Patent Description:
Wave pools have become extremely popular around the world. They generally comprise a wave generator located on one end and a sloped floor with a shoreline having a beach on the opposite end, wherein waves are formed by the generator that travel along the surface of the body of water until they break along the shoreline and spill onto the beach.

Wave pools of this type help create waves similar to those that exist in nature, but the predominant use of these wave pools has been to provide waves for those who desire to bob up-and-down in the deep end, and wade in the shallow breaking-wave part of the pool. Although attempts have been made in the past to create an enhanced wave pool with larger and more powerful waves suitable for surfing, the problem has been that these pools are predicated on historic wave pool designs, and when surfers attempt to ride these waves toward the shoreline, they are carried forward and across the body of water, toward the shallow end, which increases the risk of injury that can result from deep water surfers transitioning to shallower water and colliding into waders, etc..

An additional problem faced by conventional wave pools used for surfing is the economic value of such pools which is often diminished by the relatively low throughput they provide, i.e., the number of surfers who can enjoy riding the waves at any given time within the same pool. Also, enlarging pool size and the power of wave generators can be cost prohibitive.

What is needed, therefore, is a wave pool design having specific features that enable breaker waves to be properly managed and controlled such that intermediate/advanced surfing areas can be separated from beginner surfing areas, and wherein exit areas are provided intermittently across the wave pool to enable surfers to exit properly without interfering with the progress of the waves and without the surfer having to travel all the way to shore.

In <CIT>, a wave pool with individual wave generators that create waves that travel forward and break along a reef is shown.

In <CIT>, a divider that separates a sheet flow water ride into two operating sections is shown.

The present invention concerns a wave pool according to appended claim <NUM>. The present invention relates to wave pool designs that are configured with wave generators located on one end (the deep end) and preferably a sloped inclined floor and beach located on the opposite end (shallow end), and in order to help solve the problems mentioned above, the invention preferably comprises the following additional elements:.

First, the pool floor is preferably divided into multiple sections, each comprising at least one inclined floor section followed by at least one declined and/or level floor section, wherein by placing these sections back to back along the length of the wave pool, multiple wave breaking zones can be created, including a first breaker zone that creates one type of wave formation, and a second breaker zone that creates another type of wave formation, etc. This way, different wave formations having different wave breaking characteristics can be created in various locations throughout the wave pool, and by positioning these breaker zones back to back, i.e., one after the other, various wave breaking formations can be formed by the same wave, wherein they can break, reform and re-break again as they flow across the zones, thereby providing different wave characteristics within different sections within the same wave pool using the same wave energy. Furthermore, by having the depth and other characteristics of the wave breaking zones (the shoaling reef area) differ from one zone to the other, the same wave pool can be adapted to generate various types of waves with different wave breaking characteristics, such that surfers with different skill levels and abilities can ride on different waves at the same time in different areas within the same pool. Each wave breaking zone can have alternate reef designs, e.g., in the shape of a V from above, creating an 'A-Frame' peaking wave that progressively breaks initiating from the middle of the pool and down its length towards the pool sides; or in a diagonal line across the length of the pool, creating a progressively breaking wave from one side of the pool to the other; or, straight across the pool and allowing the timed differential sequencing of generated swell to interact in a progressive manner with the straight reef to break in correspondence with the generator movement, or focus on a particular location on the straight reef.

Second, to keep the surfers who are surfing within each zone from crossing over and into an adjacent zone within the same pool, i.e., to keep surfers having substantially the same skill level within the same zone, a special barrier is provided that extends between the zones and helps prevent surfers from crossing over from one zone to another. At the same time, the special barrier enables the waves and wave energy to pass through, such that essentially the same wave can travel from one end of the pool to the opposite end, through the various zones, wherein different wave characteristics can be formed using the same wave and wave energy. In one embodiment, the special barrier is made using a grill, grate, mesh or net or other suitable material having perforations that allow water and wave energy to pass through, but at the same time, provides a barrier to prevent surfers from crossing over from one zone to the next. In such case, the special barrier, such as a safety grill or net, is preferably anchored to the floor and extends up above the surface level of the body of water, and can be connected along the surface to a cable or line pulled across the wave pool to keep the barrier in place.

Third, to dampen unwanted parasitic or spurious waves and thereby reduce the choppiness of the desired surfing waves that travel from one zone to the next, an additional attenuating means is preferably extended along the surface of the body of water in association with the special barrier, such as above or near the barrier. In the preferred embodiment, this attenuating means preferably comprises a line with multiple floating members or coils extended above or near the special barrier, which helps dampen the surface action of the waves as they pass through the barrier. In such case, the floating coils preferably allow longer period surfing waves to pass through virtually unaffected, while at the same time, they help to attenuate and dampen the shorter period parasitic or spurious waves, which can help reduce the choppiness of the surfing waves without significantly reducing amplitude. A similar function can be achieved by a wall with perforations having a predetermined porosity, or a mesh with relatively small openings positioned above or near the special barrier that can help reduce the rate at which water is allowed to pass through from one zone to the next.

Fourth, as an added feature to enhance the spectator element of the wave pool, the wave pool preferably comprises a bridge which preferably extends over the special barriers that separate the zones, wherein the attenuating means can be provided directly beneath each one such that they can be hidden from view. Preferably, the decks or bridges are extended a sufficient distance above the wave pool such that the waves can pass through underneath without any interference. The bridges can be shaped in any manner, such as in the shape of a V from above, including in a shape that follows along the plan view shape of the breaker zones. This way, close-up viewing of the surfing zones can be provided. Bridges are preferably extended across the width of the pool from one side to the other. A deck can also be provided along the sides and/or far end of the wave pool. In either case, steps are preferably provided up to the walkway that extends to the bridges or decks around the perimeter of the wave pool.

Fifth, to enable surfers to exit from the wave pool within the various zones, which prevents them from having to surf or otherwise traverse all the way down the length of the pool to get out (due to the height of the side walls which can make it difficult for surfers to climb out of the wave pool), the wave pool preferably has multiple exit areas along the side walls associated with each zone from which the surfers can exit directly from the wave pool. Preferably, these exit areas extend inward along the sidewalls along the breaker zones to enable surfers to exit out of the water adjacent to each breaker zone. These exit areas preferably comprise inlets or openings which are intentionally kept as small as possible in an effort to help reduce the potential negative wave effects that can occur by having multiple openings extended along the sidewalls through the various zones. Moreover, in the preferred embodiment, additional wave dampening features are preferably provided within each inlet/opening that can help reduce wave reflections and unwanted spurious or parasitic wave phenomena that can negatively affect the progress of the waves that travel through the pool.

For example, one or more of the following wave dampening features can be provided on each exit area:.

The invention will now be discussed in greater detail in connection with the drawings.

