Patent ID: 12251642

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description of exemplary embodiments herein makes reference to the accompanying drawings and pictures, which show the exemplary embodiment by way of illustration and its best mode. While these exemplary embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, it should be understood that other embodiments may be realized and (feat logical and mechanical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the detailed description herein is presented for purposes of illustration only and not of limitation. For example, the steps recited in any of the method or process descriptions may be executed in my order and are not limited to the order presented. Moreover, any of the functions or steps may be outsourced to or performed by one or more third parties. Furthermore, any reference to singular includes plural embodiments, and any reference to more than one component may include a singular embodiment.

FIG.1Ashows a perspective view of a monolithic-based play structure100. Although the play structure100is illustrated as incorporating a variety of wet elements (e.g., water dumpers, sprayers, jets, etc.), in art alternative embodiment, additional fewer, and/or different wet or dry elements may be used. For example, in one embodiment, the play structure100may be a dry play structure that does not include any play elements or components that utilize fluids such as water.

The play structure100is framed via one or more frames, such as frame102and frame104, that may be made out of any of a variety of desired materials (e.g., steel, aluminum, carbon fiber, etc.) that is either formed as a single shape (e.g., rectangle) and/or may be formed via the connection (e.g., bolts, screws, welding, etc.) of smaller frame members (e.g., straight or curved bars) to form the frames102,104. For example, as explicitly illustrated inFIG.1A, the frames102,104are substantially rectangular in shape. As discussed in greater detail herein, the frames102,104may be positioned at any of a variety of desired angles with respect to a floor or surface that the play structure100is disposed upon.

Certain embodiment may not have the one or more frames102,104explicitly fastened or connected with the floor or ground via a stable connector at all (e.g., the frame102and/or frame104may merely rest upon the floor, ground, or other surface). In some embodiments, the frames102,104may be connected with the floor at a substantially 90-degree angle. In another embodiment, the frames102,104may be connected with the floor at a greater than m less than 90-degree angle. In still further embodiments, the frames102,104may be connected via one or more components that allow the frame102to have an adjustable angle (e.g., which may be adjusted and/or rotated and then fastened or otherwise locked or fixed in place to form a stabilized structure). In an alternative embodiment, the frame102and/or frame104may be connected with mother base structure or segment that is in contact with a ground or flooring surface (e.g., concrete), for example, as illustrated and/or discussed in greater detail forFIGS.1B and/or1C.

As discussed in greater detail heroin, the frame102may have other components, such as paneling162,164, and/or166that may or may not include other features or elements as part of or connected with the paneling (e.g., a translucent bubble or view-hole that encourages users to look there through as explicitly shown for paneling104). This connection of paneling with frame elements form a “monolith” structure and multiple such monoliths may be used to create a modular play structure, as discussed in greater detail herein. The use of multiple frames or monoliths may be used to form a structure that other elements or surfaces can be connected with, as discussed in greater detail herein. The paneling102may be connected as part of a monolith and incorporate interactive elements, such as water sprayers, etc., configured to emit water to an area exterior to the paneling162. The paneling166may not include any connection or capability for interactive elements thereon or there through and remain merely an external paneling for the monolith. Its certain embodiments, such paneling (162,164,166) may provide desired functional features of the play structure100(e.g., additional rigidity, additional surfaces for the connection of elements, such as water jets, etc.) with a variety of possible theming, color, and/or shapes or configurations.

For example, the play structure100explicitly illustrated inFIG.1Aincludes a first decking160connected with the frame102, a second decking170connected with the frame104, and a pathway175(e.g., walkway, staircase, etc.) that connects the first decking160and the second decking170and a staircase110so that users may travel thereon or there between. In this fashion, by using a plurality of one or more frames or monoliths with other elements or surfaces connected therewith, a larger play structure or assembly can be formed that incorporate any of a variety of possible entertainment structures ((stairs, ramps, walkways, slides, bridges, such as rope bridges, poles, balancing beams, monkey-fears, zip-lines, etc.), In certain embodiments, such interconnection of other elements or surfaces with the one or more frames, such us frame102and/or frame104, or monoliths may allow for more easily customized and/or modular play structures be formed, when compared to conventional play structures.

