Rocker type swinging device for swinging recreation facility

Abstract

A swing device (100) for entertainment of an occupant by swinging a recreation facility, the swing device comprising a linkage of upright first and second supports (21, 22) located on a base (1) and interconnected at a distal support end by a coupling element (6). At least one of the first and second supports (21, 22) can be driven by an actuator (5) to effect a rocking movement. The oscillating device comprises at least one oscillating arm (31, 32) which is suspended from one of the first and second supports, respectively. The swing arm can move along the swing path of the swing arm. At least one passenger carrying device (41, 42) is connected to a distal swing arm end (34) of the swing arm (31, 32). The combination of the swinging motion of the support, the swinging motion of the swinging arm and the rotating motion of the connecting element provides a spectacular scene effect brought by superimposed movement for the public and passengers.

Description

[0001] This invention relates to a swing device for entertaining riders by providing a swinging amusement ride, the swing device comprising at least one swing arm suspended from first and second supports, wherein a passenger-carrying device is connected to at least one swing arm. Furthermore, this invention relates to a method for operating the swing device according to the invention.

[0002] EP0.140.238B1 discloses an amusement ride system having a base formed by left and right underframes to support left and right supports formed by foldable rods, respectively. The underframes are spaced apart and interconnected by spacers. Radial rotating heads are supported on the free ends of the left and right supports. Each head can rotate about a horizontal axis via an associated drive element. Each head has a joint that supports a cantilever adapted to rotate about the joint axis. Pneumatic cylinders are used to dampen the rotational movement of the cantilever. Universal joints are provided at the free ends of each cantilever. The two ends of a pod-type passenger vehicle are connected to the universal joints. With the rotational movement of the cantilever, the passenger vehicle can be driven along a circular trajectory and present different corresponding tilt positions as it moves along this trajectory. In this way, a large number of variations can be achieved under the action of the passenger vehicle's movement.

[0003] EP2.754.472B1 discloses a substantially similar amusement ride system, but it includes multiple gondolas as disclosed in EP2517765. Each gondola is connected to a support arm for rotation about at least one axis of rotation that extends laterally, substantially perpendicular to the support arm. Therefore, this amusement ride system can be considered to provide an additional degree of freedom of movement, thereby enabling a spectacular combination of rotational movement and providing riders with a unique experience.

[0004] The shortcoming of these known amusement ride systems is that, despite achieving multiple degrees of freedom of movement, the pod trajectories remain relatively predictable. The challenge lies in providing an amusement ride system that offers riders superimposed motion during operation, thereby delivering a greater sense of excitement.

[0005] Furthermore, it is noted that US10456695B1 discloses an amusement device that provides an amusement device that is essentially a swinging amusement device. This amusement device includes a pair of fixed and spaced-apart base mounting structures. A generally horizontal swing axis is defined between the base mounting structures. Each base mounting structure pivotally supports a rocker arm. The pair of rocker arms extend from a common swing axis to a distal end connected by a crossbar serving as a wheel axle. The amusement device includes a swinging passenger vehicle. The passenger vehicle is suspended from the wheel axle by spokes. The passenger vehicle is suspended when stationary but not fully suspended when driven to perform a swinging motion. The distal ends of the rocker arms support opposing drive systems to provide a swinging motion that can achieve a full 360-degree rotation. The rocker arms are driven by their independent drive systems (e.g., hydraulic cylinders) to tilt within a limited angular range from approximately 9 o'clock to 3 o'clock on an imaginary clock face. The rocker arms are driven by a hydraulic system that is independent and not connected to the drive system of the swinging passenger vehicle.

[0006] In the entertainment industry, swinging motion is a classic and imaginative activity. However, this classic swinging motion is somewhat predictable. The challenge lies in providing a more spectacular swinging motion that offers riders a greater sense of excitement.

[0007] Regarding the aforementioned prior art, it should be noted that any discussion of documents, actions, materials, devices, articles, etc. in this specification is intended to provide background information for the present invention and should not be construed as an admission that any such content constitutes part of the prior art in the relevant field of the present invention or is common knowledge in the field prior to the priority date of each claim of this application.

[0008] The general object of the present invention is to at least partially eliminate the aforementioned drawbacks and / or provide a usable alternative. More specifically, the object of the present invention is to provide a swinging device that includes superimposed motion, bringing more stimulation to swinging amusement rides.

[0009] According to the present invention, this objective is achieved by a swinging device for providing a swinging amusement facility as described in claim 1.

