WO2010053384A1

WO2010053384A1 - Rotating barrel ride

Info

Publication number: WO2010053384A1
Application number: PCT/NZ2009/000241
Authority: WO
Inventors: David Charles Akers
Original assignee: Outdoor Gravity, Inc.
Priority date: 2008-11-07
Filing date: 2009-11-09
Publication date: 2010-05-14
Also published as: AU2009311790A1

Abstract

The present invention is a system for recreational purposes. The system includes a vessel rotatably mounted, a support stand, and a drive system. The vessel has a wall that defines an internal cavity, sufficient for at least one occupant to be received wherein the occupant is in contact with the wall, and a tunnel for accessing the internal cavity. The wall dampens the contact between the occupant and the vessel. The support stand has two connectors carried by elevated members on opposing sides of the vessel for supporting the vessel. A drive system that includes a motor mechanically connected to at least one of the connectors for rotating the vessel and the occupant within the internal cavity.

Description

ROTATING BARREL RIDE

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a device for recreational activities.

BACKGROUND ART

Frequently people seek amusement and excitement through participation in games, amusements parks, rollercoasters, or other such activities ("hereinafter "recreational activities") the participants often utilize machines, structures, or other devices (hereinafter "recreational devices") to perform desired recreational activities. These recreational activities occur on the ground, on platforms, involving water, or while descending from elevated altitudes. Additionally, some recreational devices are easily transportable between locations for providing recreational activities at different locations.

Recreational activities involving water have become increasingly popular.

Typically, these recreational activities involve a recreational device around water, carrying water, in water, or near water. One example of a popular recreational device, that involves water, is a water slide. Traditional recreational devices, like the water slide, typically require a relatively large area when providing recreational activities for the public. Furthermore, the traditional recreational devices often require permanent fixtures. For example, a public water slide typically requires a permanent swimming pool and a permanent support structure to achieve a desired slope. The permanent fixtures and required slope directly contribute to the increased size and decreased portability of the recreational device. Other recreational activities include using recreational devices for rotating a person within the recreational device. Generally, these recreational devices may be mechanically rotated about an axis, propelled by the occupant, or rotated while travelling down a slope. First, the rotating devices, which are mechanically rotated about an axis, are typically made from solid materials and require the riders to be harnessed inside before being rotated. Although these recreational devices are portable they still lack the ability to become a recreational activity involving water. Second, recreational devices, which are propelled by the occupant, lack portability because they require an area sufficient for full rotation. Furthermore, when water is incorporated in the recreational device the inertia of the recreational device increases, thereby reducing the occupant's ability to rotate the recreational device. Third, recreational devices, which are rotated while travelling down a slope lack portability because they require an area sufficient for travel and large enough slope to rotate the recreational device. Although these recreational devices have incorporated water into the device, they still lack portability to many locations because of the required slope.

It is an object of the present invention to address the foregoing problems or at least to provide the public with a useful choice.

All references, including any patents or patent applications cited in this specification are hereby incorporated by reference. No admission is made that any reference constitutes prior art. The discussion of the references states what their authors assert, and the applicants reserve the right to challenge the accuracy and pertinency of the cited documents. It will be clearly understood that, although a number of prior art publications are referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that any of these documents form part of the common general knowledge in the art, in New Zealand or in any other country. Throughout this specification, the word "comprise", or variations thereof such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps.

Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a recreational device, including

a support stand,

a vessel rotatably secured to the support stand,

a drive system configured to rotate the vessel with respect to the support stand,

characterised in that

the vessel can receive and hold a fluid and carry a person inside the vessel, while the drive sys.tem is rotating the vessel.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of providing a recreational ride, including the steps of:

(a) providing a vessel capable of holding a fluid;

(b) rotatably securing the vessel to a support stand;

(c) allowing a person to enter inside the vessel;

(d) providing a fluid in the vessel the method characterised by the step of ^■

(e) causing the vessel to rotate while the person and the fluid are inside the vessel.

In a preferred embodiment the present invention relates to a device to provide recreational activities for people. The recreational activities may be a simulated waterslide or water based activity inside the vessel and reference will be made herein accordingly. For instance, people may sit, slide, or otherwise ride inside the vessel as it rotates. This may occur using a mat, a boogie board, a tube, raft, other apparatus, or without the use of an apparatus.

Alternatively, people can be harnessed inside the vessel such that rotation of the vessel provides a recreational activity. In that embodiment it is also envisaged that a fluid may not be used and the ride occurs "dry".

Reference throughout the present specification will be made to the term "ride" this should be understood as meaning a period of rotation of the vessel while a person is inside. The ride is the recreational activity provided by the present invention. This should become clearer form the following description.

