WO2015070932A1

WO2015070932A1 - Amusement ride

Info

Publication number: WO2015070932A1
Application number: PCT/EP2013/074107
Authority: WO
Inventors: Antonio Zamperla
Original assignee: Antonio Zamperla S.P.A.
Priority date: 2013-11-18
Filing date: 2013-11-18
Publication date: 2015-05-21

Abstract

An amusement ride (1) comprising one or more vehicles (5) for accommodating one or more passengers and at least one motor (M) to move the vehicles (5) along a path on the ground, or on the water, is disclosed. The at least one vehicle (5) is constrained to at least one oscillating arm (10) rotatable about a rotation axis (B) that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (10') of said arm (10), and the vehicle (5) is constrained to the oscillating arm (10) in a position at a distance from the rotation axis (B). The amusement ride, and in particular the vehicle, comprises drive means (20) for imparting a force (F) on the vehicle (5) along a direction different from the direction (X) of the velocity vector of said vehicles (5) during the movement along said path, to cause an oscillation of the oscillating arm (10) about the rotation axis (B) for modifying the distance (D) of at least part of said vehicle (5) from the ground, or from the water, on which the at least one vehicle (5) is moved along said path.

Description

"AMUSEMENT RIDE"

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to amusement rides and theme park rides, and in particular to a water amusement ride.

In the ride according to the invention, a plurality of vehicles for accommodating one or more passengers are moved preferably by rotation along a circumferential path and the vehicles are provided with means to impart them a force along a direction different from the direction of rotation, said force resulting in an oscillation at least in a plane perpendicular to the direction of the vehicles. In a preferred embodiment the path is a water path.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Amusement rides and in particular water amusement rides are very popular; park operators and ride producers are therefore seeking to improve the entertainment experience of the passengers of the amusement rides.

There are known in the art water rides of the carousel type wherein a plurality of vehicles provided with one or more seats intended to be occupied by passengers are rotated along a circular path by means of a central driving element connected to a motor.

Document US750472 discloses a water amusement ride, and in particular a water carousel, wherein a plurality of floating vehicles in the shape of boats are rotated along a circular water path. In fact, each vehicle is constrained to an arm that, in turn, is radially constrained to the central driving element connected to a motor.

However, even if these rides are able to simulate the boat movement on water, they are not too attractive for the passengers, in fact they provide limited fun and enjoyment to them.

There are also known rides, such as the amusement ride marketed with the name "Jet Skis", where vehicles, or gondolas, are positioned in the water and are moved along a water path by a plurality of arms carried in rotation by a hub around an island where the rotation hub is located. The rotating arms impart to the vehicles centrifugal forces that drive the vehicles outward; the vehicles are provided with fins and a steering wheel to partly control the direction of the vehicles during the ride.

A problem of this and of the known devices is the limited amount of passengers they can house in the vehicles, or gondolas, especially when the ride is a water ride. A further problem is to provide the passengers with improved rides that better simulate real rides on sport vehicles and/or that could provide the passengers with enhanced emotions.

Therefore it is an aim of the present invention to provide an amusement ride, in particular a water amusement ride, suitable to increase the fun and the entertainment experience provided to the passengers, and that is also able to increase the interaction between the passengers during the ride movement.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

These and other aims are achieved by the amusement ride of the invention according to claim 1, further aspects of the present invention are set out in the dependent claims. A further object of the invention is a method according to claim 21.

The water amusement ride according to the present invention comprises one or more vehicles for accommodating one or more passengers and at least one motor to move the vehicles along a path on the ground, or on the water.

The vehicle(s) is constrained to at least one oscillating arm rotatable about a rotation axis that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the oscillating arm, and the vehicle is constrained to the oscillating arm in a position at a distance from the rotation axis.

The amusement ride, and preferably the vehicle, comprises drive means for imparting a force on the vehicle along a direction different from the direction of the velocity vector of the vehicles during the movement along said path, to cause an oscillation of the oscillating arm about the rotation axis for modifying the distance of at least part of the vehicle from the ground, or from the water.

The force imparted on the vehicle is advantageously generated by the interaction of the drive means with the water or with the ground. In fact, during the movement of the vehicles on the ground or on the water, the drive means in the form of one or more fins immersed in the water, or in the form of one or more wheels, allow to impart a force on the vehicles resulting in an oscillation of the oscillating arm, either in a clockwise direction or in a counterclockwise direction.

The oscillation of the oscillating arm is able to modify the distance of the vehicle from the ground, or from the water, so that the experience and sensations transmitted to the passengers can be increased.

Additionally, according to an advantageous aspect of the present invention, the force imparted on the vehicles depends on the interaction of the drive means with the ground or with the water. Moreover, the drive means are preferably operated by the passenger(s) accommodated on the vehicle, by suitable control means, or steering means, such as for example one or more steering handle(s), or foot controlled steering element(s), therefore the interaction of the passenger with the ride can be increased.