The play structure100also includes a variety of other interactive or play elements that may be connected with the one or more frames or monoliths and/or their connected elements or other surfaces, as described above. For example, in a wet play structure that includes elements or components that interface with fluids, such as water, a first fluid component106(e.g., a water spout, geyser, gun, and/or jet) may be connected or integrated with the one or more monoliths (e.g., frame102and/or paneling162). The first interactive fluid component106may automatically spout or provide water (e.g., constantly and/or at predetermined intervals) and/or may be initiated with by users (e.g., a user may interface with a control that is connected with the jet106, causing the jet106to either spout to stop spouting water and/or provide the water in a particular direction). In one embodiment, the first interactive fluid component106may be indirectly interacted with by a user (e.g., a user may interact with a separate interactive element or component115(e.g., a button, lever, switch, etc.) disposed on or associated with the play structure100and a such interactive element or component115interfaces with the first interactive fluid component106, either randomly or non-randomly, to aim and/or otherwise cause the disposal of water upon the user or an area, and/or cause some other operation of Die play structure100. A second interactive fluid component116is also connected or integrated with one or more monoliths (e.g., frame104) and may be the same or similar to the first interactive fluid component106(e.g., may be a water spout, geyser, gun, and/or jet). Other non-interactive fluid components, such as non-interactive fluid component105, may additionally and/or alternatively be disposed around the play structure100and may, for example, provide water that showers down onto users without requiring the users to interact with the non-interactive fluid component105itself, either directly or indirectly.

A fluid (e.g., water) dumping element120(e.g., bucket, cylinder, barrel, or other vessel configured to hold a volume of fluid and subsequently release the fluid) may be connected or positioned adjacent to one or more fluid run-off elements130, as discussed in greater detail herein. The fluid dumping element120allows for water to build up or otherwise be contained within the fluid dumping element120and subsequently dump, pour, or otherwise provide all or a portion of the fluid within the fluid dumping element120onto the one or more fluid run-off elements130. In another embodiment, the fluid dumping element120and/or other associated elements, for example as discussed in greater detail herein, need not be adjacent to the fluid run-off elements130(e.g., may be connected with, not connected with, incorporated into, positioned within proximity of, and/or the fluid dumping element120and fluid run-off elements130may be standalone without the other). The one or more fluid run-off elements130may provide additional features or characteristics to the run-off of fluid in order to splash, rain, or otherwise provide fluid onto users, the ground, and/or other portions of the play structure positioned below.

A fluid encountering or dispersion element132may be disposed adjacent or integrated with the fluid run-off elements130, for example, to encounter with fluid after the fluid has traveled or flowed along the fluid run-off elements130. For example, in one embodiment, the fluid encountering element132may include one or more fins that are configured to rotate about an axis when a fluid, such as water, encounters one or more of the fins. The rotation of the fins in response to encountering the fluid may cause the fluid to spray or otherwise be splashed in an entertaining manner rather than merely running off of the fluid run-off elements130had no fluid encountering element132been disposed at the end of the fluid run-off elements. Although a particular fluid encountering element132having particular features (rotatable with fins, etc.) is explicitly shown inFIG.1A, any of a variety of other elements or components may be positioned at an end of a fluid run-off element, or intermediate along a fluid run-off element, and/or adjacent to a fluid dumping element120, in an alternative embodiment.

Although particular structures having particular shapes, configurations, sizes, and/or interconnections are specifically illustrated inFIG.1A, any of a variety of possible structures or surfaces may be used in an alternative embodiment. For example, one or more slides, walkways, bridges, balancing beams, overhead bars, zip-lines, stairs, ramps, etc. may additionally and/or alternatively be used for an alternative play structure and may be connected with the one or more frames or monoliths in an alternative embodiment. Any of a variety of various play structures, surfaces, components, and/or interactive elements may be included as part of an alternative play structure, in any of a variety of configurations, positions, shapes, and/or combinations, either adjacent to one another and/or as standalone structures, surfaces, components, and/or interactive elements.

FIG.1Bshows an exploded perspective view180of a monolithic-based play structure, such as a monolith-based play structure the same as or similar to that ofFIG.1A. Certain features of the play structure may be the same as or similar to those discussed. The monolith-based play structure shown in the exploded perspective view180illustrates one embodiment for connection of a first monolith184with a second monolith186and a third monolith187, for example with a stabilizing and/or leveling system, as discussed in greater detail herein. The stabilizing and/or leveling system may aid in stabilizing the play structure for use by one or more users and/or allow the play structure to be constructed on surfaces (e.g., ground or flooring surfaces; that exhibit varying degrees of topography (e.g., are not completely flat).

The stabilizing and/or leveling system as illustrated inFIG.1Bincludes a first base segment182, a second base segment183, and a third base segment181. The first monolith184may be configured to connect (e.g., fixedly or adjustably, for example, via a connector configured to allow rotation and/or other movement) with the first base segment182, the second monolith186may be configured to connect (e.g., fixedly or adjustably, for example, via a connector configured to allow rotation and/or other movement) with the second base segment183, and the third monolith187may be configured to connect (e.g., fixedly or adjustably, for example, via a connector configured to allow rotation and/or other movement) with the third base segment181. In an alternative embodiment, any of a number of base segments and/or monoliths may be used, in my of a variety of possible shapes or orientations.

