Turntable ride system and method

Abstract

The turntable seating system includes a rotatable platform, multiple figures configured to rotate together with the rotatable platform, and a lifting system. The lifting system is configured to raise and lower the multiple figures along a vertical axis relative to the rotatable platform during seating operations, and to position each of the multiple figures at the same vertical height along the vertical axis relative to the rotatable platform during loading and unloading operations.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 820,092, filed on March 18, 2019, entitled “CAROUSEL RIDE SYSTEMS AND METHODS,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Background Art

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of carousel ride systems and methods for amusement parks.

[0004] An amusement park may have a variety of attractions. One type of amusement attraction may be a carousel ride system having a rotating platform. The carousel ride system may include a plurality of figures (e.g., seats for riders) that rotate with the rotating platform. In some carousel ride systems, the plurality of figures may move up and down relative to the rotating platform as the plurality of figures rotate with the rotating platform.

[0005] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of the art that may be relevant to various aspects of the present technology described and / or claimed below. It is believed that this discussion helps to provide background information to the reader in order to better understand the various aspects of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that these statements are to be read from this perspective, and not as an admission of the prior art. Summary of the invention

[0006] Some embodiments that are commensurate in scope with the subject matter originally claimed are summarized below. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, but rather these embodiments are intended to provide only a brief summary of certain disclosed embodiments. In fact, the present disclosure may encompass various forms that may be similar or different from the embodiments set forth below.

[0007] In an embodiment, a carousel ride system includes a rotatable platform, a plurality of figures configured to rotate with the rotatable platform, and a lifting system. The lifting system is configured to raise and lower the plurality of figures along a vertical axis relative to the rotatable platform during ride operation, and to position each of the plurality of figures at the same vertical height along the vertical axis relative to the rotatable platform during loading and unloading operations.

[0008] In an embodiment, a method of operating a carousel ride system includes positioning a plurality of figures at the same vertical height along a vertical axis relative to a rotatable platform using a lift system during a loading operation. The method also includes moving the plurality of figures up and down along the vertical axis relative to the rotatable platform during rotation of the rotatable platform and the plurality of figures during ride operation using the lift system. The method also includes positioning the plurality of figures at the same vertical position along the vertical axis relative to the rotatable platform during an unloading operation using the lift system.

[0009] In an embodiment, a carousel ride system includes a rotatable platform, a plurality of figures configured to rotate with the rotatable platform, and a lift system. The lift system includes a controller configured to control one or more actuators of the lift system to adjust one or more components of the lift system to cause the plurality of figures to repeatedly move up and down along a vertical axis relative to the rotatable platform during ride operation and to cause the plurality of figures to be at the same vertical height relative to the rotatable platform during loading and unloading operations. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

[0011] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a carousel ride system including a lift system having one or more circular tracks according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 2 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 A perspective view of a portion of a carousel ride system of FIG. 1 with the lift system in a riding position;

[0013] Figure 3 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 2 A perspective view of a portion of a carousel ride system with the lift system in a loading / unloading position;

[0014] Figure 4 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 A side cross-sectional view of a turntable ride system;

[0015] Figure 5 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 1 A perspective view of a bogie used in a turntable ride system;

[0016] Figure 6is a side view of an embodiment of a carousel ride system including a lift system having a shuttle assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 7 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 6 A side view of a turntable ride system with the lift system in a neutral position;

[0018] Figure 8 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 6 A side view of a turntable ride system with the lift system in a riding position;

[0019] Fig. 9 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 6 A side cross-sectional view of a shuttle assembly;

[0020] Fig.10 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 6 A perspective view of a shuttle assembly;

[0021] Fig.11 is a side view of an embodiment of a carousel ride system including a lift system having a plurality of actuators according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0022] Fig.12 is a flow chart of a method of operating a carousel ride system having a lift system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] One or more specific embodiments will be described below. In order to provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of the actual implementation are described in the specification. It should be noted that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, many implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as complying with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from implementation to implementation. In addition, it should be noted that such development work may be complex and time-consuming, but it will still be a routine task of design, production, and manufacturing for ordinary technicians who benefit from this disclosure.

[0024] When introducing the elements of various embodiments of the present disclosure, the articles "a", "an", "the" and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more elements. The terms "comprise", "comprising" and "having" are intended to be inclusive, and mean that there may be additional elements in addition to the listed elements. One or more specific embodiments of the present embodiment described herein will be described below. In order to provide a concise description of these embodiments, all features of the actual implementation may not be described in the specification. It should be noted that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, many implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the specific goals of the developer, such as complying with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from implementation to implementation. In addition, it should be noted that such development work may be complex and time-consuming, but it will still be a routine task of design, production, and manufacturing for ordinary technicians who benefit from this disclosure.

[0025] The present disclosure relates to a carousel ride system and method for an amusement park. The carousel ride system may include a rotatable platform and a plurality of avatars (e.g., seats for riders) that rotate with the rotatable platform. The plurality of avatars may move up and down relative to the rotatable platform as the plurality of avatars rotate with the rotatable platform. In conventional systems, the plurality of avatars may be at various vertical heights relative to the rotatable platform during loading and unloading of riders. It is now recognized that such prior systems may cause delays in loading and unloading of riders and / or cause certain of the plurality of avatars to be less desirable to the riders. For example, some riders may have difficulty climbing onto or climbing down from any of the plurality of avatars that are in a raised position (e.g., a highest position).

[0026] Accordingly, certain disclosed embodiments relate to carousel ride systems and methods that position a plurality of figures at the same vertical height relative to a rotatable platform during loading and unloading of riders. To accomplish this, the carousel ride system may include a lift system that repeatedly moves the plurality of figures up and down relative to the rotatable platform during ride operation (e.g., during rotation of the rotatable platform) and positions the plurality of figures at the same vertical height relative to the rotatable platform during loading and unloading operations (e.g., when the rotatable platform is stationary so that riders can climb onto and off the plurality of figures).