<FIG> shows a wave pool <NUM> of the present invention which comprises a series of wave generators <NUM> extended along a relatively deep end <NUM>, i.e., shown on the left hand side of the drawing, and a pool floor <NUM> that extends from the wave generators <NUM> toward the opposite relatively shallow end <NUM>, i.e., shown on the right hand side of the drawing, wherein a shoreline <NUM> with a beach <NUM> is extended thereon (as shown in relation to the zero depth line <NUM>). In this embodiment, the side walls <NUM> extended on either side (shown at the top and bottom of the drawing) extend outward in a fan-shape such that the waves progressively widen as they travel from deep end <NUM> to shallow end <NUM>, although as shown in <FIG>, the side walls can extend substantially parallel to one another, or have a different configuration, as will be discussed.

Preferably extended across pool floor <NUM> are multiple wave-breaking zones, i.e., such as Zones <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, shown in <FIG>, extended back to back, one after the other, which allow different wave breaking formations with different wave characteristics to be generated within each zone. Each zone, i.e., Zones <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, etc., is preferably defined by an inclined section <NUM>, followed by a declined and/or substantially horizontal section <NUM> (hereinafter "declined/horizontal section"), wherein between each zone there is preferably a wave reforming area <NUM>, which is preferably relatively deep and allows the waves that pass from one zone to another to regenerate and reform, such that they can travel to the next zone, where the waves can reform and re-break again. Each zone is preferably configured in the manner shown in <FIG> wherein each inclined section <NUM> and each declined/horizontal section <NUM> are extended along a V shape from above (symmetrically along a center line represented by A-A). The angle of the V shape represents the peel angle of the waves to be formed which can be used to create the various wave formations that break along the length of wave pool <NUM>.

Preferably extended directly in front of wave generators <NUM> is a first floor section <NUM> which is preferably substantially horizontally oriented, although not necessarily so, followed by each of the zones, beginning with Zone <NUM>. Zone <NUM> preferably comprises inclined section 12a, which extends upward along a slope, such as <NUM>:<NUM>, until it reaches the primary breaker line <NUM>, which is then followed by declined/horizontal section 14a. The depths and slopes can be determined based on the desired type of wave to be generated within the zone. Thus, Zone <NUM> preferably begins along line <NUM>, which represents the start of inclined section 12a, and extends through primary breaker line <NUM>, which is then followed by declined/horizontal section 14a, which ends along line <NUM>. Primary breaker line <NUM> preferably extends at the breaker depth for the waves and represents where the waves will begin to break within Zone <NUM>. Again, the depth of primary breaker line <NUM> and slope of inclined section 12a, and declined/horizontal section 14a, are a function of the type of waves to be formed within that zone.

Although <FIG> shows primary breaker line as being <NUM> meters deep, that is only for exemplary purposes and by no means intended to be limiting. Virtually any range of depths and slopes can be provided as long as the desired effects are produced. In each instance, the depths and slopes can be substantially the same or vary along the width/length of the various sections, depending on the desired effects.

Downstream from Zone <NUM> and adjacent to line <NUM> is preferably a wave reforming area 16a, which is preferably extended substantially horizontally, although not necessarily so, such that the waves that break within Zone <NUM> can then reform and redevelop again as it travels toward Zone <NUM>. Note that the present invention preferably uses the same wave energy that was required to form the original wave within Zone <NUM> to reform the wave within Zone <NUM>.

Then, preferably extended downstream from reforming area 16a is the next Zone <NUM> which begins at inclined section 12b, along line <NUM>, and extends through secondary breaker line <NUM>, which is then followed by the declined/horizontal section 14b, which ends along line <NUM>. Again, the depth of secondary breaker line <NUM> and slope of inclined section 12b, and declined/horizontal section 14b, are a function of the type of waves to be formed within that zone. Thus, Zone <NUM> preferably extends between line <NUM>, which represents the start of inclined section 12b, and extends through secondary break line <NUM>, which is then followed by declined/horizontal section 14b, which ends long line <NUM>. Secondary breaker line <NUM> preferably extends at the breaker depth for the waves to be produced and represents where the waves will begin to break within Zone <NUM>.

Although <FIG> shows secondary breaker line <NUM> as being <NUM> meters deep, that is only for exemplary purposes and by no means intended to be limiting. Virtually any range of depths and slopes can be provided as long as the desired effects are produced. Note again that in each instance, the depths and slopes can be substantially the same or vary along the width/length of the various sections, depending on the desired effects.

Then, downstream from Zone <NUM> and adjacent line <NUM> is preferably another wave reforming area 16b, which is preferably extended substantially horizontally, although not necessarily so, such that the waves that break within Zones <NUM> and <NUM> can then reform and re-break again as it travels toward Zone <NUM>. Again, the present invention preferably uses the same wave energy that formed the original wave within Zone <NUM> to reform the waves within Zones <NUM> and <NUM>. Then, preferably extended downstream from reforming area 16b is the next Zone <NUM> which begins at inclined section 12c, along line <NUM>, and extends through tertiary breaker line <NUM>, followed by shoreline <NUM>, which preferably has an inclined slope of about zero to <NUM>:<NUM>, although not necessarily so. Again, the depth of tertiary breaker line <NUM> and slope of inclined section 12c, are a function of the type of waves to be formed within that zone. In such case, unlike Zones <NUM> and <NUM>, this Zone <NUM> does not have a declined/horizontal section <NUM>, but instead, the slope of inclined section 12c extends upward to form shoreline <NUM>, and continues upward along the same or similar slope, although not necessarily so, until it reaches the zero depth line <NUM> and forms beach <NUM>. This slope preferably extends all the way up from pool floor <NUM> and onto beach <NUM>, crossing what is designated as tertiary breaker line <NUM>, which preferably extends at the breaker depth for the waves and represents where the waves begin to break and spill onto beach <NUM>. Tertiary breaker line <NUM> also preferably extends along a V shape from above, and is followed by an area where smaller waves can spill onto beach <NUM>, which is ideal for those who simply want to wade in the pool. The slope of shoreline <NUM> preferably continues to extend upward beyond zero depth line <NUM> and toward the far sidewall or edge <NUM>, to form beach <NUM>, as shown along the right hand side of <FIG>.

Although <FIG> shows tertiary breaker line <NUM> as being <NUM> meters deep, that is only for exemplary purposes and by no means intended to be limiting. Virtually any range of depths and slopes can be provided as long as the desired effects are produced. Note that in each instance, the depths and slopes can be substantially the same or vary along the width/length of each of the sections, depending on the desired effects.

Based on the above, the arrangement of pool floor <NUM> is preferably as follows: Section <NUM> preferably extends from wave generators <NUM> to line <NUM> substantially horizontally. Zone <NUM> preferably extends from line <NUM>, and begins with inclined section 12a, followed by primary breaker line <NUM>, and ending with declined/horizontal section 14a, along line <NUM>. Zone <NUM> preferably extends from line <NUM>, and begins with inclined section 12b, followed by secondary breaker line <NUM>, and ends with declined/horizontal section 14b, along line <NUM>. Zone <NUM> preferably extends from line <NUM>, and begins with inclined section 12c, followed by tertiary breaker line <NUM>, and extends upward along shoreline <NUM>, through zero depth line <NUM>, and onto beach <NUM> along shallow end <NUM>. Note that the depths shown in <FIG> are for exemplary purposes only-wave pool <NUM> can be designed with virtually any depth or slope that functions in the intended manner.