As illustrated in the zoomed-in portion ofFIG.1B, a leveling component190(e.g., a rod, bar, or other elongated element) is configured to extend throng one or both of the second base segment183and/or the third base segment181. A first locking element192(e.g., a nut) is configured to at least partially surround the leveling component190(e.g., may rotate onto threads of the leveling component190) such that, when in the desired position, abuts against or contacts a top surface of one or both of the second base segment183and/or the third base segment181. Similarly, a second locking element194(e.g., a nut) is configured to at least partially surround the leveling component190(e.g., may rotate onto threads of the leveling component190) such that, when in the desired position, abuts against or contacts a bottom surface of one or both of the second base segment183and/or the third base segment181.

Thus, by adjusting the positioning of one or both of the first locking element192and/or the second locking element194along the length of the leveling component190, a desired portion of the total length of the leveling component190will extend on either side (top and/or bottom) of one or both of the second base augment183and/or the third base segment181. A stabilizing element196(which may be the same as or different from the first and/or second locking elements192,194is disposed over or at an end of the leveling component190and, for example, configured to make contact with a ground or flooring surface, or other component connected with a ground or flooring surface (e.g., a bracket). By adjusting the positioning of the first locking element192and/or the second locking element194, the height from the ground or flooring surface of one or both of the second base segment183and/or the third base segment181may be altered, for example, to accommodate topography of the ground or flooring surface.

As shown inFIG.1B, multiple leveling components190and its associated locking and/or stabilizing elements (192,194,196) are disposed and connected with the base segments (182,183,181) such that the base segments (182,183,181) may accordingly have one or more of their heights from the ground or flooring surface adjusted independently. Thus, a ground or flooring surface with non-uniform topography may still result in a stable (e.g., horizontal or other desired orientation of base segments (182,183,181)) through adjustment of the multiple leveling components190, as described above.

A support structure185(e.g., made of one or more support bars or components) is configured to engage with one or more of the base segments (182,183,181), for example, directly through bolts, screws or the like and/or indirectly through connection with one or more of the monoliths (184,186,187), such monoliths being connected with the one or more base segments (182,183,181). As illustrated, the base segments (182,183,181) and/or the support structure185may form the shape of a hexagon (e.g., may have corresponding shapes to one another), however, in an alternative embodiment, any of a variety of possible shapes and/or configurations may be used for the support structure185and/or the base segments (182,183,181). A first one or more stabilizing bars188may connect between the first monolith184and the second monolith186. Likewise, a second one or more stabilizing bars189may connect between the second monolith186and the third monolith187. Such stabilizing bars may aid in the structural rigidity of the play structure, in alternative embodiments, greater or fewer (e.g., no stabilizing bare) may be used.

As shown, a variety of possible monoliths and/or other play structure components (staircases, slides, walkways, etc.) may be configured to connect along the edges or sides of the support structure185(e.g., along one of more of each of the 6-sides of the hexagon shape). Accordingly, the play structure using such features may be modular in construction, such that different play structure components and/or layout for the play structure may be easily chosen and manufactured according to such choices simply by connecting such monoliths or play structure components along the desired edges or sides. In this fashion, play structures can be easily and modularly designed and/or manufactured or constructed on-site, in conjunction with any of a variety of topographies of a ground or flooring surface by adjusting the stabilizing or leveling system accordingly.

FIG.1Cshows a perspective view197of a portion of a monolithic-based play structure, such as a monolith-based play structure the same as or similar to that ofFIG.1A. As discussed above, for example forFIG.1B, one or more base segments of a play structure may be adjustably positioned at a desired height above a ground or flooring surface. A cover198(e.g., having an adjustable height) for a monolith may be connected at a lower or bottom portion of the monolith in order to cover a gap that exists between a bottom edge of the monolith and/or the base structure due to the adjusted height.

FIG.2shows a perspective view206of a plurality of components (205,210,215,220) that make up an exemplary monolith structure for use in a monolithic-based play structure. Certain features of one or more of the plurality of components (205,210,215,220) may be the same as or similar to those previously discussed (e.g., such monolith structures may be formed of a variety of potential materials and/or formed via collection of one or more paneling to a frame and/or may comprise merely a frame or merely paneling without the other).