[0010] A swinging device is provided to entertain riders by swinging the amusement ride. Visible on an imaginary projection plane, the swinging device includes a linkage mechanism of first and second supports that extend upwards from the base and are interconnected by a connecting element.

[0011] The first and second supports each have an elongated first support body and an elongated second support body, respectively. Each support body has a proximal support end and a distal support end. At the proximal support end, each support body is pivotable about a first or second support axis connected to a base. The first support axis is spaced apart from the second support axis. The first support axis is laterally spaced from the second support axis by a certain distance. The support axes extend horizontally, causing the first and second supports to pivot in a vertical plane of motion. At least one of the first and second supports is driven by an actuator to achieve a tilting movement of the first and second supports. This tilting movement is a rocking movement about the respective first and second support axes, wherein the first and second supports are driven to move back and forth.

[0012] A connecting element interconnects the first and second support members. The connecting element has first and second connecting ends, which are respectively connected to the distal support ends of the respective first and second support members. Specifically, the connecting element for interconnection creates a distance between the distal support ends and has a length extending in the vertical plane of movement of the support members. Specifically, in a stationary state, for example, for carrying a passenger, the first and second support members are arranged facing each other.

[0013] The swinging device includes at least one swing arm, specifically first and second swing arms. Each swing arm has an elongated swing body and is movable along its own swing path. The first and second swing arms each have an elongated first and second swing body. Each swing body has a proximal swing arm end and a distal swing arm end. At the proximal swing arm end, each swing arm body is pivotable about a swing axis connected to a respective first and second support. The swing arm body can be directly or indirectly mounted to the support.

[0014] The swing device also includes at least one passenger-carrying device, specifically first and second passenger-carrying devices connected to the distal swing arm ends of the respective first and second swing arms. At least one passenger-carrying device is configured to perform its own swinging motion. Each passenger-carrying device can move along its own swinging path. A swing device comprising only two passenger-carrying devices may also be referred to as a double swing device.

[0015] The swing axis of at least one swing arm can be displaced by the movement of the linkage mechanism of the swing device. The swing axis can be displaced by the swaying motion of the support member. The displacement of the swing axis can cause a significant change in the swing path of the passenger-carrying device.

[0016] The first and second supports are interconnected via a connecting element, providing interaction between the first and second swing arms. Due to this interconnection, the swinging motion of the first support causes the swinging motion of the second support, thus moving both swing axes and influencing the swinging motion of both swing arms. Riders seated in one of the rides will experience changes in their swinging ride relative to their environment, and also additionally, changes relative to the other ride. Therefore, setting up a highly dynamic swinging ride significantly enhances the rider's thrill experience.

[0017] Furthermore, during operation, the swing device presents a combination of moving parts, where the support is oscillating, the connecting elements are rotating, and the swing arm is swinging. Due to this combination of movements, the swing device provides a visually appealing entertainment device for those viewing it from the outside.

[0018] In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, a sub-assembly of first and second supports and at least one swing arm is positioned adjacent to at least one passenger-carrying device. Specifically, the first and second supports and the sub-assemblies of first and second swing arms are positioned between the first and second passenger-carrying devices. As can be seen from a front view defined by a swing path swinging from rear to front, the first and second passenger-carrying devices are laterally positioned outside the supports and swing arms. Connecting elements may be positioned between the supports, with the swing arms laterally positioned outside the supports. At least one of the first and second passenger-carrying devices is laterally positioned relative to the sub-assembly of the supports and swing arms. Compared to conventional swing devices (where the swing arms are positioned between frame supports), the passenger-carrying devices positioned adjacent to the sub-assemblies offer an open, accessible carrying platform, allowing occupants to enter or exit the passenger-carrying device. Occupants can access the passenger-carrying device from the carrying platform using an open, unobstructed space. Advantageously, occupants can easily enter or exit the passenger-carrying device without having to traverse around the supports or bases of the supports. The two passenger-carrying units can be laterally positioned on the left and right sides of the sub-assembly, which helps to provide a clear, accessible platform that allows passengers to enter or leave the carrying platform.

[0019] In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the distance "Q" between the first and second support shafts is equal to or less than the length of each of the first and second supports. In particular, the length of the support is at least 10% greater than the distance "Q" between the support shafts, and especially at least 20% greater. The ratio between the length of the support and the distance between the support shafts is greater than one, which is beneficial for providing sufficient height for the suspended swing arm and for providing sufficient space to allow the support to tilt.

[0020] In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the length of the connecting element is at least 70% shorter than the distance "Q" between the first and second support shafts, and particularly at least 50% shorter. Specifically, the length of the connecting element is at least 1 meter and at most 3 meters.

