Inflatable wave system

Abstract

The systems and methods described herein include inflatable wave pool amusement system for generating waves. Exemplary embodiments also include power and nozzle modules for use with the water amusement system.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application is the national phase application of PCT application PCT / US20 / 50751, filed September 14, 2020, and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 62 / 900,453, filed September 13, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Traditional surfing attractions simulate the surfing experience by injecting water into the riding surface. Traditional systems require sufficient rigidity to support the rider and the water flow. Even inflatable attractions maintain the use of rigid ground or support structures to provide stability to the riding surface.

[0004] U.S. Patent 9,802,133 to Laurence Parlane and Daniel Paul Benson discloses a sheet wave water attraction, which includes a buoyancy structure suitable for floating on naturally occurring bodies of water. The sheet wave attraction in Parlane et al.'s patent draws water from naturally occurring bodies of water and floats on them. Parlane et al.'s patent uses a water injection system to inject a sheet of water onto a slope to create a rideable surface that simulates waves. It can be seen that the infrastructure supporting the floating sheet wave attraction remains substantial. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Exemplary embodiments described herein include an inflatable wave system. An exemplary inflatable wave system can be configured to remain stationary on a body of water in a stable state. The inflatable wave system may include a water injection system that uses water to inject water onto the riding surface to create a wave-like surface on an inclined riding surface, simulating a wave for the rider to maneuver.

[0006] Exemplary embodiments of the inflatable floating system include an inflatable substructure and a rideable surface. The system may include additional features according to embodiments described herein.

[0007] Exemplary embodiments include novel and unique power, pump, and nozzle configurations. The power and nozzle assemblies can be used in instant floating sheet wave rides to minimize or reduce the spacing of the floating devices on the body of water. This can allow the system to be used in different bodies of water with different depths. Exemplary embodiments of the power and nozzle assemblies can also be used in other water rides and can be used to minimize or reduce the amount of water needed to operate the water ride. In exemplary embodiments, the system can include a module for supporting the pump, motor / engine, and a fluid assembly for injecting water from the body of water onto the ride system. In exemplary embodiments, the module is configured to mate with a portion of an inflatable substructure such that the power module is configured to extend through the inflatable substructure and deliver water from below the inflatable substructure to the top surface of the inflatable substructure. In exemplary embodiments, the module is configured to float independently of the wide structure. In this case, the module can be salvaged even if the ride structure fails. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0008] Figures 1A-1B An exemplary inflatable floating wave system according to embodiments described herein is shown.

[0009] Figure 2 An exemplary inflatable floating wave system according to embodiments described herein is shown.

[0010] Figures 3-4 An exemplary partial assembly view of an inflatable floating wave system according to embodiments described herein is shown.

[0011] Figures 5-6 An exemplary partial assembly view of an inflatable floating wave system according to embodiments described herein is shown.

[0012] Figure 7 An exemplary cross-sectional view according to embodiments described herein is shown.

[0013] Figure 8 An exemplary inflatable floating wave system according to embodiments described herein is shown.

[0014] Figure 9 An exemplary inflatable floating wave system according to embodiments described herein is shown. Figure 8 An exemplary inflatable floating wave system according to embodiments described herein is shown, with exemplary power and nozzle assemblies separated from the system.

[0015] Figures 10-12 An exemplary partial assembly view of a power module and nozzle assembly according to embodiments described herein is shown.

[0016] Figure 13 An exemplary cross-sectional view of a power module and nozzle assembly according to embodiments described herein is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] The following detailed description illustrates by way of example, not by way of limitation, the principles of the application. This description will clearly enable one skilled in the art to make and use the application, and describes several embodiments, adaptations, variations, alternatives, and uses of the application, including what is presently believed to be the best way to implement the application. It should be understood that the drawings are diagrammatic and schematic representations of exemplary embodiments of the present application, and are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0018] Exemplary embodiments described herein include inflatable floating wave systems. The inflatable floating wave systems can include an inflatable substructure and a ride surface. As described herein, different combinations of air molds, foams, coatings, and the like can be configured to create the inflatable floating wave systems described herein. The features and components provided herein are merely exemplary and can be duplicated, split, combined, integrated, or otherwise rearranged in any combination and remain within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, a second inflatable substructure can be added underneath a first substructure and / or elevated structure.

