Conveyor riding system

Abstract

A conveyor ride system (10) is provided herein that includes a conveyor structure (12) having a plurality of conveyor beams (26) and a plurality of conveyor grooves (34). The plurality of conveyor beams (26) and the plurality of conveyor grooves (34) are configured to guide a ride carrier (16) along a surface of the conveyor structure (12). The surface of the conveyor structure (12) defines at least a portion of a ride path of the conveyor ride system (10).

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 789,045, filed on Jan. 7, 2019, entitled “CONVEYOR RIDE SYSTEM”, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to amusement park - style rides, and more particularly, to a conveyor ride system for an amusement park. Background Art

[0004] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of the art that may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure described below. It is believed that this discussion will help the reader to provide background information to better understand the various aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light and not as an admission of prior art.

[0005] Amusement parks contain a variety of rides that provide a unique experience to each park guest. In some cases, amusement park rides typically can include multi - passenger carriers that travel along a fixed path, such as a track. In addition to the excitement generated by changes in the speed or direction of the carrier as it moves along the path, the carrier itself can generate special effects (e.g., sound and / or motion effects). Although repeat riders may be familiar with the general path of the ride, the special effects may generate interest during second and subsequent rides. In another example, certain rides can be implemented using projection elements to create changing scenes and movement as the passenger carrier travels along the path. However, regardless of the enhancements to such passenger carrier ride setups, the riders in the passenger carrier may not feel immersed in the ride. With the increasing sophistication and complexity of modern attractions, and the corresponding increase in expectations among amusement park and / or theme park guests, there is a need for improved and more creative attractions. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Certain embodiments are outlined below that are commensurate in scope with the originally claimed subject matter. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter, but rather these embodiments are only intended to provide a brief overview of possible forms of the subject matter. Indeed, the subject matter may encompass a variety of forms that may be similar or different from the embodiments set forth below.

[0007] In an embodiment, a conveyor ride system includes a conveyor structure having a plurality of conveyor beams and a plurality of conveyor grooves. The plurality of conveyor beams and the plurality of conveyor grooves are configured to guide a ride carrier along a surface of the conveyor structure. The surface of the conveyor structure defines at least a portion of a ride path of the conveyor ride system.

[0008] In another embodiment, a system includes a conveyor structure having a plurality of conveyor beams and a plurality of conveyor grooves. The plurality of conveyor beams are configured to linearly guide a ride carrier along a surface of the conveyor structure. A segment of a conveyor beam among the plurality of conveyor beams is configured to guide the ride carrier along a conveyor groove among the plurality of conveyor grooves in a circumferential direction around the conveyor structure.

[0009] In yet another embodiment, a ride system includes a ride carrier having a base and a seat rotatably coupled to the base. A conveyor structure of the ride system includes a conveyor beam and a conveyor groove. The ride carrier is configured to be coupled to the conveyor beam and the conveyor groove via a guiding assembly. The guiding assembly is configured to guide the ride carrier along a surface of the conveyor structure via the conveyor beam and the conveyor groove, and wherein the surface of the conveyor structure defines a first portion of a ride path of the conveyor ride system. A track of the ride system defines a second portion of the ride path of the conveyor ride system. The ride carrier is configured to transfer from the conveyor structure to the track. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will be better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

[0011] Figure 1 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a conveyor ride system that can achieve vertical, circumferential, lateral, radial, or other forms of movement of a ride carrier in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a ride carrier and a guiding assembly for guiding the ride carrier along at least a portion of a ride path of a conveyor ride system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 3 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a conveyor ride system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, wherein the ride carrier is in a first position relative to a conveyor structure of the conveyor ride system;

[0014] Figure 4 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a conveyor ride system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, wherein the ride carrier is in a second position relative to the conveyor structure;

[0015] Figure 5 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a conveyor ride system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, where a ride carrier is in a third position relative to a conveyor structure; and

[0016] Figure 6 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a conveyor ride system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, where a ride carrier is transferred from a conveyor structure to a track of the conveyor ride system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described. To provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of an actual implementation may be described in the specification. It should be understood that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another. Additionally, it should be understood that such development efforts may be complex and time-consuming, but would still be a routine task of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill in the art who would benefit from the present disclosure.

[0018] Although the following discussion is generally provided in the context of an amusement park ride facility of a conveyor ride system that may include an enhanced degree of movement of a ride carrier, it should be understood that the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to such an entertainment context. In fact, the provision of examples and explanations in such an entertainment application is for the purpose of facilitating the explanation by providing instances of real-world implementations and applications. It should be understood that the embodiments disclosed herein may be useful in other applications, to name but a few, such as transportation systems (e.g., train systems), conveyor pipeline systems, distribution systems, logistics systems, automated dynamic systems, and / or other industrial, commercial, and / or entertainment systems.

