Patent Publication Number: US-7896752-B2

Title: Amusement ride system

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This disclosure relates to amusement ride systems, and, in particular to amusement ride systems having fluid-supported vehicles. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Amusement rides may include vehicles or other devices for transporting people over water. These amusement ride systems generally include watercraft vehicles designed to float along with or upon a confined body of water, transporting one or more passengers. The body of water may be stationary or moving. For example, in a log flume amusement ride, a vehicle resembling a log moves along a narrow, flowing channel of water. The watercraft vehicles may also have the form of bumper boats, consisting of an inner-tube shaped watercraft, with steerable gas or electric motor, that drivers try to ram into other boats as they travel past. 
     SUMMARY 
     According to one aspect, an amusement ride system includes an amusement ride infrastructure defining a travel surface; at least one vehicle having a vehicle body defining a vehicle undersurface disposed for travel generally along the travel surface; and a plurality of supply valves disposed to selectively deliver a pressurized flow of water through the travel surface, into a confined region defined between the vehicle undersurface and the travel surface. The pressurized flow of water into and through the confined region creates a cushion of water to separate the vehicle undersurface from the travel surface. The vehicle is configured to convey at least one passenger generally along the travel surface, upon the cushion of water. 
     In another aspect, an amusement ride vehicle for maneuvering over a travel surface having a cushion of water includes a vehicle body defining a vehicle undersurface disposed for travel generally along the travel surface. A reservoir is defined by a lower portion of the vehicle body. The vehicle undersurface defines at least one aperture in fluid communication with the reservoir, so that fluid from the cushion of water enters the reservoir through the aperture. At least one drive assembly is housed by the vehicle body and configured to maneuver the vehicle generally along the travel surface. 
     In yet another aspect, an amusement ride infrastructure includes a surface layer defining a travel surface and a plurality of supply valves disposed in the surface layer. Each supply valve includes a supply valve body defining an exit port, at least one inlet port, and an interior surface defining a water flow passageway between the at least one inlet port and the exit port and a valve seat. The exit port is exposed at the travel surface. A supply valve element is disposed within the water flow passageway for movement between a first position in sealing engagement with the valve seat and a second position spaced from the valve seat for permitting pressurized flow of water through the exit port. A supply valve element operator extends above a plane of the travel surface in a position for contact with a vehicle passing over the exit port. Vehicle contact with the supply valve element operator causes movement of the supply valve element from the first position to the second position, permitting pressurized flow of water through the exit port into a confined region defined between an undersurface of the vehicle and the travel surface. 
     In another aspect, a method of conveying an amusement ride vehicle generally along a travel surface includes placing the vehicle on an amusement ride infrastructure defining the travel surface. The vehicle includes a vehicle body that defines a vehicle undersurface disposed for travel generally along the travel surface. The method includes delivering a pressurized flow of water through the travel surface into a confined region defined between the vehicle undersurface and the travel surface. The pressurized flow of water into and through the confined region creates a cushion of water to separate the vehicle undersurface from the travel surface. The method also includes maneuvering the vehicle over the travel surface. In some implementations, the pressurized flow of water is delivered through a plurality of selectively disposed valves. 
     Implementations of the disclosure may include one of more of the following features. Each supply valve includes a supply valve body defining an exit port, at least one inlet port, and an interior surface defining a water flow passageway between the at least one inlet port and the exit port and a valve seat, with the exit port being exposed at the travel surface. A supply valve element is disposed within the water flow passageway for movement between a first position in sealing engagement with the valve seat and a second position spaced from the valve seat for permitting pressurized flow of water through the exit port. A supply valve element operator extends above a plane of the travel surface in a position for contact with a vehicle passing over the exit port. Vehicle contact with the supply valve element operator causes movement of the supply valve element from the first position to the second position, permitting pressurized flow of water through the exit port into the confined region defined between the vehicle undersurface and the travel surface. The valve element is urged toward sealing engagement with the valve seat by water pressure in the water flow passageway, and/or by a biasing element, e.g. a spring. 
     The amusement ride infrastructure may include at least one drain valve disposed to drain water from the travel surface. The drain valve includes a drain valve body defining an exit port, at least one inlet port, and an interior surface defining a water flow passageway between the at least one inlet port and the exit port and a valve seat. The exit port is exposed at the travel surface. A buoyant drain valve element is disposed within the water flow passageway for movement between a first position in sealing engagement with the valve seat and a second position spaced from the valve seat for permitting flow of water through the exit port. In some implementations, the supply valve body houses the drain valve. For example, the supply valve body defines the drain valve body. 