[0021] In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the first and second supports have the same length. Therefore, the swing device has a symmetrical appearance, which may contribute to increased visual appeal.

[0022] In an alternative embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the first and second supports and the corresponding first and second swing arms have different lengths. The different lengths of the swing arms can create different swing paths for each passenger vehicle. The length of the first swing arm can be greater than the length of the second swing arm, causing the first passenger vehicle to swing relative to the second passenger vehicle along a larger swing path. Therefore, the swing device provides different swing paths, allowing riders to experience novelty and enjoyment while enjoying different swing rides.

[0023] In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the length of the connecting element is at least 70% shorter than the distance "Q" between the first and second support shafts, and particularly at least 50% shorter. Specifically, the connecting length of the connecting element is at least 1 meter and at most 3 meters. The construction of the swing device including a shorter connecting element reduces the tendency of the swing path to a conventional circular trajectory. Therefore, the swing device can be configured to meet the needs of park owners, providing riders with a particular level of stimulation.

[0024] In an embodiment of the swinging device according to the invention, as seen laterally from the imaginary projection plane, the swinging device forms a four-bar linkage according to the Grashov condition that defines a double-rocker mechanism. Specifically, the Grashov condition, as disclosed in Wikipedia, states that "if the sum of the shortest and longest links in a planar quadrilateral linkage is less than or equal to the sum of the remaining two links, then the shortest link can rotate completely relative to its adjacent link." In a double-rocker mechanism according to the Grashov condition, the shortest link, formed by the connecting element, can rotate completely, while the adjacent link, formed by the upright support, swings back and forth.

[0025] In other words, in an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the swing device forms a four-bar double rocker mechanism according to the Grashov condition, wherein the first and second supports, the connecting element, and the distance between the corresponding first and second support shafts together form a Grashov double rocker linkage mechanism, wherein the first and second supports are respectively a first rocker and a second rocker having lengths "L" and "P", the connecting element is a connector having a length "S", and the distance between the first and second support shafts has a length "Q", and the tilting movement of the first and second rockers is realized according to the formula (S+L)>(P+Q), and wherein the connecting element can rotate completely.

[0026] Preferably, the connecting element of the swing device according to the invention is configured in a four-bar linkage to perform full rotation. The first and second supports are then configured to tilt within their full range. Full rotation facilitates smooth movement of the four-bar linkage during operation.

[0027] In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the swing device has a double rocker mechanism construction but does not meet the Grashof condition, and the swing motion of the first and second supports may be restricted to a predetermined tilt angle, such that the restriction prevents the complete rotation of the connecting elements.

[0028] In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the swing device includes a control unit configured to control the swinging motion of the first and second supports. Specifically, the swinging motion is programmed to not exceed a tilt angle of at least 30° to at most 120° relative to the horizontal plane. Each support can tilt relative to the base about a support axis at an angle of at least 30° to at most 120° relative to the horizontal plane. Therefore, the control unit is programmed to limit the swinging motion, thereby preventing full rotation of the connecting element. The restricted swinging motion of the first and second supports can cause restricted rotational and torsional motion of the connecting element.

[0029] In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, an actuator for realizing the swinging motion of the first and second supports is positioned between the connecting element and one of the first and second supports. Preferably, in an embodiment of the swing device, the connecting element is configured to perform full rotation, and the actuator is configured as a motor for driving the connecting element to rotate.

[0030] In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, an actuator is positioned between a base and at least one of the first and second supports to achieve a swinging motion of at least one of the first and second supports. Preferably, the first and second supports are each provided with an independent actuator for tilting the respective first and second supports. The actuator may be a linear actuator comprising an elongated actuator body, such as a hydraulic cylinder, having a first actuator end connected to the base and a second actuator end connected to the support. The swing device includes an independent actuator for each support; this arrangement may facilitate obtaining a predetermined swing path and properly aligning the actuators during operation.

[0031] In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the swing arm is freely pivotally connected to the support. The swing arm can swing freely about a rotation axis forming the swing axis. The support can perform a rocking motion to facilitate the swinging motion of the swing arm.

[0032] In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, a swing actuator is disposed near the end of at least one swing arm to drive the swing arm to rotate relative to the support. Advantageously, the swinging motion of the swing arm can be controlled by the swing actuator to obtain a predetermined swing path. In particular, the swing actuator can be operated by the rider to obtain an interactive amusement experience.

[0033] In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, a swing brake is disposed near the end of at least one swing arm to decelerate the swinging motion of the swing arm. Advantageously, the swinging motion of the swing arm can be controlled by the swing brake to obtain a predetermined swinging path. In particular, the swing brake can be operated by the rider to obtain an interactive amusement experience.