However the foregoing should not be seen as limiting and alternatives are envisaged.

Throughout the present specification reference to the term "support stand" should be understood as meaning an assembly which can support a vessel according to the present invention.

In a preferred embodiment the support stand may be a frame having a base, a body, and an axle. The vessel can be secured to the axle such that the axle facilitates rotation of the vessel with respect to the frame. In a particularly preferred embodiment the frame may be collapsible. This may be achieved by providing components of the frame with releasable fasteners to secure these to each other. However the releasable fasteners are such that they allow the frame to be dismantled to facilitate easy storage and/or transport of the recreational device.

In yet a further embodiment the frame may be formed from foldable components. In this embodiment the components fold with respect to each other so as to minimise the size of the frame. Again, this makes the frame collapsible and facilitates transport and/or storage of the recreational device.

However, the foregoing should not be seen as limiting and alternatives are envisaged including those where the frame is formed from components permanently secured to each other by techniques such as welding.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term "vessel" should be understood as meaning a component that can be secured and rotated with respect to the support stand.

In a preferred embodiment the vessel has an internal cavity that is sufficiently large that it can receive one or more people therein. The one or more people can stand, walk, or run etc within the vessel as this rotates.

In one such embodiment the vessel may provide an internal cavity having a circular cross-sectional shape. This is useful as it provides a smooth path for people during rotation of the vessel.

In a particularly preferred embodiment the internal cavity may be generally an ellipsoid in shape. This means that the internal cavity still has a circular cross- sectional area to provide a smooth path, but also provides a wider lateral area. This facilitates people running, jumping, flipping or riding etc inside the vessel as it rotates. These features are particularly important in providing a ride for one or more people inside the vessel.

However the foregoing should not be seen as limiting and alternatives are envisaged. These include the vessel having a doughnut shape so that it is not enclosed, or that the internal cavity is a sphere. This is beneficial in providing a recreational device that can be enjoyed by people.

In a particularly preferred embodiment the vessel may be able to receive and hold a fluid such as water. Therefore as the vessel is rotated the device simulates a water slide or provides a water based recreational activity.

In a preferred embodiment the vessel may be formed from a resilient material. This may reduce the chances that a person may be injured during a ride due to a knock or impact with the vessel.

In a particularly preferred embodiment that resilient material may be a flexible sheet material. In this embodiment the material is tensioned such that in use the material provides a surface on which a person can ride. However, the material is such that it is not rigid. This may reduce the likelihood of injuries from falls or knocks which may be incurred during a ride.

In one particularly preferred embodiment the vessel may be formed from an inner layer and an outer layer. The layers are separated by a chamber which can be filled with a gas. This inflates the vessel so that the layers are tensioned, thereby facilitating a firm enough surface to support a rider.

This embodiment is also advantageous as it makes the vessel collapsible. This is due to the fact that the vessel can be deflated which assists in transporting and storing the recreational device. It is also envisaged that the vessel may be collapsible through other means such as dismantling a plurality of rigid sheets forming the vessel. Therefore the foregoing should not be seen as limiting.

In a preferred embodiment the vessel may be transparent. This may be achieved by manufacturing the vessel from layers of translucent flexible sheet materials.

However this should not be seen as limiting and alternatives are envisaged.

In a preferred embodiment the vessel may include at least one tunnel.

Throughout the present specification reference to the term "tunnel" should be understood as meaning an entrance and/or passageway that allows access into the cavity in the vessel.

The tunnel may be used for a person to enter the cavity from where they can enjoy the ride. The tunnel may also facilitate the provision of a fluid inside the vessel. This is important in providing a water based recreational activity.

Optionally the tunnel may include a seal to prevent egress of fluid from the vessel during rotation. The seal may be a releasable closure made from materials similar to those from which the vessel is made. The seal may have fasteners to secure it in place over the tunnel during rotation of the vessel.

The seal may be a mesh screen. This embodiment allows the inside of the vessel to be ventilated by air flow.

Alternatively the seal may be a cover which slides with respect to the vessel to thereby open and close the tunnel. Therefore the foregoing should not be seen as limiting. In the preferred embodiment the vessel is rotatably mounted to the support stand. This may be achieved by the frame having an axle and connectors configured to engage with the vessel.

One envisaged embodiment is a sling. The sling is formed from a plurality of flexible straps which are threaded through loops on the outer surface of the vessel. The straps extend around and across the vessel. The straps are connected to the axle which can be rotated by the drive system. That rotation is transferred to the vessel.

Alternatively the vessel may incorporate connectors integrally into its outer surface. Those connectors engage with complementary connectors on the axle such that rotation of the axle is transferred to the vessel.