     The vehicle includes at least one drive assembly housed by the vehicle body and configured to maneuver the vehicle generally along the travel surface. In some examples, at least one compliant flap extends from the vehicle body and generally circumscribes a confined region defined between the vehicle undersurface and the travel surface. The compliant flap serves to augment creation of the cushion of water separating the vehicle undersurface from the travel surface. In some implementations, a lower portion of the vehicle body includes a reservoir and the vehicle undersurface defines at least one aperture in fluid communication with the reservoir cavity, wherein fluid from the cushion of water enters the reservoir cavity through the aperture. The drive assembly includes at least one pump disposed in the vehicle body. The pump has an inlet line in fluid communication with the reservoir cavity and an outlet line configured to discharge below the vehicle undersurface in a manner to propel the vehicle generally along the travel layer. In some instances, the pump has an inlet line in fluid communication with the reservoir cavity and an outlet line configured to discharge fluid under pressure behind the vehicle for propelling the vehicle generally along the travel surface. 
     In some implementations, the drive assembly includes a driven wheel disposed for engagement with the travel surface. The drive assembly rotates about an axis normal to the travel surface. The drive assembly includes a drive housing and a driven wheel supported by the drive housing operable for movement among a retracted position and a deployed position relatively more extended below the vehicle undersurface and disposed for engagement with the travel surface. The driven wheel is spring biased toward its deployed position. 
     The vehicle includes at least one compliant flap extending from the vehicle body and generally circumscribing the confined region defined between the vehicle undersurface and the travel surface. The compliant flap serves to augment creation of the cushion of water separating the vehicle undersurface from the travel surface. The compliant flap may comprise multiple flap elements. 
     The vehicle undersurface encompasses an area of at least about three valves. A valve spacing along the travel surface that provides this minimum number of valves under the vehicle insures that the valves can provide enough fluid (e.g. water) to create a fluid layer sufficient to support the vehicle and allow the vehicle to glide along the travel surface. Valve spacing along the travel surface may be modified based on a fluid flow rate through the valves to provide a fluid layer having a thickness that provides a specified minimum distance (e.g. ¼ inch) between the bottom of the vehicle and the travel surface. 
     The vehicle may also include a bumper disposed along at least one side region of the vehicle body. In a preferred implementation, the bumper wraps around every side of the vehicle, which may be used as a bumper car in an amusement park ride. In some examples, a water gun is mounted on the vehicle body for spraying other ride patrons or spectators. The water gun is in fluid communication with a pump disposed in the vehicle body. 
     The details of one or more implementations of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. 
    
    
     
       DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a side view of an amusement ride system. 
         FIG. 2  is a top view of an amusement ride system. 
         FIGS. 3-4  are side views of an amusement ride system having vehicles with a drive assembly. 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a travel surface of an amusement ride infrastructure. 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of a supply valve. 
         FIG. 7  is a sectional view of the valve shown in  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 8  is a sectional view of a travel surface of an amusement ride system. 
         FIG. 9A  is a perspective view of a supply valve having drain valves. 
         FIG. 9B  is a sectional view of the valve shown in  FIG. 9A . 
         FIG. 10  is a sectional view of a supply valve. 
         FIGS. 11-12  are bottom views of vehicles having one or more compliant flaps along a perimeter of a vehicle undersurface and a drive assembly. 
         FIG. 13  is a partial sectional view of a vehicle undersurface shown in  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 14  is a top view of a drive assembly for a vehicle having a drive wheel that swivels and moves vertically. 
         FIG. 15  is a top view of a drive assembly for a vehicle having a drive wheel that swivels. 
         FIGS. 16-17  are side views of a drive assembly for a vehicle having a drive wheel that swivels and moves vertically. 
         FIG. 18  is a side view of a drive assembly for a vehicle having a drive wheel that swivels. 
         FIGS. 19-20  are side views of a drive assembly for a vehicle having a drive wheel that swivels and moves vertically. 
         FIG. 21  is a side view of a drive assembly for a vehicle having a drive wheel that swivels and moves vertically. 
         FIG. 22  is a top view of the drive assembly shown in  FIG. 21 . 
         FIG. 23  is a side view of a lower portion of a vehicle defining a reservoir cavity. 
         FIG. 24  is a side view of a lower portion of a vehicle defining a reservoir cavity and having a pump discharging below the vehicle. 
         FIG. 25  is a side view of a lower portion of a vehicle defining a reservoir cavity and having a pump discharging behind the vehicle. 
