Water ride attraction incorporating rider skill

A waterslide attraction capable of incorporating user skill or agility. The waterslide attraction utilizes a slide for supporting a rider, either with a ride vehicle or without. The ride vehicle may be a mat with handles that allows the rider thereon to manipulate its position or other elements while on the slide. Upon manipulating an element, a signal may be transmitted. Sensors located along the slide are configured to interact with tags having corresponding identification information, such tags either worn by the rider in accessories or embedded or coupled with the ride vehicle. When a tag is within a predetermined distance or vicinity of a sensor, one or more aspects of the waterslide attraction may be modified, such as by turning on jets of fluid or assigning score points associated with the identification information. A screen or mobile application displays various characteristics corresponding to travel performance down the slide.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates generally to water ride attractions. More particularly, the present invention relates to waterslide attractions capable of incorporating skill or agility of a user riding thereon and modifying features of the waterslide attraction in response thereto.

2. Description of the Related Art

Waterslide attractions typically provide riders with a thrilling experience of speed and lateral force upon the body as the riders slide on the attraction. A stream of water is commonly flowed along a flume from an entrance location of higher elevation to an exit location of lower elevation. A rider slides along the flume due to the stream of water, either with or without a ride vehicle, and experiences the twists, turns, and drops predetermined by the design and setup of the flume. While such attractions provide an initial rush of excitement, repeated riding of the attraction can have diminished appeal as riders become accustomed to the layout of the attraction and their merely passive interaction along its length.

Some concepts or designs have attempted to increase the excitement of a waterslide attraction even after multiple riding attempts. One such concept allowed riders to choose among a collection of preset themes prior to riding on an attraction, the lighting and sound effects changing as the rider traveled down the slide according to the theme chosen by the rider. Depending on the number of selectable themes, riders could have a different experience in subsequent ride attempts. Another concept involved adding elements of competition between two riders via a pair of parallel water slide riding surfaces. These riders could compete with one another on these riding surfaces while non-ride participants could interact with the ride to aid or hinder the rider movement from platforms positioned adjacent to the riding surfaces. Unfortunately, while these designs may have extended rider excitement more so than conventional water slides without such features, they may not have the effect of encouraging multiple attempts at riding the water attraction since riders only passively engage with the waterslide and its features.

Thus, an improved waterslide that incorporates skill or agility of the rider themselves while navigating the water slide is desired. The improved waterslide would ideally be capable of tracking user performance, either through the use of a ride vehicle or without, and generate an indication of user performance for encouraging multiple attempts at the waterslide to garner improved performance ratings. The improved waterslide would desirably promote competition between riders, even when such riders are not riding on the waterslide at substantially the same time. Moreover, the improved waterslide would desirably allow riders to gauge or analyze their own performance for improving subsequent runs down the waterslide attraction.

SUMMARY

A water ride attraction that is configured to incorporate rider skill and agility is disclosed. In one embodiment, a waterslide may include a slide having a surface for supporting a rider thereon. A sensor is coupled with the slide and a tag having identification information associated therewith is configured to be sensed by the sensor when within a predetermined distance of the sensor. A reward component is in communication with the sensor and configured to reward the rider on the slide based on a position of the rider on the slide. The tag may be coupled to the rider via an article of clothing or accessory worn by the rider or may be coupled with a ride vehicle that is configured to support the rider and slide along the surface of the slide.

In another embodiment, a waterslide for incorporating skill or agility of a rider may include a slide having a surface for supporting the rider thereon, a sensor coupled with the slide, a tag having identification information associated therewith, the tag configured to be sensed by the sensor when within a predetermined distance of the sensor, and a reward component in communication with the sensor and configured to reward the rider on the slide based on a position of the rider on the slide.

In yet another embodiment, a ride vehicle for a waterslide may include a supporting surface configured to support the rider thereon and travel with the rider on the waterslide, a handle coupled with the supporting surface configured to be held by the rider, and a button adjacent to the supporting surface and configured to be pressed by the rider while the rider travels on the waterslide.

In still another embodiment, a waterslide for incorporating skill of a rider may include a slide having a surface for supporting the rider thereon, a controller having at least one button for manipulated by the rider while the rider slides on the surface of the waterslide, the controller configured to transmit a signal upon manipulation of the at least one button by the rider, a receiver configured to receive the signal, and a feature of the waterslide configured to respond to receipt of the signal by the receiver.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Turning first toFIG. 1a perspective view of an entrance100to a waterslide attraction capable of incorporating skill or agility of a user riding thereon is shown. A first slide or flume102and a second slide or flume104are shown adjacent to one another at the entrance100to the waterslide attraction. A first rider106may ride down the first slide102utilizing a first slideboard110or other ride vehicle. Similarly, a second rider108may ride down the second slide104utilizing a second slideboard112or other ride vehicle. The ride vehicles may be inflatable rafts capable of holding one or more riders, body boards, foam mats, etc. In an alternative embodiment, no ride vehicles may be used. Such a multi-slide setup may promote competitiveness between two or more riders who are allowed to race or otherwise compare their travel times from the entrance100to an exit of the waterslide attraction. For example, a countdown140may be displayed at the entrance100for letting the riders (106,108) know when to begin their descent down the waterslide attraction. The countdown140may be a series of lights as shown, a timer that ticks down numerically, or any other type of display or cue (audible, vibration, etc.) for letting the riders (106,108) know to begin their ride.

The first rider106wears a wrist band130that includes a tag (e.g., a radio frequency identification (“RFID”) tag) that is sewn or otherwise disposed thereon or therein. This tag is configured to interact with various sensors disposed along the waterslide attraction when the first rider106moves the wrist band130within a predetermined distance of the various sensors while riding the waterslide attraction. When the tag is moved within the predetermined distance, score points may be generated or obtained for the first rider106or certain features of the first slide102may be modified, as discussed in greater detail herein. In an alternative embodiment, the tag may be fastened or worn by the rider106in any of a variety of other ways (e.g., ankle bracelet, headband, sewn, glued, pinned, or otherwise affixed to an article of clothing worn by the rider, etc.).