[0027] Considering the foregoing, Figure 11 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a carousel ride system 10 that includes a lift system 12 having one or more circular tracks 14. As shown, the carousel ride system 10 also includes a plurality of avatars 16 (e.g., seats for riders), each avatar 16 being supported by or mounted on a respective support system 18 that includes a respective support rod 20 (e.g., a rigid rod) and a respective truck 22. The carousel ride system 10 also includes a rotatable platform 24 on which riders travel (e.g., walk) to reach the plurality of avatars 16 during loading and unloading operations. Each support rod 20 extends through a respective opening 26 in the rotatable platform 24, and thus, rotation of the rotatable platform 24 about a rotation axis 28 (e.g., a central axis) drives rotation of the plurality of avatars 16. For ease of discussion and clarity of the figures, the avatars 16 are shown in FIG. 1 . Figure 1 Only some of the multiple figures 16 and corresponding components (eg, support system 18 ) are illustrated in FIG. However, it should be appreciated that the multiple figures 16 and corresponding components may be distributed at various locations around the rotatable platform 24 .

[0028] In the illustrated embodiment, the lift system 12 is in a riding position 30 (e.g., a raised position) wherein the one or more circular tracks 14 are raised relative to the rotatable platform 24 along a vertical axis 32 of the carousel ride system 10. The vertical axis 32 may be parallel to the axis of rotation 28. As shown, in the riding position 30, each of the one or more circular tracks 14 may extend through a corresponding annular gap 34 formed in a support frame 36 of the lift system 12. For example, at least a portion of each of the one or more circular tracks 14 may be raised relative to the support frame 36 along the vertical axis 32. In the riding position 30, the bogies 22 may be supported on the one or more circular tracks 14. Additionally, each of the bogies 22 may move along the one or more circular tracks 14 during rotation of the rotatable platform 24 during ride operation. For example, each of the bogies 22 may include one or more wheels 38 (e.g., a center wheel) that contact a surface 40 (e.g., an upper surface) of the one or more circular tracks 14 when the one or more circular tracks 14 are in the riding position 30, and the one or more wheels 38 may then move (e.g., roll) along the surface 40 of the one or more circular tracks 14 during rotation of the rotatable platform 24 during ride operation.

[0029] As shown, one or more of the circular tracks 14 may have undulations extending circumferentially (e.g., along a circumferential axis 42) about the one or more circular tracks 14. The undulations cause the plurality of figures 16 to move up and down along the vertical axis 32 relative to the rotatable platform 24 during ride operation. For example, rotation of the rotatable platform 24 drives rotation of the plurality of figures 16 and the attached corresponding support systems 18, thereby causing the bogie 22 to move along the undulations of the one or more circular tracks 14 to cause the plurality of figures 16 to move up and down along the vertical axis 32 relative to the rotatable platform 24.

[0030] The undulations may form any number (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more) of peak regions 44 and valley regions 46. In the illustrated embodiment, each peak region 44 includes a first height 50 relative to the support frame 36 and / or valley regions 46 along the vertical axis 32. However, it should be appreciated that the peak regions 44 have varying heights relative to the support frame 36 and / or valley regions 46 along the vertical axis 32. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the valley regions 46 are generally flush with a surface 52 (e.g., an upper surface) of the support frame 36. However, it should be appreciated that some or all of the valley regions 46 may be offset (e.g., raised or lowered to the same or varying degrees) relative to the surface 52 of the support frame 36 along the vertical axis 32.

[0031] The lift system 12 may be generally hidden from the view of the riders. For example, one or more of the circular tracks 14, the support frame 36, and at least a portion of the support system 18 (e.g., the bogie 22) are vertically positioned below the rotatable platform 24, enclosed or covered by a cover 54, and / or positioned within a container 56 (e.g., an opening or hole) formed in the ground. Thus, when the riders approach the carousel ride system 10, travel across the rotatable platform 24 during loading and unloading operations, and ride on the plurality of characters 16 during ride operation, at least the one or more circular tracks 14, the support frame 36, and at least a portion of the support system 18 (e.g., the bogie 22) may not be visible to the riders. Although at least some portions of the ground surrounding the rotatable platform 24, the cover 54, and the container 56 are shown as generally transparent to facilitate discussion and visualization of the components of the lift system 12, it should be appreciated that the ground surrounding the rotatable platform 24, the cover 54, and the container 56 may not be transparent to hide the components of the lift system 12.

[0032] Although three circular tracks 14 are shown in the illustrated embodiment, it should be appreciated that any suitable number (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more) of circular tracks 14 may be provided. Additionally, although the carousel ride system 10 may include a handle 58 or other structure for a rider to hold during ride operation, the carousel ride system 10 may lack any support rods extending vertically above the plurality of figures 16. For example, the plurality of figures 16 may be supported only by respective support rods 20 extending vertically below the plurality of figures 16, and the plurality of figures 16 may not be supported by any support rods suspended from a ceiling or frame structure vertically above the plurality of figures 16. However, in some embodiments, the carousel ride system 10 may include support rods extending vertically above the plurality of figures 16 and suspended from or extending through a ceiling or frame structure vertically above the plurality of figures 16.

[0033] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 1 is a perspective view of a portion of a carousel ride system 10 with the lift system 12 in a riding position 30. As shown, a plurality of figures 16 are each supported by or mounted on a respective support system 18, which includes a respective support rod 20 and a respective truck 22. Each support rod 20 extends through a respective opening 26 in a rotatable platform 24.

