RIDE VEHICLE FOR A RECREATIONAL SLIDE

A ride vehicle that is configured to support a rider down a non-wet lubricated recreational slide is provided. The ride vehicle includes an elongate body with a flexible central core positioned between a top surface of the ride vehicle and at least one layer that includes one or more projections. The top surface may include at least on handle for gripping by a rider. The at least one layer forms a bottom surface of the ride vehicle that is configured to contact the non-wet lubricated recreational slide. A coefficient of friction between the at least one layer of the ride vehicle and the non-wet lubricated slide surface is within a range of between about 0.03 to about 0.2.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to recreational slides and, more particularly, to a ride vehicle for use with a dry recreational slide.

BACKGROUND

Recreational slides, such as dry slides and water slides, provide a popular form of entertainment activity. In that regard, conventional dry or water slides include a slide surface down which a rider descends (i.e., slides) for entertainment. The speed at which the rider descends down the slide is often determinative of the level of entertainment experienced by the rider. For most riders, a fast slide speed (i.e., a fast rate of descent down the slide) is more thrilling compared to a slow slide speed (i.e., a slow rate of descent down the slide), and therefore is more desirable.

There is a notable difference in slide speed between a water slide and a conventional dry slide. In particular, water slides are typically faster compared to same-sized dry slides as a result of water flow down the slide surface, which in some cases can propel the rider down the slide. Further, the water flow lubricates the slide surface which reduces the coefficient of friction between the rider, or a ride vehicle being used, and the slide surface.

A dry slide is considered to be any slide that is free of any fluid or wet lubricant flowing down the slide surface and between a rider and the slide surface. A dry slide, as a result of not having a flow of lubricant down the slide surface, may not generate the same slide speed as a same-sized water slide. Furthermore, dry slides are often indoor installations so that they can be used year-round. To that end, height restrictions imposed by the ceiling of a building in which the slide is installed necessitate slides having a shorter height, which can further limit the slide speed of a rider.

In view of the above, an object of the invention is to provide a ride vehicle for use with a dry recreational slide to improve the speed at which a rider supported by the ride vehicle descends down the slide.

SUMMARY

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a ride vehicle configured to support a rider down a non-wet lubricated recreational slide is provided. The ride vehicle includes an elongate body that extends between a first end and an opposite second end. The body includes a flexible central core that is positioned between a top surface of the ride vehicle and at least one layer that forms a bottom surface of the ride vehicle. The at least one layer includes one or more projections that are configured to contact the non-wet lubricated recreational slide. The ride vehicle may include at least one handle attached to the top surface of the ride vehicle.

According to one aspect of the invention, the at least one layer may comprise a unitary sheet of material. For example, the unitary sheet of material may be a polymeric film. In that regard, the at least one layer may comprise one or more of the following: polyethylene terephthalate; polyethylene; ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene; high-density polyethylene; and Nylon. In another aspect, the at least one layer may comprise a composite layer that includes a substrate layer and a layer with the one or more projections. For example, the layer that includes the one or more projections may be a polymeric film.

In yet another aspect of the invention, the at least one layer may include a generally planar outer surface from which the one or more projections project. For example, the one or more projections may comprise a plurality of projections evenly distributed in an array across the at least one layer. In another aspect, the plurality of projections may be spaced apart from one another in a longitudinal direction and/or a lateral direction to define the array. In one aspect, the one or more projections may comprise a plurality of rounded protrusions. In another aspect, one or more projections may comprise a plurality of pointed protrusions. In yet another aspect, the one or more projections may comprise a plurality of raised elements that are organic in shape.

In yet another aspect of the invention, the one or more projections may comprise a plurality of ridges. For instance, each of the plurality of ridges may extend in a straight path in a longitudinal direction between the first end and the second end of the elongate body of the ride vehicle. Alternatively, each of the plurality of ridges may extend in a sinuous path in a longitudinal direction between the first end and the second end of the elongate body of the ride vehicle. In another aspect, the plurality of ridges may be arranged in parallel.

In another aspect of the invention, the one or more projections may define a projection area of the at least one layer. The projection area may be within a range of between about 10% to about 50% of a total surface area of an outer surface of the at least one layer. For example, the projection area may be within a range of about 50% of a total surface area of the outer surface of the at least one layer. For example, the projection area may be within a range of about 35% of a total surface area of the outer surface of the at least one layer.