[0019] An amusement park ride facility may employ a ride carrier that transports passengers along a ride path defined, for example, by a track. During the ride, the ride path may include multiple features, including tunnels, turns, ascents, descents, loops, and the like. The direction of travel of the ride carrier may be defined by the ride path since the rollers of the ride carrier may be in constant contact with the track that defines the ride path. In this way, the passengers of the ride may anticipate these turns, thereby eliminating the excitement and thrill typically associated with amusement park ride facilities. Accordingly, it is currently recognized that an amusement park ride facility having a conveyor system that enables movement in multiple directions and along multiple types of tracks may enhance the experience of guests visiting the amusement park.

[0020] Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a conveyor ride system that includes various features that effect movement of a passenger ride carrier in a vertical direction, a circumferential direction, a lateral direction, a radial direction, and / or another suitable direction relative to the conveyor structure. Additionally, the passenger ride carrier is configured to transfer between the conveyor structure and a track that can be separated from the conveyor structure. In some embodiments, the passenger ride carrier can be configured to move via a guiding assembly that guides the passenger ride carrier along various features of the conveyor structure. Additionally or alternatively, the passenger ride carrier is configured to rotate relative to the guiding assembly (and thus relative to the ground) in order to utilize gravity as an additional element of the experience for guests at an amusement park. Further, the conveyor ride system can include visual elements disposed along the ride path of the conveyor ride system, such as displays, holograms, showboxes, props, automated elements, tunnels, lighting changes, and / or other suitable visual elements that can enhance the experience of the guests.

[0021] Turning to the drawings, Figure 1 FIG. 5 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a conveyor ride system 10 having a conveyor structure 12 and a track 14 that is separated from the conveyor structure 12. As described above, the passenger ride carrier 16 can be configured to transfer from the conveyor structure 12 to the track 14 as the passenger ride carrier 16 passes along the ride path of the conveyor ride system 10 that includes both the conveyor structure 12 and the track 14 to provide a different feel and experience to the guests throughout the ride duration. Accordingly, the conveyor ride system 10 can include a ride path having a first portion defined by movement generated by features of the conveyor structure 12 and a second portion defined by movement generated by the track 14 or features of the track 14. To facilitate discussion of the movement of the passenger ride carrier 16 through the conveyor ride system 10, a coordinate system 18 is provided and the coordinate system includes a vertical axis 20, a lateral axis 22, and a longitudinal axis 24, wherein the axes of the coordinate system 18 are orthogonal to each other. It should be noted that reference to these axes should not be construed as adhering to strict mathematical relationships. For example, reference to movement along a particular axis can mean that the movement is generally in the direction of the axis (e.g., generally parallel to the axis).

[0022] In some embodiments, the conveyor structure 12 can include one or more conveyor beams 26 (e.g., extensions from the surface 27 of the conveyor structure) that guide the passenger ride carrier 16 along the vertical axis 20. For example, the conveyor beam 26 can include a belt, rollers, pulleys, magnets, or another suitable component coupled to an actuator 28 (e.g., a motor or other driver) that effects movement of the passenger ride carrier 16 along the conveyor beam 26. In one embodiment, the passenger ride carrier 16 can be via a guiding system (e.g., seeFigure 2 Coupled to the conveyor beam 26, the guidance system may include bogies (e.g., wheel assemblies) coupled to the passenger carrier 16 and enabling the movement of the passenger carrier 16 along the conveyor beam 26. Thus, the conveyor beam 26 can serve as a track or guide rail along which the bogies of the guidance system move. Additionally, the conveyor beam 26 can be configured to move (e.g., via a hydraulic system, a motor, or other suitable drive system) along a track, a groove, or other structure to guide the movement of the passenger carrier 16. Further still, the conveyor beam 26 can alternatively be a groove, a track, a guide rail, and / or other features including drive mechanisms (e.g., gears, motors, pulleys, belts, rollers, magnets) that guide the movement of the passenger carrier 16 relative to the conveyor structure 12.

[0023] In any case, the conveyor structure 12 can enable passengers within the passenger carrier 16 to move vertically relative to the platform 30 that surrounds or at least partially surrounds the conveyor structure 12. In other words, passengers within the passenger carrier 16 can be lifted upward relative to the platform 30 such that the passengers can view objects and / or visual elements positioned further away from the conveyor structure 12 and / or experience the height elevated from the platform 30. Additionally or alternatively, the conveyor beam 26 (e.g., via a conveyor belt on the conveyor beam 26, an actuator of the conveyor beam 26 itself, and / or the bogies of the guidance assembly of the passenger carrier 16) can move the passenger carrier 16 downward toward the platform 30 at a relatively high speed such that the passengers can believe that the passenger carrier 16 is moving faster than the speed achievable by gravity. Although Figure 1 the illustrated embodiment shows a conveyor structure 12 having four conveyor beams 26, it should be appreciated that the conveyor structure 12 can have any suitable number of conveyor beams 26 (e.g., one, two, three, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more than ten conveyor beams 26).