[0019] Exemplary embodiments described herein can be used to create a lighter substructure to facilitate transportation, storage, assembly, or a combination thereof. Exemplary embodiments can provide a more efficient, faster, simpler, or a combination thereof structure for assembly, disassembly, maintenance, repair, upgrade, modification, or otherwise configuring. Exemplary embodiments can provide a safer ride by reducing impact forces or extending the duration of deceleration during impact. Exemplary embodiments can be integrated and / or connectable to one or more structures, such as: a dock, barge, yacht, cruise ship. Exemplary embodiments can be modular and / or designed with different features, such as different back sections, including additional side structures, platforms, water recovery, and the like.

[0020] Exemplary embodiments can include a power and nozzle assembly. The power and nozzle assembly can be used in the inflatable wave system described herein and / or any water attraction that can benefit from the features described herein. Exemplary embodiments of the power and nozzle assembly can provide a modular system that can be separated from the water attraction. The modular nozzle assembly can be separated for the safety of the riders and / or to reduce debris and material from entering the modular nozzle assembly. The modular nozzle assembly can float independently in the event of a failure of the inflatable wave system. Exemplary embodiments of the modular nozzle assembly can reduce the vertical distance required for the assembly to be disposed below the waterline to provide a flow of water onto the ride surface. Exemplary embodiments of the modular nozzle assembly can include ballast for a balancing system to respond to the motor and pump of the power and nozzle assembly to reduce its rotation in an unstable water environment.

[0021] FIGS. 1-13 illustrate exemplary inflatable wave systems in accordance with embodiments described herein. The inflatable wave system 100, 800 can include an inflatable substructure 104, 106, 204, 206, 804, 806, 904, a water injection system 108, 402, 808, 906, and a ride surface 102, 202, 802, 902.

[0022] As Figures 1A-2 As shown in FIGS. 8-9, the inflatable substructure 104, 106, 204, 206, 804, 806, 904 can include one or more base structures 104, 204, 804 configured to support the inflatable wave system at the top of the body of water. The base structure 104, 204, 804 can be inflatable. For example, the base structure 104, 204, 804 can include a three-dimensional stitch to define the shape of the base structure. The base structure can determine the shape of the ride surface or can be used in conjunction with other structures (e.g., elevated structures 106, 206, 806, 904) to define the shape of the ride surface. In exemplary embodiments, the inflatable base structure includes an inflatable three-dimensional stitch material. The base structure can be defined as a generally flat rectangular shape. The base structure 104, 204, 804 can be disposed and / or formed on one or more other structures (e.g., elevated structures 106, 206, 806, 904 described herein).

[0023] The inflatable lower structure can include one or more elevated structures. Each elevated structure can include independent modular components that can be used in different combinations (e.g., stackable) to create different ride shapes. Each elevated structure can include interchangeable components that can be used to create different ride shapes and are interchangeable. Elevated structures can be incorporated or created in the ride design to create ride shapes and are not interchangeable. Elevated structures can be integrated into or fixed to the inflatable base structure.

[0024] The inflatable lower structure can include one or more additional base structures or elevated structures. The inflatable lower structure can include one or more reinforcement structures (e.g., beams, poles, frames, etc.) to make the structure more rigid. For example, frames can be disposed between, around, under, or otherwise proximate to the base structures.

[0025] The inflatable lower structure can be composed of independent components that are used together in a modular fashion. The inflatable lower structure can be unitary, defining a single lower structure with a single fluid cavity. The inflatable lower structure can be unitary, such that the inflatable body defines an additional single structure with one or more inflatable cavities.

[0026] The inflatable lower structure can include an aperture for passing water from a fluid in which the inflatable lower structure is disposed and a top surface of the inflatable lower structure surface for moving water from the fluid onto the ride surface. For example, as described herein, the opening can accommodate a power module as described in embodiments herein.

[0027] The ride surface can be inflatable, fabric, sheeting, or a combination thereof. The ride surface can include a coating (e.g., to reduce friction, prevent UV rays, or reflect heat, etc.), and the ride surface can be mounted and / or connected to the inflatable lower structure or other components described herein. The ride surface can also include a lower structure to increase rigidity and / or to define or maintain a desired shape of the ride surface.