[0034] As shown, in the riding position 30, each of the one or more circular tracks 14 can extend vertically above a corresponding annular gap 34 formed in the support frame 36, and the truck 22 can be supported on the one or more circular tracks 14. In addition, during rotation of the rotatable platform 24 during ride operation, each of the trucks 22 can move along the one or more circular tracks 14 (e.g., via one or more wheels 38 that contact and move along the surface 40 of the one or more circular tracks 14).

[0035] One or more of the circular tracks 14 may have undulations that cause the plurality of figures 16 to move up and down along the vertical axis 32 relative to the rotatable platform 24 during ride operation. The undulations may include peak regions 44 and valley regions 46. In the illustrated embodiment, each peak region 44 includes a first height 50 relative to the support frame 36 and / or valley region 46 along the vertical axis 32, and the valley region 46 is substantially flush with a surface 52 of the support frame 36. However, the peak region 44 and the valley region 46 may have any of a variety of shapes and sizes.

[0036] Figure 3 yes Figure 21 is a perspective view of a portion of the carousel ride system 10 with the lift system 12 in a loading / unloading position 60 (e.g., a lowered position). In the loading / unloading position 60, the one or more circular tracks 14 are lowered relative to the rotatable platform 24 along the vertical axis 32. As shown, in the loading / unloading position 60, each of the one or more circular tracks 14 is retracted from a corresponding annular gap 34 formed in the support frame 36. That is, each of the one or more circular tracks 14 is lowered relative to the support frame 36 along the vertical axis 32.

[0037] In the loading / unloading position 60, the bogies 22 may be supported on the support frame 36. For example, each of the bogies 22 may include one or more wheels 62 (e.g., outer wheels) that contact the surface 52 of the support frame 36. In addition, in the loading / unloading position 60, one or more wheels 38 may not be supported on and / or may not contact the one or more circular tracks 14. Because the surface 52 of the support frame 36 is a flat surface that is parallel to the rotatable platform 24 and orthogonal to the vertical axis 32, each of the plurality of figures 16 may be at the same vertical height 64 relative to the rotatable platform 24 along the vertical axis 32 when the lifting system 12 is in the loading / unloading position 60.

[0038] In operation, the carousel ride system 10 can continuously move between loading operations, riding operations, and unloading operations. The disclosed lift system 12 can achieve efficient transitions between loading operations, riding operations, and unloading operations, such as by making it easier for riders to climb onto and off the plurality of figures 16. For example, during a loading operation, the rotatable platform 24 can be stationary, and the lift system 12 can be in a loading / unloading position 60 with one or more annular tracks 14 retracted from corresponding annular gaps 34 in the support frame 36. Thus, the plurality of figures 16 are all at the same vertical height 64 relative to the rotatable platform 24 along the vertical axis 32.

[0039] Once the rider has climbed onto the plurality of figures 16, the lift system 12 may be adjusted to a riding position 30 with the one or more circular tracks 14 extending through corresponding annular gaps 34 in the support frame 36 and extending vertically above the support frame 36 relative to the vertical axis 32. Due to the undulations of the one or more circular tracks 14, the plurality of figures 16 will then be at varying vertical heights relative to the rotatable platform 24 (e.g., a first figure in the plurality of figures 16 may be positioned at one of the peaks 44 and will be at a first height, and a second figure in the plurality of figures may be positioned at one of the valleys 46 and will be at a second height, and / or a third figure in the plurality of figures may be positioned between one of the peaks 44 and one of the valleys 46 and will be at a third height). The rotatable platform 24 may rotate, thereby driving the rotation of the plurality of figures 16 and causing the bogie 22 coupled to the plurality of figures 16 to travel along the undulations of the one or more circular tracks 14. Thus, during ride operation, the plurality of figures 16 may rotate with the rotatable platform 24 and may also move up and down relative to the rotatable platform 24 along the vertical axis 32. After the ride operation, the rotatable platform 24 can stop rotating and can be moved to a stationary position for unloading operations. The lift system 12 can then be adjusted to a loading / unloading position 60 with one or more of the annular tracks 14 retracted from the corresponding annular gaps 34 in the support frame 36. Thus, the plurality of figures 16 (e.g., all of the plurality of figures 106 raised and lowered by the lift system 12 during ride operation) are all at the same vertical height 64 along the vertical axis 32 relative to the rotatable platform 24 to facilitate unloading of the carousel ride system 10.

[0040] It should be appreciated that the above steps for transitioning between loading operations, riding operations, and unloading operations may be performed in any suitable order and / or simultaneously. For example, once the riders have climbed onto the plurality of figures 16, the rotatable platform 24 may be rotated before or when the lift system 12 is adjusted to the riding position 30. Similarly, after the riding operation, the rotatable platform 24 may stop rotating or slow down rotating after or when the lift system 12 is adjusted to the loading / unloading position 60.

[0041] Additionally, it should be appreciated that the rotation of the rotatable platform 24 and the adjustment of the lifting system 12 may be coordinated and controlled by a control system (eg, an electronic control system). Figure 4 , the control system 70 may include a controller 72 having a processor 74 and a memory device 76. The controller 72 may provide control signals to one or more actuators 78 (eg, linear actuators) to move the vehicle between the illustrated seating position 30 and the loading / unloading position 60 ( Figure 3 ) between the lift system 12 and the ride position 30. The controller 72 may also provide control signals to one or more actuators 80 to drive rotation of the rotatable platform 24. The controller 72 may be configured to receive input (e.g., from a ride operator) via an input device 82 and provide control signals to the actuators 78, 80 in response to the input. For example, the controller 72 may receive input indicating that the rider has climbed onto the plurality of figures 16 and the loading operation is complete. In response, the controller 72 may provide control signals to the one or more actuators 78 to adjust the lift system 12 to the seating position 30, and then at some subsequent time (e.g., after the lift system 12 reaches the seating position 30) the controller 72 may provide control signals to the one or more actuators 80 to drive rotation of the rotatable platform 24. As described above, the steps for transitioning between the loading operation and the ride operation may be performed in any suitable order and / or simultaneously. For example, in response to receiving input that the loading operation is complete, the controller 72 may provide a control signal to the actuator 80 to drive rotation of the rotatable platform 24 before or when the lift system 12 is adjusted to the seating position 30 .

