Autonomous vehicle transportation system and method

Abstract

To provide an amusement park system.SOLUTION: The amusement park system includes: a plurality of separated amusement park areas; an autonomous vehicle configured to drive along ground surfaces within the plurality of separated park areas; and a gondola system configured to transport the autonomous vehicle between the plurality of separated park areas. The amusement park system further includes a control system configured to operate the autonomous vehicle to engage with and disengage from the gondola system to facilitate transport of the autonomous vehicle by the gondola system.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 742,093, filed October 5, 2018, entitled "AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS," which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. [Background technology]

[0002] Amusement parks or similar entertainment facilities may move people and objects within the amusement park environment in a variety of ways. However, vehicular transportation within the amusement park is relatively complicated. For example, pedestrian paths are often off-limits to automobiles. Furthermore, the amusement park environment may include one or more portions (e.g., amusement park locations, residential areas, etc.) that may be separated by roads or geographic features. As such, it may be difficult / inconvenient to navigate the entire amusement park.

[0003] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art that may be related to various aspects of the present technology that are described and / or claimed below. This discussion is believed to be helpful in providing the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. As such, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application No. 2016 / 0070262 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent Application No. 2018 / 0056792 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The following summarizes certain embodiments commensurate with the subject matter of the original claims. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, but rather to provide a brief summary of some disclosed embodiments. Indeed, the disclosure may include a variety of forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.

[0006] According to one embodiment, an amusement park system includes a plurality of separated amusement park areas, autonomous vehicles configured to operate along a ground within the plurality of separated amusement park areas, and a gondola system configured to transport the autonomous vehicles between the plurality of separated amusement park areas, the amusement park system further including a control system configured to operate the autonomous vehicles to engage and disengage with the gondola system to facilitate transport of the autonomous vehicles by the gondola system.

[0007] According to another embodiment, an autonomous vehicle transportation system includes a gondola system and a vehicle configured to travel at least partially autonomously along a surface, the vehicle comprising a gondola attachment integrally coupled to an upper portion of the vehicle. The gondola attachment is configured to support a weight of the vehicle. The gondola attachment includes a locking tool configured to engage and disengage the gondola system. The autonomous vehicle transportation system further includes a controller configured to steer the vehicle into an engagement position relative to the gondola.

[0008] According to a further embodiment, a vehicle transportation system includes a plurality of vehicles and a gondola station having an arrival zone and a departure zone, a first vehicle of the plurality of vehicles is configured to arrive in the air at the arrival zone via a cable of the gondola station, release from the cable and drive along a first path out of the gondola station, and a second vehicle of the plurality of vehicles is configured to drive along a second path into the gondola station, engage the cable and depart from the departure zone via the cable.

[0009] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters refer to like elements throughout. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an amusement park including an autonomous vehicle and gondola-enabled transportation system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of components of an autonomous vehicle transportation system according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an autonomous vehicle of the autonomous vehicle transportation system of FIG. 2 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an autonomous vehicle of the autonomous vehicle transportation system of FIG. 2 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an autonomous vehicle of the autonomous vehicle transportation system of FIG. 2 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an autonomous vehicle of the autonomous vehicle transportation system of FIG. 2 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an autonomous vehicle of the autonomous vehicle transportation system of FIG. 2 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an autonomous vehicle of the autonomous vehicle transportation system of FIG. 2 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an autonomous vehicle of the autonomous vehicle transportation system of FIG. 2 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an autonomous vehicle of the autonomous vehicle transportation system of FIG. 2 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an autonomous vehicle of the autonomous vehicle transportation system of FIG. 2 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an autonomous vehicle of the autonomous vehicle transportation system of FIG. 2 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure are described below. In order to provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of an actual implementation will be described herein. It is to be understood that, as with any engineering or design project, the development of any such actual implementation will require numerous implementation-specific decisions to be made to achieve the developer's particular goals, which may vary from implementation to implementation, such as compliance with system and business related constraints. It is further to be understood that such a development effort may be complex and time consuming, but is a routine exercise in design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. It is further to be understood that, to the extent that specific terms such as parallel and perpendicular are used in the present invention, these terms allow for deviations from strict mathematical definitions, acknowledging deviations related to, for example, manufacturing imperfections and related tolerances.