The second rider108similarly wears a wrist band132that includes a tag. The tag of the wrist band132includes different identification information from the tag of the wrist band130so that the waterslide attraction may appropriately differentiate between the two riders (106,108), for example, for score-keeping purposes. In an alternative embodiment, the tag may be fastened or worn by the second rider108in any of a variety of other ways (e.g., ankle bracelet, headband, sewn, glued, pinned, or otherwise affixed to an article of clothing worn by the rider, etc.). In order to sync or setup the waterslide attraction for the riders (106,108) prior to their descent, the entrance100includes a first tag-in sensor120corresponding to the first slide102and a second tag-in sensor122corresponding to the second slide104. Prior to traveling down the slides (102,104), each of the riders (106,108) must first identify themselves to the waterslide attraction by moving their respective wrist bands (130,132) within a predetermined distance of the corresponding tag-in sensors (120,122). For example, an audible or visual cue may notify each of the riders (106,108) when tag-in has been successful. In one embodiment, this may be accomplished by illuminating one of the lights of the countdown140.

Certain riders may opt to wear additional straps or accessories containing tags. In an alternative embodiment, other methods or components may be used for identifying a rider (e.g., bio-metrics). As shown, the first rider106is also wearing an ankle strap134with a tag therein or thereon. The tag of the ankle strap134may be configured to have the same identification information as the tag of the wrist band130such that the waterslide attraction associates only one unique identification information per rider. In an alternative embodiment, the waterslide attraction may be setup such that unique identification information is tracked for different body parts of a same rider. In such a case, the tag of the wrist band130and the tag of the ankle strap134may be configured to have different identification information. Riders who desire a more complex or challenging ride on the waterslide attraction may choose to utilize a greater number of tags affixed to various clothing or accessories. An alternative embodiment may utilize any number of tags attached to or within any number of clothing accessories. Tags may additionally or alternatively be maintained within or on the slideboards (110,112) as discussed in greater detail herein. In still another embodiment, the tags may be coupled with the slide while the sensors are worn by the riders or coupled with the ride vehicles.

Turning next toFIG. 2A, a perspective view of a slide or flume portion200of a waterslide attraction is shown. The waterslide attraction may be the same or similar as previously discussed. The slide portion200is configured to incorporate skill or agility of a user202riding thereon, as discussed below. The user202rides the slide portion200in a front-facing and stomach-down position via a slideboard204that is configured to support the user202thereon and ride upon a flow of water flowing along a sliding surface206of the slide portion200. Alternative ride positions may be used in alternative embodiments and as discussed in more detail herein. For example, multi-person luges, with or without vehicle ride vehicles strapped to the persons, may be utilized.

In addition to manipulation of the slideboard204, the user202may also have one or more tags210affixed thereto (e.g., via clothing, straps, or other accessories worn or coupled to the user202) for demonstrating skill or agility while riding the slide portion200. As described above, the tags210may be affixed or held by the user202in any of a variety of manners. For example, one or more tags210may be embedded or fastened with or within a controller (e.g., a videogame gamepad) with buttons or other interactive elements that a user can manipulate with their fingers and/or hands as they slide down the slide portion200. The controller can be fastened to the slideboard204or other ride vehicle in a convenient location to allow for manipulation by the user202(e.g., on or adjacent to handles of the slideboard204or other ride vehicle). In certain embodiments, buttons and/or tags210may be coupled directly onto the handles or other portion of the ride vehicle.

The slide portion200may have one or more sensors220coupled thereto that are configured to interact with the tag210worn by the user202when the tag210comes within a predetermined distance of the sensor220. This distance to the sensor for triggering may be adjusted based upon age, talent of the user, etc. In this manner, various sensors220may be positioned at various locations along the slide portion200for requiring the user202to either reach a limb containing a tag210near or adjacent to a respective sensor220, manipulate the position of the slideboard204within the slide portion200in order for the respective sensor220to appropriately detect the tag210, or otherwise interact with the respective sensor220when the tag210is near or adjacent, for example, by pressing a button upon controller or gamepad or upon a portion of a ride vehicle, as previously discussed. Once detection occurs, any of a variety of features or aspects of the waterslide attraction may be modified, as discussed in greater detail herein.

In order to identify to the user202how to interact with the slide portion200, various cues may be displayed or otherwise made available to the user202. For example, visual indications222may be disposed along the slide portion200for indicating the presence of a sensor220that the user202may desire to interact therewith. In one embodiment, the visual indication222may be a green arrow for telling the user202to move the tag210adjacent thereto. In another embodiment, different colored or shaped visual indications may represent different manners that the user should interact with the sensor220, either by moving the tag within a predetermined distance or by pressing a button when the tag is within a predetermined distance, as discussed in greater detail below. In still another embodiment, the visual indication222may be a red “X” for telling the user202to keep the tag210away therefrom or that the user is positioned on a wrong side of the slide portion200. Audible indications224may also be associated with the sensor220. For example, specific tones or noises may be played near the sensor220for similarly advising a user202how to interact with the sensor220, similar to the discussion above for the visual indications222. Thus, audio and/or visual elements may be used for positive and/or negative indications.

Visual and/or audible notifications may also be used after a user has moved or failed to move the tag210within an appropriate distance from the sensor220. For example, a particular musical tone or light may be enabled to indicate that the tag210was sensed by the sensor220. Similarly, a different musical tone or light may be enabled to indicate that the tag210was not sensed by the sensor220when the user202was in the vicinity. In an alternative embodiment, a lack of any musical tone or light may be used to indicate that the tag210was not sensed by the sensor220when the user202was in the vicinity.

FIG. 2Bshows a perspective view of a slide or flume portion250of a waterslide attraction, similar to the discussion above forFIG. 2A, but demonstrates a plurality of riders252utilizing an inflated tubing device254for riding thereon. Similar to the discussion above, visual indicators260and/or audible indicators262act in conjunction with one or more sensors258disposed along the slide portion250for sensing one or both tags (270,272) of the plurality of riders252. In one embodiment, identification information may be different for the tags (270,272), for example, to permit riders traveling together down the waterslide attraction to compete for obtaining different high scores. In an alternative embodiment, identification information may be the same for the tags (270,272), for example, to permit riders traveling together down the waterslide attraction to cooperate for obtaining a single high score.