At the same time, the preferred configuration shown in <FIG> comprises breaker line depths that gradually decrease from deep end <NUM> to shallow end <NUM>, i.e., from Zone <NUM> to Zone <NUM>. The following is an example of a possible range of depths and slopes that can be provided across pool floor <NUM>: Floor section <NUM> can be <NUM> meters in depth, ending along line <NUM>, followed by Zone <NUM> which begins at inclined section 12a, and extends up along a slope of <NUM>:<NUM>, until it reaches primary breaker line <NUM> at <NUM> meters deep, followed by declined/horizontal section 14a, which extends downward along a slope that is preferably greater than <NUM>:<NUM>, until it reaches <NUM> meters in depth along line <NUM>. This is followed by reforming area 16a, which is <NUM> meters deep, after which Zone <NUM> begins along line <NUM>, which is also <NUM> meters deep, with inclined section 12b extending upward along a slope of <NUM>:<NUM>, until it reaches secondary breaker line <NUM> at <NUM> meters deep, followed by declined/horizontal section 14b, which extends downward along a slope that is preferably greater than <NUM>:<NUM>, until it reaches <NUM> meters deep along line <NUM>. This is followed by reforming area 16b, which is <NUM> meters deep, after which Zone <NUM> begins along line <NUM>, which is at <NUM> meters deep, with inclined section 12c extending up along a slope of <NUM>:<NUM>, which continues upward along the same slope, passing through tertiary breaker line <NUM> at <NUM> meters deep, wherein shoreline <NUM> extends upward along the same slope, through zero depth line <NUM>, and onto beach <NUM>. In such case, the breaker line depths gradually decrease from <NUM> meters along primary breaker line <NUM>, to <NUM> meters along secondary breaker line <NUM>, to <NUM> meters along tertiary breaker line <NUM>. Additional zones or fewer zones can be provided across wave pool <NUM> without departing from the present invention.

Wave generators <NUM> that are shown on the left hand side preferably comprise multiple caissons <NUM> that can be fired at once or intermittently in sequence, one after another, etc., to create waves that travel from deep end <NUM> to shallow end <NUM>. A single wave is preferably created that travels forward through the various zones and reforming areas, i.e., from Zone <NUM>, where the wave initially forms and breaks along primary breaker line <NUM>, and then, to Zone <NUM>, where the wave reforms and re-breaks along secondary breaker line <NUM>, and then, to Zone <NUM>, where the wave re-breaks again, along tertiary breaker line <NUM>, wherein the wave eventually breaks and spills onto beach <NUM> along shoreline <NUM> and runs up toward shallow end <NUM>.

<FIG> also shows two decks or bridges, <NUM> and <NUM>, extending width-wise across wave pool <NUM>, which are preferably positioned substantially over Zones <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively, although not necessarily so. Each zone is extended along a V shape from above, and both decks <NUM>, <NUM> are preferably extended along a similar V shape from above. That way, both decks <NUM>, <NUM> are positioned in a manner that provides the best viewing area for spectators standing on the decks, i.e., each deck is preferably extended over the base of an inclined section <NUM>, which is where the waves are regenerated and reformed, which allows the breaking portion of the waves to be in the open viewing areas, which can be extended on either side of decks <NUM>, <NUM>, which is where the surfers can perform surfing maneuvers on the waves. Decks <NUM>, <NUM> are also preferably positioned over the areas extending between the zones, such that any dividing means that are provided (as will be discussed) can be hidden from view. Note that the forward edge of each deck <NUM>, <NUM> is shown in dashed line and is intended to coincide with lines <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively, of Zones <NUM> and <NUM>. More than two or fewer than two decks can be provided.

Preferably, decks <NUM>, <NUM> can be extended across wave pool <NUM> to provide up-close spectator viewing of surfers within Zones <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>. Decks <NUM>, <NUM> are preferably extended above the body of water by a predetermined distance, such as <NUM> meters, such that they will not interfere with waves or surfers below, and are preferably supported on multiple columns <NUM> extending below and have steps <NUM> leading up to them from walkway <NUM>.

Walkway <NUM> is preferably provided around the perimeter of wave pool <NUM> which allows for additional spectator viewing. Walkway <NUM> can extend all the way around or partially around the sides and end of wave pool <NUM>. Walkways <NUM> can be extended above sidewalls <NUM> and/or along shallow end <NUM> adjacent to wave pool <NUM> and are preferably elevated above the surface level of the water. Preferably they are higher along deep end <NUM> than along shallow end <NUM> to accommodate the higher waves that are created at deep end <NUM>. Several steps <NUM> can be provided along the length of walkway <NUM> to change the elevation thereof along the sides. Also, walkways <NUM> are preferably connected to each deck, <NUM>, <NUM>, with steps <NUM> leading up to each deck.

Extended along sidewalls <NUM> (on the top and bottom) are preferably several exit areas <NUM> that allow surfers that have completed their surfing within Zones <NUM> and <NUM> to exit from wave pool <NUM> without having to surf or otherwise traverse from one zone to the next. This is necessary because sidewalls <NUM> extend up high and make it difficult if not impossible for surfers to climb out of wave pool <NUM> without using exit areas <NUM> or travelling all the way to shallow end <NUM>. This is also necessary because each zone is separated from each other by a dividing means, as will be discussed, which prevents surfers from crossing zones and reaching shallow end <NUM>. More detail regarding exit areas <NUM> will be provided in connection with <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>.

<FIG> is a section view taken along B-B of <FIG> width-wise across wave pool <NUM> within Zone <NUM> facing deck <NUM>. As can be seen, deck <NUM> has railings <NUM> and is extended up above the body of water <NUM> over wave pool <NUM> and is supported by multiple columns <NUM>, wherein a safety net <NUM> and attenuating means <NUM> (labeled Parasitic Surface Wave Energy Attenuating Material) are extended below (extending up from pool floor <NUM> to the static waterline <NUM>). As will be discussed in greater detail, below each deck <NUM>, <NUM> is preferably a mesh or grate-like divider or fence, such as safety net <NUM> and attenuating means <NUM>, shown in dashed lines, which help to separate the zones from each other, wherein preferably, the divider or fence allows water and wave energy to pass through while preventing surfers from crossing over from one zone to the next. This allows the same wave produced by wave generators <NUM> to travel across wave pool <NUM> and pass through the various zones to create various wave formations that break, reform into an unbroken swell, and then re-break in the various zones along the length of wave pool <NUM>, while at the same time, helping to keep the zones separated from one another for surfing purposes. Safety net <NUM> is preferably configured with dual nets on either side of support columns <NUM> to help protect surfers from colliding into the columns. <FIG> shows that pool floor <NUM> is level throughout its mid-section and even though the floor is shown sloping upward along the sides, the preferred floor has a constant depth across the entire width of wave pool <NUM>. Exit area <NUM> with ramp <NUM> having a grated sloped floor is shown on the left hand side.