[0012] Provided herein is an autonomous vehicle transportation system including an autonomous vehicle and a gondola system. The autonomous vehicles are configured to autonomously (e.g., without continuous user input) transport users and merchandise within an amusement park area. However, in some embodiments, the amusement park areas may be separated by one or more obstacles, such as geographic features, and / or various infrastructure, such as public roads. Indeed, it may be desirable to travel to separate amusement park areas with the autonomous vehicles while avoiding the obstacles. Thus, the autonomous vehicle transportation system may utilize a gondola system to transport the autonomous vehicles to separate amusement park areas (or within the amusement park areas) while avoiding the obstacles.

[0013] In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle (e.g., "vehicle") can include a gondola attachment integrally coupled to the top of the vehicle. The gondola attachment is configured to facilitate engagement of the vehicle with a gondola system. For example, in one embodiment, the gondola attachment integrally coupled to the vehicle can be configured to engage with a gondola arm via a locking device disposed at the end of the gondola arm. That is, the vehicle is configured to drive to a gondola station, engage with a gondola arm of the gondola station via the gondola attachment, and be transported along a gondola path (e.g., cable path) via the gondola arm. In another embodiment, the gondola attachment integrally coupled to the vehicle can include a gondola arm. That is, the vehicle is configured to run within an amusement park area with the gondola arm integrally coupled to the top of the vehicle. The vehicle is further configured to run to a gondola station, connect to a cable of the gondola station via a grip disposed at the end of the gondola arm, and be transported along a gondola path (e.g., cable path) via the cable. In yet another embodiment, the gondola system can include a vehicle compartment coupled to an end of the gondola arm. In such an embodiment, the vehicle is configured to drive to the gondola station, enter the vehicle compartment, engage with the vehicle compartment, and be transported through the gondola compartment along the gondola path (e.g., the cable path).

[0014] The gondola station may further include various embodiments configured to facilitate engagement and disengagement between the vehicle and the gondola system. For example, the gondola station may include an arrival zone, where the vehicle may arrive from the gondola path and disengage from the gondola system. The gondola station may include a departure zone, where the vehicle may engage with the gondola system and depart along the gondola path via a cable. For example, in preparation for engagement with the gondola system, the vehicle may be guided by the loading path to a centerline of the loading path. The loading path may include guide rails configured to contact the sides of the vehicle and guide the vehicle to the centerline. The loading path may further include a subsurface positioning system configured to guide the vehicle to the centerline.

[0015] To this end, features of the autonomous vehicle transportation system provided herein can be used in conjunction with the disclosed embodiments. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an amusement park 10 (e.g., an amusement park system) utilizing an autonomous vehicle transportation system 12 to transport merchandise and / or users (e.g., passengers) throughout the amusement park 10. In particular, the autonomous vehicle transportation system 12 can include vehicles 14 (e.g., autonomous vehicles, vehicles, transportation units, personal rapid transit (PRT) vehicles, gondola cars) configured to transport guests and / or equipment / merchandise throughout the amusement park 10. The vehicles 14 can be autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles configured to travel to various locations throughout the amusement park 10 to pick up / deliver guests and / or merchandise. To travel throughout the amusement park 10, the vehicles 14 can utilize a gondola system 16 of the autonomous vehicle transportation system 12. The gondola system 16 is configured to carry the vehicles 14 in an aerial manner along a gondola path 18 (e.g., a ropeway, cable path) between gondola stations 20, which may include a bull wheel 21 configured to move a cable 23 along the gondola path 18. In this manner, the gondola system 16 may transport the vehicles 14 to and from the gondola stations 20 while avoiding various infrastructure (e.g., footpaths, public roads, buildings, attractions) or geographic obstacles.