         FIG. 26  is a back view of a vehicle with a bumper. 
         FIG. 27  is a partial sectional view of the vehicle shown in  FIG. 26 . 
         FIG. 28  is a top view of an amusement ride system with an infrastructure having a travel surface defining a rectangular track. 
         FIG. 29  is a top view of an amusement ride system with an infrastructure having a travel surface defining an oval track. 
         FIG. 30  is a top view of an amusement ride system with an infrastructure having a travel surface defining a figure-eight track. 
     
    
    
     Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     An amusement park ride system utilizes a custom infrastructure for travel of novel vehicles about a track, each vehicle conveying one or more passengers generally along a travel surface, riding upon a cushion of water. A plurality of valves mounted to extend through the travel surface are actuated during travel of a vehicle over the valves to deliver a pressurized flow of water into a confined region defined between the vehicle undersurface and the travel surface. The pressurized flow of water into and through the confined region creates a cushion of water to separate the vehicle undersurface from the travel surface. The vehicle is thus configured to convey at least one passenger generally along the travel surface upon the cushion of water. 
     Turning now to the drawings, and with particular reference initially to  FIGS. 1-4 , an amusement ride system  10  includes an amusement ride infrastructure  200  including a support layer  205  defining a travel surface  210 , and one, or preferably more, vehicles  100 , each having a forward portion  111  (bow) and a rearward portion  112  (stem). The vehicle  100  has a body  110  that defines a passenger compartment  120  configured to hold one or more passengers. An undersurface  115  of the vehicle body  110  is at least partially supported by a cushioning layer  405  of fluid  400 , typically water, provided at the travel surface  210  of the support layer  205 . In some examples, the cushion layer  405  of fluid  400  is about ¼ inch thick. The fluid  400  may be liquid or gaseous (e.g. water or air). The vehicle  100  moves generally along the travel surface  210  by sliding, gliding and/or hydroplaning upon the fluid layer  405  on the travel surface  210 . The fluid layer  405  also provides lubricity between the undersurface  115  of the vehicle body  110  and the travel surface  210  of the support layer  205 . When air is used for the fluid, the vehicle  100  floats on the cushion  405  of air  400 . When water is used for the fluid, the vehicle  100  buoyantly floats on the cushion  405  of water  400 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 5-7 , the infrastructure  200  includes a plurality of supply valves  300  disposed to extend through the support layer  205 , to the travel surface  210 . The support layer  205  may be the combination of several interconnected, interchangeable support layer sections  205 A (as shown in  FIG. 5 ). In some examples, the support layer sections  205 A are 4 feet by 4 feet and include four, five, or more evenly distributed valves  300  (e.g. in an “X” pattern). Each end of the support layer section  205 A is releasably attached or abutted to another end of an adjacent support layer section  205 A, allowing a user to create a support layer  205  of custom size and/or custom shape. When the support layer  205  is elevated above a ground surface and supported by scaffolding or support beams, the support layer  205  may be placed on the support beams at an angle of about 45° with respect to the beams, so that the beams run diagonally under the support layer  205  between rows of valves  300 . The diagonal placement of the support beams aids deflection prevention of the support layer  205 . 
     Each valve  300  includes a valve body  310  defining at least one inlet port  311 , an exit port  312 , and an interior water flow passageway  313  between the inlet port(s)  311  and the exit port  312 . The water flow passageway  313  defines a valve seat  314  near the exit port  312 . The exit port  312  is exposed at the travel surface  210  of the support layer  205 . In some examples, the valve body  310  includes upper and lower body portions  310 A and  310 B, respectively, disposed in fluid communication. For example, the lower body portion  310 B defines female threads and the upper body portion  310 A defines male threads, such that the upper body portion  310 A is received by and threads into the lower body portion  310 B. A valve element  320  is disposed within the water flow passageway  313  for movement among a first position in sealing engagement with the valve seat  314  and a second position spaced from the valve seat  314 , permitting pressurized flow of water through the water flow passageway  313  defined by the valve body  310 , and onto the travel surface  210  (into a region defined between the travel surface  210  and the undersurface  115  of a passing vehicle  100 , as described more fully below). A valve element operator  321  (in one example, a portion of the valve element  320  protruding above the travel surface  210 ) extends through the exit port  312  and beyond the valve body  310  for actuating engagement by passing vehicles  100 , again as described more fully below. The valve element  320  may be spherical, elliptical, cylindrical, cubical, pyramidal, or any other suitable shape. 