[0034] In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, at least one swing arm includes a first swing arm portion and a second swing arm portion. The first swing arm portion is rotatably connected to the second swing arm portion. In particular, the first swing arm portion is freely pivotable relative to the second swing arm portion. Advantageously, such a swing arm composed of several parts can achieve more degrees of freedom for the swing device, thereby helping to enhance the attractiveness of the swing device.

[0035] In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, at least one of the first and second passenger-carrying devices is rotatably fixed to a corresponding swing arm. Preferably, at least one of the first and second passenger-carrying devices includes at least one occupant seat facing the direction of tilted movement of the support. Thus, the occupant seated in the seat swings back and forth as in a conventional swinging amusement ride. The passenger-carrying device is rigidly connected to the swing arm. By fixing it, the passenger-carrying device has a fixed orientation relative to the swing arm. Fixing the passenger-carrying device to the swing arm facilitates control of the swinging amusement ride along a specific swing path. Alternatively, at least one of the first and second passenger-carrying devices can be pivotally connected to the swing arm, thereby tilting at a predetermined angle or rotating completely relative to the swing arm. This rotatable connection of the passenger-carrying device can also increase the stimulation of the swinging amusement ride. In particular, the passenger-carrying device can rotate about a horizontal or vertical axis to obtain additional dizziness.

[0036] In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, a passenger-carrying device brake is provided to rotate and lock the passenger-carrying device relative to the swing arm. The passenger-carrying device brake helps to keep the passenger-carrying device stable when passengers enter or exit it. In particular, the passenger-carrying device brake can be operated by the passenger during the ride to obtain an interactive amusement experience.

[0037] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for operating a swing device according to the invention, wherein the method includes the following steps: achieving a tilting movement of a support (particularly a support body) by means of at least one actuator, thereby displacing the swing axis of the swing arm to adapt to the swing path of the passenger-carrying device.

[0038] Advantageously, the support structure can tilt to facilitate the swinging motion of the swing arm. Riders can experience further thrills by accelerating and decelerating the swing path as they lengthen or shorten it during their ride.

[0039] In an embodiment of the method according to the invention, the method further includes the step of: realizing the swinging motion of the swing arm by a swing actuator. By introducing a combination of the tilting motion of the support and the swinging motion of the swing arm, the passenger-carrying device can obtain an exciting swinging path, thereby increasing the thrill of the swinging amusement ride.

[0040] In an embodiment of the method according to the invention, the swing arm can rotate completely together with the passenger-carrying device. The control unit can be programmed to provide 360° swing motion, wherein the passenger-carrying device at the far end of the swing arm moves in a circular motion about the swing arm axis.

[0041] In one aspect of the invention, the present invention relates to a swing device for entertaining riders via a swinging amusement ride, the swing device (10) comprising: —Support member (2), which includes an elongated support body (20) having a proximal support end (23) and a distal support end (24), the support body (20) being located at the proximal support end (23), the proximal support end being pivotable about a support shaft (02) connected to the base (1) to achieve a rocking motion of the support body (20), wherein the support body (20) can be driven by an actuator (5) to rotate about the support shaft (02) to achieve the rocking motion of the support body (20). —A swing arm (3), comprising an elongated swing body (30) suspended on a support (20), the swing body (30) having a proximal swing arm end (33) and a distal swing arm end (34), wherein the swing body (30) is located at the proximal swing arm end (33), the proximal swing arm end being pivotable about a swing axis (03) connected to the support (20) to achieve the swinging motion of the swing body (30); and — A passenger-carrying device (4) for carrying at least one passenger, wherein the passenger-carrying device (4) is connected to a remote swing arm end (34), characterized in that the swing arm (3) is freely pivotally suspended on a support (20).

[0042] Advantageously, during operation, the swinging motion of the freely suspended swing arm can be achieved by swaying the support structure. The support structure can sway to facilitate the swinging motion of the swing arm. By utilizing the acceleration and deceleration resulting from lengthening or shortening the swing path during the ride, riders can experience further thrills.

[0043] In an embodiment of the swing device according to this aspect of the invention, the swing device includes a control unit configured to control the swinging motion of the support member.

[0044] Specifically, the swaying motion is programmed to not exceed a tilt angle of 30° to 120° relative to the horizontal plane. The support can tilt relative to the base about a support axis at an angle of 30° to 120° relative to the horizontal plane. Therefore, the control unit is programmed to limit the swaying motion.