[0024] Moreover, the conveyor beam 26 can move relative to the conveyor structure 12 to effect the movement of the passenger carrier 16. For example, the conveyor beam 26 can include a section 32 that moves the passenger carrier 16 in a circumferential direction 33 around the conveyor structure 12 (and thus around the vertical axis 20). In other words, the section 32 of the conveyor beam 26 can effect the movement of the passenger carrier 16 in a first direction relative to the transverse axis 22 and in a second direction relative to the longitudinal axis 24 simultaneously. Thus, the viewpoints of the passengers within the passenger carrier 16 can be displaced relative to the environment surrounding the passenger carrier 16. As Figure 1As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the section 32 can be configured to move along a recess 34 (e.g., a conveyor recess, track, or guide), which is positioned along the conveyor structure 12. As used herein, the recess 34 can include an extension (e.g., a track or rail) extending from the surface of the conveyor structure 12, a recess (e.g., a groove or slot) disposed within the surface of the conveyor structure 12, or other suitable means for guiding the movement of the section 32 along the surface of the conveyor structure 12. For example, in one embodiment, the section 32 is coupled to one or more gears positioned within the recess 34. The gears can engage corresponding gears or a belt coupled to an actuator 36 (e.g., actuator 28), which rotates the corresponding gears or belt to drive the movement of the section 32 along the recess 34. In other embodiments, the recess 34 can include rollers, belts, pulleys, magnets, and / or other suitable means (e.g., coupled to the actuator 36), which can engage and / or otherwise effect the movement of the section 32 along the recess 34.

[0025] While Figure 1 the illustrated embodiment shows the recess 34 as being substantially crosswise to the vertical axis 20, in other embodiments, the recess 34 can be angled relative to the vertical axis 20 such that the recess 34 also effects the movement of the section 32 (and thus the passenger carrier 16) along the vertical axis 20. Additionally, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the recess 34 and the section 32 of the conveyor structure 12 can be positioned at various locations along the vertical axis 20 to effect the movement of the passenger carrier 16 at various positions in the circumferential direction 33 around the conveyor structure 12. Additionally, while Figure 1 the section 32 shown in the illustration is shown as a single part of the conveyor beam 26, in other embodiments, the section 32 can include multiple sections 32 that effect the movement of the passenger carrier 12 in the circumferential direction 33. Additionally, the section 32 can be configured to travel across or skip certain recesses 34 to modify the ride path of the conveyor ride system 10. While this discussion focuses on the recess 34 that guides the movement of the passenger carrier 16 in the circumferential direction 33 around the conveyor structure 12, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, extensions, beams, tracks, rails, or other similar features can be used to move the passenger carrier 16 in the circumferential direction 33.

[0026] As described above, the conveyor beam 26 and / or the section 32 of the conveyor beam 26 can shift the viewpoint of a passenger within the passenger carrier 16 to enable the passenger to view a plurality of visual elements 38. For example, as Figure 1As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the conveyor ride system 10 includes a diorama 40, a display screen 42 and a projector 43, a lighting arrangement 44, and automated figures 46, which are examples of visual elements 38 that may be included in the conveyor ride system 10. It should be recognized that, in addition to those illustrated in Figure 1 others, additional visual elements 38 may be included to further enhance the experience of a passenger riding in the carrier 16. Similarly, fewer visual elements 38 than those shown in Figure 1 may also be included in the conveyor ride system 10. As the passenger carrier 16 is guided along the ride path of the conveyor ride system 10, a passenger within the passenger carrier may encounter a variety of visual experiences, each of which may generate various feelings and reactions from the passenger in combination with the movement of the passenger carrier 16.

[0027] As used herein, the diorama 40 may include a feature that includes any suitable shape (e.g., a box, a tunnel, a prism) and has various components and elements that create a scene or environment. The passenger carrier 16 may be configured to enter and exit the diorama 40 via an opening, a passage, a door, or other suitable means, enabling a passenger in the passenger carrier to view the scene or environment created by the diorama 40. The diorama 40 may be positioned at the bottom portion 48 of the conveyor structure 12. In some embodiments, the passenger carrier 16 may be lowered into the diorama 40 through a conveyor beam 50 in the conveyor beam 26. Thus, a passenger within the passenger carrier 16 may be immersed in the simulated environment generated by the feature included in the diorama 40. The diorama 40 may include props, structural features, actors, automated characters, and / or other suitable features that can create a scene or evoke a particular environment that matches the theme of the conveyor ride system 10. Additional details regarding the diorama 40 are described herein with reference to Figure 5

[0028] ​The display screen 42 can be positioned at another location along the ride path and / or the conveyor structure 12 other than the diorama box 40. Thus, when the passenger carrier 16 is guided in the circumferential direction 33 and away from the conveyor beam 50 associated with the diorama box 40, the passenger's line of sight can be directed towards the display screen 42. The projector 43 can be configured to display two-dimensional and / or three-dimensional videos (e.g., videos that generate the illusion or perception of a three-dimensional scene when the user wears a specific form of glasses or goggles) and / or images on the display screen 42 to further enable the passenger to view imagery that may be difficult to generate or otherwise show in the diorama or through other features included in the conveyor ride system 10. For example, the theme of at least a portion of the conveyor ride system 10 can be ocean-related. Thus, the display screen 42 can be used to provide a visual experience that enables the passenger to believe that the passenger carrier 16 has been submerged underwater to view fish, coral, sunken treasure, or other objects or organisms that can be found in the ocean.