[0016] In general, the vehicle 14 is configured to move along a surface within a park boundary 22. The park boundary 22 may define one or more park areas 24, including points of interest such as guest housing 26, attractions 28, shops 30, parking lots 32, etc. The vehicle 14 is configured to move autonomously (e.g., autonomously via an on-board controller) within the park boundary 22 of the park area 24. For example, in some embodiments, the vehicle 14 may be configured to move along a predefined vehicle path 34 within the park area 24 to transport guests / merchandise to different portions of the park area 24. However, traveling between the park areas 24 of the park 10 may be difficult. Indeed, in some embodiments, the park areas 24 may be separated by obstacles 36, such as public roads or streets, terrain, bodies of water, and other elements that may impede surface travel. For example, as used herein, terrain may refer to an area of ​​land that lacks infrastructure designed for vehicular and / or pedestrian travel. Accordingly, provided herein is a gondola system 16 configured to transport vehicles 14 between amusement park areas 24 to avoid obstacles. Additionally, although substantially shown and discussed with reference to an amusement park 10, it should be understood that the autonomous transportation system 12 may be applied to any suitable environment, such as a resort, urban, or other environment.

[0017] The autonomous vehicle transportation system 12 defined by the vehicles 14 and the gondola system 16 may be communicatively coupled to a controller 40, which may represent a single master control system or multiple distributed control systems. The controller 40 may provide instructions to the vehicles 14 and / or the gondola system 16 to transport the vehicles 14 between and / or within the amusement area 24, as discussed herein.

[0018] 2 is a block diagram of certain components of the autonomous vehicle transportation system 12. It should be understood that the components shown may include additional software or hardware elements. Furthermore, the functionality of various disclosed hardware or software elements may be duplicated and / or substituted in the illustrated components.

[0019] The autonomous vehicle transportation system 12 can be configured to operate at least in part via instructions from a controller 40, which can include a memory 42 that stores instructions executable by a processor 44 to perform the methods and control operations described herein. The processor 44 can include one or more processing devices, and the memory 42 can include one or more tangible, non-transitory machine-readable media. By way of example, such machine-readable media can include RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM, other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage, other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to hold or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures, and can be accessed by the processor 44 or by a dedicated or programmed computer or other machine equipped with a processor.

[0020] Additionally, the controller 40 may be configured to include communications circuitry 46 (e.g., a transceiver or other communications device) for communicating with one or more other components of the autonomous vehicle transportation system 12 via wired and wireless communication paths.

[0021] As described, the autonomous vehicle transportation system 12 may include one or more autonomous vehicles 14 including a motor 48 and a power source 50 (e.g., a battery, a solar panel, a generator, a gas engine, or any combination thereof). The operation of the motor 48 is controlled by a vehicle controller 52 including a memory 54 and a processor 56, which may be configured to operate any on-board logic to control the path or progress of the vehicle. For example, the vehicle 14 may respond to local environmental inputs via one or more on-board sensors 58. The vehicle controller 52 may control the motor 48 to adjust its output power to accelerate or decelerate the vehicle 14. The vehicle controller 52 may also control the brakes to slow down or stop the vehicle 14. Additionally, the vehicle controller 52 may operate under instructions from a passenger (e.g., a guest, a crew member) via a user input interface, or user input 60 (e.g., a system or device for receiving input), or from the controller 40 via the communication circuitry 46. For example, a user may utilize the user input 60 to input a desired destination. The vehicle controller 52 and / or the controller 40 can communicate with the user via the display 62. For example, the display 62, which can be part of the user input 60, can show the user upcoming destinations, the time remaining to reach the destination, or optional stops on the way to the destination. To illustrate, in some embodiments, the user can input a desired destination into the vehicle controller 52 and / or the controller 40. As the autonomous vehicle 14 travels to the destination, the vehicle 14 can utilize a gondola path 18 of the gondola system 16. While traveling along the gondola path 18, the vehicle 14 can pass one or more of the gondola stations 20. Thus, at each junction of the gondola path 18, such as a gondola station 20, the user can have the option to adjust the current travel route of the vehicle 14, such as by disengaging from the gondola system 16 and traveling to another destination on the ground, rather than continuing along the gondola path 18.In general, controller 40 receives a first signal indicative of a first location of vehicle 14, receives a second signal indicative of a second location from a display 62 (e.g., a user interface) of vehicle 14, and provides a third signal to vehicle controller 52 of vehicle 14 to enable vehicle 14 to move from the first location to the second location.