The monolith structure may be composed of a first component205that includes a first side or surface (e.g., a side facing a decking240) and a second aide or surface (e.g., a side that is not facing the decking240). The first side or surface may be spaced apart from the second side or surface (e.g., parallel to the first aide or surface) such that there is a gap between the first side and the second side (e.g., to accommodate associated equipment that corresponds with the first component205such as piping or plumbing, mechanical equipment or connections, electrical equipment or connections, etc.). In certain embodiments, the first component205may be paneling such that there is no gap or cavity therein. Piping230is shown connected with portions (e.g., a mechanical connection of the monolith205that provides access to additional piping disposed within the gap of the first side and the second side of the first component205and/or with other fluid components connected with the first component205). Water may be configured to flow from the piping230to the first component205in order to be communicated to any of a variety of additional elements or devices, such as water spinners, water geysers, water jets, etc, that am connected with the first component205. A decking240may be connected with the first component205, the decking permitting users to travel thereon in certain embodiments. Multiple monoliths may be connected to the decking240in certain embodiments in order to construct a desired play structure. In one embodiment, piping230may be connected beneath and/or fastened to the decking240in order to provide a flow of water via the piping230to various components associated with the decking240(e.g., floor geysers) and/or to route the piping to other monoliths structures. In an alternative embodiment, rather than additional piping230, fluids and/or electricity may be configured to flow through a frame of the first component205(or other components as discussed) itself.

A second component210may also be used in a play structure, but formed differently than the first component205in that it forms a frame or structure with an interior opening or cavity that is bounded fully by the frame or structure. Similar to the first monolith205, an interior cavity of the frame or structure may permit equipment, piping, or plumbing to be disposed therein (e.g., water piping to allow for a flow of water to be transmitted through the frame or structure to an output connection and/or output device located on some portion of the second monolith210.) Second component210may be configured to abut against and/or be fixed to the first component205.

A third component215may be similar to the second monolith210, but instead of having its cavity being fully bounded by its frame or structure, the cavity is illustrated as only being partially bounded (e.g., the cavity is open at a bottom portion that rests on the floor or ground). The third component215also illustrates a possible water dumping or water sprinkling feature wherein a cascade of water may be permitted to travel down or dong a portion (e.g., a top part)216of tire third component215. This portion for water cascading may be shaped so as to provide a visually interesting stream of flow of water and/or to provide a particular water cascading effect onto users or other components located beneath the water cascade. The third component215may be configured to abut against and/or be fixed to the second component210. A fourth component220may be similar to the first monolith205and include one or more water elements (e.g., water spinners, controls, geysers, etc.) while also providing openings to allow water to spill them through. The fourth component220may be configured to abut against and/or be fixed to the third component215. As previously discussed, a play structure, such as play structure100, may be formed of one or more monoliths, the same as or similar to the construction shown mFIG.2alone or in conjunction with any of a variety of possible structures or components that way be interacted or used by a user (e.g., stairs, railings such as transparent railings, deckings such as transparent deckings, nettings, ropes, slides, etc.). In an alternative embodiment, greater or fewer components may be used in creating a monolith (e.g., a monolith may be formed using only a single frame and a single panel connected on one side of the frame, with or without any piping or other components (fluid, mechanical, electrical, etc.) disposed within open space of the frame.

FIG.3Ashows a cross-sectional, exploded side view and a from view of a monolith300for use in a monolithic-based play structure. Certain features of the monolith300may be the same as or similar to those previously discussed. The monolith300may have an exterior frame305that substantially forms the outer perimeter or shape of the monolith300. As seen by the cross-sectional side view (the left-most view ofFIG.3A) of the monolith300, a first side or surface315may be disposed across an inner cavity from a second side or surface316such that the cavity may be used for placement of additional equipment (e.g., piping or plumbing335). A piping or other fluid (e.g., water) supply320that is positioned outside of the monolith300may be connected with the piping or plumbing335via a connector325(e.g., a flex connector) that is located and/or fixed upon the first side or surface315of the monolith300. Any of a variety of components configured to flow or otherwise Interface with the fluid from the supply326may also or alternatively be connected with the monolith300and interface with the piping or plumbing335.

As previously discussed, the monolith300may be connected with a ground or floor via a connector310(e.g., an adjustable connector that allows the monolith300to pivot or rotate with respect to the ground or floor before being locked into its desired position, such as via an additional or multiple additional clamps or brackets311). Various connections for the attachment of other surfaces or parts (e.g., deckings) may be integrated or configured to be attached the monolith300. One or more fluid delivery components (340,342) may be competed with the piping or plumbing335in order to receive fluid from the fluid source320. Likewise, an interactive element330, for example, a button or other user-manipulatable element, may interface with the fluid source320, piping or plumbing335, and/or the one or more fluid delivery components (340,342) or other components of the monolith300in order to control and/or cause fluid flow to either be emitted by the one or more fluid delivery components (340,342) or not to be emitted by the one or more fluid delivery components (340,342).