[0042] Certain steps may be automated and / or controlled by a timer (e.g., a timed schedule). For example, once the rotation of the rotatable platform 24 begins, the rotation may continue for a period of time (e.g., a predetermined or operator-set period of time, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more minutes). When the period of time ends, the controller 72 may provide a control signal to one or more actuators 80 to stop the rotation of the rotatable platform 24 and cause the rotatable platform 24 to take a stationary position for unloading operations. Then, at a later time (e.g., after the rotatable platform 24 is stationary), the controller 72 may provide a control signal to one or more actuators 78 to adjust the lifting system 12 to the loading / unloading position 60, wherein one or more annular tracks 14 are retracted from the corresponding annular gaps 34 in the support frame 36. As described above, the steps for transitioning between the ride operation and the unloading operation may be performed in any suitable order and / or simultaneously. For example, after a ride operation, controller 72 may provide a control signal to actuator 80 to pause or slow rotation of rotatable platform 24 after or while lift system 12 is adjusted to loading / unloading position 60 .

[0043] The memory device 76 may include one or more tangible, non-transitory, computer-readable media that store instructions and / or data (e.g., time periods) executable by the processor 74. For example, the memory device 76 may include a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a rewritable non-volatile memory (such as flash memory), a hard drive, an optical disk, and / or the like. In addition, the processor 74 may include one or more general-purpose microprocessors, one or more application-specific processors (ASICs), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or any combination thereof.

[0044] In addition to the control system 70 and the actuators 78, 80, Figure 4 The diagram above shows Figure 1-3 Various structural features of the carousel ride system 10 are described. For example, Figure 4 There are shown a plurality of figures 16, a support system 18 having support rods 20 and a bogie 22, a rotatable platform 24, a cover 54, and a container 56. For example, Figure 4 Also illustrated is a lift system 12 having one or more circular tracks 14 and a support frame 36. It should be appreciated that the various actuators 78, 80 are merely exemplary, and any number and type of actuators may be positioned at any suitable locations about the carousel ride system 10 to implement the disclosed technology.

[0045] Figure 5 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a bogie 22 that may be used in the carousel ride system 10. As shown, the bogie 22 includes a plurality of wheels 38 (e.g., two wheels arranged one in front of the other) that are configured to contact the circular track 14 ( Figure 4 ) on an upper surface of a corresponding one of the annular tracks 14. The bogie 22 may also include a plurality of wheels 84 (e.g., two wheels arranged opposite to each other) configured to contact a side surface of a corresponding one of the annular tracks 14, thereby stabilizing the bogie 22 and the support rods 20 coupled to the bogie 22 during ride operations. The corresponding one of the annular tracks 14 may be received within a space 86 defined between the wheels 84 during ride operations. In the illustrated embodiment, the bogie 22 also includes a bogie frame 88 that is coupled to the support rods 20 and supports the wheels 38, 84 (e.g., rotatable on corresponding axes). The bogie 22 also includes a foot 90 (e.g., a laterally extending foot; arranged on opposite lateral sides of the bogie frame 88) that extends laterally outward from the wheels 38, 84 and has a corresponding surface (e.g., a lower surface) that is configured to contact and rest on the support frame 36 (e.g., a lower surface) during loading / unloading operations. Figure 3). When the feet 90 contact and rest on the surface 52 of the support frame 36, the wheels 38 are separated from the upper surface of the corresponding one of the circular tracks 14, and thus, the bogie 22 is prevented from rolling and maintained in a stationary position relative to the corresponding one of the circular tracks 14.

[0046] Figure 6 1 is a side view of an embodiment of a carousel ride system 100 that includes a lift system 102 having a shuttle assembly 104 (e.g., a movable core). As shown, the carousel ride system 100 also includes a plurality of figures 106 (e.g., seats for riders), each figure 106 being supported by or mounted on a respective support system 108, which may include a respective support rod 110 (e.g., a rigid rod) and / or a respective cable 112 (e.g., a flexible cable). The carousel ride system 100 may also include a rotatable platform 114 on which riders travel (e.g., walk) to reach the plurality of figures 106 during loading and unloading operations. Each support rod 110 may be coupled to and / or extend through a corresponding opening 116 in the rotatable platform 114 , and thus, rotation of the rotatable platform 114 about a rotation axis 117 (eg, a central axis) drives rotation of the plurality of figures 106 .

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, the lift system 102 is in a loading / unloading position 120 (e.g., a centered position) with the shuttle assembly 104 centered (e.g., coaxial) with respect to the rotatable platform 114, the plurality of figures 106, and / or the center pole 121 of the carousel ride system 100. In the loading / unloading position 120, the plurality of figures 106 may be at the same vertical height 118 relative to the rotatable platform 114 along a vertical axis 123 of the carousel ride system 100. The vertical axis 123 may be parallel to the rotation axis 117. As shown, each of the cables 112 extends over a respective first pulley 122 (e.g., sheave, hook, loop) coupled to and suspended from a top plate structure 124 (e.g., a frame) and a respective second pulley 126 (e.g., sheave, hook, loop) coupled to a support block 128 of the shuttle assembly 104. A respective first end 130 of each of the cables 112 may be coupled to a respective support rod 110 and / or a respective figure 106 , and a respective second end 132 of each of the cables 112 may be coupled to a plate 134 (eg, a lower plate, a movable plate) of the shuttling assembly 104 .

