Articulated wall wave generation systems and related methods

Abstract

In one aspect, various embodiments of an articulated wall wave generating system for forming surfable waves are described. The hinged wall wave generating system may include a panel actuation assembly having an actuator. The actuator may include an actuator body and a link arm. The articulated wall wave generating system may also include a panel connected to the actuator, and a link arm of the actuator may extend between the panel and the actuator body. Activation of the actuator may cause the panel to move to help create a surfable wave in the fluid volume.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Serial No. 63 / 377,179, filed on September 26, 2022, entitled "PIVOT LINKAGE ARTICULATING WALL FOR WAVE GENERATION," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0003] Ocean waves have been used for recreational purposes for hundreds of years. One of the most popular sports on any beach with well-shaped, breaking waves is surfing. In fact, surfing and other board sports have become so popular that the waters near any surf break suitable for surfing are usually crowded and overloaded with surfers, so that each surfer must compete for every wave and exposure to the activity is limited. Furthermore, most of the Earth's population does not have suitable access to ocean waves to even enjoy surfing or other wave sports.

[0004] Another problem is that waves at any location are variable and inconsistent, with occasional "sets" of well-formed waves that are chased and ridden, interspersed with less than ideal and, in some cases, unrideable waves. Even if a surfer manages to ride a chosen wave, the duration of the ride typically lasts only a few seconds, with most rides lasting between 5 and 10 seconds. Whether for recreational or competitive surfing, consistency, variability control, size and shape are critical and long-sought aspects of man-made waves. Summary of the invention

[0005] Various embodiments of articulated wall wave generation systems and related methods are described herein. In one aspect, various embodiments of an articulated wall wave generation system for forming a surfable wave are described. The articulated wall wave generation system may include a panel actuation assembly having an actuator. The actuator may include an actuator body and a linkage arm. The articulated wall wave generation system may also include a panel connected to the actuator, and the linkage arm of the actuator may extend between the panel and the actuator body. Activation of the actuator may cause movement of the panel to help form a wave in a fluid volume.

[0006] In some variations, one or more of the following features may optionally be included in any feasible combination. The fluid volume may be contained in a fluid container having one or more of a basin, a pool, and a channel. The wave may be a surfable wave. The panel actuation assembly may also include an actuation mechanism that actuates the actuator, and the actuation mechanism may cause the actuator body to move, thereby causing the panel to move to help form a surfable wave. The actuator body may be configured to rotate when the actuator is actuated by the actuation mechanism. The actuator body may be configured to translate linearly when the actuator is actuated by the actuation mechanism. The linkage arm may be pivotally coupled to the actuator body and the panel so that rotation of the actuator body causes one or more of the panel to pivot and translate. The panel may be a movable panel, and the articulated wall wave generation system may also include a connection panel that is pivotally coupled to the movable panel. The connection panel may be configured to pivot and / or translate due to the pivoting and / or translation of the movable panel. Pivoting and / or translation of the movable panels and the connected panels may help form surfable waves in the fluid container.

[0007] The articulated wall wave generating system may also include a plurality of panel actuation assemblies, and a plurality of panels of the plurality of panel actuation assemblies may be connected in series. Each of the plurality of panel actuation assemblies may communicate with a control system and an actuation mechanism to allow a separate actuation of each of the plurality of panel actuation assemblies to form an articulated wall. The articulated wall wave generating system may also include a plurality of panel actuation assemblies and a plurality of connection panels, each of the connection panels being coupled to a first panel actuation assembly in the plurality of actuation assemblies and a second panel actuation assembly in the plurality of actuation assemblies. Each of the first panel actuation assembly and the second panel actuation assembly may communicate with a control system and an actuation mechanism to allow a separate actuation of the first panel actuation assembly and the second panel actuation assembly to form an articulated wall. The articulated wall may include a plurality of panels forming a wall portion of a curved shape, the wall portion of the curved shape traveling along the length of the articulated wall to form a surfable wave in the fluid container. The hinged wall may include one or more of a connecting panel and a movable panel forming a curved shaped wall portion running along the length of the hinged wall for forming a surfable wave in the fluid container.

[0008] The actuating mechanism may include one or more drive units configured to rotate the actuator body of each panel actuating assembly in a plurality of panel actuating assemblies. The articulated wall wave generating system may also include a controller configured to control the actuating mechanism. The articulated wall wave generating system may also include a support structure coupled to one or more of the actuating mechanism and the actuator, the support structure being fixed to a portion of the fluid container. The actuator body may include a central portion and an actuator arm extending outward from the central portion. The actuator arm may extend between the central portion and the link arm. The actuator may also include an actuator joint that can pivotally connect the actuator arm and the link arm. The panel may include a panel joint, and the panel joint may be operably coupled to the actuator. The panel joint may allow the link arm to pivot relative to the rear surface of the panel. The panel may include a front surface that includes one or more of a flat shape, a corrugated shape, a curved shape, a smooth shape, or a textured shape.

[0009] The actuator body of the actuator can be configured to rotate in a first direction, thereby advancing the linkage arm of the actuator, so that the panel can be advanced away from the actuator body and enter the extended configuration. The actuator body of the actuator can be configured to rotate in a second direction, thereby retracting the linkage arm of the actuator, so that the panel can be retracted toward the actuator body and enter the retracted configuration. In the retracted configuration, the actuator body can be in a first rotational position and the panel can be at a retracted distance from the actuator body. The retracted distance can be the minimum distance between the actuator body and the main panel. In the extended configuration, the actuator body can be in a second rotational position, and the panel can be at an extended distance from the actuator body. The extended distance can be the maximum distance formed between the actuator body and the main panel. The extended distance can be greater than the retracted distance. The panel of the panel actuation assembly can be configured to transition between the retracted configuration and the extended configuration.

[0010] The connection panel may be coupled to the movable panel via a panel connection joint. Movement of the movable panel may cause the connection panel to move. The articulated wall wave generating system may include a plurality of panels forming the articulated wall, and each of the panels may be a movable panel. The articulated wall wave generating system may also include at least one connection panel pivotably coupled to at least one movable panel. The movable panel and at least one connection panel may be connected in an alternating pattern to form the articulated wall. The articulated wall may include one or more of the connection panel and the movable panel forming a wave-like undulation for forming a surfable wave in the fluid container.

[0011] The articulated wall wave generating system may further include a pivoting wall stabilizer connected to the connection panel. The pivoting wall stabilizer may include a connection arm and a support arm, the connection arm being connected to the connection panel, the support arm being connected to the connection arm. The articulated wall wave generating system may further include a support track connected to at least one pivoting wall stabilizer, and the connection arm may extend between the connection panel and the support track. The connection arm may be configured to slide or move along the support track in response to movement of the connection panel. The support arm may extend between the connection arm and the support track, and the support arm may be configured to pivot relative to the support track.

[0012] In another related aspect of the present subject matter, a method of generating waves in a fluid volume using an articulated wall wave generating system. The method may also include actuating the articulated wall wave generating system, thereby generating waves in the fluid volume. For example, the articulated wall wave generating system may include a panel actuation assembly having an actuator, and the actuator may include an actuator body and a linkage arm. The articulated wall wave generating system may also include a panel connected to the actuator, and the linkage arm of the actuator may extend between the panel and the actuator body.