FIG.3Bshows a bottom view of a portion350of a monolithic-based play [fracture] structure using monolith structures, such us the monolith300ofFIG.3A. Certain features of the play structure and/or monoliths may be the same as or similar to those previously discussed. For example, the portion350of the play structure is shown and illustrated from a bottoms-up view that shows beneath a decking360connected with three monoliths (320,372,374) and has associated piping365for the transmittal of fluid (e.g., water) to components associated with each of the three monoliths (370,372,374). Such piping may be hidden from user view due to its placement on a bottom side of the decking360. A fluid geyser or other component380disposed within or connected with the decking360may be configured to spout fluid from the piping365in an upward direction, for example automatically based upon time and/or in response to user interaction, for example based upon a foot pedal, button, and/or other activator. In alternative embodiments, various other equipment may be installed, for example, as previously discussed.

FIG.4shows a side schematic view of a portion of a play structure400including a monolith405connected with a decking425. Certain features of the play structure400and/or the monolith405and/or the decking425may be the same as or similar to those previously discussed. For example, the monolith405may be connected with a ground or floor surface410, for example via a rotatable or otherwise movable connection (e.g., one or more pivotable hinges) that may be further locked into a fixed or rigid orientation, either via the rotatable or otherwise movable connection itself or via additional parts (e.g., one or more fixed brackets, such as L-brackets). The decking423may be connected with a portion of the monolith405, for example, in order to provide the decking425at a raised elevation supported by one or more monoliths405spaced at locations along the perimeter of the decking425. Plumbing or pipes520may extend from the ground or floor surface410(e.g., may receive fluid via reservoirs, pumps, etc. located beneath the ground or floor surface410) and art connected to an underside of the decking425and carry such water to the one or more monoliths405, for example, to provide the fluid to components connected with the one or more monoliths405, such as water spouts, etc. The monolith405may be formed in any of a variety of shapes, patterns, configurations, etc., such as hexagons as illustrated. Such shapes, patterns, and/or configurations may be formed as an integral part of the monolith405itself and/or may be formed by paneling in such shapes, patterns, and/or configurations that are attached to the monolith465structure.

In one example, the monolith465may be constructed via one of more frame components that surround all or a portion of a perimeter of the monolith405. In certain embodiments, further side or surface materials may be connected with the one or more frame components to form the monolith405such that, a cavity or gap exists between the side or surface materials, the same or similar as previously discussed. One or more interactive elements, such as a water gun415, floor geyser417, touch/spin turbine419(e.g. a button that includes spinning turbine contained within that engage or otherwise interact with water) or other fluid-based component may be connected with the monolith405and/or the decking425and be in communication with piping or plumbing420that resides within the cavity or gap between the side or surface materials of the monolith405and/or underneath the decking425(or otherwise disposed along the play structure400) that carries water to the interactive elements (415,417, and/or419).

With respect to the connection of monoliths to a floor, ground, or other surface, as previously discussed,FIG.5Ashows a side view500of a monolith520that is connected with a horizontal floor surface505, in one embodiment illustrated at a top ofFIG.5A, and an angled floor surface510, in another embodiment illustrated at a bottom ofFIG.5A. The monolith520may include features that are the same as or similar to those previously discussed. The monolith520may form a substantially 90-degree angle (e.g., angle540) with the floor surface505and the monolith520may form a greater than 90-degree angle (e.g., angle542) with the floor surface510due to the angle of the floor surface, in alternative embodiments, the monolith520may be permitted to be at any angle with respect to a floor, ground, or other surface (e.g., a monolith may be connected with a decking, as previously discussed), whether or not the ground, floor, or other surface is horizontal or angled, in varying embodiments.

For example,FIG.5Bshows a side schematic view550of possible connections associated with the monolith520ofFIG.5Aduring assembly. The monolith520may be connected to a ground or floor via an adjustable connector580(hat allows for both rotation500and/or spinning505of the monolith520with respect to the ground or floor510in one or more directions. Using such an adjustable connector may allow for creation of a play structure that is easily customizable for a particular topography since monoliths can be positioned, rotated, and/or spun in a variety of possible orientations prior to fixing such orientation in place (e.g., using one or more stabilizing connectors570such as brackets, bolts, welds, etc.), for example to stabilize the monolith, and/or without requiring the cost or expense associated with making a floor or ground surface into a particular orientation prior to build.