Any of a variety of water riding devices may be utilized in alternative embodiments. For example, although a slideboard or an inflatable tube is shown inFIGS. 2A and 2B, respectively, certain embodiments may utilize other mats or riding surfaces in addition thereto or alternatively therefrom. Tags may be included within or on the riding vehicle in addition to or in replacement of the tags worn by riders. As previously discussed, activation mechanisms (e.g., buttons, switches, knobs, or other interactive elements, etc.) that may be activated or manipulated by a user can be coupled directly with or embedded in a portion of a riding vehicle (e.g., on or near handle bars). Thus, as a user slides down the waterslide on the riding vehicle, if a visual indicator lights up a blue color when the user is within a vicinity of a sensor, the user may activate (e.g., press) a corresponding activation mechanism (e.g., a blue button) that is coupled with the riding vehicle. In another embodiment, no water riding device may be utilized, instead allowing a rider to travel down the waterslide attraction using only their own body.

Various of the targets may have differing shapes, colors, sizes, etc. for indicating difficulty level and a correspondingly different point or score allocation for hitting them. Riders can manipulate the ride vehicle to hit the desired targets, for example by shifting their weight (e.g., pressing down to counteract a lifting force to trigger a sensor, pulling or pushing on one or more of the handles to steer the ride vehicle towards or away from targets, etc.). Manipulation of the ride vehicle can also occur, for example, by pressing a button or other interactive element coupled with the ride vehicle that corresponds to the desired target (e.g., a button with the same shape and/or color as the target) as the ride vehicle passes within a predetermined vicinity of the target. In this manner, riders may ride the ride without taking their hands off of the handles or other grasping locations of the ride vehicle, instead steering the ride vehicle towards a particular target by applying pressure, leaning their body, or otherwise manipulating the travel direction or elements of the ride vehicle. Such operation prevents users from having to explicitly let go of the ride vehicle or move one of their body parts away from the ride vehicle to activate a target. Ride vehicles designed for multiple individuals to ride at once may require more than one rider to act cooperatively in order to effectively maneuver the vehicle to reach certain targets. The sensor targets may be distributed through various curves or drops of the slide path, the accumulated points displayed for each rider upon exiting the slide. Bonus points may also be awarded for hitting a particular number of targets in a row or in a particular sequence.

The slide path for one or more riders to travel along may include singles paths, dual paths, or a plurality of paths. In addition, waterslides or other water attractions that are currently in existence may be retrofitted with such sensor targets, thereby giving new life to older water attractions by permitting a sense of competitiveness within older rides (e.g., reaching a fastest speed, reaching a tallest height, etc.). Certain slide configurations may provide for sensor targets to be built into the slide path for allowing a rider to accumulate points upon riding over the sensors with actuating devices or other sensed elements built into a ride vehicle utilized by the rider, even without any other speed-boosting or speed-decreasing features. Preferably, the ride vehicle will be a mat having handles and a shape or configuration for allowing the rider to manually position or orient the mat as desired while lying face-forward and stomach-down upon the mat. Alternative embodiments for the ride vehicle may allow for vehicles supporting a rider feet first upon their back and any of a variety of shapes for tubing devices or other ride vehicles as desired.

FIGS. 3A-3Cdemonstrate a variety of possible features of a waterslide attraction that may interact with or be modified by a rider traveling thereon. The waterslide attraction may be the same as or similar to those previously discussed. Looking first atFIG. 3A, a perspective view of a slide segment300of a waterslide attraction utilizing a plurality of different surfaces is shown. A first surface302is configured to provide a lessened resistance to movement of a board, tube or human body sliding thereon than a second surface304. For example, the first surface302may be constructed with an outer surface that is smoother, made of a different material or covered with a different wax than that of the second surface304. A board, tube or human body sliding on the first surface302would thus be permitted to travel there along at a higher rate of speed than if the board, tube or human body were sliding on the second surface304. In this fashion, manipulation by the rider of their position on the slide segment300may result in a faster or slower rate of speed along the slide segment300.

FIG. 3Bshows a perspective view of a slide segment330of a waterslide attraction utilizing plates or components (e.g., magnetized sheets or electrified elements) disposed along or under a surface of the slide segment330. A first plate332may be configured to provide a boost of speed to a board or tube that travels adjacent thereto or upon activating one or more sensors upstream thereof (e.g., by successfully pressing a button on a gamepad or embedded on the ride or tube in response to a visual indicator when passing within a vicinity of a particular sensor). For example, a corresponding plate or other component within or affixed to the board or tube may interact with the first plate332such that the board or tube is propelled with additional speed down the slide segment330of the waterslide attraction. A second plate334may alternatively be configured to provide a reduction of speed to the board or tube that travels adjacent thereto or upon failing to activate one or more sensors upstream thereof. For example, a corresponding plate or other component within or affixed to the board or tube may interact with the second plate334such that the board or tube is slowed in its movement down the slide segment330of the waterslide attraction. In this fashion, manipulation by the rider of their position on the slide segment330may result in a faster or slower rate of speed along the slide segment330.

FIG. 3Cshows a perspective view of a slide segment360of a waterslide attraction utilizing jets (e.g., water jets or air jets) disposed along or flush with a surface of the slide segment360. A first jet362may be configured to provide a boost of speed to a board or tube that travels over or near the first jet362or upon activating one or more sensors upstream thereof. For example, the first jet362may be configured to flow water or air in substantially the same direction as water already flowing on the slide segment360such that the board or tube is propelled with additional speed down the slide segment360. A second jet364may alternatively be configured to provide a reduction of speed to the board or tube that travels over or adjacent thereto or upon failing to activate one or more sensors upstream thereof. For example, the second jet364may be configured to flow water or air in substantially the opposite direction as water already flowing on the slide segment360such that the board or tube is propelled with additional speed down the slide segment360. In this fashion, manipulation by the rider of their position on the slide segment360may result in a faster or slower rate of speed along the slide segment360.

Thus, in reference to each ofFIGS. 3A-3C, a user riding upon the board or tube may manually direct the board or tube over or adjacent to the speed-increasing features (i.e., the first surface302, the first plate332, the first jet362) while trying to avoid the speed decreasing features (i.e., the second surface304, the second plate334, the second jet364) in order to speed up the rate of movement of the board or tube traveling down the waterslide attraction. In an alternative embodiment, a tag coupled with the user may interact with the speed-increasing or speed-decreasing features rather than a component of a ride vehicle (e.g., the user may position their arm or leg coupled with the tag in a vicinity of a sensor along the waterslide attraction to enable a speed-increasing feature).