[0029] In addition, the lighting arrangement 44 can be used to illuminate props that may otherwise be hidden from the passenger's view when the lighting arrangement 44 is not illuminated. For example, in some embodiments, the lighting arrangement 44 can illuminate the automated figure 46 such that the automated figure is visible to the passenger when the passenger carrier 16 is at a target position along the ride path of the conveyor ride system 10. When the lighting arrangement 44 is off (e.g., not illuminated), the automated figure 46 can be difficult to view and / or can be completely hidden from the passenger's view. In some embodiments, the automated figure 46 can be actuated to move (e.g., wave and / or move towards the passenger carrier 16) when the lighting arrangement 44 is illuminated, such that the automated figure 46 appears to be a living animal or person to the passenger. In other embodiments, the lighting arrangement 44 can be configured to illuminate and provide a light show or effect (e.g., strobe) to evoke various sensations in the passengers in the passenger carrier 16. In still other embodiments, the lighting arrangement can be configured to illuminate other visual elements 38 not illustrated in the Figure 1 embodiments.

[0030] As described above, the conveyor structure 12 includes a platform 30 that at least partially surrounds the conveyor structure 12. As Figure 1As shown in the illustrated embodiment, platform 30 may include an opening 52 through which passenger carrier 16 can pass and be positioned within or adjacent to the diorama 40. Additionally, passenger carrier 16 may be configured to move relative to the vertical axis 20 below platform 30 via door 54 or opening 52. For example, platform 30 may include a door 54 (e.g., a door or other barrier that can be opened and closed) that enables passenger carrier 16 to temporarily pass through platform 30. Thus, door 54 may be controlled by an actuator 56 that is timed to open and close door 54 when passenger carrier 16 approaches platform 30 and after passenger carrier 16 has completely passed through platform 30, respectively. In other embodiments, (e.g., when passenger carrier 16 includes a barrier that covers the passengers) door 54 may be opened by the movement of passenger carrier 16. In such embodiments, door 54 may be configured to automatically close via gravity and / or close via actuator 56. In any case, door 54 may provide an exciting experience to the passengers by creating the illusion that passenger carrier 16 is about to collide with or otherwise contact platform 30.

[0031] In some embodiments, platform 30 may include decorations, physical features, props, paintings, or other suitable visual elements that may be consistent with the theme of the conveyor ride system 10. Thus, platform 30 may be used as another visual element 38 that further enhances the experience of the passengers within passenger carrier 16. It should be noted that while Figure 1 the illustrated conveyor structure 12 includes a generally cylindrical shape, conveyor structure 12 may be a wall or a series of walls, a box shape, a rectangular prism, another prismatic shape, or any suitable shape that enables passenger carrier 16 to move along any suitable combination of the vertical axis 20, the lateral axis, and the longitudinal axis 24. Further, conveyor structure 12 may include any suitable configuration for effecting linear movement (e.g., movement in a straight line) and / or circumferential movement (e.g., movement along one or more arcs) of passenger carrier 16. Additionally or alternatively, conveyor structure 12 may include an annular shape (e.g., a ring) that enables actuators 28, 36, 56, and / or other components of the conveyor ride system 10 to be positioned within conveyor structure 12.

[0032] Figure 2FIG. 0 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a passenger carrier 16 coupled to a guidance assembly 70 configured to travel along a conveyor beam 26 and a recess 34. As described above, the conveyor beam 26 may include an extension from the surface of the conveyor structure 12, a conveyor recess, a track, a guide rail, or any other suitable feature that guides or otherwise directs the movement of the passenger carrier 16 along the surface of the conveyor structure 12. Similarly, the recess 34 may include a recess in the surface of the conveyor structure 12 that couples a section 32 of the conveyor beam 26 to a track, a conveyor, a belt, a pulley assembly, or another suitable feature for moving the section 32 along the surface of the conveyor structure 12. In other embodiments, the recess 34 may also include an extension from the surface of the conveyor structure 12, a conveyor recess, a track, a guide rail, or other suitable features that guide or otherwise direct the movement of the passenger carrier 16.