The monolith520may include a block or portion of material522, for example, disposed at a lower end of the monolith520(e.g., positioned in the cavity between two side or surface panels) that engages with the adjustable connector580. The block may be used for increased stabilization or support of the monolith520. Equipment, such as plumbing585, may be configured to be disposed at least partially within the cavity or gap internal to the monolith. As discussed, any of a variety of other features may be part of the monoliths, such as drain holes, connection holes, vertical adjustments of a ground connection, pivot points of a ground connection, horizontal adjustments of a ground connection, and/or other possible clamps or connectors (e.g., quick connects) associated with the assembly or connection of the monolith to the ground or floor surface and/or other associated components.

Water dumping or provision capabilities may additionally or alternatively be used as part of a play structure or standalone structure for user enjoyment.FIG.6shows a fluid dump system600for a play structure. Certain features of the fluid dump system690and/or the play structure may be the same as or similar to previous discussions. In certain embodiments, a fluid dump system, such as the fluid dump system600may be a standalone system that is not part of a larger play structure.

The fluid dump system600may include a fluid delivery element610, illustrated inFIG.6as a rotatable or tippable element (e.g., a bucket, cylinder, sphere, or any other shape that is capable containing a volume of fluid, such as water) that is configured to subsequently release all or a portion of a volume of fluid that is contained within the element610at various intervals. Although the element610is illustrated as a rotatable or tippable enclosure, in an alternative embodiment, the release of all or a portion of the volume of fluid within the structure may be by way of rotating, pivoting, or otherwise releasing, such as by the opening of a portion of a side of the enclosure. In still another embodiment, no element610may be desired, instead water may be directly provided from a water source (e.g., piping).

InFIG.6, the element610may be mechanically driven (e.g., caused to tip when the amount of fluid causes the bucket to become unsteady or otherwise too heavy to remain upright and tip over). In another embodiment, the element610may be electrically driven (e.g., caused to tip in response to an electrical signal, such as a signal based upon a measured weight, time, height of fluid within the element610, etc. that exceeds a particular or predetermined threshold.

The element may be provided in any of a variety of shapes although an elongated cylinder is specifically illustrated inFIG.6. The element610may release some or all of the volume of fluid onto a fluid flowing element620(e.g., a further surface or plurality of surfaces or elements) that is configured to have the volume of fluid from the tippable element610disposed thereon). In one embodiment the fluid flowing element620may be a static surface or set of surfaces having a particular shape, configuration, and/or orientation (e.g., stairsteps, drainage or fluid flow cavities or pathways, etc.) such that fluid being dumped or provided from the element610thereon flows in a particular fashion along the static surface, for example, downward due to gravity.

In another embodiment the fluid flowing element620may be a surface or set of surfaces that are capable of moving (e.g., pivotable surfaces, such as curved surfaces) that are configured to rotate, pivot, spin, or otherwise move when a flow of water is deposited thereon, swaying, rotating, or otherwise moving back and forth as water continues to drain and/or flow over such surfaces. Such a configuration may provide for spillage of water in an exciting and/or unpredictable and splashing format that can provide more entertainment to users of the play structure.

At a bottom or tower portion of the fluid flowing element620, a fluid encountering or dispersion element650may be disposed in older to provide a final surface (or set of surfaces), shape, or other component that causes a large splash of water to rain down upon users or other elements of the play structure. For example as illustrated, the fluid encountering or dispersion element650may by in the form of one or more elongated fins that are rotatable when fluid encounters the one or more fins. The fins may rotate along an axis substantially perpendicular to the flow of fluid a ling the fluid flowing element620, or, in an alternative embedment, may be rotate along an axis at any other angle (or substantially parallel) with such fluid flow.

In one embodiment, users of the play center may witness or otherwise be aware that the element610is being filled wish a fluid, such as water. The filling of the element610may be accompanied by visual notification of filling, audible notification, such as a bell or other sound, and or any of a variety of other notifications (e.g., physical notifications such as a vibrating floor, surface, or other element or structure). In certain embodiments, a further notification may be provided to users of the play structure at a predetermined time before the element610is due to tip and/or at a predetermined volume of fluid being within the element610. For example, a bell or other sound may play in one embodiment when dumping of the water by the tippable element610is imminent.

In another example, some fluid from the element610(e.g., via an overflow hole630, for example in the element610) may provide the notification to users (e.g., once the element610has reached a certain volume such that fluid spills into an overflow hole of the element610, other water dumping elements (may begin operation, thus indicating to users that the larger dumping of water from the element610is imminent. In still another example, fluid due to the overflow hole630, similar to the description above, may instead be provided onto the fluid flowing element620such that users of the play structure witness fluid upon the fluid flowing element620, but at a lower volume, indicating that a larger volume of fluid is due to hit the fluid flowing element620imminently.

