these cases, by pushing the cradle up against the passenger cabin, both the passenger cabin is tilted into the upright position and the cradle is pushed into its support position.

Each cam track 21 comprises positioning trajectories 22 for guiding the associated cam follower 24 to pivot the passenger cabin and align the cradle 12 relative to the passenger cabin 4’. The positioning trajectories 22 each end in a cabin support recess 23 for receiving the associated cam follower when the cradle is in its support position. The cabin support recess is 23 configured for engaging the cam follower 24 when the passenger cabin 4’ is in its docking position and the cradle is in its support position.

It is noted that in the preferred embodiments shown in Figs 5 and 6, the cam tracks 21 furthermore comprise a passenger cabin pivot trajectory 29, which is configured mainly for pivoting a passenger cabin 4’from a pivoted position into a docking position. In Figs. 5 and 6 these cabin pivot trajectories 29 extend towards the center of the cradle 12. The cabin pivot trajectories 29 are provided in addition to the positioning trajectories 22 which, in the embodiments shown, are configured mainly for aligning the cradle relative to the passenger cabin. The cabin pivot trajectories 29 form an extension of the positioning trajectories 22

The passenger cabin pivot trajectory 29 is provided for engaging the cam follower 24 when it is on a lower end of a passenger cabin 4’ located in the docking zone and pivoted at a relatively large angle. The cabin pivot trajectory 29 is shaped such that its curvature extends in mainly the horizontal direction. Thus, by moving the cradle 12 in an upward direction the cam follower 24 provided on a lower end of the passenger cabin 4’moves along the cabin pivot trajectory 29 and the passenger cabin is pivoted into its docking position. The cam follower subsequently runs along a positioning trajectory 29 and into the a cabin support recess 23.

In the embodiment shown, the positioning trajectories 22 are flat curves extending in mainly the diagonal direction, thus functioning mainly as alignment trajectories for moving the cradle relative to the passenger cabin in its support position.

The position trajectories 22 are provided on opposite sides of the cabin support recess 23. They are configured for engaging a cam follower 24 when the cabin is pivoted at a comparatively small angle and/or is not aligned with the cradle, i.e. when that cradle is not in its support position relative to the passenger cabin. The position trajectory 22 is shaped such that by moving the cradle in an upward direction the movement of a cam follower along the position trajectory in turn pushes the cradle relative to the passenger cabin, and relative the cradle support, into its support position.

It is noted that in practice a docking device provided with a cabin pivot trajectory is especially suitable to pivot passenger cabins into an upright docking position over an angle of up to 15 degrees with the horizontal, especially over and angle up to 10 degrees.

It is noted that instead of movably supporting the cradle on a table, as depicted in for example Figs. 5 and 6, the cradle can be fixed to the table and the table, or even the cradle support, can be movably supported such that the cradle can be in a substantial horizontal direction about a neutral position, to be correctly positioned relative to the passenger cabin.

It is noted that when a passenger cabin is supported by the docking device, that this does not mean that the entire weight of the passenger cabin is supported by the docking device. The function of the docking device is to position a passenger cabin in an upright position, and to keep the passenger cabin in that upright position while passenger embark and disembark the passenger cabin. Therefore, the docking device is configured to position the cradle closely adjacent the passenger cabin when in its upright position, i.e. when in its docking position. When the passenger cabin is unevenly loaded, it will pivot relative to its passenger cabin pivot axis into a slanted position. When such a passenger cabin is engaged by the docking device, the docking device will support the heavy end of the passenger cabin to bring, and keep, the passenger cabin in its upright position. In both cases, the main weight of the passenger cabin is however supported by the wheel, and not by the docking device.

The invention is by no means limited to the exemplary embodiment described herein above, but comprises various modifications hereto, in so far as they fall within the scope of the following claims.

It is submitted that, based on the information provided in this document, a skilled person can for example design the shape of the cam tracks, the strength of the resilient means of the cradle centering device, the speed and the force with which the cradle is lifted upwards and is pushed against the passenger cabin, etc. to match the particulars, such as the weight and dimensions of the passenger cabins of a specific Ferris wheel.

Other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention, from study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article “a” or “an” does not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit may fulfil the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere act that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measured cannot be used to advantage. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims (14)