[0033] As Figure 2 shown in the illustrated embodiment, the passenger carrier 16 is rotatably coupled to the guide 70 via supports 72 at a first joint 74 of the guidance assembly 70 and at a second joint 76 of the passenger carrier 16. The guidance assembly 70 may include a frame structure 78 having a configuration that allows the passenger carrier 16 to rotate about a transverse axis 22 and / or a longitudinal axis 24 without obstruction. Additionally, the frame structure 78 couples the passenger carrier 16 to the conveyor structure 12 (e.g., the conveyor beam 26, the section 32, and / or the recess 34). For example, the first joint 74 may enable rotation of the support 72 relative to the frame structure 78 of the guidance assembly 70 in a circumferential direction 80 about the longitudinal axis 24 and / or in a circumferential direction 82 about the transverse axis 22. Thus, the frame structure 78 of the guidance assembly 70 may include an actuator 84 (e.g., a motor) that adjusts the position of the support 72 via the first joint 74. Further, an additional actuator 85 (e.g., a motor) may direct the rotation of the passenger carrier 16 relative to the support 72 and / or the frame structure 78 about the second joint 76. The additional actuator 85 may enable rotation of the passenger carrier 16 relative to the support 72 about the second joint 76 in a circumferential direction 80 about the longitudinal axis 24 and / or in a circumferential direction 82 about the transverse axis 22. In some embodiments, the additional actuator 85 (e.g., a motor) may be housed or otherwise disposed within the body 86 of the passenger carrier 16. Additionally or alternatively, the support 72 may enable linear actuation of the passenger carrier 16 relative to the frame structure 78 and / or the conveyor structure 12. For example, as described below, the support 72 may include telescoping sections that linearly guide the passenger carrier 16 toward and away from the frame structure 78.

[0034] The guide assembly 70 may also include a conveyor beam guide 90 and a groove guide 92 to couple the frame structure 78 to the conveyor beam 26 and / or the groove 34. For example, the conveyor beam guide 90 (e.g., bogie assembly) and / or the groove guide 92 (e.g., bogie assembly) may include securing features such as hooks, wheels, clamps, latches, couplers, ties, and / or other suitable features that enable the conveyor beam guide 90 and / or the groove guide 92 to couple to the interfaces of the conveyor beam 26 and / or the groove 34, respectively. Then, when the actuator 28 controls a belt, roller, pulley, magnet, or other suitable component to guide the guide assembly 70 along the conveyor beam 26, the conveyor beam guide 90 can effect the movement of the guide assembly 70 and the passenger ride carrier 16 along the vertical axis 20. Additionally, when the actuator 36 controls a belt, roller, pulley, magnet, or other suitable component to guide the guide assembly 70 along the groove 34, the groove guide 92 can effect the movement of the guide assembly 70 and the passenger ride carrier 16 in the circumferential direction 33 around the conveyor structure 12.

[0035] As Figure 2 shown in the illustrated embodiment, the passenger ride carrier 16 includes a seat 94 for a passenger 96 to experience the conveyor ride system 10. The seat 94 may include a restraint 98 (e.g., a shoulder restraint) that secures the passenger 96 in the seat 94 when the passenger ride carrier 16 moves and rotates and is otherwise manipulated throughout the operation of the conveyor ride system 10. In some embodiments, the seat 94 may be coupled to the body 86 of the passenger ride carrier 16 via a respective base 100 and a respective joint 102. The joint 102 may enable rotation of the seat 94 relative to the body 86 of the passenger ride carrier 16 and / or the base 100. For example, an actuator 104 (e.g., a motor) may be coupled to each joint 102 to adjust the position of the respective seat 94. In some embodiments, the seat 94 may be configured to maintain the position of the passenger 96 relative to the platform 30 (or the ground) when the passenger ride carrier 16 moves and / or rotates throughout the duration of the conveyor ride system 10. Additionally or alternatively, the seat 94 may rotate independently of the body 86 of the passenger ride carrier 16. Further still, the seat 94 may be linearly actuated from the body 86 of the passenger ride carrier 16. For example, each base 100 may include a telescoping section coupled to the actuator 104 and thus enable the seat 94 to move toward and away from the body 86 of the passenger ride carrier 16.

[0036] The passenger riding in carrier 16 may also include a bogie assembly 106 that enables the passenger riding in carrier 16 to transfer from the guide assembly 70 to the track 14. Thus, the support member 72 may be configured to disengage from the body 86 of the passenger riding in carrier 16, thereby enabling the passenger riding in carrier 16 to move along the track 14 via the bogie assembly 106. The transfer between the guide assembly 70 and the bogie assembly 106 is discussed in further detail herein with reference to Figure 6 The transfer between the guide assembly 70 and the bogie assembly 106 is discussed in further detail herein with reference to

[0037] Figure 3 FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a guide assembly 70 coupled to a conveyor beam 120 in a conveyor beam 26, where the passenger riding in carrier 16 is in a first position 122. As shown in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 3 FIG. 6, the support member 72 is generally parallel to the vertical axis 20 and / or the conveyor beam 120. Thus, the body 86 of the passenger riding in carrier 16 generally intersects the vertical axis 20 and / or is generally parallel to the transverse axis 22. In some embodiments, the seat 94 of the passenger riding in carrier 16 is configured to position the passenger 96 in an upright position such that the passenger 96 can have a line of sight along a path generally parallel to the ground 124. In other embodiments, the seat 94 of the passenger riding in carrier 16 may be adjusted at the respective joints 102 such that the position of the passenger 96 is different from the position shown in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 3 FIG. 6. When the guide assembly 70 moves along the conveyor beam 120 and / or other conveyor beams 26, the position of the support member 72 may be adjusted to change the line of sight of the passenger 96 and / or provide a varying sensation to the passenger 96.