[0013] In some variations, one or more of the following features may optionally be included in any feasible combination. Actuation of the articulated wall wave generating system may include activating an actuator, thereby causing the panel to move. Activating the actuator may include rotating or translating the actuator in a first direction. The fluid volume may be contained in a fluid container including one or more of a basin, a pool, and a channel, and the wave may be a surfable wave. The panel actuation assembly may also include an actuating mechanism for actuating the actuator, the actuating mechanism causing the actuator body to move, thereby causing the panel to move to help form a surfable wave. The actuator body may be configured to rotate when the actuator is activated by the actuating mechanism. The actuator body may be configured to translate linearly when the actuator is activated by the actuating mechanism. The linkage arm may be pivotably coupled to the actuator body and the panel, so that rotation of the actuator body causes the panel to pivot and translate one or more. The panel may be a movable panel, and the articulated wall wave generating system may also include a connecting panel, which is pivotably coupled to the movable panel. The connection panel may be configured to pivot and / or translate due to the pivoting and / or translation of the movable panel. The pivoting and / or translation of the movable panel and the connection panel may help form a surfable wave in the fluid container.

[0014] The articulated wall wave generating system may also include a plurality of panel actuation assemblies. A plurality of movable panels of the plurality of panel actuation assemblies may be connected in series, and each of the plurality of panel actuation assemblies may communicate with a control system and an actuation mechanism to allow a separate actuation of each movable panel actuation assembly of the plurality of panel actuation assemblies to form an articulated wall. The articulated wall wave generating system may also include a plurality of panel actuation assemblies and a plurality of connection panels. Each of the connection panels may be coupled to a first panel actuation assembly in the plurality of actuation assemblies and a second panel actuation assembly in the plurality of actuation assemblies. Each of the first panel actuation assembly and the second panel actuation assembly may communicate with a control system and an actuation mechanism to allow a separate actuation of the first panel actuation assembly and the second panel actuation assembly to form an articulated wall. The articulated wall may include a plurality of movable panels forming a wall portion of a curved shape, and the wall portion of the curved shape travels along the length of the articulated wall to form a surfable wave in the fluid container. The hinged wall may include one or more of a connecting panel and a movable panel forming a curved shaped wall portion running along the length of the hinged wall for forming a surfable wave in the fluid container.

[0015] The actuating mechanism may include one or more drive units, and the one or more drive units are configured to rotate the actuator body of each panel actuating assembly in the plurality of panel actuating assemblies. The articulated wall wave generating system may also include a controller, which is configured to control the actuating mechanism. The articulated wall wave generating system may also include a support structure, which is connected to one or more of the actuating mechanism and the actuator. The support structure may be fixed to a part of the fluid container. The actuator body may include a central portion and an actuator arm extending outward from the central portion. The actuator arm may extend between the central portion and the link arm. The actuator may also include an actuator joint that can pivotally connect the actuator arm and the link arm. The panel may include a panel joint, wherein the panel joint may be operably connected to the actuator. The panel joint may allow the link arm to pivot relative to the rear surface of the panel. The panel may include a front surface, which has one or more of a flat shape, a corrugated shape, a curved shape, a smooth shape or a textured shape.

[0016] The actuator body of the actuator can be configured to rotate in a first direction, thereby advancing the linkage arm of the actuator, so that the panel can be advanced away from the actuator body and enter the extended configuration. The actuator body of the actuator can be configured to rotate in a second direction, thereby retracting the linkage arm of the actuator, so that the panel can be retracted toward the actuator body and enter the retracted configuration. The retracted configuration of the actuator body can be in a first rotational position and the panel can be at a retracted distance from the actuator body. The retracted distance can be the minimum distance between the actuator body and the main panel. The extended configuration of the actuator body can be in a second rotational position and the panel can be at an extended distance from the actuator body. The extended distance can be the maximum distance formed between the actuator body and the main panel. The extended distance can be greater than the retracted distance. The panel of the panel actuation assembly can be configured to transition between the retracted configuration and the extended configuration.

[0017] The connection panel may be connected to the movable panel via a panel connection joint. The movement of the movable panel may cause the connection panel to move. The articulated wall wave generation system may include a plurality of panels forming an articulated wall, and each of the panels may include an movable panel. The articulated wall wave generation system may also include at least one connection panel, which is pivotally connected to at least one movable panel. The movable panel and at least one connection panel may be connected in an alternating mode to form an articulated wall. The articulated wall may include one or more of the connection panel and the movable panel that form wave-like undulations, which are used to form surfable waves in the fluid container. The articulated wall wave generation system may also include a pivoting wall stabilizer, which is connected to the connection panel. The pivoting wall stabilizer may include a connecting arm, which is connected to the connection panel and a support arm, which is connected to the connecting arm. The articulated wall wave generation system may also include a support track, which is connected to at least one pivoting wall stabilizer, and the connecting arm may extend between the connection panel and the support track. The connecting arm may be configured to slide or move along the support track in response to the movement of the connection panel. The support arm may extend between the connecting arm and the support track, and the support arm may be configured to pivot relative to the support track.

[0018] The details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] These and other aspects will now be described in detail with reference to the following drawings.

[0020] Figure 1 An embodiment of a wave pool according to the present disclosure is illustrated;

[0021] Figure 2 An embodiment of an articulated wall wave generating system according to the present disclosure is illustrated;

[0022] Figure 3 is a plan view of an articulated wall wave generating system extending along a side of an embodiment of a wave pool;

[0023] Figure 4 is Figure 1 Embodiments of a wave pool Figure 2 A side view of an articulated wall wave generating system;

[0024] Figure 5A yes Figure 2 A top view of an embodiment of an articulated wall wave generating system;

[0025] Figure 5B is a top view of an embodiment of an articulated wall wave generating system according to the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of a panel actuation assembly and connection panels of an articulated wall wave generating system;

[0027] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A perspective view of a panel actuation assembly and a connection panel with a support structure removed from view;

[0028] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 An exploded view of the panel actuation assembly and the connection panel;

[0029] Fig.9A is a perspective view of an actuator body of an articulated wall wave generating system;

[0030] Fig. 9B is a perspective view of a linkage arm and a reinforcing linkage of a panel actuation assembly;

[0031] Fig. 10A is a perspective view of a rear surface of a panel of a hinged wall wave generating system;

[0032] Fig. 10B is a top view of a panel of a hinged wall wave generating system;

[0033] Fig.11 The articulation of the articulated wall wave generating system over time is illustrated in a top view;

[0034] Fig. 12A illustrates a top view of a panel actuation assembly and its displacement during articulation;

[0035] Fig. 12B illustrates a side view of a panel actuation assembly and its displacement during articulation;

[0036] Fig.13illustrates a top view and an enlarged view of an articulated wall wave generating system with pivoting wall stabilizers;

[0037] Fig.14 illustrates a top view of a pivoting wall stabilizer in different positions;

[0038] Fig.15 illustrates a schematic top view of an embodiment of an articulated wall wave generating system;

[0039] Fig.16 illustrates a top view comparing the curvature of an articulated wall wave generating system and a piston-type wave generating system;

[0040] Fig.17 A schematic top view of an articulated wall wave generating system is shown in both a linear arrangement and a curved arrangement; and

[0041] 18A to 18F Illustrated are top views of an articulated wall wave generating system in various arrangements.