In fact, the passengers will be able to modify the movement of the vehicle, and in particular to decide the sense of oscillation of the vehicles, and also the extent of the modification of the distance of the vehicle from the ground, or from the water. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, once the passengers stop exerting a force on the control means for the drive means, the vehicle returns to its original position, possibly with some residual oscillation, under the action of the gravity force.

To this purpose, the vehicle is preferably mounted idle on the supporting arm at least during the part of the ride when interaction of the passengers with the drive means is allowed. Most preferably, the vehicle has an actuator (e.g. a cylinder) or similar moving means that moves the vehicle in a controlled rotation around the said rotation axis to perform some of the steps of the ride, such as loading and unloading of the vehicles; the same actuator can be disengaged from the vehicle to obtain a vehicle mounted idle on a supporting arm in those steps of the ride during which the vehicle should be free to oscillate.

According to a preferred embodiment, the rotation axis of the oscillating arm(s) is parallel, or coincident, to the direction of movement of the vehicles, and in particular to the direction of the velocity vector, of the at least one vehicle during the movement along said path. Therefore, the oscillation of the oscillating arm, and thus also of the vehicle, is carried out in a plane that is substantially perpendicular with respect to the direction of movement of the vehicle along the path.

Additionally, according to an aspect of the invention, the vehicle is pivotally constrained to at least one oscillating arm so as to rotate about a rotation axis, that is preferably parallel to the rotation axis of the oscillating arm. Preferably, the vehicle is pivotally constrained to at least two oscillating arms forming a four-bar linkage, thus causing the modification of the distance of the vehicle with respect to the ground, or to the water, while maintaining the same orientation of the vehicle with respect to the ground, or the water, during its oscillation.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the vehicle contacts the surface, i.e. the ground or the water, through the drive means only; the drive means are normally in contact with the water or the ground, however, during an oscillation the drive means might lose contact and detach from the ground or the water.

According to a preferred embodiment the vehicles are moved along a circular path on the ground, or on the water. For this purpose, the ride according to the invention comprises at least one main arm which is movable about a central rotation axis, and the oscillating arm is pivotally constrained to the main arm. This configuration allows the at least one vehicle to be moved along a substantially circular path due to the rotation movement of the at least one main arm about a central axis that is preferably vertical. According to an aspect of the invention, the amusement ride comprises means for moving the one or more vehicles in at least one loading/unloading position of the passenger(s) on/from the vehicles. The presence of said moving means, advantageously allows carrying out the loading/unloading operation in a safe manner and it is particularly advantageous when the vehicles are moved on the water. In fact, the moving means allow to arrange the vehicles externally from the water path, preferably in correspondence of a platform, for speeding up the loading/unloading procedure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other features, advantages and details appear, by way of example only, in the following detailed description of embodiments, the detailed description referring to the drawings, in which:

• Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the amusement ride according to the invention during its operation;

· Figure 2 is a plan view, from above, of an embodiment of the ride according to the invention; • Figure 3 is a partially sectioned side view of an embodiment of the ride according to the invention taken along the line A- A of Figure 2;

• Figures 4 and 4a show two detailed views, respectively from above and from below, of an embodiment of a vehicle of the amusement ride according to the invention;

• Figure 5 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the amusement ride according to the invention wherein the vehicles are moved in a loading/unloading position (K) of the passengers;

• Figure 6 shows a detailed view of a vehicle in the loading/unloading position (K) according to the detail O of figure 5.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

With reference to the attached figures, the amusement ride 1 according to the invention comprises one or more vehicles (5) for accommodating one or more passengers and at least one motor (M) to move said one or more vehicles (5) along a path on the ground or on the water.

The one or more vehicle(s) 5 are constrained to at least one oscillating arm 10 rotatable about a rotation axis B.

Advantageously, the at least one vehicle comprises drive means 20 for imparting a force F on the vehicles 5 along a direction different from the direction X of the velocity vector of the vehicle 5 during the movement along said path. In other words, during the movement of the vehicles, that according to a preferred embodiment and as also shown in the figures, is a circular path, the vehicles are subjected to a force F causing an oscillation (rotation) of the oscillating arm 10 about the rotation axis B for modifying the distance D of at least part of the vehicle 5 from the ground, or from the water, on which the vehicle 5 is moved.

It has to be noted that according to possible embodiments, the vehicle(s) 5 of the amusement ride 1 can be moved along a path on the water, as for example in the embodiment shown in the figures, or on the ground, or on any other suitable surface. In the following, specific reference will be made to the embodiment in which the vehicles are moved on the water, however, the same disclosure can be applied to other embodiments, not shown in the figures, wherein the vehicles are moved on the ground, or on other surfaces.