According to another aspect of the invention, the ride vehicle may include a carrying handle attached to the top surface of the ride vehicle. The carrying handle may be located in a central region between the first end and the second end of the elongate body of the ride vehicle. For example, when lifted by the carrying handle, the ride vehicle may be configured to fold along a fold edge for carrying. In that regard, the fold edge may be formed in the central region. In another aspect, the carrying handle may be located adjacent the fold edge.

According to one aspect of the invention, the ride vehicle may include a fabric layer that defines the top surface of the ride vehicle. The fabric layer may be neoprene, for example. In another aspect, the at least one layer and the fabric layer may be coupled together to enclose the central core within a cavity formed between the at least one layer and the fabric layer. To that end, the at least one layer and the fabric layer may be stitched together about a periphery of the elongate body of the ride vehicle. In another aspect, the central core may be surrounded by a fabric liner that is positioned between the central core and the fabric layer and the at least one layer.

According to another embodiment of the invention, a recreational slide system is provided. The recreational slide system includes the ride vehicle of any embodiment described above and a slide. The slide includes a slide body with a non-wet lubricated slide surface that extends between a top entrance of the slide and a bottom exit of the slide. A coefficient of friction between the at least one layer of the ride vehicle and the non-wet lubricated slide surface is within a range of between about 0.03 to about 0.2. According to one aspect of the invention, the coefficient of friction may be kinetic coefficient of friction.

Various additional features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the following detailed description of one or more illustrative embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a ride vehicle for use with a dry recreational slide, otherwise referred to as a non-wet lubricated slide. Together, the ride vehicle and the slide form a slide system. The ride vehicle is configured to support a rider traveling or descending down the slide and includes a bottom surface, formed by at least one layer of material, that is configured to be positioned between the rider and the slide surface for sliding down the slide. In one embodiment, the at least one layer, otherwise referred to as an underside layer, may be formed of a unitary sheet and/or film of material that includes one or more regular or irregular-shaped projections. These projections are configured to extend outwardly from the underside of the ride vehicle in a direction toward the slide surface to provide the bottom surface of the ride vehicle with a textured or embossed configuration for improved sliding performance.

The projections are configured to interact with the slide surface, resulting in a reduced coefficient of friction between the bottom surface of the ride vehicle and surfaces of the slide compared to a ride vehicle without projections on its underside, for example. That is, the projections reduce the effective surface contact area between the ride vehicle and the slide surface, and further channel airflow between the slide surface and the ride vehicle, both of which contribute to the reduced coefficient of friction therebetween. As a result, the rider is provided with an improved (i.e., fast) rate of descent down the slide. As the rider descends down the slide on the ride vehicle, the bottom surface of the ride vehicle, and in particular the projections, is in contact with the slide surface such that a coefficient of friction at interfaces between surfaces of the bottom surface of the ride vehicle and the slide surface is within a range of between about 0.03 to about 0.2, depending on factors such as a weight of the rider, for example. As used herein relative to the coefficient of friction, “about” is intended to mean +/−10%. These and other aspects of the present invention will be described in further detail below.

As will be understood by a person skilled in the art, the coefficient of friction between the bottom surface of the ride vehicle and the slide surface is the ratio of the frictional force between two surfaces to the normal force pressing the surfaces together. That is, Coefficient of Friction (μ)=Force of Friction (F)/Normal Force (N). The coefficient of friction between the bottom surface of the ride vehicle and the slide surface may be described in terms of both the static and kinetic coefficients of friction.

The coefficient of friction between surfaces of the at least one underside layer that forms the bottom surface of the ride vehicle and the slide surface is determined using the American Society for Testing and Materials International (ASTM) Coefficient of Friction ASTM D1894 standard test method (July 2023), which may be used to determine both kinetic (moving) and static (starting) coefficient of friction of one surface being dragged across another. The ASTM D1894 test method can be found at www.astm.org. For the ASTM D1894 test, the material specimen is attached to a sled of defined weight. This sled is pulled across another surface at a speed of 136 mm/minute. The force required to start the sled is measured to get the static friction. The force required to maintain the motion of the sled is measured to get the kinetic friction.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 1 illustrates a slide system 10 including an exemplary non-wet lubricated (i.e., dry lubricated) recreational slide 12 and a ride vehicle 14 configured to be positioned between a rider and slide surfaces of the slide 12 for sliding down the slide 12. In that regard, the slide 12 includes a slide body 16 that defines a slide surface 18. The exemplary slide body 16 is pre-formed or molded to have a fixed shape and may be formed of a fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP), such as fiberglass, for example. However, the slide body 16 may be formed of other suitable materials such as Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE), High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), or other type of moldable thermoplastic material, for example. The slide body 16 may further include a dry lubricant material to improve the lubricity of the slide surface 18, such as the coating described in application Ser. No. 18/349,347 (owned by the Assignee of the present disclosure), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