[0042] Like reference numbers in the various drawings indicate like elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] This document describes a wave pool that includes an articulated wall wave generating system for efficiently and effectively generating one or more waves in the wave pool. For example, one or more generated waves may be formed by the articulated wall wave generating system for allowing one or more persons to surf along the waves generated in the wave pool. The generated waves may be used for other purposes, including other sports activities.

[0044] In some embodiments, a wave pool includes at least one side that defines a fluid container (e.g., a pool) for containing a volume of a fluid, such as water, to form a surfable wave. The wave pool may include an embodiment of an articulated wall wave generating system positioned along one or more sides defining the fluid container or within the fluid container away from the side (e.g., at the center of the fluid container). In some embodiments, the articulated wall wave generating system may include a plurality of panel actuation assemblies that may be individually actuated to form a dynamic articulated wall that interacts (e.g., applies various forces to and into the fluid contained in the fluid container) to form at least one wave (e.g., a surfable wave). For example, the articulated wall may form a convex shape and / or a curved shape or wave-like undulation 195 that travels along the articulated wall wave generating system to form at least one wave. The curved shape or wave-like undulation 195 formed along the articulated wall and traveling along the articulated wall wave generating system may be formed due to individual actuation of each of the panel actuation assemblies, such as in a continuous and / or programmed sequence, as will be described in more detail below. The articulated wall may be dynamically moved through a variety of shapes including convex shapes and / or curved shapes without overly constraining the articulated wall wave generating system.

[0045] Figure 1 An embodiment of a wave pool 200 is illustrated that includes a fluid container 202 (e.g., a basin, channel, pool, etc.) that can contain a fluid 204, such as a volume of water, sufficient to allow one or more persons to surf one or more waves formed along the wave pool 200. Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , a wave pool may include at least one articulated wall wave generating system 100 along at least one side 206 of the wave pool 200 that may form at least one surfable wave. The surfable wave may be about 6 feet tall, about 4 feet tall, or a range therebetween. The fluid container 202 may be linear or curvilinear, such as an arc, a semicircle, or a circle. The fluid container 202 may include a plurality of segments, each of which may be one of a linear segment, a curvilinear segment, or a combination thereof. ... Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4, the articulated wall wave generating system 100 may be at least partially surrounded by a protective barrier 210. For example, the protective barrier 210 may include a fluid-permeable fence that extends along the length of the articulated wall wave generating system 100, including at least the entire length of the articulated wall wave generating system 100, such as to protect people in the wave pool 200 from contacting the articulated wall wave generating system 100 (e.g., to prevent injury). Thus, the protective barrier 210 may provide a protective barrier to prevent users from contacting the articulated wall wave generating system 100 without hindering the articulated wall wave generating system 100 from forming waves.

[0046] Figure 3 and FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B An embodiment of an articulated wall wave generating system 100 is illustrated that includes a plurality of panel actuation assemblies 102 that may be arranged in series, such as in a linear configuration. The panel actuation assemblies 102 arranged in series may allow the panel actuation assemblies 102 to be individually actuated in sequence, which causes the articulated wall wave generating system 100 to form a dynamically articulated wall 101. As discussed above, the articulated wall 101 may form (due to the individually and sequentially actuated panel actuation assemblies) a convex shape and / or a curved shape or wave-like undulations 195 (e.g., Fig.11 ) to form at least one wave in a fluid 204 contained in a fluid container 202. For example, a curved shape or wave-like undulation 195 traveling along the articulated wall wave generating system 100 can cause forces to be applied to the fluid 204, which results in the formation of at least one surfable wave.

[0047] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , some embodiments of the panel actuation assembly 102 may include at least one actuator 110, such as a first actuator 110a and a second actuator 110b, each coupled to a movable panel 140. For example, the first actuator 110a and the second actuator 110b may be individually actuated to cause movement (e.g., pivoting, translating) of at least the movable panel 140. Figure 5B As shown in FIG. 1 , some embodiments of the panel actuation assembly 102 may include a single actuator 110. Each actuator 110 of the articulated wall wave generating system 100 may be individually actuated to cause at least the active panel 140 to move (e.g., pivot, translate). Figure 5A and Figures 6 to 8As shown in , the articulated wall wave generation system 100 may include a connection panel 160 that is coupled between and links two adjacent panel actuation assemblies 102. Thus, movement of the movable panel 140, such as by activating one or more actuators 110, may cause the connection panel 160 to move (e.g., pivot, translate), as will be described in more detail below. The movable panel 140 and the connection panel 160 may be linked together end to end via hinges or other pivoting connections 143, 162. As shown in FIG. Figure 5B As shown in FIG. 1 , the articulated wall wave generating system may not include connecting panels 160, but rather the movable panels 140 may be linked together end to end via hinges or other pivoting connections 143. In some embodiments, the articulated wall wave generating system 100 may include N panels 140, 160 and N+1 actuators 110. In some embodiments, the articulated wall wave generating system 100 may include 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or at least 100 actuators 110, and any number therebetween.

[0048] like Figure 5B, each panel actuation assembly 102 may include a single actuator 110, and the movable panels 140 may be coupled to each other without an intermediate connection panel 160. In some embodiments, each actuator 110 (e.g., a first actuator 110a and a second actuator 110b, or a single actuator 110) of each panel actuation assembly 102 may include an actuator body 112 and a linkage arm 116, which may extend between the movable panel 140 and the actuator body 112. The linkage arm 116 may transmit force from the actuator body 112 to the movable panel 140, thereby causing translational movement of at least a portion of the movable panel 140. In some embodiments, the linkage arm 116 may convert the rotational movement of the actuator body 112 into a linear movement of at least a portion of the movable panel 140. In some embodiments, the linkage arm 116 may transmit a linear motion or a linear force to cause linear movement of at least a portion of the movable panel 140. The linkage arm 116 may include a variety of configurations and is not limited to the embodiments shown. In some embodiments, such as in embodiments of the panel actuation assembly 102 that include embodiments of the actuator 110 having a linear actuator, the linkage arm 116 can be integrated with and / or be part of the actuator body 112 (e.g., there is no mechanical joint connecting the linkage arm 116 to the actuator body 112). Each actuator body 112 can be coupled to one or more actuation mechanisms 180 (e.g., a rotary drive unit, a linear drive unit, etc.) that cause the actuator body 112 to move (e.g., rotate, pivot, translate) upon actuation of the associated actuation mechanism 180. For example, the actuation mechanism 180 can be located above the fluid line of the fluid 204 in the fluid container 202 to facilitate access during maintenance, repair, etc.