[0045] In an embodiment of the swing device according to this aspect of the invention, the actuator is positioned between the base and the support to achieve the swinging motion of the support. Preferably, the support is provided with actuators for tilting the support. The actuator may be a linear actuator comprising an elongated actuator body, such as a hydraulic cylinder, having a first actuator end connected to the base and a second actuator end connected to the support. The swing device includes actuators for the support, an arrangement that may facilitate obtaining a predetermined swing path and properly aligning the actuators during operation.

[0046] In an embodiment of the swing device according to this aspect of the invention, a swing brake is located near the end of the swing arm to decelerate the swinging motion of the swing arm. Advantageously, the swinging motion of the swing arm can be controlled by the swing brake to obtain a predetermined swinging path. In particular, the swing brake can be operated by the rider to obtain an interactive amusement experience.

[0047] In an embodiment of the swing device according to this aspect of the invention, the swing arm includes a first swing arm portion and a second swing arm portion. The first swing arm portion is rotatably connected to the second swing arm portion. In particular, the first swing arm portion is freely pivotable relative to the second swing arm portion. Advantageously, such a swing arm composed of several parts can achieve more degrees of freedom for the swing device, thereby helping to enhance the attractiveness of the swing device.

[0048] In an embodiment of the swing device according to this aspect of the invention, at least one passenger-carrying device is rotatably fixed to a corresponding swing arm. Preferably, the passenger-carrying device includes at least one occupant seat facing the direction of the swinging motion of the support. Thus, the occupant seated in the seat swings back and forth as in a conventional swinging amusement ride. The passenger-carrying device is rigidly connected to the swing arm. By fixing it, the passenger-carrying device has a fixed orientation relative to the swing arm. Fixing the passenger-carrying device to the swing arm facilitates control of the swinging amusement ride along a specific swinging path. Alternatively, at least one passenger-carrying device can be pivotally connected to the swing arm, thereby tilting at a predetermined angle or rotating completely relative to the swing arm. This rotatable connection of the passenger-carrying device can also increase the stimulation of the swinging amusement ride. In particular, the passenger-carrying device can rotate about a horizontal or vertical axis to obtain additional dizziness.

[0049] In an embodiment of the swing device according to this aspect of the invention, a passenger-carrying device brake is provided to rotate and lock the passenger-carrying device relative to the swing arm. The passenger-carrying device brake helps to keep the passenger-carrying device stable when passengers enter or exit it. In particular, the passenger-carrying device brake can be operated by the passenger during the ride to obtain an interactive amusement experience.

[0050] Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention relates to a method for operating a swinging device, wherein the method includes the steps of: realizing a swinging motion of a support (particularly a support body) by means of at least one actuator, thereby displacing the swing axis of the swing arm to adapt to the swinging path of the passenger-carrying device.

[0051] Advantageously, the support structure can swing to facilitate the swinging motion of the swing arm. Riders can experience further thrills by accelerating and decelerating the swing path as it lengthens or shortens during the ride.

[0052] In an embodiment of the method according to this aspect of the invention, the swing arm can rotate completely together with the passenger-carrying device. The control unit can be programmed to provide 360° swing motion, wherein the passenger-carrying device at the far end of the swing arm moves in a circular motion about the swing arm axis.

[0053] The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings illustrate a practical embodiment according to the invention, but this embodiment should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. Specific features of the illustrated embodiment can also be considered independently of this embodiment and can be regarded as limiting features in a broader sense, applicable not only to the illustrated embodiment but also as general features to all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims, wherein: Figure 1 A perspective view of an embodiment of a swing device according to the invention is shown, the swing device having first and second passenger-carrying devices respectively suspended by swing arms connected to the distal support end of an tiltable support body; Figure 2 A planar quadrilateral linkage mechanism is shown, which forms a double rocker mechanism and represents the kinematic scheme of the swing device according to the invention. Figure 3 and Figure 4 They are shown respectively as follows Figure 1 The front and top views of the swing device are shown, wherein the first and second supports and the sub-assemblies of the first and second swing arms are positioned between the first and second passenger-carrying devices. Figure 5 A side view of the swing device in its initial position in entry mode is shown, allowing an occupant to enter or exit the passenger-carrying device. The extreme positions of the first and second supports are also shown, with the connecting element aligned with one of the first or second supports. Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a variant of the swing device is shown, wherein the swing arm includes a first swing arm pivotally connected to a second swing arm portion.

[0054] exist Figures 1 to 6 In the figures, the swinging device according to the invention is generally indicated by reference numeral 100. The same reference numerals are used in the figures to indicate identical or functionally similar components.