<FIG> are section views (placed end to end) taken along A-A of <FIG> which together represent a single section taken along the length of wave pool <NUM>-<FIG> shows the first half and <FIG> shows the second half. As can be seen, wave generating caissons <NUM> and other wave generating equipment are provided on deep end <NUM> on the left hand side of <FIG>, and shoreline <NUM> and beach <NUM> with tertiary breaker line <NUM> are shown on shallow end <NUM> on the right hand side of <FIG>. One of the significant features shown in this figure relates to the slope of pool floor <NUM> and how it varies from one zone to the next. First, it can be seen in <FIG> that pool floor <NUM> starts on the left hand side in section <NUM> where wave generators <NUM> are located, and after being level for a distance, pool floor <NUM> begins to slope upward until it reaches primary breaker line <NUM>, which in this embodiment is located at a depth of about <NUM> meters. The slope and breaker depth are predetermined such that the appropriate size waves can be created as the wave travels over primary breaker line <NUM>. The wave formations created within Zone <NUM> are preferably large breaking waves that are suitable for advanced level surfing which is facilitated by the greater depth of Zone <NUM>. Note that pool floor <NUM> then declines along declined/horizontal section 14a, and levels out downstream along reforming area 16a, i.e., to the right of primary breaker line <NUM>, which helps to allow the waves and wave energy to reform into an unbroken swell and continue travelling forward across wave pool <NUM> toward Zone <NUM>.

Note that deck <NUM> extends above the body of water and is supported by columns <NUM>, shown in <FIG>, wherein safety net <NUM> and attenuating means <NUM> (Parasitic Surface Wave Dampening Material) are extended below deck <NUM>. Note that attenuating means <NUM> preferably comprises a line or rope threaded through parasitic wave dampening members or coils or perforated disks that are spaced a predetermined distance apart from each other, wherein the line or rope is extended or pulled taught across the surface of the body of water. The structure of attenuating means <NUM> allows longer period surfing waves to travel through it without being affected, while helping to dampen the shorter period spurious waves on the surface of the body of water to reduce choppiness. Extended adjacent to attenuating means <NUM> but not necessarily connected to it is safety net <NUM> that helps to prevent surfers from crossing over from one zone to the next, but allows the water and wave energy to pass through relatively uninhibited. Preferably, there are two safety nets <NUM> and two attenuating means <NUM> running substantially parallel to each other below deck <NUM> with support columns <NUM> situated in between them.

Extending further to the right, in reference to <FIG>, secondary breaker line <NUM> is shown positioned at the peak of inclined section 12b, followed by another declined/horizontal section 14b. Secondary breaker line <NUM> in this embodiment is preferably located at a depth of about <NUM> meters, although virtually any depth and slope can be used that achieves the desired results, and essentially forms the break area for Zone <NUM>. The slope and breaker depths are preferably predetermined such that the appropriate size wave and break can be created as the waves travel over secondary breaker line <NUM>, wherein Zone <NUM> is preferably deeper than Zone <NUM>. The wave formations created within Zone <NUM> are preferably moderately sized breaking waves that are suitable for intermediate level surfing which is facilitated by the depth of this area. Note that pool floor <NUM> then declines and levels out downstream, i.e., to the right of secondary breaker line <NUM>, which helps to allow the waves and wave energy to reform into an unbroken swell and continue travelling forward after secondary breaker line <NUM> and toward Zone <NUM>. In this embodiment, secondary breaker line <NUM> is preferably positioned at about half the depth of primary breaker line <NUM>, although not necessarily so.

As shown in <FIG>, pool floor <NUM> preferably extends substantially horizontally along reforming area 16b for a predetermined distance until it begins to slope up again along inclined section 12c, which is at or near where deck <NUM> is located. Deck <NUM> also extends above the body of water, and is supported by multiple columns <NUM>, and has a safety net <NUM> and attenuating means <NUM> (Parasitic Surface Wave Dampening Material) extended below it. Note that this attenuating means <NUM> also preferably comprises a line or rope threaded through parasitic wave dampening members or coils or perforated disks that are spaced a predetermined distance apart from each other, wherein the line or rope is extended or pulled taught across the surface of the body of water. Again, the structure of attenuating means <NUM> allows the longer period surfing waves to travel through it, while helping to dampen the shorter period spurious waves and their wave energy at the water surface to reduce choppiness. Extended adjacent to attenuating means <NUM> but not necessarily connected to it is safety net <NUM> that helps to prevent surfers from crossing over from one zone to the next, but allows the water and wave energy to pass through. Preferably, there are two safety nets <NUM> and two attenuating means <NUM> running substantially parallel to each other below deck <NUM> with support columns <NUM> situated in between them.

Finally, as shown in <FIG>, pool floor <NUM> gradually slopes upward toward shoreline <NUM> and beach <NUM> where tertiary breaker line <NUM>, which extends at the breaker depth for the waves and represents where the waves begin to break onto beach <NUM>, is located. This area is designed for beginner surfers.

<FIG> is a plan view of deck <NUM> and <FIG> is an elevation view. As indicated before, the preferred shape of deck <NUM> is the shape of a V from above, which corresponds with the plan view shape of Zone <NUM>, with a safety net <NUM> and attenuating means <NUM> extended below, such that those standing on deck <NUM> can view the adjacent zones on either side, where the surfing will take place. At the same time, safety net <NUM> and attenuating means <NUM> are hidden from view. There are preferably two safety nets <NUM> and two attenuating means <NUM> below deck <NUM>, extended parallel to each other, wherein support columns <NUM> are preferably positioned inside safety nets <NUM> to prevent wayward surfers from running into columns <NUM>. Columns <NUM> are preferably foil shaped as shown to provide less wave resistance. There are preferably steps <NUM> leading up to deck <NUM> on either side along walkway <NUM> and each deck preferably has rails <NUM>.

<FIG> is a plan view of deck <NUM> and <FIG> is an elevation view. The preferred shape of deck <NUM> is the shape of a V from above, which corresponds with the plan view shape of Zone <NUM>, with a safety net <NUM> and attenuating means <NUM> extended below, such that those standing on deck <NUM> can view the adjacent zone, i.e., Zone <NUM>, on one side, and beach <NUM> on the other. At the same time, safety net <NUM> and attenuating means <NUM> are hidden from view. There are preferably two safety nets <NUM> and two attenuating means <NUM> below deck <NUM>, extended parallel to each other, wherein support columns <NUM> are preferably positioned inside safety nets <NUM> to prevent wayward surfers from running into columns <NUM>. Columns <NUM> are preferably foil shaped as shown to provide less wave resistance. There are preferably steps <NUM> leading up to deck <NUM> on either side along walkway <NUM> and each deck preferably has rails <NUM>. Note that more steps leading to deck <NUM> are required than those leading to deck <NUM> due to walkway <NUM> being lower in elevation at that part of wave pool <NUM>. Also note that the depth of pool floor <NUM> below deck <NUM> shown in <FIG> is higher than it is under deck <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, primarily because pool floor <NUM> slopes relatively upward toward beach <NUM>.