[0022] The autonomous vehicle 14 may store images and / or navigation files of the amusement park 10 in memory 54 and perform navigation using a processor 56 of the vehicle controller 52 to execute on-board logic. The sensors 58 may include one or more cameras, laser scanners, and / or ultrasonic scanners that provide input to the vehicle controller 52 to execute turning or navigation instructions to avoid obstacles. In some embodiments, the sensors 58 may include a global positioning system (GPS) configured to detect the location of the vehicle 14. The sensors 58 may communicate the location of the vehicle 14 to the vehicle controller 52 and / or controller 40 for navigation purposes.

[0023] The autonomous vehicle 14 may further include a gondola attachment 64 (e.g., a locking device) integrally coupled to the vehicle 14 and configured to engage or couple the autonomous vehicle 14 with the gondola system 16. That is, as described in more detail below, the autonomous vehicle 14 is configured to drive to a gondola station 20 of the gondola system 16, engage the gondola system 16 via the gondola attachment 64, and be transported to the corresponding gondola station 20 via the gondola path 18. Thus, the gondola system 16 may include a corresponding locking device 66 configured to engage with the gondola attachment 64 of the vehicle 14. In some embodiments, the gondola system 16 may further include a sensor 58 configured to detect engagement of the vehicle 14 with the gondola system 16. The sensor 58 may include, for example, a pressure sensor configured to detect the weight (e.g., presence) of the vehicle 14 on the gondola system 16. The sensor 58 may further include a proximity sensor configured to detect engagement of the gondola attachment 64 of the vehicle 14 with the locking device 66 of the gondola system 16.

[0024] The gondola system 16 can communicate with the controller 40 via a communication circuit 46, which can include, for example, a bus bar. In one embodiment, the sensor 58 can transmit data indicative of the engagement of the vehicle 14 with the gondola system 16 to the controller 40 via the communication circuit 46. The gondola system 16 can further include a power source 70 configured to provide power to the locking device 66, the sensor 58, and the communication circuit 46. The power source 70 can include, for example, a battery, a solar panel, a generator, a gas engine, a power grid, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the power source 70 of the gondola system 16 can be configured to provide power to the power source 50 of the vehicle 14, for example, via charging a battery or as an alternative power source.

[0025] 3 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of an autonomous vehicle 14. Vehicle 14 includes wheels 80 configured to drive vehicle 14 throughout amusement park 10, a frame 82 configured to provide structural support to vehicle 14, one or more seats 84 configured to provide seating for users / guests, and a gondola attachment 64 configured to couple with gondola system 16.

[0026] In general, to steer the vehicle 14 through the amusement park 10, the wheels 80 are configured to drive the vehicle 14 utilizing power from the power source 50. The wheels 80 are also configured to steer the vehicle 14 according to input from the vehicle controller 52. For example, the wheels 80 can move the vehicle 14 to the gondola station 20 of the gondola system 16. At the gondola station 20 of the gondola system 16, the vehicle 14 is configured to couple to a gondola arm 86 of the gondola system 16 via a gondola attachment 64. The gondola attachment 64 is integrally coupled (e.g., bolted, welded) to a top 88 (e.g., roof) of the frame 82 of the vehicle 14. In effect, the vehicle 14 is configured to be supported (e.g., carried) vertically via the gondola attachment 64. In other words, the frame 82 of the vehicle 14 is configured (e.g., reinforced) to provide support in the vertical direction for the entire weight of the vehicle 14 and any cargo (e.g., people, objects) within the vehicle 14. The vehicle 14 may be supported from the gondola attachment 64 via a frame 82 .