[0055] Figure 1 A perspective view of a swing device 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 3 and Figure 4A front view and a top view of the swing device 100 are shown respectively. The swing device 100 is an amusement device configured to allow riders to enjoy a swinging amusement ride. The swing device 100 includes a linkage mechanism of upright first and second support members 21, 22. The first and second support members 21, 22 point upward and extend from the base 1 (here, the support platform). The first and second support members each have an elongated first support body 210 and an elongated second support body 220. Here, the first and second support bodies 210, 220 have the same lengths P and L. Each support body 210, 220 has a proximal support end 23 and a distal support end 24. At the proximal support end 23, each support body 210, 220 is pivotable about the first and second support axes O2, O2' respectively. The first and second support axes O2, O2' are separated from each other by a distance Q.

[0056] The first and second support members 21 and 22 are interconnected by a connecting element 6. The connecting element has first and second connecting ends 61 and 62, which are respectively connected to the distal support ends 24 of the respective first and second support bodies 210 and 220. The connecting element has a length S.

[0057] As can be seen from the side view, the first and second support members 21 and 22, the base 1, and the connecting element 6 together form a four-bar linkage. This four-bar linkage is constructed as a double rocker mechanism. The double rocker has a fixed base link Q and a short link S connecting two adjacent rockers P and L. The first and second support members 21 and 22 respectively form one of the rockers P and L. The connecting element 6 forms the short link S. The distance Q between the first and second support shafts O2 and O2' forms the fixed base link Q. Here, the distance Q is equal to or less than the length of each of the first and second support members.

[0058] Preferably, the four-bar linkage follows the so-called Grashov condition, which defines the following situation: according to the formula S+L>P+Q, the shortest link is allowed to rotate completely. The complete rotation of the shortest link (referred to as short link S) restricts the tilting motion, or so-called swaying motion, of the adjacent links L and P, which can tilt about tilting axes separated by a distance Q.

[0059] like Figure 1As shown, the swing device 100 also includes first and second swing arms 31, 32. Each swing arm is suspended from a corresponding support 210, 220. The first and second swing arms 31, 32 are movable along their respective swing paths. The first and second swing arms each have elongated first and second swing bodies 310, 320. Each swing body 310, 320 has a proximal swing arm end 33 and a distal swing arm end 34. At the proximal swing arm end 33, the swing body is suspended from the support. The swing body is pivotally connected to the support. First and second passenger devices 41, 42 are connected to the distal swing arm ends of the swing bodies. Here, there is a rigid connection between the passenger devices and the swing bodies. Alternatively, the passenger devices 41, 42 may be movably connected to the swing bodies to provide further degrees of freedom. In one embodiment, the passenger devices 41, 42 may be provided with passenger device brakes to rotate and lock the passenger devices, for example, to allow passengers to enter or leave.

[0060] The first and second swing arms 31 and 32 are free to swing. At least one of the first and second swing arms 31 and 32 is freely pivotally suspended from the support 20. During operation of the swing device, the introduced tilting motion can be used to cause the first and second swing arms to swing.

[0061] In one embodiment, the freely swinging arm may be equipped with a swing brake. During operation, in the entry mode of the swing device 100, the swing brake can be used to stabilize the passenger-carrying device when a passenger enters or leaves. During operation, in the swing mode of the swing device 100, the swing brake can be used to decelerate the swing motion.

[0062] In one embodiment, a swing actuator and / or a swing brake may be disposed near the swing arm end 33 of at least one swing arm 31, 32. The swing actuator is provided to drive the swing arm to rotate relative to the support. The swing brake is provided to decelerate the swing motion of the swing arm.

[0063] Figure 1 Control unit 9 is also shown. Control unit 9 is configured to control the tilting movement of the first and second supports. In operation, the tilting movement can be configured to tilt angles ranging from a minimum of 30° to a maximum of 120° relative to the horizontal plane.

[0064] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, a sub-assembly including first and second support bodies 210, 220 and first and second swing arm bodies 310, 320 is positioned between the first and second passenger-carrying devices 41, 42. Advantageously, passengers can freely enter the passenger-carrying devices without having to pass around one of the support bodies.

[0065] like Figure 1As shown, at least one of the first and second support members 21 and 22 can be driven by actuator 5 to achieve tilting movement of the first and second support bodies 210 and 220. Here, each of the first and second support bodies 210 and 220 is provided with independent actuators 51 and 52. The actuators are positioned between the base 1 and the support body to achieve tilting movement. Alternatively, the actuator 5 (e.g., a motor) can be positioned between the connecting element 6 and at least one of the first and second support bodies.