Such operation may reduce the overall time traveling down the waterslide attraction and provide for a more thrilling experience. Moreover, if the waterslide attraction is configured to keep track of a user's elapsed time, skillfully maneuvering over speed-boost features may result in a quicker total time for competitive or racing considerations. Each of the features discussed inFIGS. 3A-3Cmay be configured in a variety of combinations or configurations as desired. Each of the features discussed inFIGS. 3A-3Cmay be additionally be identified to a user via cues (e.g., visual or audible), the same or similar as previously discussed. Thus, speed-boosting or speed-slowing portions of the waterslide attraction will be identifiable by a rider for the use of their skill or agility to obtain a faster or more thrilling experience.

FIG. 3Ddemonstrates a slide segment380of a waterslide attraction utilizing a maneuvering strip for incorporating rider skill or agility. The slide segment380has a wide sliding surface385upon which a rider382engaged with a ride vehicle384may slide upon and has room to accommodate rotation of the ride vehicle384and the rider382. A maneuvering strip395is disposed along a portion of the sliding surface385and is made of a material configured (e.g., laid over the slide in key locations) to exert a higher frictional force upon the ride vehicle384when contacting the ride vehicle384. Thus, when a sensor390(e.g., an RFID reader and/or indicator) is located in or on the sliding surface385of the slide segment380, the rider382may skillfully manipulate the ride vehicle384such that a portion of the ride vehicle384engages with the maneuvering strip395. This engagement causes rotation of the ride vehicle384due to the greater frictional force exerted on a first area of the ride vehicle384by the maneuvering strip395versus the lower frictional force exerted on a second area of the ride vehicle384by the sliding surface385.

The maneuvering strip395may be made up of discrete materials capable of exerting differing amount of frictional force upon the ride vehicle384. For example, a first material396may have a higher frictional coefficient than a second material397. As shown, the rider382may obtain a faster or greater rate of rotation upon initially hitting the maneuvering strip395in a first area398having a greater amount of the first material396. The rider may obtain a slower or lessened rate of rotation upon hitting the maneuvering strip395in a second area399having a lesser amount of the first material396. Thus, by using such maneuvering strips395, the rider382may desirably orient the ride vehicle384so that a particular portion or location of the ride vehicle384is adjacent to the sensor390(e.g., an RFID tag located on a side location of the ride vehicle384may be controlled to pass over the sensor390). In an alternative embodiment, any of a variety of methods for allowing a user to control the orientation of a ride vehicle may be employed (e.g., magnetic strips, water or air jets, etc.)

FIG. 4next shows a perspective view of an exit400from a waterslide attraction capable of incorporating skill or agility of a user riding thereon. The waterslide attraction may be the same as or similar to those previously discussed. One method of showcasing the skill or agility of these users is via a scoreboard402displayed to the users after they exit from the waterslide attraction. The scoreboard may have an instant replay section410and a scoring section420, as discussed in greater detail below.

The instant replay section410provides riders the ability to view their performance after completing a ride down the waterslide attraction. For example, a tracking system (e.g., utilizing sensors for detecting a presence of tags worn by the rider or coupled with a ride vehicle supporting the rider, as discussed above) may keep record of the traversal by the rider down the waterslide attraction. Depending upon the detection of the tags in the vicinity of the sensors, a travel path down the waterslide attraction may be ascertained. This travel path may then be animated using an avatar representing the rider and displayed on the instant replay section410of the scoreboard402. In certain embodiments, a rider may decide to keep a copy of the instant replay, for example, by downloading it to a personal electronic device (smart phone, tablet, etc.) for future viewing. An alternative embodiment may utilize one or more cameras or video cameras positioned along the waterslide attraction for determining and/or showcasing rider travel path.

The scoring section420of the scoreboard402provides riders the ability to view a tally or score after completing travel down the waterslide attraction. For example, points may be accumulated by successfully manipulating a ride vehicle with a tag or a tag worn by a rider within a predetermined distance of one or more sensors positioned along the waterslide attraction. Certain sensors may be worth more points than other sensors, thereby allowing riders with better skill or agility in reaching those sensors to achieve higher scores. In addition or alternatively, scores may be obtained based upon elapsed time of travel from the entrance of the waterslide attraction to the exit. Thus, riders who successfully navigate speed boosters or successfully avoid speed reducers along the waterslide attraction (for example, as discussed above) may achieve a higher score indicative of their lower elapsed time. Encouraging such competitive characteristics makes such waterslide attractions into a potential event for contests, sports, teams, leagues, etc.

FIG. 5Ashows the use of a mobile application500corresponding to a waterslide attraction capable of incorporating skill or agility of a user riding thereon. The waterslide attraction may be the same as or similar those previously discussed. The mobile application500may be configured to run on smart phones502, tablets504, or any of a variety of other electronic devices, such as laptops. The mobile application500may be adapted to display a history of scores or points accumulated for each attempt of a particular waterslide attraction, display of the highest score achieved for the waterslide attraction, and/or an animation or video showcasing a replay of one or more attempts of the waterslide attraction. Not only can the mobile application500provide a fun keepsake for memorializing a day at a waterpark, but more competitive individuals may use the replay functions or other features of the mobile application500to better improve their scores or elapsed time in subsequent attempts of the waterslide attraction. For example, the mobile application500may keep track of precisely which sensors were “hit” (e.g., when a rider tag was moved within a predetermined vicinity) and which sensors were “missed,” thus allowing a user to study past attempts and learn from prior mistakes. If button presses in addition to sensor vicinity are used by the waterslide attraction, similar to the descriptions above, the mobile application500may additionally keep track of which button presses were successfully manipulated.