[0038] For example, Figure 4 FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a guide assembly 70 coupled to a conveyor beam 120, where the passenger riding in carrier 16 is in a second position 140. As shown in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 4 FIG. 7, the support member 72 moves from the first position 122 (see Figure 3has been rotated to the second position 140. For example, the actuator 84 can be configured to drive the rotation of the support 72 relative to the guide assembly 70, thereby changing the position of the passenger carrier 16 relative to the guide assembly 70. When in the second position 140, the body 86 of the passenger carrier 16 is generally parallel to the vertical axis 20 and / or the conveyor beam 120, although other arrangements of the body 86 can be employed according to this embodiment. In some embodiments, the seat 94 of the passenger carrier 16 rotates relative to the body 86 of the passenger carrier 16. For example, the actuator 104 can rotate the seat 94 about the corresponding base 100 such that the position of the passenger 96 is maintained in an upright position (e.g., generally parallel to the ground 124). In other embodiments, the actuator 104 can adjust the position of the seat 94 to another suitable position. In still other embodiments, when the passenger carrier 16 is in the second position 140, the seat 94 can be maintained in the position when the passenger carrier 16 is in the first position 140. When the passenger carrier 16 is transferred to, or maintained in, any given position, the position of the seat 94 can be adjusted to any suitable position.

[0039] Figure 5 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the guide assembly 70 coupled to the conveyor beam 120, where the passenger carrier 16 is in the third position 150. When in the third position 150, the body 86 of the passenger carrier 16 is generally parallel to the ground 124, but rotated approximately (e.g., within 10%, 5%, or 1% of it) 180 degrees from the first position 122 (e.g., see Figure 3 ). Thus, the passenger 96 is typically suspended from the body 86 of the passenger carrier 16 via the base 100 of the corresponding seat 94. As shown in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 5 , the seat 94 further rotates about the circumferential direction 80 from the position shown in Figure 4 to substantially maintain the passenger 96 in an upright position as the passenger carrier 16 rotates about the guide assembly 70. In other embodiments, the seat 94 may not rotate such that the passenger 96 is in an inverted or upside-down position relative to the ground 124. In other embodiments, the seat 94 can be in any position that places the passenger 96 in any suitable position relative to the ground 124 and other components of the conveyor ride system 10.

[0040] It should be appreciated that the passenger carrier 16 can be in the first position 122 (see Figure 3 ), the second position 140 (see Figure 4)and / or any position between the third position 150. Additionally, the passenger carrier 16 can be positioned relative to the circumferential direction 80 beyond the first position 122 and / or the third position 150. For example, in some embodiments, the passenger carrier 16 can rotate beyond the first position 122 and / or the third position 150 to contact the conveyor structure 12 and create the illusion or impression that the passenger carrier 16 has collided with or otherwise struck the conveyor structure 12.

[0041] As Figure 5 shown in the illustrated embodiment, when in the third position 150, the passenger 96 can be positioned near the diorama 40. For example, the position of the passenger carrier 16 can be adjusted so that the passenger 96 can be within or near the diorama 40 to enable the passenger 96 to perceive the scene conveyed by the diorama 40. In some embodiments, the rotational feature alone or in combination with other actuators (e.g., telescoping linear actuators) can be used to position the passenger carrier 16 within the diorama 40. In one embodiment, the guide assembly 70 can move downward along the vertical axis 20 relative to the ground 124 to lower the passenger 96 into the diorama 40. Thus, components (e.g., actuated figures, objects, screens, actors, holograms, or other features) can perform a scene that can be viewed by the passenger 96 positioned near the components. When the scene of the diorama 40 is complete, the guide assembly 70 can move the passenger carrier 16 upward along the vertical axis 20 to continue along the ride path of the conveyor ride system 10. In some embodiments, the movement of the passenger carrier 16 can be associated with the scene created by the diorama 40. For example, the diorama 40 can create a scene including an explosion or other forceful phenomenon, which can create the illusion that the passenger carrier 16 is moving due to the explosion or other forceful phenomenon. In any case, the movement of the passenger carrier 16 (e.g., along the conveyor beam 26, along the groove 34, and / or around the guide assembly 70) can further enhance the experience of the passenger 96 throughout the duration of the conveyor ride assembly 10.