[0028] The water injection system can include a nozzle, a pump, and / or a motor for supplying water onto the ride surface. The water injection system can obtain water from a body of water in which the inflatable wave system is disposed to be sprayed onto the ride surface.

[0029] The power module can include a self-floating rigid structure that houses and / or supports a pump and / or a motor for mobilizing water by means of the water injection system. In exemplary embodiments, the power module does not obtain its primary buoyancy from the inflatable lower structure or other parts of the wave system, but can include independent buoyancy and stabilizing structures.

[0030] In example embodiments, a power module can be removably connected with an opening of the inflatable substructure. As shown, the outer edges of the power module can be tapered and / or include a lip and / or flange or other shaped extension to be disposed on opposite sides of the inflatable substructure. The power module can include a water intake for allowing water from the body of water in which the inflatable wave system is disposed to be mobilized from beneath the system to the ride surface. The water intake can include a filter, mesh or other structure to limit or remove debris. The power module can include a pump, motor, battery or other electronics to operate the water injection system. Other components can also be associated with the inflatable wave system. For example, the system can include a music interface, lights, winch, anchors or other connection or control features. The system can include alternative energy sources, such as a solar, hydro or wind energy interface for generating electricity. The system can operate on any combination of power, such as an engine, motor, electrical power, solar power, hydro power, wind power, etc. In example embodiments, the power module includes an inlet / outlet. The inlet / outlet can include a pipe or other aperture to allow air to enter and / or exit the compartment. The power module can include a buoyancy device for self-support of the power module.

[0031] The inflatable wave system can also include other components. For example, the system can include side walls, stairs, handrails, frictional surfaces / coatings, reduced friction surfaces / coatings, protection from UV or reflection of heat, etc., connectors or modular ride surface accessories. These components can be inflatable, can be modular, can be connectable and / or removable to other components of the system, can be integrated into or combined with other components of the system, can be connected to other components of the system, can be rigid, can be flexible, can be foamed, can be non-inflatable, and combinations thereof.

[0032] As shown, multiple side walls can be used to separate the ride surface and / or rider area from other areas of the ride. In example embodiments, additional or alternative walls can be used, such as walls that serve as barriers at one end of the system, walls between multiple riders, walls between the rider area and other areas (such as a spectator area), and combinations thereof.

[0033] As shown, the system can include a stair, ramp or similar step feature for assisting in traversing elevated portions of the surface of the system. The stair can be a protrusion from the surface, an indentation into the surface, a frictional structure or feature on the surface, a rope or other tether, and combinations thereof. The system can include a ramp or stair in other portions of the system, such as into the system from the body of water in which it is disposed and / or into a coupling structure (e.g., a dock, a marina, a boat, etc.).

[0034] Exemplary embodiments of the system can include connectors between system components and / or holding systems relative to other objects (e.g., a dock, a boat, etc.). Exemplary embodiments can include stabilization systems, such as anchors.

[0035] Exemplary embodiments can include dampers or other mechanisms to dampen pitch, roll, or yaw (or any excessive rate of change) of the inflatable floating wave system. For example, a mooring line, anchor line, or combination of these can employ a spring line. Other dampers (e.g., sea anchors) can also be used to provide entertaining or challenging waveforms as the system dynamically interacts with waves or swells on the body of water.

[0036] As shown in exemplary embodiments, different access structures can be provided on the inflatable floating wave system. As shown, inflatable, foam, or other material structures can be used to provide access to the top of the system. This access can be located on a floating ramp that includes a hand or foot hold for climbing. Other structures, such as ladders, can also be used.

[0037] As shown, alternative combinations of walls can also be included on the attraction. For example, different combinations of back and / or side walls can be used to separate riders on the ride surface from others on the top of the system and / or others exiting the system. The walls can be inflatable, or made of foam or other rigid or semi-rigid structures. The walls can be integrated into one or more components of the system, or can be connected to the system.

[0038] Exemplary embodiments of features of a floating wave attraction can be found in US 9,802,133, which is incorporated in its entirety herein and used in any combination with the features described herein. Exemplary embodiments of features of an inflatable water ride can be found in US 2017 / 0136371, which is incorporated in its entirety herein and used in any combination with the features described herein.