<FIG> show an embodiment of an exit area <NUM> in the shape of a key hole, including an inlet or opening <NUM> along sidewall <NUM> and an associated channel <NUM> with a sloped ramp <NUM> that enables surfers to walk up and onto adjacent walkway <NUM>. Preferably, these exit areas enable surfers to exit from wave pool <NUM> by swimming or otherwise traversing onto ramp <NUM> along the various zones, so that they don't have to travel all the way to shallow end <NUM> to exit, and so that they can walk up and onto walkway <NUM> directly from the associated zones. Channel <NUM> preferably has a sidewall <NUM> that separates it from the body of water as a means of preserving the movement of waves progressing through wave pool <NUM> with little or no effect. The relatively small size of inlet <NUM> helps preserve the formation and reformation of waves within wave pool <NUM>, by limiting interference that could otherwise result from waves flowing into inlet <NUM>. Channel <NUM> with ramp <NUM> is preferably extended in a direction opposite the forward movement of the waves to limit the effect of wave reflection and other motions that can occur in and around inlet <NUM>.

The size of inlet <NUM> is preferably kept to a minimum, to minimize its potential negative effect on the formation and progress of the waves. Accordingly, while surfers are allowed to exit, only a small amount of wave energy will be diverted from the waves travelling through wave pool <NUM> by inlet <NUM>. Sidewalls <NUM> in such case are preferably extended substantially vertically all the way from pool floor <NUM> to well above the peak of the waves, and extends substantially longitudinally downstream from deep end <NUM> to the point where inlets <NUM> are located, wherein sidewall <NUM> helps to keep channel <NUM> and ramp <NUM> separate from the body of water, thereby allowing the waves to travel as far as possible without being interfered with by inlet <NUM>.

To further minimize the potential negative effect of inlet <NUM> on the progress of the waves, including potential unwanted wave reflections and motions that can bounce around within wave pool <NUM> and inlet <NUM> forming spurious or parasitic waves that can negatively affect the desired smooth surface of larger surfing waves, the present invention preferably comprises multiple wave dampening features in and around exit areas <NUM>, including the following:
First, as shown in <FIG>, multiple vertical bars <NUM> forming a grated wall are preferably extended upward from the floor around inlet <NUM> as well as along the inside wall <NUM> of channel <NUM> between ramp <NUM> and walkway <NUM>. Bars <NUM> are preferably padded for safety and spaced a predetermined distance apart from one another with a predetermined porosity to allow water to pass through, but at the same time, to help dampen the waves associated with the water movement entering into inlet <NUM>. Note that these types of padded bars <NUM> are shown in <FIG>, i.e., in plan view, as a series of bars forming the shape of inlet <NUM>. In <FIG>, an elevation view is provided showing these bars <NUM> extending vertically upward from the floor toward walkway <NUM>. These padded grate bars <NUM> can be constructed as described in <CIT>.

Second, within channel <NUM> between sidewall <NUM> and inner wall <NUM> (where the vertical padded grate bars <NUM> are located) ramp <NUM> is preferably formed using multiple grate bars <NUM> that form the sloped floor of ramp <NUM>. These grate bars <NUM> are preferably padded and spaced a predetermined distance apart from one another with a predetermined porosity to allow water to pass through, but at the same time, they can help dampen the wave energy associated with the water movement entering into inlet <NUM> and reflected therein, wherein, wave energy that reflects off of vertical padded grate bars <NUM> around inlet <NUM> and into channel <NUM> can be further dampened. Note that the preferred slope of ramp <NUM> is about <NUM>:<NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, although it can be greater or smaller. <FIG> shows ramp <NUM> as a series of sloped grated bars <NUM> extending substantially parallel to each other and parallel to sidewall <NUM> and inner wall <NUM>, wherein in the preferred embodiment, grated bars <NUM> have a porosity of about <NUM>% to <NUM>% with a preferred porosity of <NUM>% of the total surface area of ramp <NUM>, which helps provide wave dampening and attenuation aspects of the surface. The preferred porosity levels of bars <NUM> and other aspects of the invention for dampening purposes can be determined in conjunction with the principles described in U. Application Serial No. <CIT>. The padded grate bars <NUM> can be constructed as described in U. Application Serial No. <CIT>.

Third, a wave dampening chamber <NUM> is preferably located behind vertical padded grate bars <NUM> and underneath walkway <NUM>, wherein chamber <NUM> preferably consists of an internal sloped solid floor <NUM> that helps to further dampen any wave motions that might pass through vertical grate bars <NUM> and into chamber <NUM>. In addition, an ancillary wave dampening material consisting of a buoyant mesh or material consisting of vertical slats <NUM> anchored to sloped floor <NUM> can be provided within chamber <NUM>, to help further dampen wave motions that might enter chamber <NUM>. These wave dampening materials <NUM> are shown by wavy lines in <FIG> extended inside chamber <NUM>. A cross section of chamber <NUM> and exit area <NUM> can be seen in <FIG>.

<FIG> show an alternate embodiment of exit area <NUM> which enables surfers to exit from wave pool <NUM> along the various zones. Preferably, this version extends inward within sidewall <NUM> and enables surfers to exit adjacent the breaker zones so that they don't have to travel all the way to shallow end <NUM> to exit, but unlike the previous version, this embodiment has an inlet <NUM> with a straight angled wall <NUM> that is a continuation of inner wall <NUM> adjacent channel <NUM>. Angled wall <NUM> is preferably constructed using vertical padded grate bars <NUM> that are preferably spaced apart and have a predetermined porosity that allow water to pass through, while at the same time, wave energy can be dampened and/or reflected back toward channel <NUM> along sidewall <NUM>. Preferably, this embodiment <NUM> enables surfers to swim or otherwise traverse onto ramp <NUM> so that they can walk up and onto walkway <NUM>. The width of inlet <NUM> is preferably kept to a minimum, to minimize the potential negative effect that inlet <NUM> can have on the waves. Thus, while surfers are allowed to exit, the goal is for only a small amount of wave energy to be diverted from the waves travelling through wave pool <NUM> and into inlet <NUM>.

When wave energy is reflected back by angled wall <NUM> to channel <NUM>, preferably, additional wave dampening occurs by virtue of channel <NUM> and sloped ramp <NUM> which is preferably formed using multiple padded grate bars <NUM> that are spaced a predetermined distance apart from one another to allow some water to pass through, while at the same time, help dampen wave energy associated with water movement entering into inlet <NUM>. Again, the slope of ramp <NUM> is preferably about <NUM>:<NUM>, although it can be higher or lower, and preferably, the openings between grate bars <NUM> comprise about <NUM>% of the total surface area of ramp <NUM>, although not necessarily so. Water bouncing back and forth within channel <NUM> by virtue of sidewall <NUM> on one side and inner wall <NUM> on the other can also help dampen the waves.