[0042] In some embodiments, the scenes or other features within the diorama 40 may not be positioned in a typical arrangement that would occur due to gravity (e.g., a scene or feature that may be inverted relative to gravity). For example, some features within the diorama 40 may be coupled or fixed to the walls of the diorama 40 (e.g., the bottom plate, top plate, side walls) in a manner that creates the perception for a user standing on the ground 124 that such items are angled, upside down, or otherwise misaligned (e.g., inverted). However, a passenger 96 within the ride vehicle 16 may be positioned within the diorama 40 via the guiding assembly 70, the support member 72, the seat 94, and / or other features of the conveyor ride system 10 such that the passenger 96 views the scene generated within the diorama 40 in a normal manner (e.g., features that appear upright or consistent with gravity to the passenger 96). However, the passenger 96 may also experience gravity acting in a direction opposite to the direction that the passenger 96 expects or would typically experience. For example, the passenger 96 may be positioned angled or upside down relative to the ground 124, but otherwise perceive the scene within the diorama 40 as normal. Thus, the diorama 40 can be used to create an unusual sensation that confounds the perception of the passenger 96.

[0043] As described above, the passenger ride vehicle 16 can transfer from the guiding assembly 70 to the track 14, which can also result in enhancing the experience of the passenger 96. For example, Figure 6 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a passenger ride vehicle 16 transferring from the guiding assembly 70 to the track 14. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the support member 72 is coupled to the body 86 of the passenger ride vehicle 16. However, once the passenger ride vehicle 16 is secured to the track 14, the support member 72 can be disconnected from the body 86 of the passenger ride vehicle 16. In some embodiments, the support member 72 can include a telescoping rod 170 that enables the support member 72 to extend or retract relative to the guiding assembly 70. Thus, the telescoping rod 72 can facilitate coupling the passenger ride vehicle 16 to the track 14 by providing an additional degree of movement between the support member 72, the guiding assembly 70, and the track 14. In still further embodiments, the support member 72 can be configured to disconnect from the guiding assembly 70 rather than from the passenger ride vehicle 16. The support member 72 can be configured to extend outward from the body 86 of the passenger ride vehicle 16 and retract into the body 86 of the passenger ride vehicle 16. Thus, the support member 72 can be integrated with the passenger ride vehicle 16 rather than with the guiding assembly 70. In one embodiment, when the passenger ride vehicle 16 is positioned on the track 14, the support member 72 does not obstruct or limit the movement of the passenger ride vehicle 16.

[0044] As Figure 6As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the passenger carrier 16 includes a bogie assembly 106 that includes wheels 174 configured to move along the guide rail 176 of the track 14. In some embodiments, the bogie assembly 106 can be positioned within the body 86 of the passenger carrier 16 when the passenger carrier 16 is coupled to the guide assembly 70 and moves with the guide assembly 70. When the passenger carrier 16 is transferred to the track 14, the bogie assembly 106 can extend outward from the body 86 of the passenger carrier 16 to engage the track 14. Thus, the bogie assembly 106 can not limit the movement of the passenger carrier 16 relative to the guide assembly 70 and / or the conveyor structure 12.

[0045] To position the wheels 174 of the bogie assembly 106 onto the track 176, the passenger carrier 16 can be moved toward the track 14 by the support 72 so that the wheels 174 can slide onto the guide rail 176. In some embodiments, the bogie assembly 106 can include a clamping mechanism 178 that enables vertically adjacent wheels 174 to move toward and away from each other. Thus, the wheels 174 can be separated from each other to facilitate sliding the wheels 174 onto the guide rail 176. When the wheels 174 are positioned on the guide rail 176, the clamping mechanism 178 can move the wheels 174 toward each other to fix the passenger carrier 16 to the track 14. The passenger carrier 16 can include a motor 180 coupled to the wheels 174 to guide the movement along the track 14. In other embodiments, the passenger carrier 16 can move along the track 14 using any suitable drive mechanism (e.g., pulleys, motors, conveyors, magnets).

[0046] Similarly, to remove the passenger carrier 16 from the track 14, the support 72 can be re-coupled to the body 86 of the passenger carrier 16 or extended from the body 86 of the passenger carrier 16 toward the guide assembly 70. Then, the support 72 can slide the wheels 174 off the guide rail 176 so that the passenger carrier can move with the guide assembly 70. When the passenger carrier 16 moves along the conveyor structure 12 via the guide assembly 70, the bogie assembly 106 can retract into the body 86 of the passenger carrier 16 to avoid any potential obstruction. Thus, the passenger carrier 16 can transfer between the movement guided by the guide assembly 70 along the conveyor structure 12 and the movement guided by the track 14 to provide the passenger 96 with various types of experiences.

[0047] Although the illustrated embodiments of the conveyor ride system 10 each show a single passenger ride carrier 16, it should be appreciated that the conveyor ride system 10 may include a plurality of passenger ride carriers 16 that move continuously along the ride path of the conveyor ride system (or along different ride paths). In fact, the conveyor ride system 10 may include two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more than ten passenger ride carriers 16.

[0048] Although only certain features of the disclosed embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the present disclosure.

[0049] The technology presented and claimed herein is referenced and applied to physical objects and specific examples of a practical nature, which demonstrably improve the present technical field and are, therefore, not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Further, if any claim appended to the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as "means for [performing]... [function]" or "step for [performing]... [function]", such elements are intended to be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f). However, for any claim that contains elements designated in any other manner, such elements are not intended to be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f).