[0039] Figures 1-13 show exemplary embodiments of inflatable floating wave systems and components thereof, in accordance with embodiments described herein. Exemplary embodiments can include different configurations or combinations of any of the features or configurations described herein.

[0040] Figures 1A-1BAn exemplary inflatable floating system 100 according to embodiments described herein is illustrated. As shown, the floating system 100 may include a base structure 104. The base structure may be an inflatable portion. The inflatable base structure 104 may be a three-dimensional fabric (drop stitch) so that the cross-sectional or height dimensions can be controlled even during inflation. Thus, when inflated, the base structure 104 can create a surface with a desired profile. As shown, the base structure is defined as a generally sheet-like structure whose cross-sectional dimensions are typically constant throughout the base structure. The constant cross-sectional dimension may be the height dimension.

[0041] The base structure 104 can be adjustable, for example, by deformation to produce increases, decreases, or different height variations in the structure. For example, the inflatable floating system 100 may include a riser structure 106. The riser structure 106 may be positioned below the base structure 104 to adjust or modify the base structure and create inclined surfaces. Figures 1A-1B As shown, the riser structure 104 is disposed on the inner bottom surface of the base structure. It can be seen that the base structure thus has a raised portion and a lowered portion, thereby generally forming a mountain-shaped structure. Therefore, the ends of the base structure can be at approximately the same height. In an exemplary embodiment, the base structures on opposite sides of the riser structure can be at the same lower or minimum height. An exemplary embodiment of this configuration can create a back portion defining a sloping end 118, which can serve as an additional sliding surface. The end of the sliding surface can include a raised lip 120. The raised lip 120 can slow down water from the end of the ride, deflect some water to the sides of the ride so that less water flows directly to the rider at the end of the ride, slow the rider's entry into the water from the ride, keep the rider on the ride, and combinations thereof. Figure 9 As shown, at the end of the amusement facility, a second lifting structure can be used to form a lifting lip 904.

[0042] In an exemplary embodiment, the riser structure 206 may also be profiled such that the base structure 204 disposed above the riser structure 206 defines an inclined surface, and then maintains a high height from the end of the inclined surface 218 to the end of the base structure. The inclined portion of the base structure 204 may define a portion of the riding surface 202. For example, as Figure 2 As shown, the lifting structure 206 allows the end of the base structure 204 to extend upwards and then advance toward the end of the ride at approximately the same height. Figure 2As shown, the back end created by the constant height portion 220 can define a platform that can be used to position available riders or spectators, for additional space to enter or exit the attraction, for wiping, for water recovery, for water filtration, and any combination thereof.

[0043] In example embodiments, the inflatable base structure can be the same and the elevated structures used to deform the base structure can be interchangeable and / or reconfigurable to create different locations at the back of the ride area. For example, if the elevated lower structure includes two tapered ramps, the ride surface can be defined by the first side while the slide can be created by the second side thereof. Alternatively, the elevated lower structure can taper at one end to define the ride surface and remain elevated to form an elevated recovery or viewing area. Elevated structures of different shapes and configurations can be used, for example, also including separate or integrated platforms for extending on opposite sides of the base structure and / or ride surface to form additional viewing, spectator, rider path, etc. areas.

[0044] In example embodiments, the sloped surface of the base structure 104, 204 can define a portion of the ride surface 102, 202. The ride surface can include an additional layer on top of the inflatable base structure or can be formed directly on top of the base structure. The additional layer can be a foam layer, an additional inflatable layer, a layer for reducing friction, a layer for increasing additional rigidity, or any combination thereof.

[0045] In example embodiments, the ride surface 102 can be bounded on opposite sides by side walls 112. The side walls can help direct water from the nozzles onto the ride surface. The side walls can help keep the riders on the ride surface. The side walls can separate the ride surface and water flowing thereon from external portions of the attraction, such as spectators, action around the attraction, or other functionality. In example embodiments, the opposite side walls 112 are inflatable.