To further minimize the potential negative effect that inlet <NUM> can have on wave formation, this embodiment preferably has additional wave dampening features in and around exit area <NUM>, such as those provided in the previous embodiment, including the following: Multiple vertical padded grate bars <NUM> forming inner wall <NUM> can be extended upward from the floor around inlet <NUM>. These grate bars <NUM> are preferably spaced a predetermined distance apart from one another with a predetermined porosity to allow water to pass through, while at the same time, help dampen wave energy associated with water movement entering into inlet <NUM>. Furthermore, a wave dampening chamber <NUM> can be located behind angled wall <NUM> and inner wall <NUM> and underneath walkway <NUM>, wherein chamber <NUM> is similar in construction to chamber <NUM>, wherein chamber <NUM> preferably consists of a sloped solid floor <NUM> that helps to dampen water movement that passes through vertical grate bars <NUM> and into chamber <NUM>. In addition, an ancillary wave dampening material consisting of a buoyant mesh or vertical slats <NUM> anchored to the floor can be provided within chamber <NUM> to help further dampen wave motion that might enter into chamber <NUM>. These wave dampening materials <NUM> are shown by the wavy lines in <FIG> extended inside chamber <NUM>.

<FIG> show an alternate embodiment of exit area <NUM> which enables surfers to exit from wave pool <NUM> along the various Zones. Preferably, this version has an inlet <NUM> that extends inward within sidewall <NUM> and enables surfers to exit adjacent the breaker zones, and like the previous version, this embodiment has a straight angled wall <NUM>, but in this case, wall <NUM> along with inner wall <NUM> are preferably solid and do not have vertical padded grate bars <NUM> extended thereon to allow water to pass. Accordingly, angled wall <NUM> simply reflects wave energy that enters into inlet <NUM> toward channel <NUM>, wherein additional wave dampening occurs by virtue of the walls extended on either side of channel <NUM>, and ramp <NUM> comprising multiple padded grate bars <NUM> extending upward along a slope. Again, the slope of ramp <NUM> is preferably about <NUM>:<NUM>, and preferably, the openings comprise about <NUM>% of the total surface area of ramp <NUM>, although not necessarily so. Preferably, this embodiment <NUM> enables surfers to swim or otherwise traverse onto ramp <NUM> so that they can walk up and onto walkway <NUM>. The width of inlet <NUM> is preferably kept to a minimum, to minimize the potential negative effect inlet <NUM> can have on the waves. Thus, while surfers are allowed to exit, only a small amount of wave energy will be diverted from the waves travelling through wave pool <NUM>.

<FIG> is a plan view of an alternate wave pool embodiment <NUM>. Unlike the embodiment of <FIG>, in this embodiment, the side walls <NUM> on either side (shown at the top and bottom of the drawing) extend substantially parallel to each other such that the waves progress forward without widening as they travel from wave generators <NUM> toward beach <NUM>, from deep end <NUM> to shallow end <NUM>. This embodiment also has only two wave breaking zones, i.e., Zones <NUM> and <NUM>, and only one attenuating barrier between them, and no viewing deck across the width of wave pool <NUM>, although a viewing deck <NUM> is preferably provided around the perimeter of wave pool <NUM>. It preferably comprises a series of wave generators <NUM> with generating caissons <NUM> and a pool floor <NUM> that extends away from wave generators <NUM> toward shallow end <NUM> where shoreline <NUM> and beach <NUM> are located (shown in relation to the minimum still water line <NUM>). Note that the location of Beginner Surf Area should be to the right of secondary breaker line <NUM>-this is an error in the drawing.

Preferably extended across pool floor <NUM> are multiple wave-breaking zones, i.e., such as Zones <NUM> and <NUM>, extended back to back, one after the other, which allow different wave formations with different wave characteristics to be created within each zone. As shown in <FIG>, pool floor <NUM> preferably begins with a substantially level area <NUM> near wave generators <NUM>, which is followed by Zone <NUM>, which starts along line <NUM>, and extends upward along inclined section 112a, along a slope of between about <NUM>:<NUM>, although this can be higher or lower, toward the primary breaker line <NUM>, which preferably extends at the breaker depth for the waves and represents where the waves begin to break. Inclined section 112a is then followed by a declined/horizontal section <NUM>, which is preferably extended substantially horizontally or along a downward slope that is preferably greater than <NUM>:<NUM>, which ends along line <NUM>. Thus, Zone <NUM> is preferably configured in the manner shown in <FIG> wherein it begins along line <NUM>, and extends through inclined section 112a, goes through primary breaker line <NUM>, and declined/horizontal section 114a, and ends along line <NUM>, wherein Zone <NUM> is extended along a V shape from above (symmetrically along a center line represented by A-A).

Although <FIG> shows line <NUM> as being <NUM> meters deep, primary breaker line as being <NUM> meters in depth, and line <NUM> as being <NUM> meters deep, those depths are only for exemplary purposes and by no means intended to be limiting. Virtually any range of depths and slopes can be provided as long as the desired effects are produced. In each instance, the depths and slopes can be substantially the same or vary along the width/length of each of the sections, depending on the desired effects.

Then, following line <NUM>, moving from left to right, a wave reforming area <NUM> is preferably provided which is a relatively deep area (also labeled as Intermediate/Advanced Surf Area) which is where the largest waves break, and which allows the waves that pass through Zone <NUM> to regenerate and reform, such that they can travel toward Zone <NUM>, where the waves can reform and re-break again. Note that the area designated as Intermediate/Advanced Surf Area is generally located closer to line <NUM>, whereas, deep wave reforming area <NUM> is generally located closer to line <NUM>. These areas are also shown in the elevation view of <FIG>.

Then, preferably extended downstream from wave reforming area <NUM> is the next Zone <NUM> which begins along line <NUM> and extends upward along inclined section 112b, and through secondary breaker line <NUM>, which preferably extends at the breaker depth for the waves and represents where the waves begin to break toward beach <NUM>. Then, secondary breaker line <NUM> is followed by shoreline <NUM>, which preferably has an inclined slope of about zero to <NUM>:<NUM>, although not necessarily so. Unlike Zone <NUM>, this Zone <NUM> does not have a declined/horizontal section <NUM>, but instead, the slope of inclined section 112b preferably extends upward to form shoreline <NUM>, and continues upward along the same or similar slope, although not necessarily so, until it reaches the minimum still water line <NUM> and forms beach <NUM>. This slope preferably extends all the way up from line <NUM> and onto beach <NUM>, crossing secondary breaker line <NUM>, which is where the waves begin to break and spill onto beach <NUM>. Secondary breaker line <NUM> also preferably extends along a V shape from above, and is followed by an area where smaller waves can spill onto beach <NUM>, which is ideal for those who simply want to wade in the pool. The slope of shoreline <NUM> preferably continues to extend upward beyond line <NUM> and toward the far sidewall or edge <NUM>.