Claims

1. A conveyor ride system for an amusement park, comprising: A ride carrier; And A conveyor structure including a plurality of conveyor beams and a plurality of conveyor grooves, wherein the plurality of conveyor beams and the plurality of conveyor grooves are configured to guide the ride carrier along a surface of the conveyor structure, and wherein the surface of the conveyor structure defines at least a portion of a ride path of the conveyor ride system; Wherein the plurality of conveyor beams are configured to guide the ride carrier linearly, circumferentially, or both along the surface of the conveyor structure, and wherein a segment of one of the plurality of conveyor beams is configured to move along one or more of the plurality of conveyor grooves in a circumferential direction, a linear direction, or both around the conveyor structure.

2. The conveyor ride system according to claim 1, wherein the ride carrier is coupled to the conveyor structure via a guiding assembly, the guiding assembly including a frame structure and a support.

3. The conveyor ride system according to claim 2, wherein the support is rotatably coupled to the frame structure and coupled to the ride carrier such that the ride carrier is configured to rotate in a circumferential direction relative to the guiding assembly.

4. The conveyor ride system according to claim 1, wherein the ride carrier includes a plurality of seats fixed to a body of the ride carrier.

5. The conveyor ride system according to claim 4, wherein each of the plurality of seats is rotatably coupled to a respective base, the respective base being coupled to the body of the ride carrier.

6. The conveyor ride system according to claim 5, including an actuator configured to adjust positions of the plurality of seats to maintain a position of a passenger in the ride carrier in an upright position relative to the ground.

7. The conveyor ride system according to claim 1, including a track defining an additional portion of the ride path of the conveyor ride system, wherein the track is configured to guide movement of the ride carrier, and wherein the ride carrier is configured to transfer from the conveyor structure to the track.

8. The conveyor ride system according to claim 7, wherein the ride carrier includes a bogie assembly configured to couple the ride carrier to the track.

9. The conveyor ride system according to claim 8, wherein the bogie assembly includes wheels configured to clamp a guide rail of the track.

10. The conveyor ride system according to claim 8, wherein when the ride carrier transfers from the conveyor structure to the track, the bogie assembly is configured to extend from a body of the ride carrier.

11. The system according to claim 1, wherein the conveyor structure is generally cylindrical in shape.

12. The system according to claim 1, comprising a peepshow box positioned along at least a portion of the ride path of the conveyor ride system, wherein the peepshow box is configured to generate a simulated environment, and wherein the plurality of conveyor beams, the plurality of conveyor grooves, or both are configured to position the ride carrier near the peepshow box.

13. A system, comprising: A conveyor structure including a plurality of conveyor beams and a plurality of conveyor grooves, wherein the plurality of conveyor beams are configured to linearly guide a ride carrier along a surface of the conveyor structure, and wherein a section of one of the plurality of conveyor beams is configured to guide the ride carrier along one or more of the plurality of conveyor grooves in a circumferential direction around the conveyor structure.

14. The system according to claim 13, comprising the ride carrier, wherein the ride carrier is configured to be coupled to the conveyor beam via a bogie assembly to linearly drive the movement of the ride carrier along the surface of the conveyor structure.

15. The system according to claim 14, comprising an actuator configured to drive the movement of the bogie assembly.

16. The system according to claim 13, comprising a track configured to receive the ride carrier from the conveyor structure.

17. The system according to claim 13, comprising the ride carrier, wherein the ride carrier is configured to be coupled to the conveyor beam via a frame structure to circumferentially drive the movement of the ride carrier along the surface of the conveyor structure.

18. A ride system for an amusement park, comprising: A ride carrier including a base and a seat rotatably coupled to the base; A conveyor structure including a conveyor beam and a conveyor groove, wherein the ride carrier is configured to be coupled to the conveyor beam and the conveyor groove via a guiding assembly, wherein the guiding assembly is configured to guide the ride carrier along a surface of the conveyor structure via the conveyor beam and the conveyor groove, and wherein the surface of the conveyor structure defines a first portion of a ride path of the ride system; And A track defining a second portion of the ride path of the ride system, wherein the ride carrier is configured to be transferred from the conveyor structure to the track; Wherein the plurality of conveyor beams are configured to guide the ride carrier linearly, circumferentially, or both along the surface of the conveyor structure, and wherein a section of the conveyor beam is configured to move along the conveyor groove in a circumferential direction, a linear direction, or both around the conveyor structure.

19. The ride system according to claim 18, comprising a peepshow box positioned along the first portion of the ride path of the ride system, wherein the peepshow box is configured to generate a simulated environment, and wherein the plurality of conveyor beams, the plurality of conveyor grooves, or both are configured to position the ride carrier near the peepshow box.

20. The system according to claim 19, wherein the simulated environment generated by the peepshow box includes features fixed to the wall of the peepshow box in an inverted position relative to gravity.

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