[0048] In some embodiments, an actuator 136 may be provided to adjust the vertical position of the plate 134, which in turn adjusts the vertical height of each of the plurality of figures 106 along the vertical axis 123 relative to the rotatable platform 114. For example, Figure 7 1 is a side view of the carousel ride system 100 with the lifting system 102 in the intermediate position 138. As shown, the actuator 136 can drive the plate 134 along the vertical axis 123 in the direction of arrow 140 away from the support block 128 of the shuttle assembly 104 and toward the rotatable platform 114. Because the second end 132 of the cable 112 is coupled to the plate 134, the cable 112 is pulled over the pulleys 122, 126, thereby raising the plurality of figures 106 along the vertical axis 123 relative to the rotatable platform 114 (e.g., raising all of the plurality of figures 106 along the vertical axis 123 relative to the rotatable platform 114 to another same vertical height 142 simultaneously).

[0049] Regardless of whether the plurality of images 106 are Figure 7 As shown and described above, the shuttle assembly 104 can move laterally relative to the rotatable platform 114 to cause the plurality of figures 106 to move up and down relative to the rotatable platform 114 along the vertical axis 123 during rotation of the rotatable platform 114 during operation of the ride. For example, Figure 8 1 is a side view of the carousel ride system 100 with the lift system 102 in a riding position 150 (e.g., a laterally offset position). In the riding position 150, the shuttle assembly 104 is laterally offset relative to the rotatable platform 114, the plurality of figures 106, and / or the center pole 121 of the carousel ride system 100 along a lateral axis 153. For example, the shuttle assembly 104 may be laterally displaced such that a first distance 154 from an axis of rotation 156 (e.g., a center axis) of the shuttle assembly 104 to a first edge point 158 ​​of the rotatable platform 114 is different from a second distance 160 from the axis of rotation 156 of the shuttle assembly 104 to a second edge point 162 of the rotatable platform 114 that is diametrically opposed to the first edge point 158. The shuttle assembly 104 may be laterally displaced such that the axis of rotation 117 of the rotatable platform 114 and the axis of rotation 156 of the shuttle assembly 104 are no longer aligned (e.g., not coaxial).

[0050] During operation of the ride, the shuttle assembly 104 (including the pulleys 122, 126), the plurality of figures 106, the support system 108, and the rotatable platform 114 may rotate together in a circumferential direction 164. During this rotation, the distance 165 between each corresponding pair of pulleys 122, 126 changes due to the lateral offset position of the shuttle assembly 104 and the attached second pulley 126. Thus, as the cable 112 slides along the pulleys 122, 126 during this rotation, the plurality of figures 106 move up and down along the vertical axis 123 relative to the rotatable platform 114. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the distance 65 between the first pair of pulleys 122, 126 when on the first side 166 of the shuttle assembly 104 is greater than the distance 65 between the first pair of pulleys 122, 126 when on the second side 168 of the shuttle assembly 104. Thus, when on the first side 166 of the shuttling assembly 104, each of the plurality of figures 106 will be in a raised position (e.g., the highest position relative to the rotatable platform 114), and when on the second side 168 of the shuttling assembly 104, each of the plurality of figures 106 will be in a lowered position (e.g., the lowest position relative to the rotatable platform 114).

[0051] Fig. 9 is a side cross-sectional view of the shuttling assembly 104, and Fig.10 1 is a perspective view of the shuttle assembly 104. As shown, each of the cables 112 extends around a respective first pulley 122 and a respective second pulley 126. Each of the cables 112 includes a respective second end 132, which may have passed through a support block 128 to couple to a plate 134. As shown, the support block 128 may include a respective conduit or opening 170 for each of the cables 112, and the plate 134 may be a perforated plate having a plurality of openings 172 for each of the cables 112. Thus, the cables 112 may be covered by the support block 128 and / or securely attached to the plate 134 (e.g., by extending through the plurality of openings 172 and attaching to a lower surface of the plate 134). In some embodiments, the plate 134 is coupled to an actuator 136 that may raise and lower the plate 134 relative to the support block 128 to adjust the plate 134 relative to the support block 128. Figure 7 The plurality of figures 106 may be moved in the manner described. Additionally, as shown, the second pulleys 126 may be supported at discrete locations around the perimeter of the support block 128 and at multiple levels (e.g., vertical levels or steps) of the support block 128. This configuration may enable the lifting system 102 to adjust the position of a large number of figures 16 and resist cable entanglement.

[0052] In operation, the carousel ride system 100 can continuously move between loading operations, riding operations, and unloading operations. The disclosed lift system 102 can enable efficient transitions between loading operations, riding operations, and unloading operations, such as by making it easier for riders to climb onto and off the plurality of figures 16. For example, during a loading operation, the rotatable platform 114 can be stationary and the lift system 102 can be in a loading / unloading position 120 with the shuttle assembly 104 aligned with and centered relative to the rotatable platform 114. Thus, the plurality of figures 106 are all at the same vertical height 118 relative to the rotatable platform 114 along the vertical axis 123.

[0053] Once the rider has climbed onto the plurality of figures 106, the lift system 102 may optionally adjust the plurality of figures 16 to the intermediate position 138. Additionally or alternatively, the lift system 102 may be adjusted to a riding position 150 in which the shuttle assembly 104 is laterally offset along a lateral axis 153 from the rotatable platform 114, the plurality of figures 106, and / or the center pole 121 of the carousel ride system 100. Due to the laterally offset position of the shuttle assembly 104 and the resulting varying distance 65 between each corresponding pair of pulleys 122, 126 during rotation, the plurality of figures 106 may move up and down along the vertical axis 123 relative to the rotatable platform 114 during rotation. In some embodiments, the laterally offset position of the shuttle assembly 104 may change during ride operation. For example, during ride operation, the shuttle assembly 104 can move to a plurality of different offset positions (e.g., at different distances from a centered position and / or at different locations around the perimeter of the center pole 121) relative to the rotatable platform 114, the plurality of figures 106, and / or the center pole 121 of the carousel ride system 100. In some embodiments, the lateral offset position and / or movement of the shuttle assembly 104 can be varied during separate ride operations. Such a configuration can provide more varied and / or unpredictable up-and-down motion during ride operation.