[0046] Example embodiments of the inflatable floating wave system can include one or more additional walls 122, 222, 224, 812. The walls can be positioned at an end of the structure, on a side of the structure, and any combination thereof. The walls can be used to keep riders and spectators on the attraction. The walls can be used to separate riders from spectators or others on the attraction. The walls can be used to direct water in a desired direction of the attraction and / or to direct water to a desired location so that the water exits the attraction. The walls can be inflatable. Example embodiments can include walls of different heights, thicknesses, orientations, and combinations thereof. For example, the walls can be angled inwards or outwards as the walls traverse from one end of the attraction to the other (or from one side to the other); or the walls can be angled inwards or outwards as the walls extend upwards from a vertical orientation.

[0047] Exemplary embodiments may also include additional components. These components may include additional contour features 116. Contour features can be used to create a consistent shape and / or surface on the amusement ride structure. Contour features may provide infill on or over a rigid structural surface. Other features may include entrance or exit portions, such as ladders, steps, ramps, inflatable or floating wedges, handles, etc.

[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, the inflatable floating system 100 may include a nozzle assembly 108 for spraying water onto a riding surface 102. The nozzle assembly 108 can spray a sheet of water onto the riding surface 102. The water may be generally narrow enough to form a sheet stream on the riding surface 102. Riders can then perform actions using their bodies and / or with the board or other amusement facility structures.

[0049] like Figures 3-5 or Figure 9 As shown, the inflatable wave systems 100, 400, and 800 can be configured to allow water from the water body where the inflatable wave system is located to be pumped out and sprayed onto the riding surface through nozzles 108 and 808. In an exemplary embodiment, water is pumped from below the base structure to a position at or above the top of the base structure. Figure 5 and Figure 9 As shown, the base structure may include holes 504 and 908 for positioning the power and nozzle modules 402 and 906. The holes allow water beneath the system to be transferred from one side of the ride to the opposite side. Figure 5 As shown, the hole 504 can be completely contained within the base structure, so that the base structure or other parts of the inflatable floating system completely define the hole. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the hole 908 can extend to the end of the inflatable floating system 800, such that at least one side of the hole is not closed and opens to the outer end of the amusement ride. Therefore, an exemplary power and nozzle module can be fitted into or inserted into the hole.

[0050] In an exemplary embodiment, the power and nozzle modules 402, 906 may be configured to connect to the amusement ride structure. For example, the outer contour of the power and nozzle module may be configured to approximate the inner contour of the opening. The power and nozzle module may be configured with one or more surfaces extending around at least a portion of the base structure. Figure 5 As shown, the power and nozzle module 402 may include an extension surface 502 that extends outward from the outer edge of the module. The extension surface 502 may be configured to extend parallel to the upper and / or lower surfaces of the base structure. Therefore, the extension surface 502 may be connected to or contact the base structure. Figure 5As shown, the extension surface can extend from the top surface of the base structure and also from the lower surface of the base structure, thus retaining the base structure between them. The extension surface can extend around a portion or all of the power and nozzle module to connect one or more sides of the power and nozzle module to the base structure. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the extended surface can extend only on the upper side of the base structure. In this case, if the riding system malfunctions and deflates, the power and nozzle structure can detach from the rest of the riding system. The power and nozzle system can float independently, allowing it to continue floating, separate from the inflatable riding surface.

[0051] like Figure 4 As shown, the power and nozzle module 402 can extend below the lower surface of the base structure and above the top surface of the riding surface. The nozzle portion 108 can extend above the riding surface and guide water onto the riding surface in the form of an adjustable sheet through the nozzle. A portion of the power and nozzle module 402 can extend below the base structure and enter the water in which the inflatable floating system is located. The power and nozzle portion can extend into the water to draw water from the water body and / or from a reservoir and pump water onto the riding surface.

[0052] According to the embodiments described herein, Figure 7 An exemplary embodiment of the power and nozzle module 402 is shown. The power and nozzle module 402 may include an inlet 702 facing the bottom of the power and nozzle module. The inlet 702 may be located on opposite sides of the power and nozzle module 402. The power and nozzle module 402 may include an engine 708 to operate a pump 706. Other power systems may also be used. The pump may be used to inject water from the inlet to an outlet 704. The system may include an air inlet / outlet 110 leading to the pump system. The air inlet / outlet may be used for engine exhaust.

[0053] Exemplary embodiments may include systems for reducing debris entering the pump area. For example, such as... Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 9 As shown, the inlet area of ​​the power and nozzle modules can be enclosed with a cage, mesh, or other filter interface. The system may also include one or more additional filters or barriers to reduce the amount of debris entering the system and / or being sprayed onto the riding surface.