Although <FIG> shows line <NUM> being <NUM> meters deep, and secondary breaker line <NUM> as being <NUM> meters deep, those depths are only for exemplary purposes and by no means intended to be limiting. Virtually any range of depths and slopes can be provided as long as the desired effects are produced. Note again that in each instance, the depths and slopes can be substantially the same or vary along the width/length, depending on the desired effects.

Based on the above, the arrangement of pool floor <NUM> is preferably as follows: Section <NUM> extends substantially horizontally from wave generators <NUM> to line <NUM>. Zone <NUM> preferably extends from line <NUM>, and up along inclined section 112a, through primary breaker line <NUM>, and down declined/horizontal section <NUM>, and ends along line <NUM>, wherein this zone extends in the shape of a V from above. Then, after passing through wave reforming area <NUM>, which represents the Intermediate/Advanced Surf Area, Zone <NUM> preferably begins along line <NUM>, and extends upward along inclined section 112b, and continues upward through secondary breaker line <NUM>, and onto shoreline <NUM> and beach <NUM>. Note that the depths shown in <FIG> are for exemplary purposes only and are by no means intended to be limiting-wave pool <NUM> can be designed with virtually any depth or slope that functions in the intended manner.

The preferred configuration shown in <FIG> and <FIG> comprises breaker line depths that gradually decrease from deep end <NUM> to shallow end <NUM>, i.e., from Zone <NUM> to Zone <NUM>. The following is an example of one possible range of depths and slopes that can be provided across pool floor <NUM>: Floor section <NUM> can be <NUM> meters deep, ending along line <NUM>, followed by Zone <NUM> which begins at inclined section 112a, and extends up along a slope of <NUM>:<NUM>, until it reaches primary breaker line <NUM> at <NUM> meters deep, followed by declined/horizontal section <NUM>, which extends downward along a slope that is greater than <NUM>:<NUM>, until it reaches <NUM> meters deep along line <NUM>. This is followed by wave reforming area <NUM>, which is <NUM> meters deep, after which Zone <NUM> begins along line <NUM>, at <NUM> meters deep, with inclined section 112b extending upward along a slope of <NUM>:<NUM>, until it reaches secondary breaker line <NUM> at <NUM> meters deep, which then continues upward along the same slope, wherein shoreline <NUM> extends upward through minimum still water line <NUM>, and onto beach <NUM>. In such case, the breaker line depths preferably gradually decrease from <NUM> meters deep along primary breaker line <NUM>, to <NUM> meters deep along secondary breaker line <NUM>, which again are for exemplary purposes only. Additional zones or fewer zones can be provided across wave pool <NUM> without departing from the present invention.

As shown in <FIG>, between Zones <NUM> and <NUM> is preferably a parasitic surface wave energy attenuating barrier <NUM> that includes a safety net <NUM> and attenuating means <NUM>, as discussed in connection with the previous embodiment, which in this embodiment, is in the shape of a curve from above as shown. Barrier <NUM> preferably helps to separate Zone <NUM> from Zone <NUM>, wherein preferably, barrier <NUM> allows water and wave energy to pass through while preventing surfers from crossing over from one zone to the next. This allows the same wave produced by wave generator <NUM> to travel across wave pool <NUM> and pass through multiple zones to create various wave formations that break, reform, and then re-break along the length of wave pool <NUM>, using the same wave energy. Preferably, as shown in <FIG>, barrier <NUM> comprises safety net <NUM> and attenuating means <NUM> (Parasitic Surface Wave Dampening Material) similar to those discussed in connection with the previous embodiment, wherein attenuating means <NUM> preferably comprises a line or rope with multiple members or coils or perforated disks attached to it that are spaced a predetermined distance apart from each other, wherein the line or rope is extended across the surface of the body of water. The structure of attenuating means <NUM> allows longer period surfing waves to travel through it without being affected, while helping to dampen shorter period parasitic waves at the surface to reduce choppiness. Extended below attenuating means <NUM> but not necessarily connected to it is safety net <NUM> that helps to prevent surfers from crossing over from one zone to the next, but allows water and wave energy to pass through. <FIG> also shows body of water <NUM> and static water line <NUM>.

On the right side of barrier <NUM> is Zone <NUM> which is preferably extended along inclined section 112b and extends up through secondary breaker line <NUM>, which is also in the shape of a V from above. The beach-head that extends along shallow end <NUM> forms shoreline <NUM> and beach <NUM>, wherein the slope extends all the way up from pool floor <NUM>, through minimum still water line <NUM> along the right hand side. Note that all the depths mentioned, including <NUM> meters for the beginning of inclined section 112b and <NUM> meters for secondary breaker line <NUM>, are exemplary only and are by no means intended to be limiting-wave pool <NUM> can be designed with virtually any depth and slope that functions in the intended manner. The preferred configuration comprises breaker lines with depths that gradually decrease from Zone <NUM> to Zone <NUM>, i.e., from <NUM> meters to <NUM> meters.

A walkway <NUM> is preferably provided around the perimeter of wave pool <NUM> which allows for spectator viewing. This can extend all the way around for full viewing or partially around the sides and end of wave pool <NUM>. Walkway <NUM> is preferably elevated above the surface level of the body of water, and is preferably higher on the deep end <NUM> than on the shallow end <NUM>, to accommodate the higher wave formations that are created by wave generators <NUM>. Note that several steps can be provided along the length of walkway <NUM> to change the elevation thereof.

As can be seen along walkways <NUM> and sidewalls <NUM>, there are preferably several exit areas <NUM> (labeled as Exit Channel in the drawing) that allow surfers within wave pool <NUM> to exit without having to surf or traverse all the way to shallow end <NUM>. Each exit area <NUM> preferably comprises an inlet or opening <NUM> in sidewalls <NUM> that allow surfers within the body of water to exit, wherein there is a channel <NUM> with a sloped ramp <NUM> that enables surfers to walk up and out onto walkway <NUM>, similar to channel <NUM> and ramp <NUM> of the previous embodiments. Channel <NUM> preferably has a sidewall that separates it from the body of water to preserve the movement of the waves progressing through wave pool <NUM>. Channel <NUM> with ramp <NUM> is preferably extended in a direction opposite the forward movement of the waves and has walls on either side, i.e., sidewall <NUM> on one side and inner wall <NUM> on the other, and can be provided with a plurality of padded grate bars <NUM> extending along the slope of ramp <NUM>, so as to limit the effect of spurious wave reflections and motions that can occur in and around inlet <NUM>. Other wave dampening features discussed previously in connection with exit areas <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, can be provided in connection with exit area <NUM>.