[0054] After the ride operation, the rotatable platform 114 can stop rotating and can be moved to a stationary position for unloading operations. The lift system 102 can then be adjusted to the loading / unloading position 120 by shifting the shuttle assembly 104 to align with and center relative to the rotatable platform 114. Thus, the plurality of figures 106 (e.g., all of the plurality of figures 106 raised and lowered by the lift system 102 during ride operation) are all at the same vertical height 118 relative to the rotatable platform 114 along the vertical axis 123 to facilitate unloading of the carousel ride system 100.

[0055] As described above, in some embodiments, the actuator 136 can adjust the plate 134 to move the plurality of figures 106 to another identical vertical height 142 after a loading operation and before a ride operation. It should be appreciated that the above steps for transitioning between a loading operation, a ride operation, and an unloading operation can be performed in any suitable order and / or simultaneously. For example, once a rider has climbed onto the plurality of figures 106, the rotatable platform 114 can be rotated before or when the lift system 102 is adjusted to the ride position 150. Similarly, after a ride operation, the rotatable platform 114 can stop rotating or slow rotating after or when the lift system 102 is adjusted to the loading / unloading position 120.

[0056] Additionally, it should be appreciated that the rotation of the rotatable platform 114 and the adjustment of the lifting system 102 may be coordinated and controlled by a control system (eg, an electronic control system). Figure 8 , the control system 180 may include a controller 182 having a processor 184 and a memory device 186. The controller 182 may provide control signals to one or more actuators (such as the actuator 136) to adjust the plate 134, as described above with respect to Figure 7 The controller 182 may provide control signals to one or more actuators 188 that drive movement (e.g., lateral movement and / or rotation) of the shuttle assembly 104 to move between the illustrated seating position 150 and the loading / unloading position 120 ( Figure 6) between the plurality of figures 106. The controller 182 may provide control signals to one or more actuators 190 that drive the rotation of the rotatable platform 114 and / or the rotation of other components (e.g., the top plate structure 124 and the attached first pulley 122). The controller 182 may be configured to receive input (e.g., from a ride operator) via an input device 192 and provide control signals to the actuators 136, 188, 190 in response to the input. For example, the controller 182 may receive input indicating that the rider has climbed on the plurality of figures 106 and the loading operation is complete. In response, the controller 182 may provide control signals to one or more actuators 188 to adjust the lift system 102 to the seating position 150, and then at some subsequent time (e.g., after the lift system 102 reaches the seating position 150), the controller 182 may provide control signals to one or more actuators 188, 190 to drive the rotation of the shuttle assembly 104, the rotatable platform 114, and other components. As described above, the steps for transitioning between a loading operation and a riding operation can be performed in any suitable order and / or simultaneously. For example, in response to receiving an input that a loading operation is complete, the controller 182 can provide control signals to the actuators 188, 190 to drive rotation of the components before or when the lift system 102 is adjusted to the riding position 150.

[0057] Certain steps may be automated and / or controlled by a timer (e.g., a timed schedule). For example, once the rotation of the rotatable platform 114 begins, the rotation may continue for a period of time (e.g., a predetermined or operator-set period of time, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more minutes). When the period of time ends, the controller 182 may provide a control signal to one or more actuators 188, 190 to stop the rotation for the unloading operation. Then, at some subsequent time (e.g., after the rotatable platform 114 and other components are stationary), the controller 182 may provide a control signal to one or more actuators 188 to adjust the lifting system 102 to the loading / unloading position 120, wherein the shuttle assembly 104 is aligned with and centered relative to the rotatable platform 114. As described above, the steps for transitioning between the ride operation and the unloading operation may be performed in any suitable order and / or simultaneously. For example, after the ride operates, the controller 182 may provide control signals to the actuators 188, 190 to pause or slow the rotation of the rotatable platform 114 after or when the lift system 102 is adjusted to the loading / unloading position 120. It should be appreciated that the various actuators 136, 188, 190 are merely exemplary, and any number and type of actuators may be positioned at any suitable locations about the carousel ride system 100 to implement the disclosed techniques.

[0058] The memory device 186 may include one or more tangible, non-transitory, computer-readable media that store instructions and / or data (e.g., time periods) executable by the processor 184. For example, the memory device 186 may include a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a rewritable non-volatile memory (such as flash memory), a hard drive, an optical disk, and / or the like. In addition, the processor 184 may include one or more general-purpose microprocessors, one or more application-specific processors (ASICs), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or any combination thereof.

[0059] Fig.112 is a side view of an embodiment of a carousel ride system 200 that includes a lift system 202 having a plurality of actuators 204. As shown, the carousel ride system 200 also includes a plurality of avatars 206 (e.g., seats for riders), each avatar 206 being supported by or mounted on a respective support system 208, which may include a respective support rod 210 (e.g., a rigid rod and / or a flexible cable). The carousel ride system 200 may also include a rotatable platform 214 on which riders travel (e.g., walk) to reach the plurality of avatars 206 during loading and unloading operations. Each support rod 210 may be coupled to the rotatable platform 214 and / or extend through a respective opening 216 in the rotatable platform 214, and thus, rotation of the rotatable platform 214 about an axis of rotation (e.g., a central axis) drives rotation of the plurality of avatars 206.