Throughout the present specification reference to the term "drive system" should be understood as meaning devices that can rotate the vessel.

In a preferred embodiment the drive system may be an electric motor which drives a belt. The belt is engaged with the axle and therefore causes this to rotate.

In a particularly preferred embodiment the drive system may be reversible. This means that the drive system can rotate the vessel in both clockwise and anticlockwise directions.

However, the. foregoing should not be seen as limiting and alternatives are envisaged for the drive system.

In a preferred embodiment, the present invention may include an emergency brake. Throughout the present specification, reference to the term "emergency brake" should be understood as meaning a component which can quickly reduce or stop the vessel rotating with respect to the support stand.

The brake may be a clamp that applies friction to the axle, thereby reducing and preferably stopping its rotation.

Alternatively, the brake may be incorporated into the drive system. In this embodiment, the brake is provided by causing the drive system to stop rotating the axle and therefore the vessel.

In a particularly preferred embodiment the emergency brake may stop the vessel rotating with 1 - 5 seconds of its engagement.

The use of the emergency brake is particularly advantageous as it allows a person to disembark from the device should they want to do so. This may be beneficial where people are uncomfortable with the recreational activity being provided by the device and wish this to cease.

In a preferred embodiment, the drive system may be configured to rotate the vessel to an exit configuration.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term "exit configuration" should be understood as meaning a position that facilitates easy entry into and/or out of, the vessel.

In a preferred embodiment, the exit configuration may be that where the tunnel is at the lowest point. This means that the vessel rotates until the tunnel is at the lowest level capable in the rotation of the vessel. However, the foregoing should not be seen as limiting and alternatives are envisaged including those that do not have a drive system specifically configured to rotate the vessel to an exit configuration.

In a preferred embodiment, the drive system may incorporate a control system.

Preferably, the control system may be configured to control parameters of a ride.

Such parameters may include the duration of rotation (time in minutes), speed of rotation, and/or changes to the speed of rotation including changes to the speed of rotation, and/or the direction of rotation during a ride.

The control system may be a touch screen in communication with a processor. The control system is configured to send commands to the recreational device corresponding to the parameters of a ride, or changes to these.

However, the foregoing should not be seen as limiting and alternatives are envisaged. These alternatives may include buttons or levers directly. attached to the drive system.

In a preferred embodiment the recreational device may be moveable.

In one such embodiment the recreational device may be mounted on or attached to a trailer. The trailer may be towed behind a vehicle such as a car or truck. This facilitates easy movement of the recreational device between locations.

Alternatively the frame may incorporate wheels that allow it to be towed behind a vehicle without use of a trailer. In this embodiment the recreational device may include locks which prevent the wheels from rotating while the device is in use.

In a particularly preferred embodiment the recreational device may include a loading mechanism. Throughout the present specification reference to the term "loading mechanism" should be understood as meaning an assembly to move the recreational device onto or off from, a transport vehicle, a trailer, and/or a support/base.

In a particularly preferred embodiment the loading mechanism may be formed from a plurality of actuators configured to raise and/or lower the recreational device. The actuators may be hydraulic or pneumatic rams, or manually operated jacks.

In this embodiment the actuators may be secured to arms extending from the frame. The arms maybe telescoping, or pivot with respect to the frame. This allows the arms to be moved into a storage position when the recreational device is in use. The storage position is such that the arms and actuators are discrete and do not hinder normal operation of the device. However the arms can be moved into a loading position in which the actuators are able to raise/lower the frame.

However the foregoing should not be seen as limiting and alternatives are envisaged including those where the frame is mounted on wheels or rollers that facilitate its loading and unloading.

The use of a loading mechanism is important in providing an improved recreational device. This feature facilitates use of the device in different locations due to its ease of transport. Further, the loading mechanism is compact meaning that the recreational device is still easily transported.

In a preferred embodiment the present invention may include a pumping system.

Throughout the present specification reference to the term "pumping system" should be understood as meaning an assembly of components that can facilitate providing a fluid into the vessel. In a preferred embodiment the pumping system may also facilitate removing the fluid from the vessel. This is useful in changing the fluid and therefore in providing recreational activities for people.

The pumping system may also include one or more storage units, filters, heaters, and/or a waste system for disposing of used fluid. All of these components are beneficial in providing a recreational activity and in improving a person's enjoyment. They may also improve the lifespan of the recreational device, and/or facilitate its cleaning.

However, alternatives are envisaged including those that do not include a pumping system.

It should be appreciated from the description herein that the present invention has advantages and benefits due to its novel features and the interaction of these. For instance, in the embodiment where the vessel is formed from a flexible material the ' recreational device may be safer to use than other devices due to reduced chances of injury as a result of knocks incurred during use. This is a particularly important consideration.