[0049] like Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Fig.9A As shown in FIG. 1 , some embodiments of the actuator body 112 include an actuator arm 114 extending from a central portion 115 of the actuator body 112. Figure 7 and Figure 8, the linkage arm 116 may extend between the actuator body 112 or a portion of the actuator body 112 such as the actuator arm 114 and the movable panel 140. For example, the actuator arm 114 may help efficiently pivot the linkage arm 116 to cause the movable panel 140 to pivot and / or translate in response to the rotational movement of the actuator body 112. Thus, due to the rotational movement of the actuator body 112, the movable panel 140 and the adjacent connection panel 160 or other adjacent movable panels 140 may be caused to move (e.g., pivot, translate). The pivoting and / or translation of the movable panel 140 and / or the connection panel 160 may help form a surfable wave in the fluid container 202. However, in some embodiments, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, the actuator body 112 may be configured to translate linearly to cause at least the movable panel 140 to move (e.g., pivot, translate) and cause the adjacent connection panel 160 to move (e.g., pivot, translate). Other possible actuators may include chain drives, electromechanical actuators, hydraulic actuators, and direct drive linear motors without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0050] In some embodiments, each actuator 110 may include an actuator joint 118 that pivotally couples the linkage arm 116 to the actuator body 112. For example, the actuator joint 118 may be located along the distal end of the actuator arm 114, such as Figure 7 140 . Additionally, each movable panel 140 may include a pair of panel joints 142 that pivotally couple the linkage arms 116 of each actuator 110 to the movable panel 140. This may allow the linkage arms 116 to pivot relative to the rear surface of the movable panel 140 and the actuator body 112 (e.g., relative to the longitudinal axis of the actuator body 112). This may allow rotation of the actuator body 112 to be converted into pivoting and / or translation (e.g., angular, linear) of the movable panel 140, such as to help form a curved shaped portion of a hinged wall for forming one or more waves in the wave pool 200. The panel joints 142 may be located on the rear surface of the movable panel 140. In some embodiments, the linkage arms 116 may be connected to the movable panel 140 at a hinge point between the movable panel 140 and the connection panel 160, and apply forces directly to both the movable panel 140 and the connection panel 160. In some embodiments, the linkage arm 116 may be connected to a hinge point between two adjacent movable panels 140 and apply force directly to the two adjacent movable panels 140 .

[0051] like Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown in , each actuator 110 can include more than one linkage arm 116 (e.g., two linkage arms 116), one or more actuator arms 114 (e.g., two actuator arms 114), and one or more actuator joints 118 (e.g., two actuator joints 118) without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, more than one actuator arm 114, linkage arm 116, and actuator joint 118 can allow for additional support and force applied to at least the active panel 140 and from at least the active panel 140 (e.g., to enable the formation of a wider variety of sizes and shapes of waves). As Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9B As shown in , each actuator 110 may include one or more reinforcing arms 119 extending between two or more link arms 116 to prevent torsional twisting or shearing between the link arms 116 during rotation of the actuator 110 and movement of the movable panel 140 when generating waves. The actuator arms 114 and the link arms 116 may also be rigid in the vertical plane to support the vertical weight of the movable panel 140 and / or the connecting panel 160, so that a separate vertical load carrying system is not required. In addition, although the actuator bodies 112 described herein are described as being activated to rotate (thereby causing the associated movable panel 140 to pivot and / or translate), without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, one or more actuator bodies 112 of the articulated wall wave generating system 100 may be activated to translate linearly (and not rotate), thereby causing the associated movable panel 140 to pivot and / or translate.

[0052] In some embodiments, Figure 4 , Figure 5A and FIG. 12A to FIG. 12B As shown in FIG. 1 , the panel actuator assembly 102 can be formed into a retracted configuration and an extended configuration. In the retracted configuration, the actuator body 112 can be in a stationary or non-actuated state, wherein the actuator arm 114 is in a first position 130, such as Fig. 12A When the actuator arm 114 is in the first position 130 (e.g., due to the actuator body 112 being in the first rotational position), the movable panel 140 can be in the retracted position 131, which can be the minimum distance at which the movable panel 140 is positioned relative to the actuator body 112. In the extended configuration, the actuator body 112 can be in an activated state (e.g., one or more drive units of the actuation mechanism 180 cause the actuator body 112 to rotate about a longitudinal axis passing through the center of the central portion 115), thereby placing the actuator arm 114 in the second position 132, as shown. Fig. 12A. When the actuator arm 114 is in the second position 132 (e.g., because the actuator body 112 is in the second rotational position), the movable panel 140 can be in an extended position 133, which can be the farthest distance that the movable panel 140 is positioned away from the actuator body 112. For example, in the extended configuration, the linkage arm 116 can extend approximately vertically or laterally relative to the movable panel 140, however, the linkage arm 116 can form a variety of angles relative to the movable panel 140 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The distance between the retracted position 131 and the extended position 133 can be about 12 feet, about 10 feet, about 8 feet, or any range therebetween. In some embodiments, the distance can be greater than 12 feet or less than 8 feet.

[0053] like Figure 7 and Fig.11 , each panel actuation assembly 102 may include a first actuator 110a and a second actuator 110b that may be individually actuated by an actuation mechanism 180. For example, the first actuator 110a and the second actuator 110b may be activated at the same and / or different times. In some embodiments, the first actuator 110a and the second actuator 110b may include the same configuration and features. For example, in some embodiments, the first actuator 110a may include a first actuator body 112a that is actuated to rotate in a clockwise direction, and the second actuator 110b may include a second actuator body 112b that is actuated to rotate in a counterclockwise direction. In some embodiments, each panel actuation assembly 102 may include a single actuator 110 that may be actuated by an actuation mechanism 180 and may include an actuator body 112 that is actuated to move in one or both of a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction.

[0054] like Fig.11 and FIG. 12A to FIG. 12B , the actuator body 112 (e.g., the first actuator body 112a) can be activated and caused to rotate clockwise, thereby causing the associated movable panel 140 to pivot and / or translate. Such pivoting and / or translation can be caused by a transition of the first end of the movable panel 140 toward and / or into the extended position 133, which can occur when the second end of the movable panel 140 is in (or closer to) the retracted position 131 or the extended position 133 and any position therebetween (e.g., transitioning between the retracted position 131 and the extended position 133).

[0055] Fig.11An embodiment of an articulated wall wave generating system 100 is illustrated, showing respective independent and coordinated actuation of a first actuator 110a and a second actuator 110b in a series of connected panel actuation assemblies 102. Each pair of panel actuation assemblies 102 may be connected by at least one connecting panel 160. Additionally, pivoting and / or translation of an active panel 140 may result in pivoting and / or translation of an adjacent connecting panel 160 or other adjacent active panels 140 to form a curved articulated wall shape that translates along the articulated wall wave generating system 100, such as a. Fig.11 As shown in .

[0056] When the actuator body 112 transitions from the first position 130 to the second position 132, the portion of the movable panel 140 connected to the actuator 110 may transition from the retracted position 131 to the extended position 133 (e.g., translate outwardly to apply force to the water to help form a surfable wave). If a portion of the movable panel 140 transitions from the retracted position 131 to the extended position 133 (e.g., translates outwardly) asynchronously with another portion of the movable panel 140, the movable panel 140 may pivot about an axis of rotation (e.g., a pivot point or fulcrum). The asynchronous sequential translation of the adjacent portions of the movable panel 140 and (if present) the connected panel 160 may cause the panels 140, 160 to pivot sequentially, thereby forming a wave-like undulation 195 that may travel across the length of the articulated wall 101 of the articulated wall wave generating system 100, as shown in FIG. Fig.11 As shown in .