By non-wet lubricated, it is meant that the slide body 16, and more particularly the slide surface 18, is free of any fluid or wet lubricant flowing down the slide surface 18 and between the ride vehicle 14 and the slide surface 18. To this end, the recreational slide 12 is not a water slide. However, the slide surface 18 may be periodically conditioned with oil, such as silicone oil, for example, as part of on-going maintenance of the recreational slide 12. While aspects of the present invention are shown and described in the context of a certain type or configuration of slide, it will be understood that the same inventive concepts, and particularly those related to aspects of the ride vehicle 14, may be implemented with different non-wet lubricated slide designs. To this end, the drawings are not intended to be limiting.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, the slide 12 includes the slide body 16 which extends between a top entrance 20 of the slide 12 to an opposite bottom exit 22 to define a length of the slide 12. The slide body 16 forms a chute that is generally defined by a base wall 24 and a pair of opposite sidewalls 26a, 26b. As shown, the base wall 24 generally defines the slide surface 18 down which a rider may slide. The sidewalls 26a, 26b serve to contain the rider within the slide 12 as the rider travels down the slide 12 along the slide surface 18, but may also form part of the slide surface 18. The slide 12 may further include a cover 28 attached to the body 16 of the slide 12 adjacent the top entrance 20. The cover 28 cooperates with the slide body 16 to form a tunnel through which a rider passes as the rider enters the slide 12 at the top entrance 20 and begins to descend down the slide 12. The slide 12 may further include a plurality of supports 30 configured to support the slide 12 above a mount surface to which the supports 30 are attached, such as a cement floor, for example. The slide 12 may also include a mounting flange 32 at the top entrance 20 of the slide 12 that is configured to secure the slide 12 to a ladder or tower structure used by riders to access the slide 12, for example.

In use, a rider enters the slide 12 via the top entrance 20, travels down the slide body 16 along the slide surface 18, and subsequently exits the slide 12 at the bottom exit 22. In particular, the rider rides down the slide 12 on the ride vehicle 14 which is configured to be positioned between the slide surface 18 and the rider. The rider may ride down slide 12 on the ride vehicle 14 on their stomach with their head traveling down the slide 12 first, for example. As will be described in further detail below, the ride vehicle 14 includes at least one underside layer including one or more projections that cooperates with the slide surface 18 to achieve an improved, i.e., reduced, coefficient of friction therebetween compared to a ride vehicle 14 without projections on its underside, for example. As a result of the increased rate of descent down the slide 12, the rider may be launched from the bottom exit 22 of the slide 12 and into the air for aerial play before landing in a designated landing area (i.e., foam pad, inflatable airbag, etc.).

Referring now to FIG. 2, the ride vehicle 14 is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The ride vehicle 14, which may otherwise be referred to as a slide mat or slide board, includes a flexible elongate body 34 that extends between a first end 36 and an opposite second end 38 to define a longitudinal length of the ride vehicle 14. The first end 36 of the body 34 may form the front of the ride vehicle 14, for example. The body 34 further includes a top surface 40 and an opposite bottom surface 42. The top surface 40 is configured to be in contact with a rider and includes a pair of handles 44 at the first end 36 configured to be gripped by the rider. In that regard, the ride vehicle 14 is configured to accommodate a rider lying on their stomach on the top surface 40, with their head positioned at the first end 36 of the ride vehicle 14 to thereby travel head-first down the slide 12 on the ride vehicle 14. The pair of handles 44 may each be a single, continuous length of material that is attached at both ends to the top surface 40 of the ride vehicle 14, such as by stitching, for example. The bottom surface 42 is defined by at least one underside layer 46 of the ride vehicle 14 that is configured to engage the slide surface 18, as will be described in further detail below. In one embodiment, the at least one underside layer 46 forms the bottom surface 42 of the ride vehicle 14, and may form the entirety of the bottom surface 42 of the ride vehicle 14. When not in use, such as in a resting position, the bottom surface 42 of the ride vehicle 14 may be generally flat or planar. However, the ride vehicle 14 is configured to flex from the flat, resting configuration, to conform or adapt to the underlying contours of the slide surface 18, as described in further detail below.