Music510or other audible sounds may accompany a replay shown by the mobile application500. In certain embodiments, a user of the mobile application500may be permitted to choose their own music for a given replay, for example, to save and show off a particularly impressive run. The mobile application500may also include a game with a waterslide layout being the same or similar to a corresponding waterslide attraction so that users can manipulate an avatar to “hit” sensors, enable speed boosters, etc., the same or similar as on the actual waterslide attraction. Visual and audible notifications may accompany the game to provide a fun video gaming experience. Such mobile applications500may allow users to download particular ride configurations (e.g., mobile applications may be created for particular waterparks) that mirror actual attractions, for example, so that potential riders can practice on the mobile application500before arriving at a given water attraction. Such mobile applications500may allow high scorers to receive videos and pictures as rewards for their accomplishments or to have the pictures tweeted and/or posted to social media sites, such as Twitter, Facebook, Google+, etc.

Turning next toFIG. 5B, a display550of a social media account or device linked with a waterslide attraction is shown. The waterslide attraction may be capable of incorporating skill or agility of a user thereon and may include features that are the same as or similar to those previously described or discussed further herein. For example, various statistics may be tracked or generated by the waterslide attraction or a system interfacing with the waterslide attraction based on tags (e.g., RFID tags) worn by a user riding on the waterslide attraction or integrated into a ride vehicle. These statistics may be data such as score of the user, speed of the user, elapsed time of the user, number of times the user has been on the attraction, etc. To allow users to easily or conveniently share their performance or these statistics with friends and family, a social media account or other user profile may be linked with or configured to receive signals from the waterslide attraction or its interfaced system.

In one example, as shown, a twitter account for the user may be associated with one or more tags connected to the user or the ride vehicle for enabling the waterslide attraction to automatically post information to the user's account based upon ride participation. As shown, a first message560indicating that a user (e.g., “John Smith”) has beat the record for highest speed on a particular waterslide (e.g., “Raging Rapids”) may be automatically transmitted by the waterslide attraction to the user's associated account when the waterslide attraction determines a new speed record for the user has been accomplished based upon the tracked or generated statistics. A second message570indicating that the user has received a top10 score on a particular waterslide out of all visitors at the park in a given day may be automatically transmitted by the waterslide attraction to the user's associated account by comparing the tracked or generated statistics for the user to the tracked or generated statistics for all other users at the park. A third message580indicating that the user has been on a particular waterslide more than a predetermined number of time (e.g., 25) may be automatically transmitted by the waterslide attraction to the user's associated account upon such a determination by the waterslide attraction based upon the tracked or generated statistics.

The above messages are merely exemplary and any of a variety of automated messages or other data may be sent or posted to a user's associated account. Moreover, other forms of social media or other accounts in addition or alternatively to a twitter account may also be utilized (e.g., Facebook, Google+, email, etc.) for the sharing of user statistics. Furthermore, data may be shared to a user's account that is not based upon user statistics generated by the ride. For example, a still camera or video camera may be incorporated onto a waterslide attraction that takes a user's photograph or a video clip while the user rides the waterslide attraction, the photograph or video clip available for upload to the user account. Such photography may allow for older water or amusement rides to be easily retrofitted to utilize media sharing, but without a large expense in incorporating readers, triggers, or other such components for statistic generation.

The uploading or transmittal of messages, photographs, video clips, or other data may be free of charge to the user, may require an additional fee consented to by the user (for example, after ride completion), or may result from a heightened fee charged to the user upon entrance to the park. The associated account of a user may be determined by the ride attraction via a trigger device worn or otherwise disposed on the user that contains the relevant account information and capable of being read by sensors or readers of the waterpark or waterslide attractions. In one embodiment, RFID tags worn by the user or contained in a ride vehicle utilized by the user for generating the various ride statistics or data may also contain information for associating with the user's account.

FIGS. 6A and 6Bshow a perspective view and a front view of a slideboard600, respectively. The slideboard600is a ride vehicle configured to support a user thereon while traveling down a sliding surface of a waterslide attraction. The waterslide attraction may be the same as or similar to those previously discussed. The slideboard600preferably has two handles (602,604) and a curved middle portion606for allowing the user to manually manipulate the position of the slideboard600upon the sliding surface of the waterslide attraction, for example, by tugging on one or more of the handles (602,604), and/or shifting their weight upon the middle portion606. A bottom surface of the slideboard600may be shaped, constructed or coated with any of a variety of materials to improve the speed or aerodynamics of the slideboard600and/or to give the slideboard600a sportier look and feel. The front of the slideboard600may be shaped to allow for improved steering (e.g., in the shape of a bow of a boat) and/or may be configured in a turned-up fashion to allow for skiing over water during travel in the waterslide attraction.

The same as or similar to previous discussions, the slideboard600may include tags, plates or other components coupled therewith or embedded therein and designed to interface with various sensors, energized or magnetized elements, or other components coupled with or embedded in the waterslide attraction. Moreover, the same as or similar to previous discussions, the slideboard600may additionally or alternatively include one or more activation mechanisms (e.g., buttons or other user-manipulatable elements) coupled therewith or embedded within. These activation mechanisms may transmit a signal when manipulated (e.g., pressed) to a receiver (e.g., an RF receiver), processor, controller or other sensor located on or adjacent to a sliding surface of the waterslide attraction. The controller or other sensor may then cause or activate a feature of the waterslide (e.g., lights, sounds, sprays of water, a message to another user, cause a photograph or video to be taken or recorded, etc.), the same as or similar to the previous discussions.

In the embodiment shown a plurality of activation mechanisms (610,612) are positioned adjacent to a handle or portion of the slideboard600that a user grips with his or her hand. Similarly, additional activation mechanisms (obscured from view) may be disposed on the opposite side of the slideboard600, near the user's other hand. In one example, the activation mechanisms (610,612) may be buttons (e.g., with different colors, shapes, etc. associated therewith) that the user can activate by pressing on them with his or her fingers or thumbs. As the user slides down the water attraction, the user may activate certain of the activation mechanisms (610,612) by manipulating them at a corresponding time in response to a corresponding stimulus (e.g., as the user passes by a blue light, the user has a predetermined amount of time to press a blue button in order to activate or trigger a particular waterslide effect).