FIG.7shows a fluid dump system700, for example, as part of a play structure. The fluid dump system700and/or play structure may include features that are the same as or similar to those previously discussed. For example.FIG.7illustrates a fluid delivery element710, a fluid flowing element720, and a fluid dispersion element750. As shown, the fluid flowing element720may be comprised of a plurality of static steps or stairs that operates to cause fluid flowing on the fluid flowing element720to turbulently splash down the steps after the fluid is released from the fluid delivery element710. The fluid dispersion element750may be in the form of a spiral or corkscrew, such that as fluid flows onto the fluid dispersion element750may cause the fluid dispersion element to rotate (if the fluid dispersion element750is rotatable), or otherwise cause fluid to fling, disperse or splash after it encounters the fluid dispersion element.

FIG.8shows a fluid dump system800, for example, as part of a play structure. The fluid dump system800and/or play structure may include features that am the same as or similar to those previously discussed. For example,FIG.8illustrates a fluid delivery element810(e.g., a tippable bucket) and a fluid flowing element820. As shown, the fluid flowing element720may be comprised of a generally flat surface (e.g. may include curved or angled sidewalls to aid in maintaining at least some of the flow of fluid them between). The fluid delivery element810provides fluid upon the static fluid flowing element828(e.g., a dump roof). The static fluid flowing element820may be made of a variety of materials and/or have a variety of textures, flow patterns or pathways, made in a variety of shapes and/or colors (e.g., translucent or semi-translucent), etc.

FIG.9shows a fluid chump system900, for example, as part of a play structure. The fluid dump system900and/or play structure may include features that fire the same as or similar to those previously discussed. For example,FIG.9illustrates a fluid delivery element910(e.g., a tippable bucket) having a plurality of fluid delivery sources (911,912) for filling the fluid delivery element910with fluid, a fluid flowing element920, and a fluid dispersion element950. As shown, the fluid flowing element920may be comprised of a generally flat surface (e.g., illustrated without any sidewalls such that fluid may freely flow off lateral edges of the fluid flowing element920). The fluid delivery element910provide fluid upon the fluid flowing element920(e.g., a dump roof), which subsequently provider at least some of the fluid flowing upon the fluid flowing element920to the fluid dispersion element950. As illustrated, in one embodiment, the fluid dispersion element950may be in the form of at leave one fin that is rotatably mounted at an end of the fluid flowing element920that is opposite the end of the fluid flowing element920adjacent to the fluid delivery component. The fin may extend substantially the entire width955of the fluid flowing element929. As previously discussed, the static fluid flowing element920may be made of a variety of materials and/or have a variety of textures, flow patterns or pathways, made in a variety of shapes and/or colors (e.g., translucent or semi-translucent), etc.

FIG.10shows a fluid dump system1000, for example, as part of a play structure. The fluid dump system1000and/or play structure may include features that are the same as or similar to those previously discussed. For example,FIG.10illustrates a fluid delivery element1010(e.g., tippable bucket) having a plurality of fluid delivery sources (1011,1012) for filling the fluid delivery element1010with fluid and a plurality of fluid flowing elements1020, for example, illustrated inFIG.10as a plurality of rotatable fin-based components configured to spin and rotate upon receiving fluid from the fluid delivery element1010, the same as or similar to previous discussions. A first fluid dispersion element1050and a second fluid dispersion element1055(e.g., illustrated in the form of walls) encounter any fluid remaining after flowing down the fluid flowing elements1020and acts to disperse or splash such remaining fluid.

FIG.11show a fluid dump system1100, for example, as part of a play structure. The fluid dump system1100and/or play structure may include features that are the same as or similar to those previously discussed. For example,FIG.11illustrates a fluid delivery element1110, a fluid flowing element1120, and a fluid dispersion element1150. As shown, the fluid flowing element1120may be comprised of a plurality of rotatable buckets that operate by rotating once fluid flows onto or into them and thus causing fluid flowing on the flowing element1120to turbulently splash down after the fluid is released from the fluid delivery element1110. The fluid dispersion element1150may be in the form of wall that may cause my remaining fluid from the fluid flowing element1120to splash up and over the fluid dispersion element1150.

FIG.12shows a fluid dump system1200, for example, as part of a play structure. The fluid dump system1200and/or play structure may include features that are the same as or similar to those previously discussed. For example,FIG.12illustrates a fluid delivery element1210, a fluid flowing element1220, and a fluid diversion element1250. As shown, the fluid flowing element1220may be comprised of a plurality of rigid steps or stairs that operate to cause fluid flowing on the flowing element1220to turbulently splash down the steps after the fluid is released from the fluid delivery element1210. The fluid dispersion element1250may be in the form of a curved (e.g. or other shape) surfaces that acts to cause a final splash of fluid after the fluid encounters the fluid diversion element.