According to an exemplary embodiment, in the ride 1 according to the invention, the water is contained in an artificial pool 3, and in general in a water container. It has to be noted that the vehicle(s) 5 intended to accommodate one or more passengers are not floating on the water contained in the water pool 3, in fact, they are constrained to the oscillating arm 10 that is able to suspend the vehicles 5 and to allow the modification of the distance D of the vehicle from the water upon an oscillation (rotation) of the oscillating arm 10.

Preferably, the vehicle contacts the water through the drive means only, i.e. the drive means are normally in contact with the water so that it is easier, during an oscillation, that the drive means lose contact and detach from the water to give a "flying" feeling to the passengers.

However, according to another possible embodiment, the vehicles can be produced so as to have at least one floating portion.

The distance D of the vehicle 5 is measured between a reference point, or a reference surface of the vehicle, preferably arranged in lower part of the vehicle, and the surface of the ground or the surface of the water Ws (see figure 3). According to a possible embodiment, the distance D of the vehicle from the water can be also measured from a predetermined immersed point of the water, i.e. a point arranged below the water surface. In other words the distance of the vehicle can be measured from a predetermined height of the water inside the water container, i.e. from a point below the water surface.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, the distance D between the vehicle and the water is measured between the surface of the water Ws (see the section view of figure 3) and lower supporting bar 5d of the vehicle 5. The distance D is also schematically indicated in the enlarged view of figure 4.

In general, the vehicle 5 is constrained to the oscillating arm 10 in a position at a distance from the rotation axis B, so that they are suspended by the oscillating arm 10 with respect to the ground, or with respect to the water.

To impart a force F to the vehicles 5, at least part of the drive means 20 of the vehicle 5 need to contact the ground or the water, i.e. the drive means need to be at least in part immersed in the water, in order to impart said force F causing the oscillation of the vehicles during their movement along the path.

According to a possible embodiment, at least part of the vehicle is also contacting the ground or the water, in particular, part of the vehicle 5 and more in particular its lower portion can be also immersed in the water.

The water pool 3, and in general the water container, can be completely or at least in part arranged in the ground, or it can be supported on the ground or on a suitable support surface.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, the water pool 3 has a circular shape and a vertical rotation axis A, preferably in the form of central hub 4, is arranged in correspondence of the center portion of the circular pool.

The term "vehicle" is used herein to indicate means that are suitable for accommodating passengers and holding them in a condition of safety; in greater detail, by the term "vehicle" it is meant a structure, preferably equipped with appropriate safety means, for example barriers shaped in such a way as to contain the passenger who is being carried. The vehicle(s) 5 is provided with one or more seats 5a, or any other suitable means to allow the passenger to be accommodated therein. According to another possible embodiment, not shown in the figures, the passenger are accommodated into the vehicle in a standing position.

As shown in the figures, the vehicle(s) 5 comprises a plurality of seat 5a, preferably arranged one next to another, in one or more rows. Obviously the number and the arrangement of the seats 5a on the vehicle 5 can be different, for example depending on the dimension of the amusement ride, the loading capacity, etc.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, the vehicle 5 comprises two supporting bars 5d on which the seats 5a are arranged. The supporting bars 5d can be selected as reference point from which the distance D from the water, or from the ground, is measured (see figures 3 and 4).

According to a preferred embodiment, drive means 20 of the vehicles 5 are operated by a passenger accommodated on the vehicle 5 and are intended to impart a force F on the vehicle causing the oscillation of the oscillating arm 10 about the rotation axis B, in a clockwise direction or in a counterclockwise direction, depending on the interaction of said drive means 20 with the ground, or with the water, caused by the passenger.

The drive means 20 comprise at least one wheel contacting the ground, or at least one fin at least in part immersed in the water, as for example in the embodiment shown in the figures (see in particular the enlarged views of the vehicle in figures 4, 4a).

The one or more fins 20 are preferably arranged with its extension substantially parallel to the direction of movement, and in particular to the direction of the vector velocity X, of the vehicles during the movement along the path. The expression "substantially parallel" is used to indicate that according possible embodiments a slight inclination from the parallel condition can be also used.

Additionally, as mentioned above, the drive means 20 can be operated by the passenger, or by a control unit so as to provide an automatic control, to impart said force F on the vehicle.

In this regard, according to an aspect of the invention, the drive means 20 are rotatable about an axis C that is substantially perpendicular with respect to the direction of movement, and in particular with respect to the direction of the velocity vector X, of the vehicle during the movement along the path. The expression "substantially perpendicular" is used to indicate that a slight inclination with respect to the perpendicular condition can be also used.

It has to be noted that in general rotation axis C (visible in the enlarged views of figures 4, 4a) of the drive means 20 can be arranged to lie on a plane perpendicular to the ground, or to the water surface.