[0060] Each of the plurality of actuators 204 may be configured to individually drive movement of one of the plurality of figures 206. For example, each of the plurality of actuators 204 may include a linear actuator supported by the top structure 218 (e.g., a frame) and operated to raise and lower the corresponding support rod 210 and the attached corresponding figure 206 relative to the rotatable platform 214 as the rotatable platform 214 rotates during ride operation. As another example, each of the plurality of actuators 204 may include a rotary actuator that rotates a spool to alternately wind and unwind the corresponding support rod 210 (e.g., a flexible cable) to raise and lower the corresponding figure 206 relative to the rotatable platform 214 as the rotatable platform 214 rotates during ride operation. It should be appreciated that the plurality of actuators 204 may be supported by or positioned at or vertically below the rotatable platform 214.

[0061] In operation, the carousel ride system 200 can continuously move between loading operations, riding operations, and unloading operations. The disclosed lifting system 202 can achieve efficient transitions between loading operations, riding operations, and unloading operations, such as by making it easier for riders to climb onto and off the plurality of figures 206. For example, during a loading operation, the rotatable platform 214 can be stationary, and the lifting system 202 can be in a loading / unloading position 220, wherein the plurality of figures 206 are positioned at the same vertical height 222 relative to the rotatable platform 214 along a vertical axis 224 of the carousel ride system 200. The vertical axis 224 can be parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotatable platform 224. Once the riders have climbed onto the plurality of figures 206, the lifting system 202 can operate the plurality of actuators 204 to move the plurality of figures 206 up and down relative to the rotatable platform 214 along the vertical axis 123 during rotation of the rotatable platform 214. After the ride operation, the rotatable platform 214 can stop rotating and can be moved to a stationary position for unloading operations. The lifting system 202 can then be adjusted to the loading / unloading position 220 to position the plurality of figures 206 (e.g., all of the plurality of figures 206 raised and lowered by the lifting system 202 during the ride operation) at the same vertical height 222 relative to the rotatable platform 214 along the vertical axis 224 to facilitate unloading of the carousel ride system 200.

[0062] It should be appreciated that the above steps for transitioning between loading operations, ride operations, and unloading operations can be performed in any suitable order and / or simultaneously. For example, once the riders have climbed onto the plurality of figures 206, the rotatable platform 214 can be rotated before or when the lift system 202 is adjusted to the riding position. Similarly, after the ride operation, the rotatable platform 214 can stop rotating or slow down rotating after or when the lift system 202 is adjusted to the loading / unloading position 220.

[0063] Additionally, it should be appreciated that the rotation of the rotatable platform 214 and the adjustment of the lifting system 202 may be coordinated and controlled by a control system (eg, an electronic control system). Fig.11, the control system 230 may include a controller 232 having a processor 234 and a memory device 236. The controller 232 may provide control signals to the plurality of actuators 204 to raise and lower the plurality of figures 206 individually. The controller 232 may also provide control signals to one or more actuators 238 that drive the rotation of the rotatable platform 214 and / or the rotation of other components (e.g., the top structure 218). The controller 232 may be configured to receive input (e.g., from a ride operator) via an input device 240 and provide control signals to the actuators 204, 238 in response to the input. For example, the controller 232 may receive input indicating that a rider has climbed onto the plurality of figures 206 and that a loading operation is complete. In response, the controller 232 may provide control signals to the plurality of actuators 204 to raise and lower the plurality of figures 206 relative to the rotatable platform 214, and to one or more actuators 238 to drive the rotation of the rotatable platform 214 and other components. As described above, the steps for transitioning between a loading operation and a riding operation may be performed in any suitable order and / or simultaneously.

[0064] Certain steps may be automated and / or controlled by a timer (e.g., a timed schedule). For example, once the rotation of the rotatable platform 214 begins, the rotation may continue for a period of time (e.g., a predetermined or operator-set period of time, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more minutes). When the period of time ends, the controller 232 may provide a control signal to one or more actuators 238 to stop the rotation for an unloading operation. The controller 232 may also provide a control signal to a plurality of actuators 238 to adjust the lifting system 202 to a loading / unloading position 220, wherein the plurality of figures 206 are all at the same vertical height 222 relative to the rotatable platform 214. As described above, the steps for transitioning between the ride operation and the unloading operation may be performed in any suitable order and / or simultaneously. It should be appreciated that the various actuators 204, 238 are merely exemplary, and any number and type of actuators may be positioned at any suitable location around the carousel ride system 200 to implement the disclosed technology.

[0065] The memory device 236 may include one or more tangible, non-transitory, computer-readable media that store instructions and / or data (e.g., time periods) executable by the processor 234. For example, the memory device 236 may include a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a rewritable non-volatile memory (such as flash memory), a hard drive, an optical disk, and / or the like. In addition, the processor 234 may include one or more general-purpose microprocessors, one or more application-specific processors (ASICs), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or any combination thereof.

[0066] Fig.12 1 is a flow chart of an embodiment of a method 250 of operating a carousel ride system, including any of the carousel ride systems disclosed herein. The method 250 disclosed herein includes various steps represented by boxes. It should be noted that at least some of the steps of the method 250 can be performed by a system (such as any of the control systems disclosed herein) as an automated process. Although the flow chart illustrates the steps in a certain sequence, it should be understood that the steps can be performed in any suitable order, and certain steps can be performed simultaneously, where appropriate. In addition, steps can be added to or omitted from the method 250.