Yet another advantage of the present invention is that it is able to provide recreational activities for people in different locations regardless of a water source and slope. Therefore it is possible for people to enjoy a water slide and/or water ride activities in locations where these requirements are not present.

Moreover, the transportability of the recreational device means that the device can provide flexibility for businesses in where and when they offer ride services to the public. For instance a ride operator is able to transport the recreational device to a seasonally popular location to maximise utilisation of the device. At the end of the season the recreational device can be relocated to a storage facility or another location. The transparent nature of the vessel allows spectators to watch and also enjoy other people performing recreational activities. This can be safely achieved as there are minimal moving parts which limit safety concerns for spectators.

Yet a further advantage of the present invention is that rotation of the device can be stopped immediately should a person want to exit the ride. This is not possible with water slides or other

Furthermore, stopping rotation of the vessel can be achieved without causing injury to a person inside the vessel. This is due to the person not actually moving and therefore not having any momentum which would need to be dissipated.

Additional aspects and advantages of the present invention should become clearer from the following description which is given by way of example only.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a front elevation of the invention;

Figure 2 is a top elevation of the invention;

Figure 3 is a side elevation view of the invention;

Figure 4 is a 3D view of the invention;

Figure 5 is an alternate embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6 is a side perspective view of a bracket forming part of a loading mechanism; and Figure 7 is a schematic showing a pumping system as used with the present invention.

BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

A system for recreational purposes is shown and described in detail herein. The system includes a vessel rotatably mounted, a support stand, and a drive system.

The vessel has a wall that defines an internal cavity, sufficient for at least one occupant to be received wherein the occupant is in contact with the wall, and a tunnel for accessing the internal cavity. The wall dampens the contact between the occupant and the vessel. The support stand is two connectors carried by the elevated members on opposing sides of the vessel for supporting the vessel. The drive system includes a motor mechanically connected to at least one of the connectors for rotating the wheel.

Accordingly, a system for recreational purposes is illustrated generally in the form of a recreational device 10 in the Figures. Referring to Figure 1 , in the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the device 10 includes a vessel 12, a support stand 14, and a drive system.

The vessel 12 is a body that receives at least one occupant within the vessel 12. The vessel 12 having at least one layer comprising a non-rigid material to dampen contact between the occupant and the vessel 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the vessel 12 is an ellipsoid having an area for carrying an occupant. In the alternate embodiments, the vessel 12 can include any shaped body for carrying an occupant within the vessel.

The vessel 12 further includes at least one tunnel 16 for providing access to the area where the occupant is received by the vessel 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the vessel 12 shows two tunnels 16 that provide access to the area that carries the occupant. In this embodiment, the openings 16 may provide ingress, egress, ventilation, or other desirable reason to access the area. In alternate embodiments, the vessel 12 can include any desired number of tunnels 16 into the vessel 12 for providing access to the area where the occupant is carried by the vessel 12.

Generally, the support stand 14 provides a stablised base for the vessel 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the support stand 14 includes at least one rigid member which, directly or indirectly, supports the vessel 12. More specifically, the structure includes a vessel member 18 that follows the curvature of two sides of the vessel 12 at a selected outward distance. The vessel member 18 has two elevated sides, at opposing sides of the vessel member 18, and two low sides, perpendicular to the elevated sides of the vessel member 18, in physical communication with the ground beyond the vessel 12. This supports stand 14 further includes support members 20, for additional stability, between the ground and vessel member 18 at a plurality of locations. In the illustrated embodiment, the support stand 14 further includes two connectors 22 in direct contact with the vessel 12. The connectors 22 are rotatably mounted to the elevated sides of the vessel member 14 such that rotation of a connector 22 generates rotation in the vessel 12. In alternate embodiments, the support stand 14 can otherwise support the vessel 12 without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

The drive system provides for the rotation of the vessel 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive system includes a motor 24. In alternate embodiments, the drive system can otherwise rotate the vessel 12 without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Generally, the motor 24 is in mechanical communication with the vessel 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the motor 24 is in mechanical communication with the vessel 12 via one connector 24. More specifically, in this embodiment, the mechanical communication occurs within a safety housing 26. The motor 24 generates rotation in the connector 22 and thereby generates rotation in the vessel 12. In alternate embodiments, the drive system can otherwise rotate the vessel 12 without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Figure 2 illustrates a sectional view of one embodiment of the system 10 as illustrated in Figure 1. In the illustrated embodiment, details regarding aspects of the system 10, namely the vessel 12, the support stand 14, and the drive system, are more readily ascertainable.