Preferably, the rotation axis C of the fin 20 is arranged in a central position along the extension of the fin 20 (see in particular the enlarged view from below of figure 4a). The position of the rotation axis C at a central point along its extension allows to minimize the resistance when, during the oscillation of the vehicles, the movement of the vehicle causes the fin to be moved outside the water and then to be re- immersed into it, due to the oscillation movement of the oscillating arm about rotation axis B.

Obviously, depending on the rotation of the drive means, for example of the fin or of the wheel, about the rotation axis C, a force will be imparted to the vehicle causing a change of the direction of movement. In general, a lateral movement with respect to the original direction of movement is caused by the force generated by the drive means 20. According to a preferred embodiment, the force F imparted by the drive means 20 acts laterally with respect to the direction of movement, and in particular with respect to the direction of the velocity vector X, of the movement of the vehicle along the path.

For example, in the preferred embodiment wherein the movement of the vehicles along the path is circular, the direction of the velocity vector X is tangential to the circumference representing the path along which the vehicles are moved. In general, the force F is substantially directed laterally with respect to the direction of the of the velocity vector X, and substantially corresponds to a centrifugal or a centripetal force (see in particular the perspective view of figure 1). Therefore, an oscillation of the oscillating arm 10, and also of the vehicle 5 constrained thereto, can be obtained, thus increasing the sensations transmitted to the passengers.

In the attached figures, the force F is schematically shown arranged along a radial direction with respect to the axis of rotation A about which the vehicles are moved along the circular path. This is only a schematic and not limiting representation of the force to indicate lateral movement along radial direction of the vehicles 5 due to the oscillation of the oscillating arm 10.

The operation of the drive means 20 carried out by one or more passenger can be obtained in different ways. For example suitable control means 21 can be provided to be operated by one or more passengers present on the vehicle 5. According to exemplary embodiments, the control means 21 can be in the form of a hand controlled element (i.e. one or more handles) or in the form of a foot controlled element, as in the embodiment shown in the figures. The handle, or the foot controlled element 21, can be for example rotated about an axis, and the rotation movement is transmitted to the drive means 20 by a suitable kinematic linkage 22, for example in the form of a rigid bar connection.

Notwithstanding this, different ways of movement of the control means 21 can be provided and also different connections between the control means 21 and the drive means 20 can be also provided.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, and in particular as visible in the enlarged views of figures 4 and 4a, the foot controlled elements 21 are connected to the drive means 20 by a linkage 22, so that the foot controlled element rotates in the same way, and the rotation of the foot controlled elements 21 is transmitted to the drive means 20. In the embodiment shown in the figures, two drive means, and in particular two fins 20 are provided, and they are able to be rotated about the axis C upon a rotation of the foot controlled element 21.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, each passenger is provided with control means 21 (i.e. the foot controlled element) of the drive means 20, however a different numbers of the control means 21 can be provided. The foot controlled elements of each vehicle are connected together so that the two fins are rotated and moved together in the same direction.

Advantageously, the amusement ride according to the invention allows a modification of the distance D of the vehicle from the ground or from the water, upon the action of the force F imparted by the drive means 20 and thanks to the presence of the oscillating arms. Therefore the passenger(s) of the vehicle is able to modify the direction of moment of the vehicle during the movement along the path, and also to raise at least part of the vehicle with respect to the ground or with respect to the water. By doing so, a simulation for example of a kite surf ride can be obtained.

In the figures 1 - 3 herewith attached, some vehicles 5 are shown in a raised position with respect to the water, upon the oscillation of the oscillating arm 10 in a counterclockwise direction about the rotation axis B, and some vehicles 5 are shown the raised position reached upon the oscillation in the clockwise direction about the rotation axis B.

Obviously, the direction of rotation of the oscillating arm 10 about the rotation axis B is determined by the orientation of the force F imparted on the vehicles and therefore it is determined by the interaction of the drive means 20 with respect to the ground or the water, and in particular depending on the direction of rotation of the drive means 20 about the rotation axis C.

The modification of the distance D, and in particular the raised condition of the vehicle with respect to the ground or with respect to the water), is visible for example in the section view of figure 3, wherein the vehicles at left side and at the right side are shown at distance D' that is greater than the distance D of the vehicle 5 from the ground or water when no force F is imparted on the vehicles by the drive means 20. This position is shown for example in figure 3 wherein the vehicle 5 close to the vertical axis A in the right side of the amusement ride is not subjected to force F caused by the interaction of drive means 20 with the water or with the ground.

In general, the modification of the distance D of at least part of the vehicle 5 with respect to the ground, or with respect to the water, is measured from the position of the vehicles when the drive means 20 are not activated and no force F is applied on the vehicles. Therefore the distance D of the vehicle from the ground or water in this condition is determined by the length of the oscillating arm 10 that is directed vertically due to gravity force.