[0067] In step 252, the lifting system may be controlled to position the plurality of figures at the same vertical height relative to the rotatable platform of the carousel ride system during a loading operation. In step 254, the lifting system may be controlled to move the plurality of figures up and down along a vertical axis relative to the rotatable platform during rotation of the rotatable platform and the plurality of figures during ride operation. For example, during ride operation, each of the plurality of figures may be at a varying vertical height relative to the rotatable platform along the vertical axis. In particular, the respective vertical height of a first figure in the plurality of figures may vary during ride operation, and at certain times and / or throughout ride operation, the respective vertical height of a first figure in the plurality of figures may be different than the respective vertical height of a second figure in the plurality of figures. In step 256, the lifting system may be controlled to return the plurality of figures to the same vertical height relative to the rotatable platform during an unloading operation. Reference may be made to Figure 1-11 and corresponding description for additional details of method 250.

[0068] Although only certain features of the present embodiment have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it should be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes that fall within the true spirit of the present disclosure. In addition, it should be understood that certain elements of the disclosed embodiments may be combined or exchanged with each other.

[0069] The technology presented and claimed herein is cited and applied to substantial objects and specific examples that significantly improve the practical nature of the present technical field, and is therefore not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. In addition, if any claim attached to the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as "means for [performing] ... [function]" or "steps for [performing] ... [function]", it is intended that such elements be interpreted in accordance with 35 USC 112 (f). However, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, it is intended that such elements not be interpreted in accordance with 35 USC 112 (f).

Claims

1. A turntable ride system, comprising: A platform capable of rotating; a plurality of figures configured to rotate with the rotatable platform, wherein each figure in the plurality of figures is supported on a respective support rod extending vertically through a respective opening in the rotatable platform; as well as A lift system comprising a circular track configured to move along a vertical axis relative to the rotatable platform, wherein the lift system is configured to raise and lower the plurality of figures along the vertical axis relative to the rotatable platform during ride operations and to position the plurality of figures along the vertical axis at the same vertical height relative to the rotatable platform during loading and unloading operations.

2. The carousel ride system of claim 1, wherein the circular track includes one or more undulations extending circumferentially around the circular track.

3. The turntable ride system of claim 1 , wherein the respective support rods are coupled to respective bogies.

4. The turntable ride system of claim 3, wherein the respective trucks include at least one wheel configured to be supported on a support frame during the loading and unloading operations and at least one other wheel configured to be supported on the circular track during the ride operations.

5. The carousel ride system of claim 1 , wherein the lift system comprises a support frame positioned vertically below the rotatable platform, the support frame comprising an annular gap, and the annular track is configured to move through the annular gap along the vertical axis.

6. The carousel ride system of claim 1 , wherein the lift system includes a shuttle assembly configured to be in a centered position relative to an axis of rotation of the rotatable platform during the loading and unloading operations and configured to be in a laterally offset position relative to the axis of rotation of the rotatable platform during ride operation.

7. The turntable ride system of claim 6, wherein the lifting system includes a plurality of pulleys coupled to the shuttle assembly and supporting a plurality of cables, and each of the plurality of cables includes a respective first end portion coupled to a respective one of the plurality of figures and a respective second end portion coupled to the shuttle assembly.

8. The carousel ride system of claim 7, wherein the respective first end portion of each of the plurality of cables is coupled to the respective one of the plurality of characters via the respective support rod.

9. A turntable ride system according to claim 1, wherein the lifting system includes a plurality of actuators, and each actuator of the plurality of actuators is associated with a corresponding image of the plurality of images and is configured to independently drive the corresponding image of the plurality of images to move along the vertical axis relative to the rotatable platform.

10. The turntable ride system of claim 9, wherein the plurality of actuators comprises a plurality of linear actuators.

11. The carousel ride system of claim 1 , wherein the lift system includes a controller, wherein the controller is configured to control one or more actuators of the lift system to adjust one or more components of the lift system to cause the plurality of figures to repeatedly move up and down along the vertical axis relative to the rotatable platform during ride operation, and to cause the plurality of figures to be at the same vertical height relative to the rotatable platform during loading and unloading operations.

12. A method of operating a carousel ride system, the method comprising: i) using a lifting system, positioning a plurality of figures at the same vertical height along a vertical axis relative to a rotatable platform during a loading operation, wherein each figure of the plurality of figures is supported on a respective support rod extending vertically through a respective opening in the rotatable platform; ii) using the lift system, moving the plurality of figures up and down along the vertical axis relative to the rotatable platform during rotation of the rotatable platform and the plurality of figures during operation of the ride; as well as iii) using said lifting system, positioning said plurality of figures along said vertical axis relative to said rotatable platform to said same vertical position during an unloading operation, Wherein in steps i), ii) and iii), using the lifting system comprises moving the circular track of the lifting system along the vertical axis relative to the rotatable platform.

13. The method of claim 12, comprising rolling wheels of a bogie coupled to the plurality of figures along the circular track so that the plurality of figures can move up and down along the vertical axis relative to the rotatable platform during rotation of the rotatable platform and the plurality of figures during operation of the ride.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein moving the circular track of the lifting system comprises moving the circular track through an annular gap formed in a support frame positioned below the rotatable platform along the vertical axis.

15. The method of claim 14, comprising supporting other wheels of the truck on the support frame to position the plurality of figures at the same vertical height during the loading operation and the unloading operation.

16. The method of claim 12, comprising adjusting a shuttling assembly of the lift system from a centered position relative to an axis of rotation of the rotatable platform to a laterally offset position relative to the axis of rotation of the rotatable platform.

17. The method of claim 16, comprising sliding cables connected to the plurality of figures over a plurality of shuttle pulleys connected to the shuttle assembly to enable the plurality of figures to move up and down along the vertical axis relative to the rotatable platform during rotation of the rotatable platform and the plurality of figures during operation of the ride.

18. The method of claim 12, comprising adjusting a plurality of actuators, each of the plurality of actuators being associated with a respective one of the plurality of figures, to independently drive movement of the plurality of figures.

Images