Generally, vessel 12 has a wall that defines an internal cavity 28 and an exterior surface 30 of said vessel 12. The wall has at least one layer comprising a non- rigid material to dampen contact between the occupant and the wall. In the illustrated embodiment, the vessel 12 has a plurality of layers that includes an inner layer 32 and an outer layer 34 being separated by a chamber 36 therebetween. In alternate embodiments of the present invention, the wall of the vessel 12 can include chambers 36, cavities 28, or otherwise provide for receiving an occupant within a vessel 12.

As previously shown, the vessel 12 has at least one tunnel 16 into the area where the occupant is received within the vessel 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the vessel 12 includes three tunnels 16 into the internal cavity 28, namely a first tunnel 16a, a second tunnel 16b, and a third tunnel 16c. More specifically, the first tunnel 16a and second tunnel 16b provide ingress and egress for the occupant and the third tunnel 16c provides ventilation to the internal cavity 28. In the illustrated embodiment, the tunnel 16 extends from the exterior surface 30 to the inner layer 32 and defines a path between the internal cavity 28 and the outside environment. In alternate embodiments, the vessel 12 can include any desired number of tunnels 16 into the vessel 12 for ingress, egress, ventilation, or for otherwise accessing the internal cavity 28. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the first tunnel 16a and a second tunnel 16b are closable to prevent passage of the occupant through the tunnel 16. More specifically, a seal 38 is releasably secured, by a zipper accessible from the inside, near the inner layer 30 and the tunnel 16. When releasably secured, the seal 38 being substantially flush with the inner surface 32 of the vessel 12 thereby preventing ingress and egress of the internal cavity 28. In alternate embodiments, the tunnel 36 may be sealed by releasable panels, inflatable plugs, outer doors, or other releasable way of securing without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

The wall of the vessel 12 dampens the contact between the wall and the carried occupant. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner layer 32 and the outer layer 34 are a non-rigid flexible material and the chamber 36 is inflated with air. The effect is a vessel 12 with enough support to carry an occupant and having a cushioned outer layer 36 and a cushioned inner layer 32 for reducing the likelihood of injuries from the occupant's contact against the wall. In an alternate embodiment, the vessel 12 may include a rigid material on the outer layer 34 and a non-rigid material for the inner layer 32 to improve structural integrity while still using a chamber 36, inflated with air, to dampen contact between the inner layer 32 and the carried occupant. It should be noted, the vessel 12 can dampening contact between the inner layer 32 and the carried occupant in ways other than described above including, but not limited to, placing a foam pad about the inner layer 32, equipping the occupant with protective gear, etc., without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

The vessel 12 has an associated structural integrity for maintaining its shape. In embodiment, the wall includes supports for controlling the distance between the inner layer 32 and outer layer 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the wall comprises a plurality of strings 40 wherein each string 40 is secured at one end to the inner layer 32 and at a second end to the outer layer 28. More specifically, the wall has a plurality of strings 40 connected between anchor points 42 adhesively affixed to the inner layer 32 and the outer layer 34. It should be noted, that the wall can control compression or expansion in ways other than those described, including, but not limited to, bands, straps, hoops, or rigid members, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Generally, the support stand 14 provides a stablised base for the vessel 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the support stand 14 includes a first connector 22a, a second connector 22b, and at least one rigid member that support the first connector 22a and the second connector 22b. In alternate embodiments, the supports stand 14 can otherwise support the vessel without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

The support stand includes at least one elevated member at opposing sides of the vessel 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the support stand 14 includes a vessel ember 18 that follows the curvature of the vessel 12 at a selected outward distance and two support members 20 for supporting the vessel member 18. Furthermore, the support stand 14 has two elevated sides, at opposing sides of the vessel member 18, which include brackets 44 for supporting the first connector 22a and the second connector 22b and defining an axis therebetween.

In the illustrated embodiment, one side of the first connector 22a and the second connector 22b are in direct communication with the vessel 12. The opposing sides of the first connector 22a and the second connector 22b each have a rotatably mounted connector shaft 46, a first connector shaft 46a and a second connector shaft 22b respectively. In alternate embodiments, the connectors 22 may otherwise be in contact with the vessel 12 and provide for cooperation with the support stand 14. The first connector 22a and the second connector 22b are supported by the elevated sides of the support stand 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the first connector 22a and the second connector 22b are supported by the vessel member 18 at the first connector shaft 46a and the second connector shaft 46b, respectfully. More specifically, the first connector shaft 46a and the second connector shaft 46b are rotatably mounted to the brackets 44 on the vessel member 18. It should be noted, in alternate embodiments, the first connector 22a and the second connector 22b can be supported by the vessel member 18 in ways other than described above.