Preferably, the oscillating arm 10 is freely rotatable about the rotation axis B. It has to be noted that oscillating arm 10 is provided with a longitudinal axis 10' and the rotation axis B is substantially perpendicular with respect to the longitudinal axis 10' of the arm 10. In other words, the oscillating arm can oscillate (rotate) about said rotation axis B in a plane that is perpendicular to the rotation axis B. Also in this case, the expression "substantially perpendicular" is used to indicate that a slight inclination can be also provided.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the rotation axis B of the at least one oscillating arm 10 lies on a plane P that is substantially parallel to the ground or to the water on which the vehicles are moved. Therefore, the vehicles constrained to the oscillating arm 10 are arranged in a pendulum fashion, and the oscillation about the rotation axis B depends on the lateral force F applied to the vehicle 5 upon the activation of said drive means 20 by the passenger, and in particular due to the interaction of the drive means 20 with the ground or with the water and to the presence of the oscillating arms.

According to a possible embodiment, and as also shown in the figures, the rotation axis B is arranged at one end of the oscillating arm 10 and the vehicle is substantially constrained to another end of the oscillating arm, however different configurations can be provided.

In any case, the vehicle is preferably constrained to the oscillating arm 10 at distance with respect to the rotation axis B and the constraint point of the vehicle to the arm is preferably arranged below the rotation axis B. In other words, the constraint point of the vehicle 5 to the oscillating arm 10 is preferably arranged between the ground, or water, and the rotation axis B of the oscillating arm 10. By doing so, the oscillating arm 10, and also the vehicle 5, are directed towards the ground or the water, i.e. they are vertically arranged due to the gravity force.

Preferably, the vehicle 5 is pivotally constrained to the at least one oscillating arm 10, so as it can rotate about a rotation axis B', that is preferably parallel to the rotation axis B of the oscillating arm 10.

According to a preferred embodiment, as also shown in the figures, the vehicle 5 is constrained to at least two oscillating arms 10 forming a four-bar linkage, i.e. an articulated quadrilateral linkage. Preferably, one oscillating arm 10 is constrained at one side of the vehicle 5b and the second oscillating arm 10 is constrained to the opposite side of the 5 c of the vehicle 5.

In this case, the vehicle 5 is oscillated in such a way that all the parts of the vehicles are maintained at the same distance D from the ground, or from the water.

In the embodiment show in the figures, the row of seats 5a is maintained parallel to the water during the oscillation of the oscillating arm 10 about the rotation axis B, and thus during the modification of the distance of the vehicle from the water.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, two pairs of oscillating arms are constrained to two different opposite sides 5b, 5c of the vehicle. The two oscillating arms 10 of each pair are rotatable about the same axis of rotation B, and also about the same rotation axis B' with respect to the vehicle. The rotation axis B, B' of the oscillating arms 10 constrained to the same vehicles are preferably arranged parallel to one another.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the rotation axis B of the oscillating arm 10 is parallel, or coincident, to the direction of the velocity vector X of the vehicle 5 during the movement along the path. The force F imparted by the drive means, preferably causes an oscillation of the oscillating arm 10 in a plane that is perpendicular with respect to the direction of movement, and in particular with respect to the direction of the velocity vector X, of the vehicle. The plane of oscillation of the vehicle is also perpendicular to the rotation axis B, and also to the rotation axis B'.

According to a preferred embodiment, and as shown in the attached figures, the vehicle 5 of the ride 1 is moved along a circular path on the ground or on the water. In particular, the amusement ride 1 further comprises at least one main arm 2 which is movable by means of said at least one motor M about a central rotation axis A, that is preferably vertical, and the at least one oscillating arm 10 is pivotally constrained to the main arm 2. Therefore, at least one vehicle 5 is moved along the path by the main arm 2 because the vehicle is constrained to the main arm by means of the oscillating arm 10. The main arm 2 is provided with a longitudinal axis 2' and the main arm 2 is constrained to the vertical axis A in such a way that the longitudinal axis 2' is substantially perpendicular with respect to central rotation axis A.

It has to be noted that the central rotation axis A can be provided in the form of a central hub 4 to which the main arms 2 are constrained. The main arms 2 can be constrained to central hub 4 so that they can be rotated by means of the motor M with respect to the central hub 4, or according to another possible embodiment, the main arms 2 can be fixed to the central hub 4 and also the central hub is rotated about the central axis A. More in detail, the central hub 4 to which at least one arm 5 is constrained, is rotated about a substantially vertical rotation axis A. The expression "substantially vertical" is used to indicate that the inclination of the axis of rotation A with respect to the ground, or a generic horizontal plane, can be slightly inclined and preferably comprised between +15° and -15°. More preferably the axis of rotation A is perpendicular to the ground as, for example in the embodiment shown in the figures.

Preferably, the main arms 2 extend radially from the central rotation axis A and are moved by means of the motor M along a circular path in a plane that is substantially parallel to the ground or to the water on which the one or more vehicles 5 are moved. Preferably, the rotation axis B of the oscillating arm 10 lies on a plane P that is correspondent to, or parallel to, the plane along which the main arms 2 are moved (see figure 3).