The activation mechanisms (610,612) may be removable from the slideboard600in certain embodiments (e.g., either individually or as a group mounted to a common component, such as a bracket, gamepad, etc.). In one example, the slideboard600may include handles (602,604) with buttons disposed thereon or adjacent thereto, the portion of the handles containing the buttons being removable from the slideboard600. In another example, a gamepad or other component containing activation mechanisms thereon or therein may clip, clamp, or otherwise secure to a portion of the slideboard600(e.g., the middle portion606in front of the user). This may improve the cost effectiveness of a slideboard since the more costly electronic components can be removed and placed onto a different slideboard once wear-and-tear makes the original slideboard no longer fit for use by customers. In an alternative embodiment, the slideboard600may be configured to receive a gamepad or controller with buttons and hold or couple the gamepad or controller to the slideboard600(e.g., via a clip or receiving socket). Users may purchase and own their gamepad or controller and plug it in to the slideboard600when participating on the water attraction. In such an embodiment, the gamepad or controller may include a unique tag or identification for the user, the same or similar to previous discussions.

In certain embodiments, the slideboard600may have inflatable portions. The slideboard600may be customizable by or for a user, for example, by waxing the outer surface or by adding/removing air or other gasses from the inflatable portions. The slideboard600may be rented by a user upon visiting a waterpark or may be owned by the user and brought to the waterpark. In one embodiment, badges or other indications of performance may be rewarded or obtained by users based upon their performance or achievement for inclusion onto their owned slideboard600. Waterparks may provide stations, either for free or for charge, that allow users to wax or otherwise customize the appearance or the performance of the slideboard600while within the waterpark.

Any of a variety of dimensions may be used for the slideboard600. For example, the slideboard600may be approximately 85% as long as its user (e.g., a 5′2″ user may use a 4′5″ long slideboard600). In alternative embodiments, the slideboard600could be longer than the user, equal in length to the user, or shorter than the user. Although only a single-user slideboard600is shown inFIGS. 6A and 6B, slideboards may be created for any number of individuals (e.g., single, double, family teams, etc.). For example, family team slideboards may be set-up similar to toboggans where riders sit behind each other and cooperate as a team to achieve optimal performance. In certain embodiments, the slideboard600may be configured to wrap around a user's back, like a cocoon, and held in place by the user crossing his or her arms over their chest.

FIGS. 7A-7Dshow a plurality of accessories that may be worn by a user of a waterslide attraction. The waterslide attraction may be capable of incorporating skill or agility of the user thereon and may include features that are the same as or similar to those previously described.FIG. 7Ashows a front view of an elbow pad700. The elbow pad700includes a hardened surface702for helping protect an elbow of the user and may also incorporate a tag705(e.g., an RFID tag) therein for interfacing with one or more sensors along the waterslide attraction, as previously discussed. In an alternative embodiment, no tag may be included in the elbow pad700. Similarly,FIG. 7Bshows a knee pad710including a hardened surface712for helping protect a knee of the user and may also incorporate a tag715(e.g., an RFID tag) therein for interfacing with one or more sensors along the waterslide attraction, as previously discussed. In an alternative embodiment, no tag may be included in the knee pad710. In certain embodiments, the elbow pad700and/or the knee pad710may be made of a neoprene and Lycra sewn construction with plastic elbow and/or knee coverings.

FIG. 7Cshows a front view of a glove720. The glove720includes a flexible and thinner portion722for surrounding fingers of the user and a padded center portion724. The glove720may also incorporate a tag725(e.g., an RFID tag) therein for interfacing with one or more sensors along the waterslide attraction, as previously discussed. In an alternative embodiment, no tag may be included in the glove720. Similarly,FIG. 7Dshows a band730for incorporating a tag735(e.g., an RFID tag) therein for interfacing with one or more sensors along the waterslide attraction, as previously discussed. The band730may be configured to wrap around a wrist of the user. In an alternative embodiment, the band730may be configured to wrap around an ankle or other body part of the user (e.g., a finger or a toe). In certain embodiment, the glove720and/or the band730may be made of a neoprene and Lycra sewn construction with sewn-in or otherwise embedded RFID tags.

Turning next toFIGS. 8A-8C, a waterslide attraction800is shown having a sliding surface805upon which a rider812upon a mat810or other riding board or vehicle may slide down along a main travel path850from an entrance location to an exit location. The waterslide attraction800may contain features that are the same as or similar to those previously discussed. In certain embodiments, no mat810or other riding board or vehicle may be used. The same or similar as previously discussed, the waterslide attraction800incorporates sensors or readers (820,822) at various locations along the waterslide attraction800. The readers (820,822) are configured to sense or otherwise detect a tag830or other element that is worn around or near a foot or ankle of the rider812when the tag830is within a predetermined proximity of the particular reader (820,822).

The readers (820,822) may also include indicator elements or components (e.g., lights, LEDs, sounds) such that as the rider812activates the readers (820,822) or fails to activate the readers (820,822) when in their proximity, the readers (820,822) provide the rider812with an indication of such success or failure. As demonstrated inFIG. 8A, the rider812is initially in a first position where no readers (820,822) are within a proximity to be activated and thus the position of the foot of the rider812is of no consequence. However, as demonstrated inFIG. 81, as the rider812travels along the main travel path850and gets closer to the first reader820located above the rider812in the waterslide attraction800, the rider812must skillfully raise their foot with the tag830such that the first reader820appropriately senses835the tag830(e.g., via radio communication). Further, as demonstrated inFIG. 8C, as the rider812continues to travel along the main travel path850and gets closer to the second reader822, located below the rider812in the waterslide attraction800, the rider812must skillfully lower their foot with the tag830such that the second reader822appropriately senses840(e.g., via radio communication) the tag830.

Since the rider812may be using their hands or arms to help steer the mat810along the sliding surface805, tags830placed on one or more of the users feet, ankles, or legs may provide an added level of difficulty or challenge for the rider812in attempting to obtain a high score while riding the waterslide attraction800. Thus, individuals who are not as skilled or do not wish to attempt a more difficult run may be permitted to utilize the waterslide attraction800without any tags830located on their feet, ankles, or legs. For example, the first reader820may be disabled for such attempts on the waterslide attraction800since the only tags to be read on the given attempt may, for example, be located in the mat810itself. Alternative embodiments may see the tag830placed in additional or alternative locations on the rider812. As previously mentioned, in an alternative embodiment, rather than moving a tag worn by a rider within a vicinity of a reader for successful activation, a tag may be included as part of a gamepad or as part of a ride vehicle and a user may be required to successfully press a corresponding button or element when within a vicinity of the reader, in response to a visual or audible cue (e.g., pressing a blue button in response to a blue light). Pressing the button or element causes a signal to be received by a reader or controller within a vicinity of the tag, to either modify a feature of the attraction, the same as or similar to previous discussions, and/or to accumulate points to determine a score for the rider, the same as or similar to previous discussions.