The drive system provides for the rotation of the vessel 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive system includes a motor 24 in communication with the vessel 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the motor 24 is in communication with the first connector shaft 46a. More specifically, the motor 24, having a drive gear 48, is in communication with a connector gear 50, on the first connector shaft 46a, via a drive belt 52. Activation of the motor 24 results in a reaction that causes the rotation of the drive gear 48, the movement in the drive belt 52, the rotation of the connector gear 50, the rotation of the first connector shaft 46a, the rotation of the first connector 22a, and the resulting rotation of the vessel 12. It should be noted, in one embodiment, the drive system provides rotation of the vessel 12 by propulsion from the occupant inside. In alternate embodiments, the drive system can otherwise be in communication with the vessel 12 without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

The drive system is reversible meaning that it can rotate the vessel 12 in both clockwise and anticlockwise directions. This is useful in operating the recreational device as it can more easily be orientated so that riders face towards spectators.

Figure 3 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the system 10. In this embodiment, the vessel 12 has a non-rigid material the inner 32 and the outer layer 34 forming a chamber 36 that is inflated with air. Additionally, the chamber 36 has a plurality of strings 40 connected at selected anchor points 42 between the inner layer 32 and the outer layer 34. The vessel 12 further includes two tunnels 16 into the internal cavity 34, namely a first tunnel 16a and a second tunnel 16b. The first tunnel 16a provides ingress and egress for the occupant and is closable, by a releasably securable seal 38, to prevent passage through the first tunnel 16a. The second tunnel 16b provides ventilation to the internal cavity 28. Furthermore the vessel 12 includes a plurality of handles 54 mounted to the exterior surface 30 to aid in transporting the system 10.

In this embodiment, the support stand includes two connectors 24, and a plurality of straps 56. The connectors in conjunction with a plurality of straps 56 provide increased structural support for carrying the vessel 12 and assisting in the harmonious rotation of the connectors. In the illustrated embodiment, the support stand 14 has two elevated members 58a and 58b, at opposing sides of the vessel 12, which independently support its respective side of the vessel 12. The elevated members 58 have brackets 44 that support a respective connector 24. In alternate embodiments, the support stand 14 may include a joining member 60 that extends between the elevated members 58 and allows for the expansion and contraction, between the elevated members 58, of the support stand 14 during use.

The support stand 14 includes two connectors 24, namely a first connector 24a and a second connector 24b, for supporting opposing sides of the vessel 12. More specifically, the connectors are ring-shaped to receive opposing sides of the vessel 12. Each of the connectors 24 has a rotatably mounted connector shaft 46 receivable with the brackets 44. The two connectors 24, in addition to support the vessel 12, provide strap brackets 62 for mounting the plurality of support straps 56.

The plurality of straps 56 assists in the rotation of the vessel 12 by controlling the rotational forces between the connectors 24 and the vessel 12, thereby ensuring the vessel 12 rotates harmoniously with the connectors 24. The straps 56 are secured to each connector 24 at a plurality of spaced points along the connectors 24. More specifically, each strap 56 extends between the connectors 24 at corresponding locations. In this embodiment, the two connectors 24, in addition to supporting the vessel 12, provide strap brackets 62 for mounting the plurality of straps 56. Furthermore, the straps 56 are directed along the vessel 12 by a plurality for strap guides 64 on the exterior surface 30 of the vessel 12 at selected intervals. The strap guides 64 are guides that direct the path of the straps 56 and allow for uniform coverage of the straps 56 over the exterior surface 30 of the vessel 12. In one embodiment, the length of the straps 56 can be adjusted to allow for the vessel 12 to expand and contract during use. It should be noted, in alternate embodiments, the support stand 14 may include connectors extending across a portion of the exterior surface 30 of the vessel 12, rigid straps about the exterior surface 30 of the vessel 12, or the support stand 14 may otherwise control the rotational forces between the connectors and the vessel 12 without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

On the illustrated embodiments, the drive system is carried by the support stand 14. In this embodiment, the drive system includes a motor 24 is in communication with the vessel 12. More specifically, the motor has a drive gear 48 in communication, via a drive belt 52, with a connector gear 50 on the first connector shaft 46a. Running the motor 24 results in rotation of the drive gear 48, the movement in the drive belt 52, the rotation of the connector gear 50, the rotation of the first connector shaft 46a, the rotation of the first connector 22a, causing rotation of the vessel 12.

Figure 5 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the recreational device 10 where this is located on a trailer 65. The trailer 65 facilitates movement of the recreational device 10 between locations and for storage purposes. A loading mechanism is incorporated into the recreational device. The loading mechanism is formed from a plurality of brackets 66 which are better seen in Figure 6.

The brackets include a mounting plate 67 having apertures 68. Screws (not shown) can extend through the apertures 68 and into the support stand 14 to secure the components together.