[0057] like Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown in FIG. 1 , the articulated wall wave generating system 100 may include a controller 150 (e.g., including a memory and a processor) that may communicate with each actuator 110 of the articulated wall wave generating system 100. The controller 150 may activate each actuator 110 in a synchronous or asynchronous manner to cause adjacent portions of the panels 140, 160 to translate asynchronously and sequentially, thereby causing the panels 140, 160 to pivot sequentially, which forms a traveling wave-like undulation 195. The controller 150 may include a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium that includes software or a program that the processor may execute to cause asynchronous activation of each actuator 110. The controller 150 may be manually controlled by an operator to cause asynchronous activation of each actuator 110, and / or the controller 150 may be automatically operated (e.g., pre-programmed controller 150) to cause individual activation of each actuator 110. The controller 150 may be configured and programmed in a variety of ways to achieve the following: Fig.11 The wave-like undulation 195 shown in FIG. 1 is formed and translated across the articulated wall 101 of the articulated wall wave generating system 100 for use in applications such as Figure 1Surfable waves are formed in a fluid container of the wave pool 200 shown in FIG.

[0058] In some embodiments, the connection panel 160 may include at least one panel connection joint 162 at a first connection end 164 and a second connection end 166 of the connection panel 160. For example, the panel connection joint 162 may allow the connection panel 160 to pivot relative to an adjacent movable panel 140, such as to form a curved shape that translates along an articulated wall wave generating system 100, such as along an articulated wall. In some embodiments, the movable panel 140 may include at least one panel connection joint 143 to enable connection to other movable panels 140. The panel joints 143, 162 may be hinges, ball joints, or another pivotable connection.

[0059] In some embodiments, the movable panel 140 and / or the connecting panel 160 may include one or more substantially flat surfaces. In some embodiments, the movable panel 140 and / or the connecting panel 160 may include one or more non-planar surfaces, such as a corrugated surface having a plurality of vertical channels, such as Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B As shown in Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B As shown in FIG. 1 , the movable panel 140 and / or the connecting panel 160 may include one or more support beams extending lengthwise across the rear surface of the movable panel 140 and / or the connecting panel 160. The front surface of the movable panel 140 and / or the connecting panel 160 may include one or more of a flat shape, a corrugated shape, a curved shape with a radius of curvature, a smooth shape, or a textured shape. In some embodiments, the movable panel 140 and / or the connecting panel 160 may include an internal buoyancy compartment that reduces the mass and density of the movable panel 140 and / or the connecting panel 160. The resultant buoyancy applied to the movable panel 140 and / or the connecting panel 160 may partially or completely offset the vertical weight of the movable panel 140 and / or the connecting panel 160, so that a separate vertical load bearing system is not required. The movable panel 140 and / or the connecting panel 160 may have various characteristics (e.g., width, height, thickness, weight, density, etc.). For example, the panels 140, 160 may have a width of about 25 feet, about 24 feet, about 20 feet, about 16 feet, or any range therebetween, and a height of about 15 feet, about 15 feet 5 inches, or a range therebetween. In some embodiments, the width may be greater than 25 feet or less than 16 feet. In some embodiments, the height may be greater than 15 feet 5 inches, or less than 15 feet.

[0060] In some embodiments, the articulated wall wave generating system 100 may include one or more longitudinal restraints or pivoting wall stabilizers 170 that assist in directing the wave generator to the wall. Fig.13140 or one or more connecting panels 160 or one or more movable panels 140 shown in the figure provide additional stabilization. The pivoting wall stabilizer 170 constrains the hinged wall 101 (formed by the movable panel 140 and / or the connecting panel 160) in the longitudinal direction (e.g., in the lengthwise direction of the hinged wall 101), thereby preventing the hinged wall 101 from uncontrolled movement in the longitudinal direction, while still allowing the hinged wall 101 to articulate in the lateral direction (e.g., perpendicular to the face of the hinged wall 101, toward / away from the actuator body 112). For example, the pivoting wall stabilizer 170 may include a connecting arm 172 that is pivotally coupled to the movable panel 140 or the connecting panel 160 at a distal end 173 of the connecting arm 172 (e.g., along the rear side of the movable panel 140 or the rear side of the connecting panel 160). The connecting arm 172 may include a proximal end 174 that is pivotally and slidably coupled to a support track 179 that may be part of and / or coupled to an embodiment of a support structure 190 that provides structural and positional support for the articulated wall wave generation system 100 including each panel actuation assembly 102. In some embodiments, the connecting arm 172 may be pivotally and slidably coupled to the movable panel 140 or the connecting panel 160 and pivotally coupled to the support track 179. Fig.14 As shown in FIG. 1 , the pivoting wall stabilizer 170 may include a support arm 176 pivotally connected to a portion of a connecting arm 172 at a first end and pivotally coupled to a support rail 179 at a second end. Thus, the pivoting wall stabilizer 170 may be a passive and movable (e.g., pivoting, sliding) mechanism that moves (e.g., pivots, slides) in response to movement of the movable panel 140 and / or the connecting panel 160, caused by one or more actuators 110 of the panel actuation assembly 102 moving the movable panel 140 and / or the connecting panel 160, or one or more actuators 110 of an adjacent panel actuation assembly 102 moving a movable panel 140 adjacent to the connecting panel.

[0061] Fig.15 Various example embodiments of an articulated wall wave generating system 100 are illustrated, such as various numbers of active panels 140, connecting panels 160, and / or panel actuation assemblies 102 that the articulated wall wave generating system 100 may include, and the length of each active panel 140 and / or connecting panel 160. The articulated wall wave generating system 100 may have any number of active panels 140 and / or connecting panels 160. The density of the actuators 110 along the length of the articulated wall 101, and therefore the length of the active panels 140 and / or connecting panels 160, may affect the bending dimensions (e.g., arc length, radius of curvature, fidelity of the bend). For example, as Fig.15As shown in , more panels 140, 160 with shorter widths over the length of the articulated wall 101 can allow the length of the articulated wall 101 to form a bend with a smaller radius of curvature and / or arc length and / or fidelity of the bend compared to a length of the articulated wall 101 with fewer panels 140, 160. Panels 140, 160 with shorter widths can allow for higher fidelity or resolution of the desired bend that can positively affect the smoothness of the wave forming function (e.g., the bend or undulation 195 across the length of the articulated wall 101) to increase the power and / or quality of the waves formed, and / or reduce the energy desired to form the waves. For example, the articulated wall 101 can have a length of about 320 feet, about 264 feet, about 240 feet, about 224 feet, or any range therebetween. The articulated wall 101 can include 11, 12, 13, or 14 movable panels 140 and / or connecting panels 160.

[0062] Fig.16 The diagram illustrates the bending dimensions of an articulated wall wave generating system 100 having an articulated wall 101 compared to a piston-type wave generating system without an articulated wall. Fig.16 As shown in FIG. 1 , an articulated wall wave generating system 100 having an articulated wall 101 is able to fit curves more accurately than a piston-type wave generating system without an articulated wall. The articulated wall wave generating system 100 may have significant advantages over a piston-type wave generating system including a blade or panel constrained to move in a linear axis without pivoting or yaw angle rotation. For example, the articulated wall wave generating system 100 has the ability to form a smooth wave generating profile with a significantly smaller number of panels than a piston-type wave generating system. The articulation of the articulated wall 101, and more precisely, the pivoting and / or yaw angle rotation of the movable panel 140 and / or the connecting panel 160 that form the articulated wall 101, allows the articulated wall 101 to conform to the curve rather than having a cliff or defined step. Additionally, no intermediate equipment such as between the movable panel 140 and / or the connecting panel 160 is required to address flow control or vortex formation issues. Additionally, the articulation of the articulated wall 101 may allow for a better fit to the optimal wave generation forcing function, thereby providing better energy transfer to the waves and a more accurately generated wave profile. Another advantage of the articulated wall wave generation system 100 is the ability to implement a variety of shapes of articulated wall wave generation systems 100, which may allow for novel implementations in wave pools 200.