[0027] The gondola attachment 64 is configured to engage with a gondola locking device 66 included at a base 90 (e.g., a first end) of the gondola arm 86. As discussed herein, engagement between the vehicle 14 (e.g., via the gondola attachment 64) and the gondola system 16 (e.g., via the locking device 66) can refer to one or more components of the gondola attachment 64 (e.g., one or more locking tools 91) acting to couple to one or more components of the gondola locking device 66, or vice versa. For example, engagement can refer to the locking device 66 (e.g., the locking tool 91) clamping to the gondola attachment 64, or the gondola attachment 64 (e.g., the locking tool 91) extending a protrusion (e.g., a pin) into a receptacle of the locking device 66. In some embodiments, engagement may refer to one or more components of the gondola attachment 64 (e.g., lock tool 91 ) and / or the gondola locking device 66 rotating to engage with the vehicle 14 and gondola system 16 .

[0028] In some embodiments, the engagement between the gondola attachment 64 and the gondola locking device 66 can be triggered in part by an input from the wheel 80. For example, the wheel 80 can be communicatively coupled (e.g., electrically and / or mechanically) to the gondola attachment 64. To this end, the gondola attachment 64 (e.g., the lock tool 91) can be configured to engage the gondola locking device 66 when a weight (e.g., force) experienced by the wheel 80 falls below a predetermined threshold. Specifically, the weight falling below the predetermined threshold can indicate that the vehicle 14 is being supported by the gondola system 16, rather than by the wheel 80. In some embodiments, the sensor 58 can include a pressure sensor configured to detect a weight on the wheel 80. The sensor 58 can transmit data indicative of the weight of the wheel 80 to the vehicle controller 52, which can cause the gondola attachment 64 to engage the gondola locking device 66 when the weight falls below a predetermined threshold. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the wheel 80 is configured to transition between a first retracted position and a second extended position. The wheels 80 can be in a first position when the weight of the vehicle 14 is supported through the wheels 80 and can be in a second position when the weight of the vehicle 14 is supported through a different point, such as through the gondola attachment 64. Thus, transitioning from the first stowed position to the second extended position can cause the vehicle 14 to engage the locking device 66. It is noted that other sensors can be used to verify engagement. For example, a pressure sensor located at the engagement point can be utilized.

[0029] 4 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle 14 engaged with a gondola arm 86. As discussed above with reference to FIG. 3, the vehicle 14 includes wheels 80 configured to drive the vehicle 14 throughout the amusement park 10, a frame 82 configured to provide structural support to the vehicle 14, one or more seats 84 configured to provide seating for users / guests, and an integrated gondola attachment 64 configured to couple with the gondola system 16. Further, as shown, in some embodiments, the gondola attachment 64 (e.g., locking tool 91) can include a convex surface 92 configured to interact with a concave surface 94 of the locking device 66 of the gondola arm 86 to facilitate engagement between the vehicle 14 and the gondola arm 86. For example, the corresponding convex and concave surfaces 92, 94 of the gondola attachment 64 and the locking device 66 of the gondola arm 86 each serve to guide the gondola attachment 64 into the gondola locking device 66 of the gondola arm 86. In this manner, when the gondola attachment 64 is inserted into the gondola locking device 66 , the gondola attachment 64 can be centered within the gondola locking device 66 , such as by sliding along the concave surface 94 of the gondola locking device 66 .

[0030] Further, in some embodiments, when the gondola attachment 64 is placed in the gondola locking device 66, the gondola attachment 64 can apply a downward force to the gondola locking device 66, as indicated by arrow 96. In some embodiments, the downward force can be caused by the gondola arm 86 moving upward away from the vehicle 14 (e.g., due to the movement of the gondola arm 86 by the cable 23). When the gondola attachment 64 applies a downward force to the gondola locking device 66, a pressure mechanism 98 (e.g., pressure switch, sensor) located below the locking device 66 receives the downward force and can activate one or more components of the locking device 66 to secure (e.g., engage) the gondola attachment 64 to the locking device 66. For example, when the pressure mechanism 98 senses the downward force, one or more latches 100 can be activated to hold the gondola attachment 64 in the locking device 66. In particular, the one or more latches 100 can be mechanically actuated, such as as a result of a downward force applied to the pressure mechanism 98, or electrically actuated, such as as a result of a signal sent from the controller 40 based on the downward force received by the pressure mechanism 98. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the gondola attachment 64 can be configured to passively engage with the locking device 66 of the gondola arm 86. For example, the gondola attachment 64 and / or the locking device 66 can include one or more pawls 102. The one or more pawls 102 each include a pivot bar configured to allow movement in one direction and block movement in another direction. For example, the one or more pawls 102 can allow movement to insert the gondola attachment 64 into the locking device 66 and block movement to extract the gondola attachment from the locking device 66. Indeed, during decoupling or disengagement of the gondola attachment 64 and the locking device 66 , the pawl 102 can be retracted, such as by an actuator 104 , to allow extraction movement of the gondola attachment 64 from the locking device 66 .