As mentioned above, the main arm 2 has a longitudinal axis 2' and said at least one oscillating arm 10 is pivotally constrained to said main arm 2 so as the axis of rotation B of said at least one oscillating arm 10 is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 2' of said main arm 2.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, eight main arms 2 are constrained to the central hub 4, and one vehicle 5 is constrained to the main arm 2 by means of the oscillating arm 10. However, the number of main arms 2 and the number of the vehicle constrained to it can be varied according to possible embodiments of the amusement ride.

According to an aspect of the invention, the amusement ride comprises means 50, 51 for moving the one or more vehicles 5 in at least one loading and/or unloading position K (shown in the figures 5 and 6). In said position K, the passengers can be embarked/disembarked (loaded/unloaded) on/from the vehicles 5. It has to be noted that the provision of a position K for loading/unloading the passenger is particularly advantageous in case the vehicles are moved on the water and therefore there is the need to provide an easy access to them.

Notwithstanding this, also in the case the vehicles are moved on the ground it could be necessary to provide at least one loading/unloading position of the vehicles.

Additionally, it is particularly advantageous to provide a single position to load and to unload passenger on/from the vehicles 5, however, different positions, one intended for the passenger loading phase, and another intended for the passenger unloading phase, can be also provided.

According to a preferred embodiment, in the loading and/or unloading position K of the passenger, the vehicle(s) 5 is placed in correspondence of a platform 55, to carry out the loading/unloading operations.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, see in particular figures 5 and 6, a platform 55 is arranged along the perimeter of the pool 3 intended to contain the water. The platform 55 is annular shaped, however this shape is presented only with exemplary purposes and it is not limitative.

In general, the platform 55 can be arranged laterally with respect to the path along which the vehicles 5 are moved. The platform 55 can be also arranged in a raised position with respect to the water surface.

Therefore in the at least one loading and/or unloading position K, the least one vehicle 5 is arranged laterally with respect to the path along which the vehicle 5 is moved and/or the at least one vehicle 5 is distanced from the ground, or from the water. The movement intended to displace laterally the vehicles with respect to the path and/or intended to distance the vehicle from the ground, or from the water, is carried out by said moving means 50, 51.

In other words, suitable moving means 50, 51 can be used to raise and/or to translate laterally vehicles 5. Obviously, the moving means 50, 51 can act directly on the vehicles 5, or on the oscillating arms 10, as for example in the embodiment shown in the figures.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the means 50, 51 for moving the one or more vehicles 5 in at least one loading/unloading position K comprise at least one actuator 50 intended to rotate the at least one oscillating arm 10 about the rotation axis B.

The movement of the oscillating arm 10 causes the modification of the distance D of the vehicle from the ground, or from the water, and also it causes a laterally movement of the vehicles with respect to the path along which they are moved, and in general with respect to a vertical position of the oscillating arm 10.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, one pneumatic actuator 50 is constrained to oscillating arm 10 and to a connection element 50a, intended to connect the two oscillating arms 10 constrained at two sides of the vehicles 5. As shown in figure 6, the retraction of the pneumatic actuator 50 causes the rotation of the oscillating arm 10 about the rotation axis B and, therefore the vehicles is moved laterally and it is also raised from the ground or from the water.

During the operation of the amusement ride, when the vehicles are moved along the path, the actuator 50 does not act on the oscillating arms (i.e. the actuator is neutral with respect to the oscillation movement of the oscillating arm), so that the oscillating arm 10 is mounted idle on the arm and can be freely rotated about the rotation axis B depending on the force F imparted to the vehicles by drive means 20.

In particular, after loading the passengers, during the ride, the valves of the pneumatic actuator 50 are opened, therefore the piston can be freely moved inside the cylinder of the actuator 50 without preventing the oscillation of the vehicle.

The means 50, 51 for moving the one or more vehicles 5 can comprise at least one actuator 51 to laterally move the at least one oscillating arm 10. In particular the actuator 51 is able to move the oscillating arm 10, and in particular the rotation axis B, along the main arm 2.

The provision of an actuator 51 intended to move laterally the oscillating arm 10 allows to move the vehicle into the loading/unloading position K, wherein it is arranged laterally with respect to the path of movement of the vehicle during the ride operation. The use of the actuator 51 to laterally move oscillating arm 10 can be for example used in case the rotation of the oscillating arm 10 by means of the actuator 50 is not sufficient to move laterally the vehicle, of the desired extent, necessary to reach a safe position in correspondence of the platform 55.

To allow the lateral movement of the oscillating arm 10, the latter is preferably constrained in a movable manner on the main arm 2. In other words, the oscillating arm 10 can be also displaced, preferably in correspondence of the rotation axis B, along the main arm 2 by means of the at least one actuator 51.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, as visible in the enlarged view of figure 6, the oscillating arm 10 is movable along the main arm 2 by means of wheels 51a which are movable along a guide 51b.