[0063] Fig.17 and 18A to 18F Various example embodiments of the articulated wall wave generating system 100 are illustrated, such as various shapes that the articulated wall wave generating system 100 may be formed into. Such shape variations of the articulated wall wave generating system 100 may allow the articulated wall wave generating system 100 to be adapted to a variety of wave pool shapes and designs. Fig.17As shown in FIG. 1 , the articulated wall wave generating system 100 can have a straight configuration and a curved configuration. Fig.18A As shown in FIG. 1 , the articulated wall wave generating system 100 may have a straight line configuration. Fig.18B As shown in FIG. 1 , the articulated wall wave generating system 100 may have a concave configuration. Fig.18C As shown in FIG. 1 , the articulated wall wave generating system 100 may have a convex configuration. Fig.18D As shown in FIG. 1 , the articulated wall wave generating system 100 may have more than one curved section along the length of the sequentially coupled panel actuation assemblies of the articulated wall wave generating system 100. Fig.18E As shown in FIG. 1 , the articulated wall wave generating system 100 may have a V-shaped configuration. Fig.18F As shown in FIG. 1 , the articulated wall wave generating system 100 may have a straight section with one or more panel actuation assemblies 102 angled away from the straight section.

[0064] like Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , some embodiments of the articulated wall wave generating system 100 may include a support structure 190 that may include an upper platform and one or more support legs. For example, the support structure 190 may help fix the position of each actuator 110 while allowing each actuator body 112 to pivot or rotate relative to the support structure 190 about a longitudinal axis extending through the center of the central portion 115, such as to allow the panel actuation assembly 102 to form an extended configuration and / or a retracted configuration. For example, as Fig. 12A As shown in FIG. 1 , the central portion 115 of the actuator body 112 rotates about the central longitudinal axis without translational movement. Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the support structure 190 may also include a lower mounting for each actuator 110 that may help secure the position of each actuator 110 while allowing each actuator body 112 to pivot or rotate about the central longitudinal axis. The support structure 190 may be coupled to the actuation mechanism 180, a pair of actuators 110, and a fluid container 202 or a portion of a fluid container 202. Figures 2 to 4 and Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the gangway structure 192 may be located beside and at the same level as the upper platform of the support structure 190. The gangway structure 192 may provide service access to the actuation mechanism 190 and may be enclosed for architectural requirements or weather protection.

[0065] In some embodiments, the actuator body 112 can be rotated via activation of the actuation mechanism 180. Figures 6 to 8As shown in FIG. 1 , the actuation mechanism 180 may include a plurality of drive units arranged circumferentially around the upper end of the actuator body 112, or may include a single on-axis drive unit. The drive unit may interface with the slewing ring and the support structure 190. When the drive unit rotates the actuator body 112, the drive unit may be stabilized and held in place by the support structure 190. When each individual drive unit rotates, the rotational force may be transmitted to the actuator body 112 via the slewing ring, thereby causing rotation of the actuator body 112.

[0066] In some implementations, a method of an articulated wall wave generation system may include generating one or more waves (e.g., surfable waves) in a fluid volume contained in a fluid container. For example, the method may include actuating the articulated wall wave generation system to generate one or more surfable waves in the fluid volume. In some embodiments, the articulated wall wave generation system may include an embodiment of a panel actuation assembly, the panel actuation assembly including a pair of actuators, each actuator including an embodiment of an actuator body and a linkage arm. The articulated wall wave generation system may include an embodiment of a movable panel connected to the pair of actuators, and the linkage arm of each actuator may extend between the movable panel and the corresponding actuator body.

[0067] For example, actuating the articulated wall wave generating system may include activating a first actuator of the pair of actuators to cause the movable panel to move. In some embodiments, activating the first actuator of the pair of actuators may include rotating the first actuator in a first direction to advance the linkage arm of the first actuator in a direction toward the movable panel. In some embodiments, actuating the articulated wall wave generating system may also include activating a second actuator of the pair of actuators to cause the movable panel to move. For example, activating the second actuator may include rotating the second actuator in a second direction, and the first direction may be opposite to the second direction.

[0068] Additionally, independent control and actuation of the panel actuation assemblies 102 (such as by a controller 150 in communication with the panel actuation assemblies 102 of the articulated wall wave generating system 100, such as FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B 204) can allow the articulated wall wave generating system 100 to form an articulated wall 101 having a curved shape that translates along the articulated wall 101 and is at least partially within the fluid 204, thereby forming a surfable wave in the fluid 204. For example, the curved shape can push and guide the fluid 204 to form a surfable wave that breaks along the length of the articulated wall wave generating system 100. In some embodiments, the curved shape formed along the articulated wall 101 can translate along the articulated wall 101 in a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction, such as to allow the articulated wall wave generating system 100 to form left breaking waves and right breaking waves.

[0069] In some embodiments, the panels can be activated to form one or more curved shapes or undulations 195 that travel in more than one direction along the articulated wall wave generating system 100, which can allow the formation of "right" breaking waves or "left" breaking waves depending on the direction of the curved panel configuration or undulations 195 traveling along the articulated wall wave generating system 100.

[0070] like Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 1 , the traversal of the curved formation along the articulated wall wave generating system 100 can be controlled and adjusted to provide specific or desired acceleration, deceleration, speed, and displacement of the curved formation in the wave pool 200. For example, in operation, the speed of the curved formation can be varied downward along the fluid container 202. FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B As shown in , such variability can be programmed by software and actuated by a control computing system 150 that communicates with each actuator 110 of the articulated wall wave generating system 100. In addition, the changes in the speed of the curved formations can be coordinated with changes in the bathymetry along the wave pool 200, which may include dynamically adjustable and changeable reefs. Similarly, the shape (e.g., radius, arc length, etc.) of the curved formations can be independently controlled and modulated to provide specific or desired generated wave energy from the surface of each active panel 140 and / or connected panel 160. Thus, changes to either or both of the bathymetry of the articulated wall wave generating system 100 or the fluid container 202 can provide an unlimited number of waves, some of which can be programmed and labeled (i.e., for example, "Teahupoo," "Cloudbreak," or "Trestles") and approved for use in a wave pool installation. The fluid container 202 of the wave pool 200 is Figure 1 The diagram in the figure shows a linear channel, but it can also be a curved shape, a circular shape, an elliptical shape, a parabola shape or other shapes.