The shape of the body 34 of the ride vehicle 14 is generally defined by a flexible central core 48 that is sandwiched between a top layer 50, which may be formed of fabric, and the at least one underside layer 46. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the central core 48 is generally rectangular in shape. However, the central core 48 and thus the ride vehicle 14 may be formed in other shapes, such as polygonal shapes or circular shapes, for example. The central core 48 may be formed of a flexible material, such as a composite closed cell or open cell foam pad, for example, to provide the ride vehicle 14 with a semi-rigid or flexible configuration, as may be desired. To that end, the flexible central core 48 provides a soft support between the rider and the slide 12 for comfort, but is also flexible to permit the ride vehicle 14 to be folded upon itself for transport, as well as conform to the underlying contours of the slide surface 18, as will be described in further detail below.

The top layer 50 forms the top surface 40 of the ride vehicle 14 and may be formed of a fabric or synthetic material, such as Neoprene, for example, or any other suitable wear-resistant material. As shown in FIG. 2A, the top layer 50 and the underside layer 46 may be coupled together at a seam 52 that extends about a peripheral sidewall 54 of the ride vehicle 14. The seam 52 may extend about the entirety of the peripheral sidewall 54. FIG. 2 does not show the seam 52 to better illustrate the construction of the ride vehicle 14. Returning to FIG. 2A, the top layer 50 and the underside layer 46 may be stitched or bonded together about a periphery of the elongate body 34 of the ride vehicle 14 that is defined by the sidewall 54. In an alternative embodiment, the top layer 50 and the underside layer 46 may be indirectly coupled together, such as via an intermediate connecting member, such as a band of fabric that extends about the sidewall 54 of the ride vehicle 14, for example. In either case, the underside layer 46 and the top layer 50 may be coupled together to enclose the central core 48 within a cavity formed between the underside layer 46 and the top layer 50 of the ride vehicle 14. The central core 48 may have a thickness (i.e., measured along a height of the sidewall 54 of the ride vehicle 14) within a range of about 0.25 inches to about 0.5 inches, for example. The central core 48 may be enclosed or surrounded with a liner 56 (e.g., FIGS. 2A and 3), such as a fabric liner, for increased wear resistance. To this end, the liner 56 is positioned between the central core 48 and the top layer 50 and the underside layer 46.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged schematic perspective view of a section of the ride vehicle 14, illustrating the at least one underside layer 46 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In the embodiment shown, the at least one underside layer 46 is formed of a single sheet of material 58. The sheet of material 58 includes one or more regular or irregular-shaped projections 60 that extend outwardly from the sheet of material 58 and thus the underside of the ride vehicle 14 to engage the slide surface 18 of the slide 12, as will be described in further detail below. The sheet of material 58 may cover the entire underside of the ride vehicle 14, extending generally to, or beyond, each sidewall 54 of the body 34 of the ride vehicle 14, for example. As such, the sheet of material 58 forms the at least one underside layer 46 that defines the bottom surface 42 of the ride vehicle 14 that is configured to be positioned between the rider and the slide surface 18 for sliding down the slide 12. The sheet of material 58 is free of any additional coatings or applied lubricants.

The sheet of material 58 may be coupled to the top layer 50 of the ride vehicle 14 at the seam 52 (e.g., FIG. 2A), as described above. Additionally or alternatively, the sheet of material 58 may be coupled, for example, with adhesive, to the central core 48 or liner 56 of the ride vehicle 14, if used. As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the at least one underside layer 46, and in particular the sheet of material 58 includes a thickness T measured between a generally planar inner surface 59 of the sheet of material 58 that is configured to face the central core 48 and an opposite, generally planar outer surface 61 that includes the one or more projections 60. The thickness of the sheet of material 58 may be about 0.125 inches (3.175 millimeters (mm)), for example.

In the embodiment shown, the sheet of material 58 is a thin, flexible or semi-rigid unitary sheet formed of plastic or polymer, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE), ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), Polyamide (PA or Nylon), Polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PS), Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), Polyethylene glycol (PEG), Polycarbonate (PC), Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), Polyurethane (PU), Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), or other similar engineered plastics and polymers, or combinations thereof, for example. The sheet of material 58 may be formed by extrusion, calendaring, molding, or casting processes, for example.

With reference to FIGS. 3 and 3A, the sheet of material 58 includes one or more regular or irregular-shaped projections 60, alternatively referred to as high reliefs, which provide the ride vehicle 14 with a textured or embossed bottom surface 42. In that regard, the one or more projections 60 extend outwardly from the outer surface 61 of the sheet of material 58, and thus the underside of the ride vehicle 14, and are configured to interact with the slide surface 18, resulting in a reduced coefficient of friction between the bottom surface 42 of the ride vehicle 14 and the surfaces of the slide 12. In particular, the projections 60 generally reduce the surface area of contact between the bottom surface 42 of the ride vehicle 14 and the slide surface 18. This reduction in contact area decreases the friction exerted against the ride vehicle 14 by the slide surface 18, allowing the ride vehicle 14 and rider to descend more rapidly down the slide 12.