     The valve element  320  may be urged toward its first position in engagement with the valve seat  314  by water pressure in the water flow passageway  313 . Alternatively, in the example of  FIG. 8 , the valve  300  includes a spring  330  biasing the valve element  320  into sealing engagement with the valve seat  314 , causing the valve  300  to remain closed while not actuated. A combination of water pressure and biasing element may also be employed. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 9A-9B , in some implementations, the amusement ride system  10  includes supply valve  1300 , which includes a valve body  1310  defining at least one inlet port  1311 , an exit port  1312 , and an interior water flow passageway  1313  between the inlet port(s)  1311  and the exit port  1312 . The water flow passageway  1313  defines a valve seat  1314  near the exit port  1312 . A valve element  1320  is disposed within the water flow passageway  1313  for movement among a first position in sealing engagement with the valve seat  1314  and a second position spaced from the valve seat  1314 , permitting pressurized flow of water through the water flow passageway  1313  defined by the valve body  1310 , and onto the travel surface  210 . A valve element operator  1321  (in one example, a portion of the valve element  1320  protruding above the travel surface  210 ) extends through the exit port  1311  and beyond the valve body  1310  for actuating engagement by passing vehicles  100 . The valve element  1320  may be spherical, elliptical, cylindrical, cubical, pyramidal, or any other suitable shape. In some examples, water is permitted to flow through one or more passageways defined through the valve element  1320  while the valve element  1320  is in the second position. As with supply valve  300 , the valve element  1320  of supply valve  1300  may be urged toward its first position in engagement with the valve seat  1314  by water pressure in the water flow passageway  1313 . Alternatively, the valve  1300  may include a spring  330  biasing the valve element  1320  into sealing engagement with the valve seat  1314 , causing the valve  1300  to remain closed while not actuated. A combination of water pressure and biasing element may also be employed. 
     The valve  1300  may be releasably received by a valve receiver  1360 , which is mounted via threads  1362  either into a threaded mounting hole defined by the support layer  205  or through a mounting hole defined by the support layer  205  and secured by a nut  1363 . The valve receiver  1360  may define threads to receive the valve  1300  or slots to receive pegs protruding from the valve body  1310 . In some examples, the valve  300 ,  1300  includes a sensor (e.g. proximity, infrared, acoustical, contact) that detects vehicles  100  passing over the valve  300 ,  1300  and triggers actuation of the valve element  320 ,  1320  to allow water  400  to pass through the valve  300 ,  1300 . 
     In some implementations, the support layer  205  and/or the valve  1300  includes at least one drain valve  2300 , as shown in  FIGS. 8-9B . In some examples, the drain valve(s)  2300  are located adjacent the supply valves  300 ,  1300  and/or may be defined by the supply valve bodies  1310 , as shown in  FIGS. 9A-9B . The drain valve  2300  includes a drain valve body  2310  defining at least one inlet port  2311  in fluid communication with the travel surface  210 , an exit port  2312 , and an interior water flow passageway  2313  between the inlet port(s)  2311  and the exit port  2312 . The water flow passageway  2313  defines a drain valve seat  2314  near the exit port  2312 . A buoyant drain valve element  2320  is disposed within the water flow passageway  2313  for movement among a first position in sealing engagement with the drain valve seat  2314  and a second position spaced from the drain valve seat  2314 , permitting a flow of water through the water flow passageway  2313  defined by the drain valve body  2310 , and out the exit port  2312 . The exit port  2312  may drain to the ground or be in fluid communication with a drainage system that may deliver the water to a recirculation system (e.g. storage tank and pump) for reuse. The inlet port  2311  may define a valve element retaining feature  2316  to prevent escapement of the drain valve element  2320  from the drain valve body  2310 . In the example shown, the drain valve body  2310  defines the inlet port  2311  narrower than the water flow passageway  2313  retaining the drain valve element  2320 . When the valve element  1320  is moved to the second position, allowing pressurized water flow out of the exit port  1312  of the valve  1300 , some of the water  400  flows into the inlet port  2311  of the drain valve  2300  to escape the pressure of the vehicle  100  over head. The pressurized flow of water into the water flow passageway  2313  causes the drain valve element  2320  to move into sealing engagement with the drain valve seat  2314 , closing the drain valve  2300 . After the vehicle  100  passes away from the valve  1300 , the water  400  becomes depressurized. The buoyant drain valve element  2320  floats up away from the drain valve seat  2314 , opening the drain valve  2300  and allowing water  400  to drain off the travel surface  210 . 