[0054] Figures 10-13An exemplary embodiment of the power and nozzle module 906 is shown. The exemplary embodiment of the power and nozzle module 906 can reduce the height 1104 of the nozzle module bottom below the waterline. Therefore, the power and nozzle module can be used in shallower water. The power and nozzle module can be used in environments where the power and nozzle module should not draw water near the bottom of the water source. The power and nozzle module can be used in systems to reduce water resources by requiring less water to be retained in the reservoir during use.

[0055] As shown in the figure, the power and nozzle module 906 may include an inlet 1004 and an outlet 1002. The inlet 1004 is located on opposite sides of the power and nozzle module, and the outlet 1002 is located at the front of the power and nozzle module 906. Figure 13 As shown, the pump's drive shaft is parallel to the water flowing from nozzle 808. Water enters from opposite sides of the pump, as indicated. The pump can be driven by motor 1202. In an exemplary embodiment, the pump system includes an external drive train. Drive shaft 1306 extends from the motor through inlet 1004. The water then encounters propeller 1308. Once through propeller 1308, the water is ideally directed in the forward direction, or at least a portion of the water flow is in the same direction as the water ejected from nozzle 808. Figure 13 As shown in the cross-section, water can be raised from a height below the water level at the inlet 1004 to a height above the water level, and then to the nozzle outlet 1002 above the riding surface. The nozzle flow channel is angled upwards, and the water moves forward along the entire flow channel. This arrangement reduces the overall height of the system. In an exemplary embodiment, the water depth (i.e., draft) required to operate the system can be less than four feet. In an exemplary embodiment, the depth 1104 of the power and nozzle modules below the water surface is approximately 20 to 30 inches. In an exemplary embodiment, the total length of the pump housing is approximately 3.5 to 4 feet.

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, the power and nozzle module includes a buoyancy compartment 1004. The buoyancy compartment can be used to enclose air to define the self-buoyant power module. Therefore, the power and nozzle module can remain above the water surface without relying on the buoyancy of the ride structure. When the power and nozzle module is separated from the ride structure, it can continue to float.

[0057] In example embodiments, the power and nozzle module includes one or more ballast 1102. The power and nozzle module can include one or more compartments to increase the weight of the system. The compartments can be weighted to counteract the repositioning of the inflatable wave system that results from the orientation of the drive train. During use, the rotation of the drive shaft and the horizontal placement of the water intake can have an adverse effect on the alignment of the ride surface. Accordingly, the ballast can be filled or emptied to re-level the ride surface as the pump is activated and water is sprayed onto the ride surface. As shown, two ballasts are used on opposite sides of the pump, below the nozzle area in front of the pump. The shape of the power and nozzle module can also facilitate or counteract the rotation of the pump. As shown, the power and nozzle module includes a centrally extending protrusion 1006. The protrusion can be used to enclose or house the pump and drive train.

[0058] In example embodiments, the nozzle assembly can include an interchangeable interface 1204. The interchangeable interface 1204 can allow the nozzle 808 to be removable. Different nozzle configurations can be used to accommodate the shape, structure, or size of different attractions. The same power and nozzle assembly, including the motor and drive train, and the housing that can be used for different attraction structures, can have different nozzle shapes swapped at the end of the module.

[0059] In certain situations, if water is pulled into the water intake 1004 of the power and nozzle module 906 from the surface of the water, the system can draw air from the surface of the water. This can occur if a vortex from the surface of the water is created at the water intake into the pump. When this air is passed through the pump and sprayed with the water onto the ride surface, it can cause cavitation. The power and nozzle module can include components that reduce cavitation of the system by limiting the amount of air pulled in from the surface of the water. For example, the power and nozzle module can include a lip 1008 that extends above the top of the water intake 1004. The lip can reduce the amount of water drawn directly from the surface and the corresponding amount of air that enters the pump system. In example embodiments, the shoulder of the top of the water intake can be extended by a plate or an extending structure. Other features can also be used to direct water out from a lower position in the body of water. For example, a pipe or other channel can be used to direct water out from a desired position within the body of water. These components and features can be selected based on the water level and the gap between the ground above the system and the surface of the water below the system.