FIG.12also illustrates a second fluid flowing element1250and a fluid collection element1240. The second fluid flowing element1230may be connected with the fluid delivery element1210, for example, to begin flowing, or pouring fluid from the fluid delivery element1210prior to the substantial release of fluid from the fluid delivery element1210onto the fluid flowing element1220(e.g., via connection with an overflow). Accordingly, in one embodiment, the flow of fluid via the second fluid flowing element1230into the fluid collection element1240may provide an indication to users that release of fluid from the fluid delivery element1210onto the fluid flowing element1228is imminent. Any of a variety and/or number of additional and/or alternative element may be coupled with a fluid delivery element, a fluid flowing element, and/or a fluid dispersion element (e.g., as discussed throughout) in order to provide additional water features, either at the same time, after in time, or prior in time, to the fluid being released from the fluid delivery element end onto the fluid flowing element.

Any of a variety of possible fluid dumping or other fluid providing systems may be used in an alternative embodiment. For example, such a system may include a roof or surface configured to carry water from m upper elevation (e.g., adjacent to a tippable element, such as a bucket) to a lower elevation. The roof or surface may be partially translucent and/or shaped in the form of a static, yet curved staircase. At the lower elevate, any of a variety of shapes or other offsets or element may be adjacent to the end of the roof or surface, such as one having features the same as or similar those previously discussed. In various embodiments, any of a variety of fluid delivering components or fluid sources may be disposed upon or connected with or adjacent a fluid flowing element, such as those previously described, or otherwise connected with the play structure (e.g., tippable cones, troughs having drainage holes, etc.) that react to water being disposed therein or thereon.

Although specific illustrations and embodiments have been discussed throughout, any of a variety of possible combinations and/or standalone elements may be used in alternative embodiments. Moreover, water dumping systems and/or components, and/or other elements or features of play structures discussed throughout the same as or similar to those discussed throughout may have their operation or capabilities varied based upon a number of further options or characteristics (e.g., time of day, user input, randomized, etc.). For example, if a play structure is intended to have users below a certain age playing thereon between certain hours of the day, a dumping mechanism may be configured to fill and/or dump a reduced volume of water, in recognition of the fact that smaller children may be participating thereon at such hours. In such a fashion, features and/or the experience of an attraction may change or be modified (e.g., automatically and/or manually by an attraction operator) in accordance with such possible inputs. In another example, an attraction may sense and/or determine a number of current participants and/or a number of current participants within a particular area and vary one or more features in response thereto (e.g., lower an amount of water dumped if the number of participants in the attraction and/or within a particular area of the attraction is below a certain threshold). Any of a variety of possible outcomes and/or operation may be varied or customized based upon a variety of possible inputs in alternative embodiments.

In certain embodiments, water that is dumped and/or otherwise provided from an element of a play structure may be configured to be recirculated and/or recycled and/or re-used back to such element, or another element. For example, if a dumping element causes water to be dumped onto a surface (e.g., a flooring or ground level) of a play structure, such flooring may include drains, slots, and/or otherwise contain porous features or drainage lines that allow such water to be collected in a reservoir (e.g., positioned beneath the play structure, such as beneath a flooring that the play structure is connected with). One large, common reservoir may be used and/or multiple reservoirs may be used in alternative embodiments. Various pumps and/or piping and/or other fluid recirculating elements may be used to bring water from the reservoir(s) back to one or more elements of the play structure.

As discussed, any of a variety of play structures (e.g., modular in nature) may be constructed in any of a variety of possible configurations and using any of a variety of possible traversal structures, such as slides or walkways, using the features described. Due to the connectible and manipulatable nature of monoliths and their connection with deckings and/or ground or other surfaces that may be placed in a variety of positions and/or orientations, and associated deckings that may attach to the monoliths, an easily configuration or modular play structure may be created with a variety of desired orientations Non-interactive structures that not for user traversal may also be created using the concepts discussed, such as an overhead structure containing colorful transparent, semi-transparent, or non-transparent materials that thereby filter overhead lighting (or block lighting to provide shade) from lamps or the sun for user enjoyment).

The previous description of the disclosed examples is provided to enable any person of ordinary skill in the art to make or use the disclosed methods and apparatus. Various modifications to these examples will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the principles defined herein may be applied to other examples without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosed method and apparatus. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive and the scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope. Skilled artisans may implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular application, but such implementation divisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the disclosed apparatus and methods. The stops of the method or algorithm may also be performed in an alternate order from those provided in the examples.