As shown in FIG. 3, the one or more projections 60 may comprise a plurality of projections 60 evenly distributed in an array across the outer surface 61 of the sheet of material 58. The plurality of projections 60 are spaced apart from one another in both a longitudinal direction along the sheet of material 58 (i.e., a direction between the first end 36 and the second end 38 of the ride vehicle 14) and in a transverse lateral direction to form the array. The plurality of projections 60 may be arranged in rows and/or columns, for example. Alternatively, the projections 60 may be randomly distributed along the sheet of material 58, distributed in groups along the sheet of material 58, or concentrated in certain areas along the sheet of material 58 such as near the first end 36, second end 38, and/or middle of the ride vehicle 14, for example.

The surface area of the outer surface 61 of the sheet of material 58 may be defined by a projection area and a planar area. In that regard, the one or more projections 60 may collectively define the projection area of the sheet of material 58. The remainder of the outer surface 61 of the sheet of material 58, which lacks projections 60, is generally flat and may define the planar area of the sheet of material 58. In the embodiment shown, the projection area may be within a range of between about 10% to about 90% of the total surface area of the outer surface 61 of the sheet of material 58. For example, the projection area may be within a range of between about 10% to about 70% of the total surface area of the outer surface 61 of the sheet of material 58, or the projection area may be within a range of between about 10% to about 50% of the total surface area of the outer surface 61 of the sheet of material 58. As another example, the projection area may be within a range of about 35% of the total surface area of the outer surface 61 of the sheet of material 58. As another example, the projection area may be within a range of about 50% of the total surface area of the outer surface 61 of the sheet of material 58.

With reference to FIGS. 3 and 3A, each of the one or more projections 60 is in the form of a generally rounded, convex protrusion, or bump, that extends a height from the generally planar outer surface 61 of the sheet of material 58. Each projection 60 is generally spherical in shape, with a rounded contour on all sides, and may be considered a regular shaped projection. In an alternative embodiment, the projections 60 may be pointed or squared-off protrusions instead of rounded protrusions. The transverse cross-sectional shape of each projection 60 may be circular, square, diamond-shaped, or another polygonal or circular shape, for example. FIG. 3B illustrates a diamond-shaped projection 60 that extends from the outer surface 61 of the sheet of material 58 to a generally pointed terminal end or tip 63. The projections 60 may be stretched or lengthened in one direction so as to be longer in the lengthwise or widthwise direction relative to the length of the ride vehicle 14, for example. In any case, the projections 60 project outwardly a height from a generally flat outer surface 61 of the sheet of material 58. The projections may each project a height of about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm, and in some instances up to about 4 mm, or up to about 10 mm, or even greater depending on the application. In the embodiment shown, the projections 60 are solid. However, in an alternative embodiment, the projections 60 may be open-backed (i.e., open to the interior of the ride vehicle 14) and have a generally hollow interior. Regardless, the projections 60 and the sheet of material 58 may be integrally formed as a unitary piece to form the underside layer 46 of the ride vehicle 14.

The sheet of material 58 forms the underside layer 46 of the ride vehicle 14 and is a solid, continuous layer without any perforations, holes, or other openings. The sheet of material 58 has a defined thickness T that provides both durability and flexibility, allowing the sheet of material 58 to conform to the shape and bending characteristics of the underlying flexible core 48 and, in turn, maintain the overall flexibility of the ride vehicle 14. As a result, the ride vehicle 14 is able to conform to the contour of the slide surface 18 during use, causing the sheet of material 58 and thus the bottom surface 42 of the ride vehicle 14 to directly face and travel over the slide surface 18 during use. For example, the ride vehicle 14 is able to flex along the base wall 24 and the pair of opposite sidewalls 26a, 26b while maintaining continuous contact with the slide surface 18, thereby ensuring that the projections 60 remain fully engaged with the slide surface 18 to enhance sliding performance. This configuration ensures that the maximum number of projections 60, and in some cases, all projections 60, are placed in active engagement with the slide surface 18. Flexibility of the ride vehicle 14 in this regard ensures that the projections 60 maintain consistent contact with the slide surface 18 to thereby reduce resistance during sliding movement, resulting in an overall improved sliding performance characterized by lower friction and greater sliding speed down the slide 12. The projections 60 do not inhibit either lateral or forward movement of the ride vehicle 14 along the slide surface 18, allowing the ride vehicle 14 to move smoothly along the slide surface 18, including ascending up the sidewalls 26a, 26b, and descending along the base wall 24, in response to rider motion and slide geometry.