[0060] Exemplary embodiments include an inflatable float system having an inflatable lower structure, and a ride surface on the inflatable lower structure. The inflatable lower structure includes a three-dimensional fabric. The inflatable lower structure can include a generally flat portion and an inclined portion. An inflatable surface can be disposed on the inclined portion of the inflatable lower structure to form the ride surface. A layer can be disposed on the inclined portion of the inflatable lower structure to form the ride surface. The inflatable float system can include a connection mechanism configured to connect the system to another object, such as a dock, a boat, another float, or other structure. Exemplary embodiments can include an anchoring system for positioning the inflatable float system at a desired location in a body of water by contact with the bottom of the body of water or a shore or land surrounding the body of water. Other connection systems can also be used to provide a desired location for the inflatable float system. For example, the inflatable float system can include a winch or other retractable or extendable connection system to allow relative movement of the inflatable float system with respect to another object.

[0061] Exemplary embodiments of an inflatable float system have an inflatable lower structure including an inflatable base structure and a raised structure. The inflatable base can be configured in an un-deformed configuration to be a generally flat rectangular cuboid shape. The inflatable base can be disposed above the raised structure to deform the inflatable base and define a ride surface profile. The back end of the system can include different shapes, configurations, and / or profiles. The back end of the system can include modular interchangeable structures. The back end of the system can include a slide. The back end of the system can include a platform. The back end of the system can include other water features. The inflatable base can be integral with the raised structure. The inflatable base can be separate from the raised structure and can be inflated separately. The inflatable base and the raised structure can form a shared inflatable cavity.

[0062] In exemplary embodiments, the inflatable lower structure can include multiple structures. The multiple structures can be disposed adjacent to, laterally, side-by-side, such that each of the multiple structures is disposed below the ride surface, spanning the ride surface. The multiple structures can be located on top of one another, as in the case of a base structure and a raised structure. The multiple structures can be connected together, such as by gluing, adhering, stitching, Velcro, hook and loop fasteners, straps, or other structures.

[0063] In exemplary embodiments, the inflatable lower structure has a footprint that is larger than the ride surface. The ride surface can be inclined. The system can include a staircase on opposite sides of the ride surface that slopes upward. The system can also include an entry feature configured to assist users in entering the system from a body of water in which the inflatable float system is located. The inflatable float system can be configured to be positioned and float on a naturally occurring body of water. The inflatable float system can be configured to be positioned and float on a body of water that is continuously stationary.

[0064] The inflatable floating wave system can include a water injection system located at a front end of the ride surface and an anticlinal slope extending rearward from the other end of the ride surface away from the water injection system. The ride surface can include a ramp extending from near the water outlet of the water injection system and the anticlinal slope can include a decline extending from the ramp near a maximum. The ramp and the decline can define a hump in which a user rides on a sheet wave created by the wave, performs maneuvers on the ramp, and slides down the anticlinal slope into the water attraction.

[0065] The inflatable floating wave system can include a second foundation substructure. The second foundation substructure can be disposed below the inflatable substructure. The second foundation substructure can be inflatable and / or can be made of foam. The second foundation substructure can be used to add additional stability to the system.

[0066] The inflatable floating wave system can further include one or more walls. The one or more walls can include two opposing side walls on opposite sides of the ride surface. The one or more walls can include a center wall to separate multiple riders on the same ride surface. The one or more walls can include a wall along a rear end of the system. The one or more walls can include a wall along a front end of the system.

[0067] Exemplary embodiments disclosed herein can include a power and nozzle module. The power and nozzle module can include a housing, a water outlet, a water inlet, and a pump. In exemplary embodiments, the inflatable substructure has a hole that passes through a portion of the generally flat portion and the power and nozzle module can be disposed within the hole. The power and nozzle module housing can include a structure that engages with a portion of the inflatable substructure.

[0068] In exemplary embodiments, the power module is self-floating and self-righting in the body of water independent of the inflatable substructure.