<FIG> shows another embodiment of a wave pool <NUM> similar to the one shown in <FIG>, in that it has a similar configuration, with similar wave generators <NUM>, similar wave breaking Zones <NUM> and <NUM>, similar sidewalls <NUM>, similar inclined sections 112a and 112b, similar declined/horizontal section <NUM>, similar wave reforming area <NUM>, similar primary and secondary breaker lines <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively, and similar walkway <NUM>, etc., but this embodiment <NUM> has an alternate exit area <NUM> consisting of an opening <NUM> in sidewall <NUM> with a secondary pool <NUM> associated therewith. Rather than having an inlet with a channel and ramp, as was the case in the previous embodiments, this exit area <NUM> preferably has an associated pool <NUM> extended from opening <NUM>, which preferably has a sloped floor <NUM> and is large enough to allow the wave energy and wave motions that enter into opening <NUM> and into pool <NUM> to be dispersed and therefore dampened. This way, unwanted secondary waves and parasitic surface wave energy that can enter into opening <NUM> from wave pool <NUM>, which can otherwise be reflected back into wave pool <NUM>, are reduced. Although this embodiment can have other wave dampening features as discussed previously, the shape of secondary pool <NUM> and sloped floor <NUM> preferably serve to dampen the waves and motions, such that those other features are unnecessary. This embodiment may or may not have a divider extending between Zones <NUM> and <NUM>. Although exit area <NUM> is shown on embodiment <NUM>, it can also be used in conjunction with the embodiment <NUM> of <FIG>.

<FIG> are details of wave pool <NUM>, wherein <FIG> is an elevation view taken along section A-A of <FIG> and <FIG> is an elevation view taken along section B-B of <FIG>. These views are similar to <FIG> and <FIG>, respectively. For example, <FIG> shows deep end <NUM> having wave generating caissons <NUM> and horizontal section <NUM> extending therefrom, followed from left to right by inclined section 112a, primary breaker line <NUM>, and declined/horizontal section <NUM>, which collectively form Zone <NUM>, which is then followed by deep wave reforming area <NUM>, inclined section 112b, and secondary breaker line <NUM>, which collectively form Zone <NUM>, which is followed by shoreline <NUM> and beach <NUM>. <FIG> shows pool floor <NUM> with body of water <NUM> and static water line <NUM>, along with attenuating material <NUM> and safety net <NUM>, which are optional, except that in this embodiment, exit area <NUM> preferably has a secondary pool <NUM> associated therewith, wherein each comprises an opening <NUM>, a sloped floor <NUM>, and a perimeter <NUM> that defines pool <NUM>.

<FIG> shows another embodiment of a wave pool <NUM> similar to the one shown in <FIG>, in that it has a similar configuration, with similar wave generators <NUM>, similar wave breaking Zones <NUM> and <NUM>, similar sidewalls <NUM>, similar inclined sections 112a and 112b, similar declined/horizontal section <NUM>, similar wave reforming area <NUM>, similar primary and secondary breaker lines <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively, and similar walkway <NUM>, etc., but this embodiment <NUM> has an alternate exit area <NUM> consisting of a lowered wall section <NUM> extended along sidewall <NUM>, with an exit scallop <NUM> thereon, wherein rather than having an opening that extends the full height of sidewall <NUM>, exit area <NUM> preferably only extends up from a predetermined height, which in the preferred embodiment is above the height of static water line <NUM>. That way, when a wave passes by, most of its energy will be retained by sidewall <NUM>, and the wave will not be greatly affected by the open area formed by lowered wall section <NUM>. But because lowered wall section <NUM> is lower than the rest of sidewall <NUM>, when a wave does pass by, surfers can simply float on top of the wave and easily maneuver to get out. They can then maneuver onto scallop <NUM>, which is preferably a relatively flat cushioned surface, and exit. In this respect, the height of lowered wall section <NUM> is preferably predetermined such that it retains most of the wave energy of the passing waves, but is low enough that it enables surfers to easily maneuver and exit from wave pool <NUM> when a wave passes by. Scallop <NUM> is preferably flat and cushioned to provide safety to surfers who are exiting from wave pool <NUM>. Exit stairs <NUM> can be provided from exit area <NUM> leading to walkway <NUM>. This embodiment may or may not have a divider extending between Zones <NUM> and <NUM>. Although exit area <NUM> is shown on embodiment <NUM>, it can also be used in conjunction with embodiment <NUM> of <FIG>.

<FIG> are details of embodiment <NUM> shown in <FIG>, wherein <FIG> is an elevation view taken along section A-A of <FIG>, and <FIG> is an elevation view taken along section B-B of <FIG>. These views are similar to <FIG> and <FIG>, respectively. For example, <FIG> shows deep end <NUM> having wave generating caissons <NUM> and horizontal section <NUM> extending therefrom, followed from left to right by inclined section 112a, primary breaker line <NUM>, and declined/horizontal section <NUM>, which collectively form Zone <NUM>, which is then followed by deep wave reforming area <NUM>, inclined section 112b, and secondary breaker line <NUM>, which collectively form Zone <NUM>, which is then followed by shoreline <NUM> and beach <NUM>. However, <FIG> shows lowered wall section <NUM> extended along a top section of sidewall <NUM>, which can be used by surfers to exit from wave pool <NUM> along the appropriate zone, such as when a wave passes by. <FIG> shows pool floor <NUM> with body of water <NUM> and static water line <NUM>, along with attenuating material <NUM> and safety net <NUM>, which are optional, but with exit area <NUM> comprising a lowered wall section <NUM> extended along sidewall <NUM> which allows a surfer to exit as a wave passes by and elevates the surfer high enough to exit through lowered wall section <NUM>. Then, because exit area <NUM> preferably has an associated scallop <NUM> with a cushioned surface thereon, and stairs <NUM>, the surfer can exit through exit area <NUM> and climb onto stairs <NUM> and onto walkway <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A wave pool (<NUM>, <NUM>) comprising:
at least one wave generator (<NUM>, <NUM>) on a first end (<NUM>, <NUM>) of said wave pool;
a pool floor (<NUM>, <NUM>) extending from said first end (<NUM>, <NUM>) toward a second end (<NUM>, <NUM>), opposite said first end;
a plurality of wave-breaking zones (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) extended across said pool floor, wherein each zone is capable of creating predetermined wave characteristics that are produced by the specific configuration of the pool floor within that zone;
characterized in that
each zone comprises an inclined section (<NUM>, <NUM>) substantially extended up to a breaker line (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), wherein the depth of each breaker line decreases from one zone to the next, in a direction extending from said first end toward said second end, wherein each zone (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is adapted such that different waves having different wave breaking characteristics are generated in each of said zones, and wherein the zone closest to said first end creates waves that are larger than the zone closest to said second end, wherein a divider or barrier (<NUM>, <NUM>) is provided substantially between adjacent zones, wherein said divider or barrier allows waves and wave energy to pass through, but is adapted to prevent surfers from crossing over from one zone to the next, wherein said wave pool comprises at least one of the following:
<NUM>) a bridge (<NUM>, <NUM>) extended across said wave pool above one or more of said zones to provide viewing for spectators, wherein a walkway (<NUM>) is extended around at least a portion of said wave pool, and wherein said bridge is connected to said walkway;
<NUM>) at least one exit area (<NUM>, <NUM>) within each of said zones for enabling surfers to exit from said wave pool without having to travel from one zone to the next;
<NUM>) an attenuator (<NUM>) extended substantially across said wave pool to help reduce the choppiness of the waves travelling from one zone to the next.