In comparative testing, ride vehicles 14 with projections 60 demonstrated a lower kinetic coefficient of friction than otherwise identical ride vehicles 14 with a solid flat or untextured bottom surface 42, using identical slide 12 materials and rider weights. For example, friction tests modeled in accordance with ASTM D1894 using Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) as the sheet of material 58 with projections 60 and Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) as the slide surface 18 yielded kinetic coefficients of friction in the range of about 0.10 to about 0.14. In contrast, when UHMWPE was used as the sheet of material 58 with projections 60, the measured coefficients were lower, ranging from about 0.03 to about 0.10. Tests performed using fiberglass slide surfaces 18 resulted in slightly higher coefficients of friction, in some cases reaching up to about 0.2. Based on these results, the coefficient of friction between the bottom surface 42 of the ride vehicle 14 and the slide surface 18 according to embodiments of the present invention may generally fall within a range of about 0.03 to about 0.2, more preferably within a range of about 0.03 to about 0.15, and most preferably within a range of about 0.03 to about 0.12. These coefficient of friction values demonstrate an enhanced sliding performance, enabling the rider to achieve a high rate of descent along the slide 12.

Referring now to FIG. 4, where like reference numerals represent like features compared to the embodiment of the ride vehicle 14 described above with respect to FIGS. 1-3B, an enlarged schematic perspective view of a section of the ride vehicle 14 is shown illustrating the at least one underside layer 46 according to another embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the at least one underside layer 46 of the ride vehicle 14 may comprise a laminate or composite layer including a substrate layer and an outer layer applied to the substrate layer. That is, the composite layer includes at least two layers. As shown, the substrate layer is the sheet of material 58, except without the projections 60. That is, the generally planar outer surface 61 of the sheet of material 58 does not include projections 60. In another embodiment, the substrate layer may be formed of other flexible or semi-rigid materials such as cardboard or foam board, for example. The outer layer is in the form of a film 62 applied to the generally planar outer surface 61 of the sheet of material 58. As shown, the film 62 includes the one or more projections 60.

The film 62 may be applied to cover the entire generally planar outer surface 61 of the sheet of material 58, for example. Alternatively, the film 62 may be applied to only portions of the outer surface 61 of the sheet of material 58. In either case, the film 62 may be applied to the sheet of material 58 using an adhesive, for example. In the embodiment shown, the substrate layer (i.e., the sheet of material 58 without projections 60) including the film 62 may be coupled to the top layer 50 at the seam 52. Additionally or alternatively, the sheet of material 58 may be coupled, for example, with adhesive, to the central core 48 or liner 56 of the ride vehicle 14, if used. In either case, the film 62 defines the bottom surface 42 of the ride vehicle 14 that is configured to be positioned between the rider and the slide surface 18 for sliding down the slide 12.

The film 62 may be a plastic or polymeric film, formed of various types of polymers or plastics, such as Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), Polyester (PET), Polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), Polystyrene (PS), Polyamide (PA or Nylon), Polycarbonate (PC), Polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), or Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), for example. The film 62 includes a thickness (e.g., measured as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B) that is less than the thickness T of the substrate layer. The thickness T of the film 62 is 0.25 mm or less, for example. In this regard, per ASTM D883, the term film is defined as a thin, flexible sheet of plastic having a nominal thickness not greater than 0.25 mm (0.010 inch). If the thickness exceeds 0.25 mm, the material is classified as a sheet rather than a film. According to ASTM D883, a sheet is defined as a flat section of plastic material having a nominal thickness greater than 0.25 mm (0.010 inch). The terms sheet and film as used herein align with the definitions provided in ASTM D883.

In an alternative embodiment, the at least one underside layer 46 may comprise the film 62 alone, without the substrate layer, such as the sheet of material 58 without the projections 60 described above. In that regard, the film 62 may be coupled to the top layer 50 at the seam 52 to enclose the central core 48 within a cavity formed between the film 62 (underside layer 46) and the top layer 50 of the ride vehicle 14. Additionally or alternatively, the film 62 may be coupled, for example, with adhesive, to the central core 48 or liner 56, if used.