     In some implementations, the interior water flow passageway  1313  is angled with respect to the travel surface  210  to provide a directed flow of water out of the valve  1300 . The directed flow of water may be used to urge vehicles  100  passing over the valve in a particular direction of travel. 
       FIG. 10  illustrates an example of the valve  1300  including a misting valve element  1320 A that defines multiple water channels  1324  extending therethrough. While seated in sealing engagement against the valve seat  1314 , the misting valve element  1322  allows water to pass through the second port  1312  via the water channels  1324  to spray jets of water or mist in the air for riders to drive through and/or onto the travel surface  210  to keep the travel surface  210  damp and/or cool. The valve  1300  is shown inserted through a two-part support layer  205  having a first support component layer  220  that defines the travel surface  210  supported by a second support component layer  230 . The first support component layer  220  may include a composite material, honeycomb structure, laminate, or other suitable material or structure. The second support component layer  230  may include a scaffolding component or a flooring structure. 
     A fluid supply line  220  is in fluid communication with the valves  300 ,  1300  and delivers pressurized fluid  400  (water) to the valves  300 ,  1300 . The fluid supply line  220  is generally routed below the support layer  205 . The valve body  1310  may define a quick-disconnect feature  1319  configured to be received by a mating quick-disconnect fitting  1390  in fluid communication with the fluid supply line  220 . 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 3-4 , the undersurface  115  of the vehicle body  110  engages the valve element operator  321  (e.g., exposed upper surface  321  ( FIG. 7 )) of valve element  320  of each valve  300  passing beneath the vehicle body  110 , thereby opening the valves  300  as each valve is engaged, and allowing fluid  400  to flow through the valves  300  to create the cushioning fluid layer  405  beneath the vehicle body  110 . As the vehicle  100  moves over the travel surface  210 , the undersurface  115  of the vehicle body  110  remains in engagement with valve element operators for valves  300  beneath the vehicle body  110 , and then releases the valve elements  320  of those valves  300  no longer beneath the vehicle body  110  to reestablish sealing engagement with the valve seat  314 . In this manner, the cushioning fluid layer  405  is maintained substantially in the region of the vehicle undersurface, i.e. beneath the vehicle body  110 . The fluid layer  405  supports the vehicle  100  and allows the vehicle  100  to move generally along the travel surface  210 , by sliding, gliding and/or hydroplaning upon the travel surface  210 . In some implementations, the valves  300  are arranged in the travel surface  210  so that the water cushion  405  supporting the vehicle  100  is being created and replenished by at least about three valves  300  at any given time. 
     When the supply valves  300 ,  1300  are actuated by a passing vehicle  100 , pressurized water is permitted to flow through the water flow passageway  313  defined by the valve body  310  and onto the travel surface  210  into a region defined between the travel surface  210  and the undersurface  115  of a passing vehicle  100 . As the vehicle  100  buoyantly floats on the cushion  405  of water  400 , the hydrostatic pressure of the vehicle  100  on the cushion  405  of water  400  causes the valve element  2320  of the drain valve  2300  to move to the first position in sealing engagement with the valve seat  2314 , thereby preventing drainage of the water  400  through the drain valve  2300 . After the vehicle  100  passes over and away from the drain valve  2300 , the hydrostatic pressure in the cushion  405  of water  400  dissipates and the valve element  2320  floats up to the second position away from the valve seat  2314 , allowing the water  400  to flow through the water flow passageway  2313  and drain off the travel surface  210 . 
     In the examples illustrated in  FIGS. 11-13 , the water cushion is confined to the region generally between the vehicle undersurface  115  and the travel surface  210  by a compliant flap  150  (e.g. rubber squeegee) extending generally downwardly from the vehicle body  110  and circumscribing about or along the perimeter of the vehicle undersurface  115 . The compliant flap  150  resists fluid flow from beneath the vehicle body  110 , and in cooperation with the vehicle undersurface  115  of the vehicle body  110  and the travel surface  210  of the support layer  205 , defines the confined region or gap  212  between the undersurface  115  of the vehicle body  110  and the travel surface  210  of the support layer  205  containing the cushion  405  of fluid  400 . The compliant flap  150  serves to augment creation of the cushion  405  of fluid  400  (e.g. water) separating the vehicle undersurface  115  from the travel surface  210 . 