[0071] In the above description and claims, phrases such as "at least one of..." or "one or more of..." may appear after a conjunction list of elements or features. The term "and / or" may also appear in a list of two or more elements or features. Unless otherwise implicitly or explicitly contradictory to the context in which such phrases are used, such phrases are intended to mean any of the listed elements or features individually, or to mean any one of the listed elements or features in combination with other listed elements or features. For example, the phrases "at least one of A and B"; "one or more of A and B"; and "A and / or B" are each intended to mean "A alone, B alone, or A and B together". A similar interpretation also applies to lists including three or more items. For example, the phrases "at least one of A, B, and C"; one or more of A, B, and C; and "A, B, and / or C" are each intended to mean "A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A and B and C together". The term “based on” as used above and in the claims is intended to mean “based, at least in part, on” such that unlisted features or elements are also allowable.

[0072] The implementations set forth in the foregoing description do not represent all implementations consistent with the subject matter described herein. Instead, they are only some examples consistent with aspects related to the described subject matter. Although some changes have been described in detail herein, other modifications or additions are also possible. In particular, in addition to the features and / or changes set forth herein, further features and / or changes may be provided. For example, the implementations described above may be directed to various combinations and sub-combinations of the disclosed features, and / or combinations and sub-combinations of one or more features other than those disclosed herein. In addition, the logic flows depicted in the accompanying drawings and / or described herein do not necessarily require the specific order or sequential order shown to achieve the desired results. The scope of the appended claims may include other implementations or embodiments.

Claims

1. An articulated wall wave generating system for forming a surfable wave, the articulated wall wave generating system comprising: A panel actuation assembly, the panel actuation assembly comprising: An actuator, wherein the actuator comprises: an actuator body; and a pitman arm; and a panel connected to the actuator, wherein a linkage arm of the actuator extends between the panel and the actuator body; Wherein activation of the actuator causes the panel to move to assist in forming waves in the fluid volume.

2. The articulated wall wave generating system according to claim 1, wherein: The fluid volume is contained in a fluid container comprising one or more of a basin, a pool, and a channel, and wherein the wave is a surfable wave.

3. The articulated wall wave generating system according to claim 2, wherein: The panel actuation assembly also includes an actuation mechanism that actuates the actuator, the actuation mechanism causing the actuator body to move, thereby causing the panel to move to assist in forming the surfable wave.

4. The articulated wall wave generating system according to claim 3, wherein: The actuator body is configured to rotate when the actuator is actuated by the actuation mechanism.

5. The articulated wall wave generating system according to claim 3, wherein: The actuator body is configured to translate linearly when the actuator is actuated by the actuation mechanism.

6. The articulated wall wave generating system according to claim 4, wherein: The linkage arm is pivotably coupled to the actuator body and the panel such that rotation of the actuator body causes the panel to one or more of pivot and translate.

7. The articulated wall wave generating system according to claim 6, wherein: The panel is a movable panel, and the hinged wall wave generating system further comprises a connection panel pivotably coupled to the movable panel, the connection panel being configured to pivot and / or translate due to pivoting and / or translation of the movable panel.

8. The articulated wall wave generating system according to claim 7, wherein: Pivoting and / or translation of the movable panel and the connected panel assists in forming the surfable wave in the fluid container.

9. The articulated wall wave motion generating system according to claim 6 further includes a plurality of panel actuation assemblies, wherein a plurality of panels in the plurality of panel actuation assemblies are connected in series, and each of the plurality of panel actuation assemblies communicates with a control system and an actuation mechanism to allow individual actuation of each of the plurality of panel actuation assemblies to form a hinged wall.

10. The articulated wall wave motion generating system according to claim 7 further includes a plurality of panel actuation assemblies and a plurality of connecting panels, each of the connecting panels being connected to a first panel actuation assembly among the plurality of actuation assemblies and a second panel actuation assembly among the plurality of actuation assemblies, each of the first panel actuation assembly and the second panel actuation assembly communicating with a control system and an actuation mechanism to allow separate actuation of the first panel actuation assembly and the second panel actuation assembly to form a hinged wall.

11. The articulated wall wave generating system according to claim 9, wherein: The hinged wall includes the plurality of panels forming a curved shaped wall portion running along a length of the hinged wall for forming a surfable wave in the fluid container.

12. The articulated wall wave generating system according to claim 10, wherein: The hinged wall includes one or more of the connecting panel and the movable panel forming a curved shaped wall portion running along the length of the hinged wall for forming a surfable wave in the fluid container.

13. The articulated wall wave generating system according to claim 4, wherein: The actuation mechanism includes one or more drive units configured to rotate the actuator body of each panel actuation assembly of the plurality of panel actuation assemblies.

14. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 12, wherein: The articulated wall wave generating system also includes a controller configured to control the actuation mechanism.

15. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 12, further comprising a support structure coupled to one or more of the actuation mechanism and the actuator, the support structure being secured to a portion of the fluid container.

16. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 1, wherein: The actuator body comprises: The central part; and an actuator arm extending outwardly from the central portion; Wherein the actuator arm extends between the central portion and the linkage arm.

17. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 16, wherein: The actuator further comprises: An actuator joint pivotably connects the actuator arm and the linkage arm.

18. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 17, wherein: The panel includes a panel connector, wherein the panel connector is operably coupled to the actuator.

19. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 18, wherein: The panel joint allows the linkage arm to pivot relative to the rear surface of the panel.

20. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 19, wherein: The front surface of the panel includes one or more of a flat shape, a corrugated shape, a curved shape, a smooth shape, or a textured shape.

21. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 20, wherein: The actuator body of the actuator is configured to rotate in a first direction to advance the linkage arm of the actuator such that the panel is advanced away from the actuator body and into an extended configuration.

22. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 21, wherein: The actuator body of the actuator is configured to rotate in a second direction to retract the linkage arm of the actuator such that the panel is retracted toward the actuator body and into a retracted configuration.

23. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 22, wherein: In the retracted configuration, the actuator body is in a first rotational position and the panel is a retracted distance from the actuator body.

24. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 23, wherein: The retraction distance is a minimum distance between the actuator body and the main panel.

25. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 24, wherein: In the extended configuration, the actuator body is in a second rotational position and the panel is an extended distance from the actuator body.

26. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 25, wherein: The extension distance is a maximum distance formed between the actuator body and the main panel.

27. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 25, wherein: The extended distance is greater than the retracted distance.

28. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 23, wherein: The panel of the panel actuation assembly is configured to transition between the retracted configuration and the extended configuration.

29. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 7, wherein: The connection panel is coupled to the movable panel via a panel connection joint.

30. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 29, wherein: Movement of the movable panel causes movement of the connection panel.

31. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 1, wherein: The hinged wall wave generating system comprises a plurality of panels forming a hinged wall, and wherein each of the panels comprises a movable panel.

32. An articulated wall wave generating system according to claim 31, wherein: The hinged wall wave generating system further includes at least one connection panel pivotably coupled to at least one movable panel.

33. An articulated wall wave generating system according to claim 32, wherein: The movable panels and the at least one connecting panel are connected in an alternating pattern to form the hinged wall.

34. An articulated wall wave generating system according to claim 33, wherein: The hinged wall includes one or more of the connecting panel and the movable panel forming an undulation for forming a surfable wave in the fluid container.

35. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 7, wherein: The hinged wall wave generating system also includes a pivoting wall stabilizer connected to the connecting panel.