Turning now with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, where like reference numerals represent like features compared to the embodiments of the ride vehicle 14 described above with respect to FIGS. 1-4, an enlarged schematic perspective view of a section of the ride vehicle 14 is shown illustrating the at least one underside layer 46 according to another embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the configuration of the one or more projections of the at least one underside layer 46 are in the form of one or more ridges 64. With respect to FIGS. 5 and 6, the at least one underside layer 46 may be representative of a sheet of material 58 including the one or more ridges 64, film 62 including the one or more ridges 64, or film 62 including the one or more ridges 64 applied to the sheet of material 58 without the ridges 64.

With reference to FIGS. 5 and 5A, the one or more projections are in the form of ridges 64 that extend in a straight path longitudinally between the first end 36 and the second end 38 of the elongate body 34 of the ride vehicle 14. As best shown in FIG. 5A, each ridge 64 projects outwardly a height from the planar outer surface 61 of the sheet of material 58 or film 62 to a terminal edge 65. The terminal edge 65 of each ridge 64 may be rounded (dull), as shown, or pointed (sharp), for example. Each ridge 64 may be straight along its length, extending continuously in a straight line between the ends 36, 38 of the ride vehicle 14. Each ridge 64 may extend for the entire length of the underside or bottom surface 42 of the ride vehicle 14 between the ends 36 and 38, for example. Alternatively, each ridge 64 may be divided or segmented along its length into a row of multiple individual ridges 64 spaced apart in an end-to-end arrangement between the ends 36 and 38 of the ride vehicle 14. The height of each ridge 64 may be varied along its length, and one or more of the plurality of ridges 64 may have different heights (or lengths). The plurality of ridges 64 may be arranged in parallel rows that extend lengthwise between the ends 36, 38 of the ride vehicle 14.

FIG. 6 illustrates the plurality of ridges 64 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. As shown, each of the plurality of ridges 64 extends in a sinuous or wavy path in a longitudinal direction between the first end 36 and the second end 38 of the elongate body 34 of the ride vehicle 14. That is, each ridge 64 has a wavy profile along its length. Each ridge 64 is not straight along its length but instead includes a series of curves or waves. The wavy profile of each ridge 64 may be regular, with a consistent pattern, or irregular, with a more random pattern. The wavy profile of each ridge 64 may be divided or segmented along its length into multiple individual ridges 64 spaced apart in an end-to-end arrangement between the ends 36, 38 of the ride vehicle 14. In either case, the plurality of ridges 64 may be arranged so as to extend in parallel in a lengthwise direction between the ends 36, 38 of the ride vehicle 14.

In another embodiment, shown in FIG. 7, the one or more projections of the at least one underside layer 46, being the sheet of material 58, may comprise a plurality of randomized undulating projections or raised elements 66. As used herein, random or randomized refers to the intentional configuration and placement of the raised elements 66 in a manner that may appear irregular in shape or arranged in seemingly random patterns. The plurality of projections may be varied, irregularly shaped raised elements 66 arranged on the outer surface 61 of the sheet of material 58 or film 62. No two raised elements 66 may be the same, for example. The plurality of raised elements 66 may not be arranged in a regular pattern or follow a regular shape; instead, the plurality of raised elements 66 may have a random and uneven appearance. In that regard, one or more of the raised elements 66 may include a different height, width, and shape, creating a bottom surface 42 of the ride vehicle 14 that is not flat but rather textured and irregular, resembling a natural or organic form. The raised elements 66 have an organic shape, as illustrated in FIG. 7. Specifically, the raised elements 66 are undulating, with one or more of the raised elements 66 including one or more raised surface portions that create sunken or recessed surface portions therebetween.

The shape, size, and placement of the raised elements 66 may be dictated by anticipated use conditions for the ride vehicle 14, such as the profile of the slide surface 18 and/or slide body 16 with which the ride vehicle 14 is intended to be used, or the expected weight of the rider. For example, on a slide 12 with a steeper incline or tighter curves, the raised elements 66 may be more closely spaced. Similarly, the weight of the rider may influence the configuration of the raised elements 66. A heavier rider may compress the ride vehicle 14 more significantly, increasing contact area and friction. In such cases, taller, wider, or more widely spaced raised elements 66 may be used to reduce drag and maintain a desired sliding speed. Conversely, lighter riders may benefit from shorter or more densely packed raised elements 66. Thus, the profile of the raised elements 66 may be configured to optimize performance and rider experience across different ride scenarios. To that end, the organic shape of the raised elements 66 serves to disrupt laminar flow beneath the ride vehicle 14, helping to reduce suction or drag that would otherwise slow the ride vehicle 14 as it travels down the slide 12.