     Referring back to the examples illustrated in  FIGS. 1-4 , a steering device  130 , disposed in the passenger compartment  120 , is operably coupled to or in communication with a drive system  500  that propels and/or directs the vehicle  100  over the travel surface  210 . In the example shown, the steering device  130  is a joystick-type device, where a user pushes the stick  130  in a direction of desired travel to maneuver the vehicle  100  in that direction. The drive system  500  may include a driven wheel  520  disposed in engagement with the travel surface  210 , e.g. as shown in  FIG. 3 , or a fluid jet  550  having a fluid discharge direction controllable by the steering device  130 , as shown in  FIG. 4 . 
     In some implementations, the drive system  500  includes one or more drive assemblies  510  housed by the vehicle body  110 , e.g. as shown in  FIGS. 11-12 , and configured to maneuver the vehicle  100  over the travel surface  210 . The drive assembly  510  includes a drive wheel  520  operably coupled to a motor  530  and in contact with the travel surface  210  of the support layer  205  to move the vehicle  100  in a desired direction. The drive assembly  510  may be secured to a circular swivel plate  512  that freely rotates in a corresponding mounting plate opening  116  defined in the undersurface  115  of the vehicle body  110 , and may be used to allow the drive wheel  520  to caster over the travel surface  210 . In some implementations, a swivel actuator  514  (e.g. a motor, linkage, or rack and pinion system) is coupled to the swivel plate  512  to control rotation of the swivel plate  512 , thereby controlling a drive direction. 
     In the examples illustrated in  FIGS. 3 and 12 , the vehicle  100  includes a drive wheel  520  and a tag wheel  540 . The wheel drive wheel  520  and the tag wheel  540  are disposed on opposite portions  111 ,  112  of the vehicle  100 , so that the driven vehicle  100  does not spin uncontrollably in place. The tag wheel  540  may be implemented as a steering wheel  542  that is controlled by the steering device  130 . 
     In the example illustrated in  FIGS. 14-17 , the swivel plate  512  is constrained in the mounting plate opening  116  from moving upwardly in the vertical direction. The motor  530  is mounted to the swivel plate  512  and drives the drive wheel  520 , which is coupled to a linkage  525  that allows the drive wheel  520  to pivot upwardly into the vehicle body  110 , as, for example, when the supply of fluid  400  to the travel surface  210  ceases and the vehicle  100  rests on the travel surface  210  of the support layer  205 , as shown in  FIG. 17 . Referring once again to  FIGS. 5-7 , when the supply of fluid  400  to the travel surface  210  is resumed, the undersurface  115  of the vehicle body  110  engages the valve element operators  321  of valve elements  320  for valves  300  beneath the vehicle body  110 , displacing the valves element  320  from sealing engagement with the associated valve seats  314 , allowing water  400  to flow through the opened valves  300 , creating the cushioning fluid layer  405  which elevates the vehicle body  110  upon the travel surface  210 . As the vehicle body  110  elevates, the linkage  525  pivots with the drive wheel  520  downwardly to maintain contact between the drive wheel  520  and the travel surface  210  of the support layer  205 . In the example shown in  FIG. 16 , a spring  526  biases the linkage  525  and associated drive wheel  520  downwardly to maintain contact with the travel surface  210  of the support layer  205 . 
     In the example illustrated in  FIG. 18 , the swivel plate  512  is constrained in the mounting plate opening  116  from moving upwardly in the vertical direction and the drive wheel  520 , which is coupled to the motor  530 , does not pivot upwardly into the vehicle body  110 . Instead, this configuration maintains a minimum distance, D, between the undersurface  115  of the vehicle body  110  and the travel surface  210  of the support layer  205 . Consequently, in the absence of the fluid layer  405 , the vehicle  100  can still be moved via the wheel(s)  520  over the travel surface  210 . 
     In the example illustrated in  FIGS. 15 ,  19 , and  20 , the swivel plate  512  and associated drive assembly  510  are free to move upwardly in the vertical direction. In some examples, the swivel plate  512  exits the mounting plate opening  116 , as shown, while in other examples, the mounting plate opening  116  is defined sufficiently deep to accommodate the elevation change between the swivel plate  512  and the vehicle body  110 . As in the previous example, the motor  530  is secured to the swivel plate  512  and is also coupled to the drive wheel  520 . When the supply of fluid  400  to the support surface  205  ceases, the drive assembly  510  maintains its position with the drive wheel  520  in contact with the travel surface  210  as the vehicle body  110  descends onto and rests on the travel surface  210  of the support layer  205 . When the supply of fluid  400  to the travel surface  205  is resumed, the undersurface  115  of the vehicle body  110  engages the valve element operators of valve elements  320  for valves  300  beneath the vehicle body  110 , displacing the valves element  320  from sealing engagement with the associated valve seats  314 , allowing water  400  to flow through the opened valves  300 , creating the cushioning fluid layer  405  which elevates the vehicle body  110  upon the travel surface  210 . As the vehicle body  110  elevates, the drive assembly  510  maintains its position with the drive wheel  520  in contact with the support surface  205 . 