However, different means suitable to allow the movement of the oscillating arm 10 with respect to the main arm 2 can be used.

During the use of the amusement ride, the actuator 50 is retracted so that the oscillating arm can be arranged in a position such that the vehicles can be moved along the desired path on the water, or on the ground. The actuator 51 is blocked in such a way that the oscillating arm 10, and in particular the rotation axis B with respect to the main arm 2, is not laterally displaced during the rotation of the main arms 2 about the vertical axis A.

In use the amusement ride according to the invention is initially arranged in a loading position K, thus allowing the loading of the passenger(s) on the vehicles 5.

In this position, shown in figures 5 and 6, the vehicles 5 are arranged laterally with respect to the path along which they are moved, and in particular they are externally arranged with respect to the water in correspondence of the platform 55.

Additionally, the vehicles 5 are also arranged at distance from the water, i.e. the vehicles 5 are raised with respect to the water surface Ws.

In detail, the moving means 50, 51 are operated to move the vehicles 5 in said loading position K. In particular, the vehicle 5 is moved laterally and raised from the water by the retraction of the actuator 50 and the extension of the actuator 51 , so as to arrange the vehicles in correspondence of the platform 55.

When the loading operations are terminated, the vehicles 5 are arranged in correspondence of the water path, the actuator 51 is retracted and the actuator 50 is deactivated to be neutral, for example by opening the valves of the actuator 50, so that the oscillating arm 10 can be freely rotatable about the rotation axis B.

During the rotation of the main arm 2 about the central axis A, the vehicles are rotated along a circular path on the water and the direction of the velocity vector X is tangent to the circular path of movement.

During the movement the vehicles 5, they are subjected to the centrifugal force and the drive means 20 are used to impart a force F on the vehicles.

The force F imparted by the drive means 20 act laterally with respect to the direction of movement and is schematically shown in the figures with a vector that is perpendicular with respect to the direction of movement, i.e. perpendicular with respect to the direction of the velocity vector X of the vehicles that are rotating along the circular path.

In fact, the oscillating arm 10 rotates about a rotation axis B that is tangent to the circular path along which the vehicles are moved (the rotation axis is coincident or parallel to the direction of the velocity vector X), and in particular the rotation axis B is perpendicular with respect to the longitudinal axis 2' of the main arm 2.

Therefore, the interaction of the drive means 20 operated by the passengers, with the water, imparts a force F that is laterally arranged with respect to the direction of movement. More in detail, the force F generated by the interaction of the drive means 20 with the ground or with the water is a lateral force,. Therefore the oscillation of the oscillating arm 10 about the rotation axis B is determined by the resultant lateral force acting on the vehicle.

By doing so, the passenger on the vehicle 5 acting on the control means 21, and in particular by acting on the foot controlled element 21, modifies the interaction of the drive means 20 with respect to the water. Therefore, the passengers are able to move the vehicles in order to modify the distance D between the vehicle and the water, i.e. the position of the vehicle, and of the fins, with respect to the water, thus providing a movement wherein the vehicles can be raised outside the water, (above the water surface Ws), and then returned to a partially immersed condition, i.e. where the fins are again immersed.

When the rotation movement of the main arms 2 is stopped, the vehicles are arranged in correspondence of the platform 55 in the unloading position K. In particular, the actuator 51 is extended to move laterally the oscillating arm 10 and in particular the rotation axis B of arm 10. Additionally, the actuator 50 is retracted to cause a controlled rotation of the oscillating arm 10 about the rotation axis B able to laterally move the vehicle with respect to a vertical condition, and also able to raise the vehicle above the water.

It should be noted that the exemplary embodiments disclosed above are only examples, and are not limiting the scope or the configuration of the amusement ride according to the present invention.

Obviously, various changes may be carried out without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, a further combined embodiment wherein the vehicles are moved on the water but the drive means, for example in the form of one or wheels, interact with a surface of the water container, or with the ground, can be used.

Claims

An amusement ride (1) comprising one or more vehicles (5) for accommodating one or more passengers and at least one motor (M) to move said one or more vehicles (5) along a path on the ground or on the water, characterized in that said at least one vehicle (5) is constrained to at least one oscillating arm (10) rotatable about a rotation axis (B) that preferably is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (10') of said oscillating arm (10), said vehicle (5) being constrained to said oscillating arm (10) in a position at a distance from the rotation axis (B), and in that said at least one vehicle (5) comprises drive means (20) for imparting a force (F) to said one or more vehicles (5) along a direction different from the direction (X) of the velocity vector of said vehicles (5) during the movement along said path, to cause an oscillation of said oscillating arm (10) about said rotation axis (B) for modifying the distance (D) of at least part of said vehicle (5) from the ground, or from the water, on which the at least one vehicle (5) is moved along said path.