[0066] The actuator 5 shown here is a linear actuator, specifically a hydraulic cylinder. This linear actuator has an elongated actuator body 50, which has a proximal actuator end 53 connected to the base 1 and a distal actuator end 54 connected to the support 20.

[0067] Figure 5 The swing device 100 in entry mode is shown, allowing occupants to enter and exit two passenger units 41, 42 from a support platform 1. The swing motion is indicated by dashed lines, where the first and second supports 21, 22 are tilted, the swing arms 31, 32 swing, and the connecting element 6 rotates. In entry mode, the two swing arms 31, 32 are vertically suspended from the supports 21, 22. The connecting element 6 is in a horizontal position here. The position shown in the dashed swing mode is the extreme position, where the connecting element 6 is aligned with one of the supports 21, 22.

[0068] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of another variant is shown, in which the swing arm 31 includes a first swing arm portion 311 and a second swing arm portion 312 pivotally connected to each other. The first swing arm portion 311 is rotatably connected to the second swing arm portion 312. Advantageously, the swinging device has an additional degree of freedom, which can further contribute to increasing its attractiveness.

[0069] Therefore, the present invention provides a swing device 100 for entertaining riders via a swinging amusement ride. The swing device includes a linkage mechanism of upright first and second supports 21, 22, located on a base 1 and interconnected at their distal supports by a connecting element 6. At least one of the first and second supports 21, 22 can be driven by an actuator 5 to achieve a swinging motion. The swing device includes at least one swing arm 31, 32, suspended from one of the first and second supports, respectively. The swing arm is movable along its own swing path. At least one passenger device 41, 42 is connected to the distal swing arm end 34 of the swing arm 31, 32. The combination of the swinging motion of the supports, the swinging motion of the swing arms, and the rotational motion of the connecting element provides a spectacular visual effect of superimposed movement for the public and riders.

[0070] In addition to the embodiments shown in the figures, there are many other variations. For example, in a variation of the illustrated embodiment of the swing device, alternative embodiments of the swing device may include first and second supports 210, 220 with different lengths P and L.

[0071] Although the invention has been described in detail, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as claimed below. All such changes and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure and the claims.

[0072] Furthermore, it should be noted that any feature of the system according to the invention—whether described in the embodiments and / or mentioned in the dependent claims—is considered patentable in itself and exists independently of another disclosed feature. In particular, any measure recited in the dependent claims is considered patentable even if it is removed from the independent claim.

[0073] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram: Q, the distance between support axes L, the length of the first support member P, the length of the second support member S, the length of the connecting element v, vertical h, level 100, Swinging device 1. Base 2. Support components 02, Support Shaft 20. Support 21, First support component 22, Second support member 210, First Support 220, Second Support 23, near the support end 24, far support end 3. Swing arm 03, Swing Axis 31, First swing arm 310, First swing arm body 311, First swing arm 312, Second swing arm 32, Second swing arm 320, Second swing arm body 33, near the swing arm end 34, far swing arm end 4. Passenger carrying device 41, First passenger-carrying device 42, Second passenger-carrying device 5. Actuator 50, Actuator Body 51, First Actuator 52, Second Actuator 53, near actuator end 54, remote actuator end 6. Connecting elements 61, First connection end 62, Second connection end 9. Control Unit

Claims

1. A swing device (100) for entertaining riders by providing a swinging amusement ride, wherein the swing device (100) includes a linkage mechanism of upright first and second supports (21, 22) interconnected by a connecting element (6), wherein: The first and second supports (21, 22) each have an elongated first support body (210) and an elongated second support body (220), wherein each support body (210, 220) has a proximal support end (23) and a distal support end (24), each support body (210, 220) being located at the proximal support end (23), the proximal support end being pivotable about spaced first and second support shafts (02, 02') connected to the base (1), wherein at least one of the first and second supports (21, 22) can be driven by an actuator (5) to achieve a rocking motion of the first and second supports (210, 220); The connecting element (6) has first and second connecting ends (61, 62), which are respectively connected to the far supporting end (24) of the corresponding first and second supports (210, 220). And wherein the swinging device (100) includes: At least one swing arm, particularly first and second swing arms (31, 32), wherein the at least one swing arm is movable along its own swing path, the at least one swing arm (31, 32) having an elongated swing body (310, 320), the swing body (310, 320) having a proximal swing arm end (33) and a distal swing arm end (34), the swing arm body (310, 320) being located at the proximal swing arm end (33), the proximal swing arm end being pivotable about a swing axis (03) respectively connected to one of the first and second supports (210, 220); and At least one passenger-carrying device (41, 42) for carrying at least one passenger, wherein the at least one passenger-carrying device is connected to the distal swing arm end (34) of a corresponding one of the at least one swing arms (31, 32).