     In the example illustrated in  FIGS. 21-22 , the swivel plate  512  is constrained in the mounting plate opening  116  from moving upwardly in the vertical direction. The motor  530  is coupled to the drive wheel  520  and move together vertically in relation to the swivel plate  512  (e.g. via a linkage, bracket, guide, etc.). One or more support wheels  522  (four are shown) are mounted to the swivel plate  512  to maintain a minimum distance, D, between the undersurface  115  of the vehicle body  110  and the travel surface  210  of the support layer  205 . The support wheels  522  may include caster wheels or roller balls in sockets that allow movement in any direction. Consequently, in the absence of the fluid layer  405 , the vehicle  100  can be moved along the travel surface  210 . The minimum distance D is set so that the undersurface  115  of the vehicle body  110  engages the valve element operators  321  of valves  300  beneath the vehicle body  110 . When fluid  400  is supplied to the travel surface  210 , it flows through the open valves  300  to create the cushioning fluid layer  405  which elevates the vehicle body  110  above the travel surface  210 . As the vehicle body  110  elevates, the drive assembly  510  maintains its position with the drive wheel  520  in contact with the travel surface  210 . 
     In the examples illustrated in  FIGS. 23-24B , a lower portion  114  of the vehicle  100  defines a reservoir cavity  118  for receiving and temporarily holding fluid  400 . The undersurface  115  of the vehicle  100  defines one or more apertures  119  in fluid communication with the reservoir cavity  118 . As fluid  400  flow from the open valves  300  underneath the vehicle  100 , the weight of the vehicle  100  creates hydrostatic pressure on the fluid  400  causing the fluid  400  to follow along paths of least resistance out from beneath the vehicle  100 , with one being through the apertures  119  and into the reservoir cavity  118 . Examples including the compliant flap  150  circumscribing the vehicle body  110  to define the region  212  between the undersurface  115  of the vehicle body  110  and the travel surface  210  of the support layer  205  experiencing relatively larger hydrostatic pressure on the fluid  400  in the region  212 , thereby resulting in relatively greater fluid flow into the reservoir cavity  118 . In some examples, e.g. as shown in  FIG. 24A , a screen  180  (e.g. wire mesh, plate defining an array of holes, or a grill) is secured over the aperture  119  to prevent debris from entering the reservoir cavity  118 . 
     In some implementations, at least one pump  190  having an intake line  192  and an outlet line  194  is disposed in the vehicle  100 . The intake line  192  is in fluid communication with the reservoir cavity  118  and the outlet line  194  discharges fluid  400  into the region  212  beneath the vehicle  100 , as shown in  FIG. 24A , and/or behind the vehicle  100 , as shown in  FIG. 24B . The outlet line  194  discharges fluid  400  at an angle θ with respect to the undersurface  115  of the vehicle body  110 , to propel the vehicle  100  forward generally along the travel surface  210 . The pump  190  may function as part of the drive system  500  and/or fluid jet  550  described earlier in regards to  FIG. 4 . The steering device  130  may control the discharge direction and/or angle θ of the pump outlet line  194 /fluid jet  550  to maneuver the vehicle  100  along the travel surface  210 . In some examples, the travel surface  210  of the support layer  205  has a knurled, dimpled, or other surface finish that provides fictional resistance against the discharged fluid  400  to aid propulsion efficiency. 
     In the example illustrated in  FIG. 25 , the vehicle body  110  houses a reservoir  700  for receiving and temporarily holding fluid  400 . One or more reservoir feed lines  710  extend from the reservoir  700  to the undersurface  115  of the vehicle body  110  to receive pressurized water  400 ,  405  trying to escape from under the vehicle  100 . The received water  400  flows into the reservoir  700  for delivery to a water propulsion system  550  and/or a water gun  140 . 
     In some examples, the vehicle  100  includes a water gun  140 , as shown in  FIGS. 1-4 , mounted on the forward portion or bow  111  of the vehicle  100 . The water gun  140  may be in fluid communication with the reservoir cavity  118  and/or the outlet line  194  of the pump  190  discharging fluid  400 . The water gun  140  is rotatable (e.g. via a ball and socket joint) in one or more directions to provide a sweeping range of movement for a user to shoot fluid  400  (e.g. water) throughout a defined range of motion. In some cases, the water gun  140  is tethered to the vehicle  100 , as by a water supply line. 