By “organic in shape,” it is meant that raised elements 66 exhibit a free-form, curvilinear, or irregular appearance. In other words, surfaces of the raised elements 66 have a natural, flowing, uneven, or undulating appearance, similar to forms observed in nature, such as the surface of a rock or terrain. The raised elements 66 are not angular, symmetrical, or uniformly patterned, but instead emulate the seemingly random, textured, and fluid characteristics of natural elements. The organic shapes of the raised elements 66 result from an iterative design process, which identifies where raised elements 66 may be added, removed, or reshaped along the underside of the ride vehicle 14 to optimize performance across varying use conditions. To that end, the performance of each design iteration is modeled using modeling software, such as SOLIDWORKS Simulations, for example. Based on the results, the shape and placement of the raised elements 66 may be further refined to adjust performance of the ride vehicle 14 as desired.

Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 9, where like reference numerals represent like features compared to the embodiments of the ride vehicle 14 described above with respect to FIGS. 1-7, the ride vehicle 14 is shown in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. The primary difference is that the ride vehicle 14 shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 includes a carrying handle 70 attached to the top surface 40 of the ride vehicle 14. Unlike the pair of handles 44, the carrying handle 70 is not intended to be gripped by a rider as they ride down the slide 12 on the ride vehicle 14. A ride may lay over the carrying handle 70 as they ride down the slide 12 on the ride vehicle 14, for example. The carrying handle 70 is configured to be gripped by the rider to pick up and transport the ride vehicle 14, such as in between rides down the slide 12, for example. Lifting and carrying the ride vehicle 14 with the carrying handle 70 causes the ride vehicle 14 to fold upon itself to form a compact configuration for transport, as will be described in further detail below.

As shown, the carrying handle 70 is attached to the top surface 40 of the ride vehicle 14, and in particular the top layer 50, such as by stitching, for example. In particular, the carrying handle 70 is attached to the top layer 50 generally in a central region between the first end 36 and the second end 38 of the elongate body 34 of the ride vehicle 14. The carrying handle 70 may be generally centered between the longitudinal sides of the elongate body 34 of the ride vehicle 14. As shown, the central region of the ride vehicle 14 includes a transverse axis A1 that bisects or divides the ride vehicle 14, lengthwise, into a first half 72 and a second half 74. The transverse axis A1 is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis (not shown) of the ride vehicle 14. The first half 72 may be referred to as the front half of the ride vehicle 14 and the second half 74 may be referred to as the rear half of the ride vehicle 14. The carrying handle 70 extends generally parallel to the transverse axis A1 and may be located along or generally near the transverse axis A1.

As shown in FIG. 9, when lifted by the carrying handle 70, the ride vehicle 14 is configured to fold into a compact configuration for easy carrying. Because the carrying handle 70 is positioned at or near the transverse axis A1, the ride vehicle 14 generally folds in half lengthwise along the transverse axis A1 when lifted, defining a fold edge 76. As shown, the carrying handle 70 is also positioned at or near the fold edge 76 and the fold edge 76 is situated in the central region, generally aligning with the transverse axis A1. When in the compact configuration for carrying or transport, the first half 72 of the ride vehicle 14 extends alongside the second half 74 of the ride vehicle 14. For example, the bottom surface 42 of the first half 72 of the ride vehicle 14 and the second half 74 of the ride vehicle 14 may be in contact when the ride vehicle 14 is in the compact configuration.

In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, the carrying handle 70 is offset from the transverse axis A1, such as in a direction toward either the first end 36 or second end 38 of the ride vehicle 14. As shown, the handle 70 is offset toward the first end 36 of the ride vehicle 14 so as to be positioned closer to the first end 36 than to the second end 38. When the ride vehicle 14 is lifted by the carrying handle 70, the ride vehicle 14 is configured to fold along the transverse axis A1, forming the fold edge 76, similar to the embodiment described above with respect to FIG. 9. However, unlike the previous embodiment where the carrying handle 70 may be located along the fold edge 76, here the carrying handle 70 is offset from the fold edge 76 and located on the second half 74 so as to project from the second half 74 of the ride vehicle 14 (rather than project from the fold edge 76). This configuration allows a user to grasp the carrying handle 70 and carry the folded ride vehicle 14 alongside their body, with the ride vehicle 14 positioned between their hand and body in a more natural carrying position. Likewise, in an alternative embodiment, the carrying handle 70 may be offset from the transverse axis A1 so as to be positioned closer to the second end 38 than to the first end 36 of the ride vehicle 14.

While the invention has been illustrated by the description of various embodiments thereof, and while the embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not intended to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Thus, the various features discussed herein may be used alone or in any combination. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. The invention in its broader aspects is therefore not limited to the specific details and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the scope of the general inventive concept.