An amusement ride according to claim 1, characterized in that said force (F) to cause an oscillation of said oscillating arm (10) about said rotation axis (B) for modifying the distance (D) of the said vehicle (5) from the ground or from the water is generated by the interaction of said drive means (20) of the vehicle (5) with the ground or with the water.

An amusement ride according to claim 2, wherein said drive means (20) comprise at least one wheel contacting the ground, or at least one fin at least in part immersed in the water.

An amusement ride according to any previous claim, wherein said drive means are rotatable about an axis (C) substantially perpendicular with respect to the direction of movement of said one or more vehicles (5) along said path.

An amusement ride according to any previous claim, wherein said oscillating arm (10) is freely rotatable about said rotation axis (B).

An amusement ride according to any previous claim, wherein said rotation axis (B) of the at least one oscillating arm (10) lies on a plane (P) that is substantially parallel to the ground, or to the water, on which said vehicles (5) are moved.

7. An amusement ride according to any previous claim, wherein said rotation axis (B) of the at least one oscillating arm (10) is parallel, or coincident, to said direction of the velocity vector (X) of said at least one vehicle (5) during the movement along said path.

8. An amusement ride according to any previous claim, wherein said vehicle (5) is pivotally constrained to said at least one oscillating arm (10) to rotate about a rotation axis (Β'), preferably parallel to said rotation axis (B) of said at least one oscillating arm (10).

9. An amusement ride according to any previous claim, wherein said at least one vehicle (5) is pivotally constrained to at least two oscillating arms (10) forming a four-bar linkage.

10. An amusement ride (1) according to any previous claim, wherein said at least one vehicle (5) is moved along a circular path on said ground or on said water.

11. An amusement ride according to any previous claim, further comprising at least one main arm (2) which is movable by means of said at least one motor (M) about a central rotation axis (A), said at least one oscillating arm (10) being pivotally constrained to said main arm (2).

12. An amusement ride according to claim 11, wherein said at least one main arm (2) extends radially from said central rotation axis (A) and is moved by means of said motor (M) along a circular path in a plane that is substantially parallel to the ground, or to the water, on or over which said one or more vehicles (5) are moved.

13. An amusement ride according to claim 11 or 12, wherein said at least one main arm (2) has a longitudinal axis (2') and said at least one oscillating arm (10) is pivotally constrained to said main arm (2) so as the axis of rotation (B) of said at least one oscillating arm (10) is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (2') of said main arm (2).

14. An amusement ride according to any previous claim, comprising means (50, 51) for moving said one or more vehicles (5) in at least one loading/unloading position (K) of said one or more passengers on/from said vehicles (5).

15. An amusement ride according to claim 14, wherein in said loading/unloading position (K), said at least one vehicle (5) is placed in correspondence of a platform (55).

16. An amusement ride according to claim 14 or 15, wherein in said at least one loading/unloading position (K) said at least one vehicle (5) is arranged laterally with respect to the path along which said vehicle (5) is moved and/or said at least one vehicle (5) is distanced from the ground or from the water by said moving means (50, 51).

17. An amusement ride according to any claim 14 to 16, wherein said means (50, 51) for moving said one or more vehicles (5) in at least one loading/unloading position (K) comprises at least one actuator (50) to rotate said at least one oscillating arm (10) about said rotation axis (B).

18. An amusement ride according to any claim 14 to 17, wherein said means (50, 51) for moving said one or more vehicles (5) in at least one loading/unloading position (K) comprises at least one actuator (51) to laterally move said at least one oscillating arm (10).

19. An amusement ride according to any previous claim, wherein the distance (D) between the vehicle (5) and the water, or the ground, is measured from the ground or water surface (Ws) and at least one reference point, or reference surface (5d) of the vehicle (5).

20. An amusement ride according to any previous claim, wherein said force (F) imparted by said drive means (20) to said at least one vehicle (5) is directed laterally with respect to the direction of movement of said vehicle (5) along said path.

21. A method of moving a vehicle (5) of an amusement ride according to any previous claim, wherein said vehicle has drive means (20) to interact with ground or water along a path, characterized in that said drive means (20) are controlled and the direction of said drive means is changed for imparting a force (F) to said one or more vehicles (5) along a direction different from the direction (X) of the velocity vector of said vehicles (5) during the movement along said path, so as to cause an oscillation of said vehicle about at least one rotation axis

(B) for modifying the distance (D) of at least part of said vehicle (5) from the ground, or from the water, on which the at least one vehicle (5) is moved along said path.

22. A method according to claim 21, wherein said drive means (20) are at least one fin and said path is along and over water where said fins are immersed.

23. A method according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the distance of said vehicle (5) from the ground or water is increased to an extent such that said drive means (20) are no longer in contact with said ground or water.