36. The articulated wall wave generating system of claim 7, wherein: The pivoting wall stabilizer comprises: a connection arm connected to the connection panel; and A support arm is connected to the connecting arm.

37. An articulated wall wave generating system according to claim 36, wherein: The articulated wall wave generating system also includes a support track connected to the at least one pivoting wall stabilizer, wherein the connecting arm extends between the connecting panel and the support track, and wherein the connecting arm is configured to slide or move along the support track in response to movement of the connecting panel.

38. An articulated wall wave generating system according to claim 37, wherein: The support arm extends between the connecting arm and the support track, and wherein the support arm is configured to pivot relative to the support track.

39. A method of generating waves in a fluid volume using an articulated wall wave generating system, the method comprising: actuating the articulated wall wave generating system to generate waves in the fluid volume, Wherein, the articulated wall wave generating system comprises: A panel actuation assembly, the panel actuation assembly comprising: An actuator, wherein the actuator comprises: an actuator body; and a pitman arm; and A panel is connected to the actuator, wherein a linkage arm of the actuator extends between the panel and the actuator body.

40. The method of claim 39, wherein: Actuating the hinged wall wave generating system includes activating the actuator, thereby causing the panel to move.

41. The method of claim 40, wherein: Activating the actuator includes rotating or translating the actuator in a first direction.

42. The method of claim 39, wherein: The fluid volume is contained in a fluid container comprising one or more of a basin, a pool, and a channel, and wherein the wave is a surfable wave.

43. The method of claim 42, wherein: The panel actuation assembly also includes an actuation mechanism that activates the actuator, the actuation mechanism causing the actuator body to move, thereby causing the panel to move to assist in forming the surfable wave.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein: The actuator body is configured to rotate when the actuator is activated by the actuation mechanism.

45. The method of claim 43, wherein: The actuator body is configured to translate linearly when the actuator is activated by the actuation mechanism.

46. ​​The method of claim 45, wherein: The linkage arm is pivotably coupled to the actuator body and the panel such that rotation of the actuator body causes the panel to one or more of pivot and translate.

47. The method of claim 46, wherein: The panel is a movable panel, and the hinged wall wave generating system further comprises a connection panel pivotably coupled to the movable panel, the connection panel being configured to pivot and / or translate due to pivoting and / or translation of the movable panel.

48. The method of claim 47, wherein: Pivoting and / or translation of the movable panel and the connected panel assists in forming the surfable wave in the fluid container.

49. The method of claim 48, wherein: The articulated wall wave motion generating system also includes a plurality of panel actuation assemblies, wherein a plurality of movable panels in the plurality of panel actuation assemblies are connected in series, and each of the plurality of panel actuation assemblies communicates with a control system and an actuation mechanism to allow individual actuation of each movable panel actuation assembly in the plurality of panel actuation assemblies to form a hinged wall.

50. The method of claim 48, wherein: The articulated wall wave generating system also includes a plurality of panel actuation assemblies and a plurality of connection panels, each of the connection panels being connected to a first panel actuation assembly among the plurality of actuation assemblies and a second panel actuation assembly among the plurality of actuation assemblies, each of the first panel actuation assembly and the second panel actuation assembly communicating with a control system and an actuation mechanism to allow separate actuation of the first panel actuation assembly and the second panel actuation assembly to form a hinged wall.

51. The method of claim 50, wherein: The hinged wall includes the plurality of movable panels forming a curved shaped wall portion running along a length of the hinged wall for forming a surfable wave in the fluid container.

52. The method of claim 51, wherein: The hinged wall includes one or more of the connecting panel and the movable panel forming a curved shaped wall portion running along the length of the hinged wall for forming a surfable wave in the fluid container.

53. The method of claim 50, wherein: The actuation mechanism includes one or more drive units configured to rotate an actuator body of each of the plurality of panel actuation assemblies.

54. The method of claim 52, wherein: The articulated wall wave generating system also includes a controller configured to control the actuation mechanism.

55. The method of claim 52, wherein: The articulated wall wave generating system also includes a support structure coupled to one or more of the actuation mechanism and the actuator, the support structure being secured to a portion of the fluid container.

56. The method of claim 39, wherein: The actuator body comprises: The central part; and an actuator arm extending outwardly from the central portion; Wherein the actuator arm extends between the central portion and the linkage arm.

57. The method of claim 56, wherein: The actuator further comprises: An actuator joint pivotably connects the actuator arm and the linkage arm.

58. The method of claim 57, wherein: The panel includes a panel connector, wherein the panel connector is operably coupled to the actuator.

59. The method of claim 58, wherein: The panel joint allows the linkage arm to pivot relative to the rear surface of the panel.

60. The method of claim 59, wherein: The front surface of the panel includes one or more of a flat shape, a corrugated shape, a curved shape, a smooth shape, or a textured shape.

61. The method of claim 60, wherein: The actuator body of the actuator is configured to rotate in a first direction to advance the linkage arm of the actuator such that the panel is advanced away from the actuator body and into an extended configuration.

62. The method of claim 61, wherein: The actuator body of the actuator is configured to rotate in a second direction to retract the linkage arm of the actuator such that the panel is retracted toward the actuator body and into a retracted configuration.

63. The method of claim 62, wherein: In the retracted configuration, the actuator body is in a first rotational position and the panel is a retracted distance from the actuator body.

64. The method of claim 63, wherein: The retraction distance is a minimum distance between the actuator body and the main panel.

65. The method of claim 64, wherein: In the extended configuration, the actuator body is in a second rotational position and the panel is an extended distance from the actuator body.

66. The method of claim 65, wherein: The extension distance is a maximum distance formed between the actuator body and the main panel.

67. The method of claim 66, wherein: The extended distance is greater than the retracted distance.

68. The method of claim 66, wherein: The panel of the panel actuation assembly is configured to transition between the retracted configuration and the extended configuration.

69. The method of claim 47, wherein: The connection panel is coupled to the movable panel via a panel connection joint.

70. The method of claim 69, wherein: Movement of the movable panel causes movement of the connection panel.

71. The method of claim 39, wherein: The hinged wall wave generating system comprises a plurality of panels forming a hinged wall, and wherein each of the panels comprises a movable panel.

72. The method of claim 71, wherein: The hinged wall wave generating system further includes at least one connection panel pivotably coupled to at least one movable panel.

73. The method of claim 72, wherein: The movable panels and the at least one connecting panel are connected in an alternating pattern to form the hinged wall.

74. The method of claim 73, wherein: The hinged wall includes one or more of the connecting panel and the movable panel forming an undulation for forming a surfable wave in the fluid container.

75. The method of claim 47, wherein: The hinged wall wave generating system also includes a pivoting wall stabilizer connected to the connecting panel.

76. The method of claim 75, wherein: The pivoting wall stabilizer comprises: a connection arm connected to the connection panel; and A support arm is connected to the connecting arm.

77. The method of claim 76, wherein: The articulated wall wave generating system also includes a support track connected to the at least one pivoting wall stabilizer, wherein the connecting arm extends between the connecting panel and the support track, and wherein the connecting arm is configured to slide or move along the support track in response to movement of the connecting panel.

78. The method of claim 77, wherein: The support arm extends between the connecting arm and the support track, and wherein the support arm is configured to pivot relative to the support track.

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