[0031] 5 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of an autonomous vehicle 14. Similar to the embodiments discussed above, the vehicle 14 includes wheels 80 configured to drive the vehicle 14 throughout the amusement park 10, a frame 82 configured to provide structural support to the vehicle 14, one or more seats 84 configured to provide seating for users / guests, and an integral gondola attachment 64 configured to couple to the gondola system 16. In the current embodiment, the integral gondola attachment 64 is configured to couple directly to the cables 23 or ropes of the gondola system 16. In particular, the gondola attachment 64 integrally coupled to the frame 82 of the vehicle 14 may include a gondola arm 86. In other words, the vehicle 14 is configured to travel throughout the amusement park 10 with the gondola arm 86 integrally attached to a top 88 (e.g., a roof) of the vehicle 14. When the vehicle 14 moves into the gondola station 20 of the gondola system 16, the vehicle 14 is configured to couple to the gondola system 16 via a grip 108 (e.g., a locking tool 91, a removable grip, a coupling mechanism, a clamp, etc.) disposed on the second end 110 of the gondola arm 86. In certain embodiments, the grip 108 is operable to couple to and decouple from the cable 23 via interaction with one or more structures of the gondola station 20, as discussed in more detail below.

[0032] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an autonomous vehicle 14 coupled to a gondola system 16 via a vehicle compartment 112 extending from a gondola arm 86. Similar to the above embodiment, the vehicle 14 may include wheels 80 configured to drive the vehicle 14 throughout the amusement park 10, a frame 82 configured to provide structural support to the vehicle 14, and one or more seats 84 configured to provide seating for users / guests. The vehicle compartment 112 includes one or more security devices 114 for securing the vehicle 14 to the vehicle compartment 112. Because the vehicle 14 is configured to be coupled to the gondola system 16 via the vehicle compartment 112, the frame 82 of the vehicle 14 in the illustrated embodiment does not necessarily support the vehicle 14 vertically, as described above. Indeed, in this embodiment, the vehicle 14 may be lighter than other embodiments discussed herein that may include an integrated gondola attachment 64 and a frame 82 configured to support the vehicle 14 vertically. The reduced weight of the vehicle 14 in the current embodiment may be advantageous for more efficient power / fuel consumption during use of the vehicle 14.

[0033] In some embodiments, the security device 114 may include a wheel lock 116 configured to engage with the wheels 80 of the vehicle 14. Thus, when the vehicle 14 drives into the vehicle compartment 112, the wheel lock 116 is configured to engage with the wheels 80 to couple the vehicle 14 to the vehicle compartment 112. Additionally, in some embodiments, the security device 114 may include a barrier 118 (e.g., a gate) configured to secure the vehicle 14 within the vehicle compartment 112. In some embodiments, the barrier 118 may be configured to operate between an open position and a closed position. While the barrier 118 is in the open position, the vehicle 14 may be permitted to enter and exit the vehicle compartment 112. In some embodiments, while in the open position, the barrier 118 may function as a ramp to facilitate entry and exit of the vehicle 14 into the vehicle compartment 112. While the barrier 118 is in the closed position, if the vehicle 14 is located within the vehicle compartment 112, the barrier 118 may prevent or block the vehicle 14 from leaving the vehicle compartment 112. Specifically, in some embodiments, while the barrier 118 is in the closed position, the barrier 118 may contact the vehicle 14 to hold the vehicle 14 in a stable, stationary position within the vehicle compartment 112. In some embodiments, the security device 114 may be actuated based on one or more signals from the vehicle controller 52 and / or the controller 40. That is, the controller 40, 52 may send a signal to the security device 114 to activate the security device 114 and lock the vehicle 14 within the vehicle compartment as described above, or may be actuated to release (e.g., uncouple) the vehicle 14 from the vehicle compartment 112. In some embodiments, the security device 114 may be actuated mechanically, such as by the weight of the vehicle 14 within the vehicle compartment 112. Additionally, it should be understood that the vehicle compartment 112 is also configured to receive objects / devices / systems other than the vehicle 14 .For example, the vehicle compartment 112 may be configured to accommodate / transport autonomous vehicles, regular cars, motorcycles, and / or people.