The brackets include an extension arm 69 having a length sufficient that it extends past edges 65A of the trailer 65.

An engagement portion 70 is secured to end 71 of the arm. The engagement portion 70 can couple to an actuator shown in the form of a jack 72 as should be known to those skilled in the art. The extension arm 59 also has an alternate engagement portion 7OA.

The loading mechanism can be used to raise the support stand 14 with respect to the trailer 65. The trailer 65 can therefore be removed and the recreational device 10 lowered onto the ground.

Referring now to Figure 7 which is a schematic of a pumping system. The pumping system includes a water heater 73 connected to a water supply such as a tap (not shown) by techniques as should be known to those skilled in the art. The heater 73 provides water into a storage tank 74. A pump 75 directs the water through a filter 76. The filtered water can be returned to storage tank 74 or provided inside the vessel 12.

The inventors have found that the vessel 12 holding approximately 60 litres of water is an optimum amount to provide a ride for a person. However the vessel could not hold between 60 - 80 litres or other amounts depending on the volume and/or shape of the vessel's internal cavity. A second pump 77 can remove water from the vessel and direct this into the storage tank 74 from where it can be re-used. Alternatively the second pump can direct the water into a waste system 78 such as a drain.

Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope thereof as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT WE CLAIM IS:

1. A recreational device, including

a support stand

a vessel rotatably secured to the support stand,

wherein the vessel is capable of receiving and holding a fluid,

a drive system,

characterised in that

the drive system can rotate the vessel while a person and the fluid is inside the vessel.

2. The recreational device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the vessel is enclosed.

3. The recreational device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the internal cavity provides support for a rider.

4. The recreational device as claimed in any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the vessel is formed from a resilient material.

5. The recreational device as claimed in claim 4, wherein the resilient material is a flexible sheet material.

6. The recreational device as claimed in any one of claims 1 - 5, wherein the vessel is formed from an inner layer and outer layer.

7. The recreational device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the inner layer and the outer layer are separated by a chamber.

8. The recreational device as claimed in claim 7, wherein the chamber is filled with a gas.

9. The recreational device as claimed in claim 8, including a valve to facilitate filling and emptying of the chamber with the gas.

10. The recreational device as claimed in any one of claims 1 - 9, wherein the vessel is substantially transparent.

11. The recreational device as claimed in any one of claims 1 - 10, wherein the device is mounted on a trailer.

12. The recreational device as claimed in any one of claims 1 - 11 , including a loading mechanism.

13. The recreational device as claimed in any one of claims 1 - 12, including an emergency brake to stop or limit rotation of the vessel.

14. The recreational device as claimed in any one of claims 1 - 13, including a pumping system to provide a fluid inside the vessel.

15. The recreational device as claimed in claim 14, wherein the pumping system can remove the fluid from the vessel.

16. A method of providing a recreational activity, including the following steps in any order:

(a) providing a vessel mounted on a support stand,

wherein the vessel is capable of receiving and holding a fluid;

(b) allowing a person to enter inside the vessel;

(c) providing a fluid inside the vessel; the method characterised by the step of:

(d) rotating the vessel while the person is inside the vessel.

17. The method as claimed in claim 13, including the step of stopping rotation of the vessel.

18. The method as claimed in claim 14, including the step of changing the fluid before another person enters the vessel.

19. A system for recreational purposes, said system comprising:

a vessel having a wall defining an internal cavity adapted to carry at least one occupant and an exterior surface of said vessel, said wall further comprising a plurality of layers, said plurality of layers comprising an inner layer and an outer layer, said inner layer and said outer layer being separated by a chamber, said vessel defining at least one tunnel through said wall, said tunnel providing access to said internal cavity;

a supporting standing having a first connector and a second connector adapted for carrying said vessel, said first connector rotatably mounted to a first elevated member at a first side of said vessel and said second connector rotatably mounted to a second elevated member at a second side of said vessel wherein said first connector and said second connector define an axis through said vessel;

a drive system having a motor in mechanical communication with said first connector, said motor is adapted for rotatably driving said first connector and thereby rotating said vessel about said axis while carrying said occupant.

20. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in claim 19, wherein said first connector includes a first shaft rotatably mounting said first connector on said support and said second connector includes a second shaft rotatably mounted said second connector on said support and wherein said motor is mechanically connected to said first shaft for rotatably driving said first connector and thereby produce rotating said vessel.

21. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in either one of claims 19 or 20, wherein said chamber is substantially air-tight and is adapted for inflation.

22. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 19

21 , wherein said axis is substantially horizontal.

23. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 19 -

22, wherein said at least one tunnel provides the occupant ingress and egress to said internal cavity in addition to ventilation.

24. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 19 -

23, wherein said at least one tunnel further comprising at least one first tunnel and at least one second tunnel, said at least one first tunnel providing the occupant ingress and egress to said internal cavity, said at least one second tunnel providing ventilation into said internal cavity.

25. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 19 -

24, further comprising a seal adapted to be releasably secured proximate to said at least one tunnel and said internal cavity, said seal defining a barrier being substantially flush with said internal cavity of said vessel when releasably secured thereto and thereby preventing access to said internal cavity through said at least one tunnel.

26. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 19 -

25, further comprising a liquid, said liquid being in sufficient amount for the recreational purpose, said liquid is carried in said internal cavity whereby the rotation of said vessel in said liquid flowing over said inner surface of said vessel.

27. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 19 -

26, wherein said inner layer and said outer layer are connected to control the spacing therebetween.

28. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 19 -

27, comprising a plurality of straps, each strap of said plurality of straps are secured to said first connector and said second connector at spaced locations, said plurality of straps extend between said first connector and said second connector thereby extending over said vessel.

29. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 19 -

28, comprising a plurality of strap brackets mounted to said first connector and said second connector at said spaced locations, said plurality of strap brackets adapted for mounted said plurality of straps to said first connector and said second connector.

30. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 19 -

29, further comprising a plurality of strap guides, said plurality of strap guides on said outer surface of said vessel at spaced locations for receiving said plurality of straps at the selected interval.

31. A system for recreational purposes, said system comprising:

a vessel having a wall defining an internal cavity and an exterior surface of said vessel, said internal cavity adapted to receive an occupant wherein said occupant is in contact with said wall, said wall having at least one layer comprising a non-rigid material to dampen contact between said occupant and said wall, said vessel defining at least one tunnel through said wall, said tunnel providing access to said internal cavity;

a support stand having a first connector and a second connector adapted for carrying said vessel, said first connector rotatably mounted to a first elevated member at a first side of said vessel and said second connector rotatably mounted to a second elevated member at a second side of said vessel wherein said first connector and said second connector define an axis through said vessel.

32. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in claim 31 , wherein said wall further comprising a plurality of layers including an inner layer and an outer layer, said inner layer and said outer layer being separated by a chamber adapted for inflation wherein effects of an inflated chamber includes cushioning to dampen contact between said occupant and said wall.

33. The system for recreational purpos^'es as claimed in either one of claims 31 or 32, wherein said inner layer and said outer layer are connected to control the spacing therebetween.

34. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 31 -

33, wherein said chamber is substantially air-tight and is adapted for inflation.

35. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 31 -

34, wherein said wall includes cushioning to dampen contact between said occupant and said wall.

36. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 31 -

35, wherein said first connector includes a first shaft rotatably mounting said first connector on said support and said second connector includes a second shaft rotatably mounting said second connector on said support and wherein said motor is mechanically connected to said first shaft for rotatably driving said connector and thereby produce rotating said vessel.

37. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 31 -

36, wherein said axis is substantially horizontal.

38. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 31 -

37, wherein said at least one tunnel provides the occupant ingress and egress to said internal cavity in addition to ventilation.

39. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 31 -

38, wherein said at least one tunnel further comprising at least one first tunnel and at least one second tunnel, said at least one first tunnel providing the occupant ingress and egress to said internal cavity, said at least^'one second tunnel providing ventilation into said internal cavity.

40. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 31 -

39, further comprising a seal adapted to be releasably secured proximate to said at least one tunnel and said internal cavity, said seal defining a barrier being substantially flush with said internal cavity of said vessel when releasably secured thereto and thereby preventing access to said internal cavity through said at least one tunnel.

41. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 31 -

40, further comprising a liquid, said liquid being in sufficient amount for the recreational purpose, said liquid is carried in said internal cavity whereby the rotation of said vessel results in said liquid flowing over said inner surface of said vessel.

42. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 31 -

41 , comprising a plurality of straps, each strap of said plurality of straps are secured to said first connector and said second connector at spaced locations, said plurality of straps extend between said first connector and said second connector thereby extending over said vessel.

43. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 31 -

42, comprising a plurality of strap brackets mounted to said first connector and said second connector at said spaced locations, said plurality of strap brackets adapted for mounted said plurality of straps to said first connector and said second connector.

44. The system for recreational purposes as claimed in any one of claims 31 -

43, further comprising a plurality of strap guides, said plurality of strap guides disposed on said outer surface of said vessel at spaced locations for receiving said plurality of straps at the selected interval.

45. A recreational device as substantially described and illustrated herein with reference to the attached description and drawings.

6. A method of providing a recreational activity as substantially described and illustrated herein by reference to the attached description and drawings.