[0069] In exemplary embodiments, a power and nozzle module can be provided for use with a water attraction system. The power and nozzle module can be used with any water attraction system. The power and nozzle module can include a housing, a pump, and a nozzle outlet. The power and nozzle module can further include ballast within the housing. The pump can include an external drive train. In exemplary embodiments, the external drive train is disposed horizontally parallel to a direction of water egress from the nozzle outlet. The power and nozzle module can further include a water inlet between the motor and the propeller of the pump along the external drive train. The housing, pump, and nozzle outlet can be configured to push water forward as water rises from below the power and nozzle module to a higher elevation of the nozzle outlet.

[0070] While embodiments of the application have been fully described in accordance with the drawings, it is to be noted that various changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the embodiments of the application defined in the appended claims. In particular, exemplary components are described. Any combination of these components can be used. For example, any of the components, features, steps, or portions of steps can be integrated, separated, subdivided, removed, or combined in a different manner, and remain within the scope of the present disclosure. The embodiments are merely exemplary and are not limited to the specific combinations of features as described. Although specific features are described with reference to specific embodiments, such features can be combined with each other, removed individually from specific embodiments, or combined with features described in one embodiment and removed from another embodiment, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0071] As used in this specification and claims, the terms "comprise" and "comprising", and variations thereof, such as "comprises" and "comprising", will be understood to mean the inclusion of a stated feature, step, or integer or group of features, steps, or integers but not the exclusion of any other feature, step, or integer of group of features, steps, or integers.

[0072] Features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or according to the means for carrying out the disclosed functions, or the method or process of implementing the disclosed results, individually or in any combination thereof, are intended to be within the scope of the application.

Claims

1. An inflatable floating system, comprising: A lower structure, wherein at least a portion of the lower structure is inflatable; A riding surface, which is connected to the inflatable lower structure; as well as A power and nozzle module includes a housing, an outlet, an inlet, and a pump. The inlet is located near the bottom of the housing, and the outlet is positioned to spray water onto the riding surface. The pump is configured to pump water from the inlet to the outlet. The power and nozzle module is detachably connected to an opening in the inflatable lower structure, and can float independently after being separated from the riding surface. and The system is configured to be positioned and float on a naturally occurring body of water, or the system is positioned and float on a continuously still body of water, and wherein, when the inflatable floating system is floating, the inlet is close to the surface of the water body and is configured to draw water from a position near the surface of the water body below the inflatable substructure, reducing the vertical distance required to be set below the waterline, so as to provide water flow to the riding surface.

2. The inflatable floating wave system according to claim 1, wherein, The lower structure includes a flat section and an inclined section.

3. The inflatable floating wave system according to claim 2, wherein, The lower structure includes a hole that passes through a portion of the flat portion, and the power and nozzle module is located within the hole.

4. The inflatable floating wave system according to claim 3, wherein, The power and nozzle module is self-standing and stable in water, and is independent of the lower structure.

5. The inflatable floating system of claim 4 further includes a connecting mechanism configured to connect the system to another object.

6. The inflatable floating wave system according to claim 5, wherein, The power and nozzle module housing is modular and separate from the lower structure and the riding surface, and includes a structure that engages with a portion of the lower structure.

7. The inflatable floating wave system according to claim 6, wherein, The lower structure comprises a three-dimensional fabric.

8. The inflatable floating wave system according to claim 1, wherein, The lower structure includes an inflatable base structure and a lifting structure.

9. The inflatable floating wave system according to claim 8, wherein, The inflatable base structure is located above the raised structure to deform the inflatable base structure and define the riding surface profile.

10. The inflatable floating wave system according to claim 1, wherein, The rear end of the inflatable floating system includes a slide.

11. The inflatable floating wave system according to claim 1, wherein, The rear end of the inflatable floating system includes a platform.

12. The inflatable floating wave system according to claim 1, wherein, The lower structure occupies a larger area than the riding surface.

13. The inflatable floating wave system according to claim 1, wherein, The riding surface is inclined, and the riding surface also includes steps located on the opposite side of the riding surface, the steps being inclined upwards.

14. The inflatable floating system of claim 1 further includes a water injection system and a backslope, the water injection system being located at the front end of the riding surface, and the backslope extending rearward away from the water injection system at the other end of the riding surface.

15. The inflatable floating wave system according to claim 14, wherein, The riding surface includes a ramp extending from near the water outlet of the water injection system, and the backslope includes a descending surface extending from the ramp to near its maximum value.

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