A ferris wheel, more in particular an observation wheel attraction, comprising: - a wheel, wherein the wheel is provided with a central wheel axis; - a support structure, which support structure supports the wheel in a substantially vertical position such that the wheel can be rotated about its central wheel axis; - a plurality of passenger cabins, which passenger cabins each extend between two opposite ends in a longitudinal direction substantially perpendicular to the central wheel pivot axis, which passenger cabins each comprise one or more cab doors, preferably sliding doors, for providing access to the passenger cabins, which passenger cabins each are supported by the wheel for movement along a substantially circular path and which passenger cabs are each supported by the wheel such that they can pivot freely about a substantially horizontal cabin pivot axis; - passenger platform, which passenger platform is located along a section of the substantially circular path to allow the passengers to get in and out of the passenger cabs via the one or more cabin doors, when the passenger cabs are positioned relative to the passenger platform in a docking zone; - at least one docking device, which docking device is adapted to pivot a cabin located in the docking zone about its cabin pivot axis to a docking position, and to secure the passenger cabin in that docking position while the passengers are in and / or stepping out of the passenger cabin, which docking device comprises: - a carriage, which carriage extends between two opposite ends in a longitudinal direction substantially perpendicular to the central wheel axis, and which carriage is adapted to engage a passenger cabin from below, for supporting said passenger cabin in its docking position in a supporting position relative to a passenger cabin; - a carriage support, which carriage support is adapted for movably supporting carriage relative to a passenger cabin in the docking zone, such that the carriage can be moved in a substantially horizontal direction, preferably perpendicular to the passenger cabin pivot axis, with respect to a neutral position, and in a substantially vertical direction, between a lowered position in which it allows the passenger cabs to move along their circular path and a raised position for engaging a passenger cabin located in the docking zone from below; - a slide centering device, which centering device is adapted to move the slide towards its neutral position; - a carriage alignment device, which carriage alignment device forms an interface between the carriage and the passenger cabs and makes it possible to pivot a passenger cabin located in a docking zone in its docking position and to position the carriage relative to that passenger cabin in its supporting position, by moving of the carriage in a substantially vertical direction towards that passenger cabin, which alignment device comprises: -at least two cam followers, and -at least two associated cam tracks, each cam track defining positioning trajectories, for guiding the associated cam follower, for hinging the passenger cabin and alignment of the carriage with respect to the passenger cabin, on opposite sides of a cabin support recess for receiving the associated cam follower when the carriage is in its support position, and wherein the two cam tracks are provided on the carriage, each one one end of the carriage, and the two associated cam followers are provided on the bottom of each passenger cabin, one at each end of the passenger cabin, or the two cam tracks are provided at the bottom of each passenger cabin, one at each end of the passenger cabin, and the two associated cam followers are provided on the carriage, one at each end of the carriage. 2. Ferris wheel according to claim 1, wherein the carriage is provided with one or more coupling devices, such as an electrical plug, drive means, etc. for coupling with associated coupling means provided on the passenger cabs. Ferris wheel according to claim 2, wherein the passenger cabs are each provided with a door mechanism for opening and closing the one or more doors of the passenger cabin, and wherein the carriage is provided with a coupling device in the form of a drive for activating the door mechanism, which drive is mounted on the slide such that when the slide is in its supporting position, the drive can engage the door mechanism for opening and closing the doors. Ferris wheel according to claim 3, wherein the drive means are movably mounted on the carriage for moving between an operable position, for coupling to the door mechanism and a non-operable position, for allowing positioning of the drive relative to the door mechanism by moving the carriage. 5. Ferris wheel according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the carriage is further provided with a device for facilitating the entry and / or exit by passengers, for example is provided with a footboard for passengers to get up during the entry and exit. / or getting out of the passenger cabin. A ferris wheel according to claim 5, wherein the carriage is provided with a footboard, which footboard is movably supported by carriage, such that the footboard can be moved with respect to the carriage between an active position for facilitating entry and exit of the passenger cabin, and a passive position for allowing positioning of the carriage relative to the passenger cabin. Ferris wheel according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the centering device comprises one or more spring means, for example springs or pneumatic cylinders, for resiliently positioning the carriage in its neutral position. A ferris wheel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the carriage support comprises an active vertical positioning device, for example comprising sensors and a control system, for correct positioning of the carriage in the vertical direction relative to the passenger cabin located in the docking zone. Ferris wheel according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the carriage support comprises a passive vertical positioning device, for example comprising spring means for correctly positioning the carriage in the vertical direction relative to the passenger cabin located in the docking zone. Ferris wheel according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the positioning paths are adapted to substantially align the carriage with respect to the passenger cabin and each cam track further comprises a passenger cabin hinge path, arranged for substantially hinging a passenger cabin of a passenger cabin. hinged position to its docking position, and wherein the positioning trajectories are substantially flat curves extending substantially in the diagonal direction, and the passenger cabin hinge trajectory is a substantially flat curve extending in a substantially horizontal direction. Ferris wheel according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein a plurality of docking devices are provided, such that at the same time a plurality of passenger cabins can be supported in their docking position. A ferris wheel according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of docking devices are movably supported such that they can move along with a passenger cabin supported by the rotating wheel, thus allowing positioning of the passenger cabins in a docking position while the passenger cabins move along the circular path . A docking device for positioning and supporting pivotally supported passenger cabs according to one or more of the preceding claims. A method for positioning and supporting a passenger cabin pivotally supported by a ferris wheel in a substantially erected position using a slide docking device according to claim 13.