     In the examples illustrated in  FIGS. 26-27 , the vehicle  100  includes a bumper  600  (e.g. solid rubber or inflatable tube) secured to the vehicle body  110 . The vehicle body  110  may define a bumper recess  602  configured to receive the bumper  600 . In some implementations, the vehicle body  110  is separate from and removably secured (e.g. via a fastener  604 , such as bolt or eccentric clamp) to the lower portion  114  of the vehicle  100 . This provides access to an inside portion  101  of the vehicle  100  (e.g. for maintenance) and allows different vehicle bodies  110  to be interchanged on the lower portion  114  of the vehicle  100  (e.g. for maintenance, appearance, etc). The different vehicle bodies  110  may have different, shapes, colors, themes, or other aesthetic characteristics. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 28-30 , an amusement ride infrastructure  1000  includes a track or way having a travel surface  210  defined by the support layer  205 , as described above, supporting one or more vehicles  100 , as described above. Examples of suitable tracks  1000  include, but are not limited to, a rectangular area  1000 A, as shown in  FIG. 28 , a substantially oval track  1000 B, as shown in  FIG. 29 , and a figure-eight track  1000 C, as shown in  FIG. 30 . In one example, a  5000  square foot track  1000  accommodates between about 30-40 vehicles. The track  1000  may include walls  1010  to confine the vehicles  100  on the track  1000 . The track  1000  may include a passenger loading/unloading area  1200 , which provides an ingress and egress from the track  1000  as well as access to the vehicles  100  for passengers to get in/on and ride the vehicles  100  and depart from the vehicles  100 . 
     In some examples, the track  1000  includes a course diverter  1300  which diverts a travel direction of the vehicles  100 . The course diverter  1300  is typically a rail or wall used to divert the travel direction of the vehicles  100  toward the passenger loading/unloading area  1200 . A conveyer belt  1350  may be used to carry vehicles  100  through the loading/unloading area  1200  for passenger loading and unloading. The conveyer belt  1350  may be a rubber belt or other non-skid/non-slippery material conducive for safely walking on. The conveyer belt  1350  can be used to pull and eject vehicles  100  from and onto the track  1000 . 
     In some implementations, the track  1000  includes a vehicle advancer  1400  disposed on the track wall  1010  or travel surface  210 , as shown in  FIGS. 29-30 . In some implementations, the vehicle advancer  1400  can be adjusted among various positions to influence a desired travel direction the vehicle  100 . The vehicle advancer  1400  may be a fluid jet discharging fluid  400  or a driven roller (e.g. rubber roller or wheel) configured to contact and engage (e.g. by friction) the undersurface  115  of a vehicle  100  that propels the vehicle  100 . The vehicle advancer  1400  can be used to divert the travel direction of the vehicle  100  or propel the vehicle  100  up, down, or along the track  1000 . In some examples, the vehicle advancer  1400  includes a bucket of water spilled on to the track  1000  to move vehicles  100  about the track  1000 . 
     In some implementations, the track  1000  is configured as an obstacle course having multiple course diverters  1300  and vehicle advancers  1400  arranged to move or guide the vehicles  100  about the track  1000  (e.g. a large-scale pinball table). For example, a vehicle  100  may be guided down a path by a course diverter  1300  toward one or mere vehicle advancers  1400  that move the vehicle  100  in an unexpected direction toward another path. 
     The amusement park water ride system  10 ,  1000  described above advantageously allow riders to experience the fun of water with the comfort and safety of being on a supported surface (e.g. in contrast to deeper water having drowning hazards or elevated rides, like roller coasters). In the examples illustrated in  FIGS. 28-30 , participants drive or race multiple vehicles  100  around the track  1000  and bump into each other. One or more people can drive each vehicle  100 . The participants may all start and finish at the same time or participants may individually be changed out at the passenger loading/unloading area  1200 . Vehicles  100  equipped with water guns  140  allow riders to shoot water at each other. In some examples, the track  1000  is equipped with water guns  1140  (or fluid guns) rotatable about a range of motion that allows spectators to spray passing riders with water and providing a family entertainment event. 
     A number of implementations have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. For example, the valve element operator may be separate from the valve element. Also, the compliant flap employed to assist in containing the cushion of water beneath the vehicle undersurface may be formed of multiple flap elements. The amusement ride systems  10 ,  1000  described herein may be used to transport people and/or goods from one place to another. It may also be used as a transportation system. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.