A number of possible ride vehicles may be used by a rider when navigating down a waterslide attraction. For example, one such ride vehicle is shown byFIGS. 9A-9C. An inflatable ride vehicle900is shown that has an inflatable body portion905that is configured to receive a plurality of rigid or semi-rigid panels (910,912,920,922) therein. Pockets930within the body portion905are disposed at the desired locations where the panels (910,912,920,922) are to be held in place within the body portion905. The panels (910,912,920,922) are used to achieve various concave, convex, or other shapes in the inflatable body portion905. For example, concave shapes via the panels (910,912) may create projections aft and fore of the raft, effectively creating bumpers. Such a configuration may improve tracking in straight sections of a flume ride and/or increase the efficacy of linear induction motors in an amusement attraction. Moreover, the configuration may also simultaneously minimize lateral bridging that can occur in curved sections of the flume ride.

As shown inFIG. 9B, various of the panels (910,912,920,922) are disposed within the body portion905, for example at perimeter locations950and960. Integration of such panels into an inflatable structure can create shapes for the ride vehicle900that otherwise would not be possible, for example, to counteract the natural tendency of inflated structures to bow out into convex lines. In this manner, the ride vehicle900may be created with perfectly flat or defined surfaces, for example along a bottom location970as seen inFIG. 9C. In this manner, ride vehicles with increased specificity in dimensions or shape may be created to better travel or be manipulated while traveling along a waterslide attraction. In addition, tags (e.g., RFID tags) may more easily be accommodated by or affixed to one or more of the panels (910,912,920,922) rather than the material making up the inflatable body portion905.

FIG. 10shows another possible ride vehicle that may be used by a rider when navigating down a waterslide attraction. A protective maneuvering vehicle1000includes a rigid or semi-rigid body1020that is configured to wrap around the body of a rider1010, for example, as shown. The body1020helps protect the rider1010during movement on the waterslide attraction by providing a protective buffer between the rider1010and a sliding surface of the waterslide attraction. Thus, the upper body of the rider1010(e.g., from the hips and above, including the back, shoulders, neck, and/or head) may not make contact with the sliding surface of the waterslide attraction and instead are safely surrounded or received by the body1020. Not only can such a ride vehicle provide protection to the neck, spine, or other joints of the body of the rider1010, but may also increase rider comfort, for example, by minimizing scrapes or rubs upon the body of the rider that might otherwise occur due to skin contact with the sliding surface of the waterslide attraction or by having additional padding between the rider's body and the slide surface.

A plurality of tags (e.g., RFID tags) may be disposed on or in the body1020of the protective maneuvering vehicle for the incorporation of rider skill or for the manipulation of other ride features or aspects, the same or similar as previously discussed. For example, a first RFID tag1030may be located on a first side portion of the body1020, a second RFID tag1040may be located on a back portion of the body1020, a third RFID tag (obscured from view) may be located on a second side portion of the body1020opposite the first side portion, and a fourth RFID tag1050may be located on a front portion of the body1020. The RFID tags (1030,1040,1050) may have unique identifiers such that they can be independently sensed by sensors or readers along the waterslide attraction. For example, the first RFID tag1030and the third RFID tag may be color coded as yellow for corresponding to the side portions of the body1020, the second RFID tag1040may be color coded as green for corresponding to the back portion of the body1020, and the fourth RFID tag1050may be color coded as red for corresponding to the front portion of the body1020.

Readers capable of sensing a nearby RFID tag may similarly be color coded and configured to determine when an RFID tag of the same color is within a predetermined distance. For example, a portion of a water slide having a reader adjacent thereto may be painted red or otherwise illuminated with a red light to indicate to the rider1010that the fourth RFID tag1050positioned on the front side of the body1020(also color coded red) should be positioned within a close proximity. Thus, if the rider1010is currently riding the waterslide on their back (i.e., the second RFID tag1040located on the back portion of the body is positioned adjacent to the sliding surface of the waterslide), the rider1010will be required to spin their body such that they are instead riding the waterslide on their stomach (i.e., the fourth RFID tag1050located on the front portion of the body1020is positioned adjacent to the sliding surface of the waterslide) in order for the reader to sense the desired RFID tag and therefore manipulate some other aspect of the ride (e.g., provide score points, etc.). Thus, as the rider1010travels down the waterslide while wearing the protective maneuvering vehicle1000, the rider may spin, rotate, twist, or otherwise manipulate themselves and the body1020such that the appropriate RFID tag (1030,1040, and1050) is within proximity of a corresponding reader.

In this manner, different difficulties for the same waterslide attraction may be obtained for accommodating a wider variety of audiences. For example, on the easiest difficulty, any RFID tag upon the body1020sensed by a reader along the slide will still provide score points and are not distinguished amongst. On a medium difficulty, the RFID tags upon the body1020may be segregated into two groups: (1) front/back tags and (2) side tags, a reader along the slide configured to distinguish between the two groups. On a hard difficulty, the RFID tags upon the body1020may be segregated into three groups: (1) a front tag, (2) a back tag, and (3) side rags, a reader along the slide configured to distinguish between the three groups. Alternative embodiments may utilize different configurations of tag groups for providing varying levels of difficulty.

In another alternative embodiment, the protective maneuvering vehicle1000may wrap completely around the head of the rider1010. A screen or display may be located within and displayed to the rider1010for providing notifications such as current score, a map of the waterslide sliding surface and instantaneous position thereon, locations of upcoming sensors to be activated, information concerning which RFID tag should be moved adjacent to an upcoming sensor, etc. The screen or display may also be used to further a competitive facet of the waterslide attraction, for example by displaying the score, speed, location, time or other aspect of a rider traveling on a different, complementary flume (e.g., an adjacent, dueling flume of a waterslide attraction) or of a rider that immediately proceeded the rider1010on the same flume. Historical information for the rider1010may also be displayed on the screen or display, such as their previous fastest time, previous highest score, or other statistics for the waterslide attraction. Alternatively, a mobile device could be mounted in the protective maneuvering vehicle1000and configured to display dynamic information to the rider in a heads up display. The mobile device may be provided by the amusement park or waterpark or may be a device owned by the rider (e.g., a smart phone) that can clip or otherwise fasten within the protective maneuvering vehicle1000.