2. The swing device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the sub-assemblies (210, 220, 310, 320) consisting of the first and second supports and the first and second swing arms are positioned between the first and second passenger-carrying devices (41, 42).

3. The swing device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the distance "Q" between the first and second support shafts (02, 02') is equal to or less than the length of each of the first and second support members (21, 22).

4. The swing device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second supports (210, 220) have the same length.

5. The swing device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first and second supports (210, 220) and the corresponding first and second swing arms (310, 320) have different lengths, such that the first and second passenger-carrying devices (41, 42) move along different swing paths.

6. The swing device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting element (6) is 70% shorter, particularly 50% shorter, than the distance between the first and second support shafts (02, 02').

7. The swing device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the swing device (100) forms a four-bar linkage according to the Grashof conditions that define a double rocker mechanism.

8. The swing device (100) according to claim 7, wherein the Grashov condition indicates that if the sum of the shortest link S (formed here by the connecting element (6)) and the longest link L (which may be formed by one of the first and second supports (210, 220) or the distance Q between the first and second support shafts (02, 02')) of the planar quadrilateral linkage is less than or equal to the sum of the remaining two links P, then the shortest link S may be fully rotated relative to its adjacent links L, P, which are formed here by the first and second supports (210, 220).

9. The swinging device (100) according to claim 7, wherein the distance Q between the first and second supports (210, 220), the connecting element (6), and the corresponding first and second support shafts (02, 02') together form a Grashov double rocker linkage mechanism, wherein the first and second supports (210, 220) are respectively a first rocker and a second rocker having length "L" and length "P", the connecting element (6) is a connector having length "S", and the distance between the first and second support shafts (02, 02') has length "Q", and the swinging motion of the first and second rockers (210, 220) is realized according to the formula (S+L)>(P+Q), and wherein the connecting element (6) can rotate completely.

10. The swinging device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the swinging device (100) includes a control unit (9) provided for controlling the swinging motion of the first and second supports (21, 22), wherein, Specifically, the tilting motion is programmed to not exceed a tilt angle of 30° to 120° relative to the horizontal plane.

11. The swinging device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuator (5) is positioned between the connecting element (6) and one of the first and second supports (21, 22).

12. The swinging device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the actuator (5) is connected between the base (1) and at least one of the first and second supports (210, 220) to achieve a swinging motion of at least one of the first and second supports (210, 220).

13. The swinging device according to claim 12, wherein the first and second supports (210, 220) are each provided with a respective actuator (51, 52) for swinging the respective first and second supports (210, 220).

14. The oscillating device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the actuator (5) is a linear actuator comprising an elongated actuator body (50) having a proximal actuator end (53) connected to the base (1) and a distal actuator end (54) connected to the support (20).

15. The swing device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the first and second swing arms (31, 32) is freely pivotally suspended on the support (20).

16. The swing device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein a swing driver and / or a swing brake are disposed at the proximal end (33) of at least one swing arm (31, 32) to drive the at least one swing arm (31, 32) to rotate relative to the support (210, 220) and / or to decelerate the swing motion of the swing arm (31, 32), wherein, In particular, the swing drive and / or swing brake can be operated by the passenger during the ride.

17. The swing device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one swing arm (31, 32) comprises a first swing arm portion (311) and a second swing arm portion (312) rotatably connected to each other.

18. The swing device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the first and second passenger-carrying devices (41, 42) is rotatably fixedly connected to the respective swing arm (31, 32).

19. The swing device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein at least one of the first and second passenger-carrying devices (41, 42) is pivotally connected to the swing arm (3) for tilting at a predetermined angle or fully rotating relative to the swing arm (3), wherein, In particular, the passenger-carrying devices (41, 42) can rotate about a horizontal axis or a vertical axis.

20. The swing device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a passenger-carrying device brake is provided to rotate and lock the passenger-carrying device (41, 42), wherein, In particular, the brakes of the passenger-carrying device can be operated by the passenger during the ride.

21. A method for operating the oscillating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises the following steps: By means of at least one actuator (5), the support (2) is made to swing, thereby displacing the swing axis (03) of the swing arm (3) to adapt to the swing path of the passenger-carrying device (4).

22. The method of claim 21, further comprising the step of: The swing motion of the swing arm (3) is achieved by the swing driver.

23. The method of claim 21 or 22, wherein the oscillating path comprises a loop.

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