FIG. 11shows a perspective view of an alternative waterslide attraction utilizing a plurality of water jets and a sloped surface for incorporating rider skill or agility. The waterslide1100has an entrance area1105, an exit area1110, and a sloped transition area1115. A rider1140uses a mat or other ride vehicle to move down the sloped transition area1115. Water jets1130or nozzles propel water upwardly along the sloped transition area1115in a direction opposing the downward movement of the rider1140. The water jets1130propel water at a rate and volume sufficient to slow down movement of the rider1140, but not enough to cease downward movement of the rider. Thus, a given rider1140will always be maintaining downward motion from the entrance area1105towards the exit area1110, but is allowed to carve side-to-side via the mat or other ride vehicle along the wide transition area1115.

AlthoughFIG. 11shows the water jets1130propelling water in-line with the slope of the transition area1115from the exit area1110to the entrance area1105, in an alternative embodiment, the water jets1130may propel water from the sides of the transition area1115at an angle (e.g., 45 degrees) and drain at or near side portions1120to prevent water from bunching up and/or overflowing down towards the exit area1110. Moreover, angled water jets may allow for a more even distribution of water across the surface of the transition area1115. The rider1140may compensate for the angled travel of water flow by carving into the flow. Moreover, the side portions1120may form a curved shape such that the rider1140is permitted to move at least partially up the side portions1120by carving into the water flow. In certain embodiments, the surface of the transition area1115may be a fabric or other riding surface with sensors located in or below the surface.

In one embodiment, one or more targets may be placed and/or illuminated along the transition area1115. These targets may be sensors configured to read or detect when a tag (e.g., an RFID tag) coupled to the rider1140or the mat or other ride vehicle is within a predetermined vicinity. For example, a first target1150, a second target1160, and a third target1170may be incorporated on or in the transition portion at different distances from the side portions1120. Thus, in order to achieve the maximum score by activating the targets, the rider1140must manipulate their position along the transition portion1115by carving into the water flow along the path1190as shown. The speed of the water flow may be manipulated to increase or decrease the level of difficulty of the course. Similarly, different embodiments may utilize different numbers of targets and/or different configuration or orientation of targets along the transition portion1115leading to a more rides of varying difficulty or challenge.

Various modifications or alterations may be made to the waterslide attractions discussed above. For example, a particular slide apparatus may utilize any of a number of bumps, jumps, turns, twists, flips, curves, angles, hills, valleys, etc. in order to create an exciting ride path for users. Various lighting, sound effects, vibration effects, or other features or thematic experiences may be included in a particular slide apparatus to garner user attention or excitement. Sensors disposed along the slide apparatus may be used to recognize when a user is approaching for cueing the user, tracking the exactness of the user's ability to hit an upcoming sensor, credit or detract score points for hitting or missing the upcoming sensor, and/or assigning a score, reward and/or time to the user.

A particular slide apparatus may be configured using the same or similar features described above for single riders, double riders, or family riders. Sensors may be included within a ride vehicle instead of along the slide path. Moreover, tags or other devices may be included at any of a variety of locations on the ride vehicles (e.g., along the bottom, on the sides, etc.). Other technologies than those explicitly described above may be used for boosting or slowing in speed a rider or a ride vehicle. Moreover, other technologies than those explicitly listed could be used as triggers as a vehicle or a rider passes thereby (e.g., magnets within the vehicle or worn by the rider may trip magnetic switches, infrared light beams positioned at locations on the slide path may be tripped by the vehicle or the rider interrupting the light path, etc.).

The difficulty of a given ride utilizing competitive elements as discussed (e.g., score-generated targets) may have an automatically adapting difficulty level based upon user history or attributes. For example, if a user has ridden on a particular waterslide beyond a certain number of times, is above a certain age, has achieved a predetermined performance threshold on previous attempts, and/or any of a variety of other user data, the waterslide may automatically or dynamically adjust the difficulty level by adding targets for the user to hit, enabling more difficult to hit targets or configurations, or by manipulating the water flow or one or more jets of water utilized in the ride. Moreover, the difficulty level of a particular waterslide may automatically adapt in the middle of a user's run. For example, if the user is poorly performing at a given difficulty during the initial portion of the waterslide, the difficulty may be eased for later portions of the waterslide, for example by reducing the number of targets to hit or manipulating the water flow or one or more jets of water utilized in the ride. In this manner, the fun factor may be maintained at a high level and the chance of harsh difficulty spikes a user may otherwise encounter is reduced.

Utilization of sensed tags and/or social media interaction by a waterpark or amusement park may allow for increased population within the park outside of typically popular timeframes. In one example, a waterpark may be busiest during the hottest hours of the day and commonly close during evening or nighttime hours when younger children that typically populate the park have left for bed. At this time, a second phase for the park may be initiated for teenagers or older children that incorporates readers (e.g., RFID sensors), targets, or other interactive elements disposed around the park and designed to interface with park visitors. Scavenger hunts, races, or any of a variety of other competitive features or interactive games may be developed and used to maintain park attendance even during the normally closed or less populated timeframes. Scoreboards may be placed throughout the park and/or social media accounts may be associated with park visitors to further facilitate competitive participation among the park visitors.

Any of the above features discussed may be utilized or incorporated or combined with or into other waterpark or amusement park attractions discussed or retrofitted onto existing waterpark or amusement park ride designs. The previous description of the disclosed examples is provided to enable any person of ordinary skill in the art to make or use the disclosed methods and apparatus. Accordingly, the terminology employed throughout should be read in a non-limiting manner. Various modifications to these examples will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the principles defined herein may be applied to other examples without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosed method and apparatus. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive and the scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope. Skilled artisans may implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular application, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the disclosed apparatus and/or methods.