[0034] It should be noted that all of the various embodiments (e.g., the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-6 of vehicle 14) can be combined with any of the various loading / unloading station configurations described herein. Indeed, various combinations of attachment mechanisms, vehicle configurations, and loading station configurations can be used in any of a number of combinations according to the presently disclosed embodiments. The illustrated embodiments are representative, and the present disclosure is not limited to merely the illustrated embodiments.

[0035] 7 is a perspective view of the autonomous vehicle transportation system 12 including the vehicle 14 and the gondola system 16. Specifically, FIG. 7 includes a diagram of a departure zone 120 of a gondola station 20. That is, the vehicle 14 can arrive at the departure zone 120 via a loading path 122 (e.g., a loading truck), couple to the cable 23 of the gondola system 16 via the gondola arm 86, and depart along the gondola path 18 to the corresponding gondola station 20.

[0036] In the current embodiment, the gondola system 16 includes a gondola arm 86 with a gondola locking device 66 coupled to a base 90 of the gondola arm 86, as discussed above with reference to Figures 3 and 4. When the gondola arm 86 arrives at the gondola station 20, the gondola arm 86 can be coupled to the cable 23 via a grip 108 (shown in Figure 3), as indicated by arrow 124. When the gondola arm 86 reaches the bull wheel 21, the grip 108 can interact with an attachment manager 126 coupled to an arm carrier 128 (e.g., a holding track) of the gondola system 16. In particular, the arm carrier 128 is configured to transport the gondola arm 86 and / or the vehicle compartment 112 between positions (e.g., engaged / disengaged positions) in the gondola station 20 and to store the gondola arm 86 and / or the vehicle compartment 112 after disengagement and before engagement to the vehicle 14. The attachment manager 126 can disengage the grip 108 from the cable 23 and position the gondola arm 86 on the arm carrier 128. The arm carrier 128 can include one or more drive elements 130 configured to move each gondola arm 86 along the arm carrier 128 (e.g., individually powered wheels). In particular, the drive elements 130 can move the gondola arm 86 to a centerline 132 of the loading path 122 to couple to the vehicle 14. For example, when the gondola arm 86 is positioned on the centerline 132 of the loading path 122, the locking device 66 of the gondola arm 86 can couple to the gondola attachment 64 of the vehicle 14. Indeed, while the vehicle 14 is positioned on the centerline 132, the vehicle 14 can be considered to be in an engagement position for engaging with the gondola system 16. When the gondola arm 86 is coupled to the gondola attachment 64 , the drive element 130 can drive the gondola arm 86 and the vehicle 14 towards the second attachment manager 126 .When the grip 108 of the gondola arm 86 interacts with the attachment manager 126, the attachment manager 126 can position the grip 108 on the cable 23 and couple the grip 108 to the cable 23. When the grip 108 of the gondola arm 86 is coupled to the cable 23, the cable 23 can carry the gondola arm 86 and the vehicle 14 to the corresponding gondola station 20, as indicated by the arrow 134. In fact, the arm carrier 128 is configured to store multiple gondola arms 86 as they arrive at the gondola station 20. In some embodiments, the controller 40 can monitor the position of the vehicle 14 and send one or more signals to the drive element 130 to move the gondola arm 86 to the centerline 132 when the vehicle 14 approaches the loading path 122. Further, in certain embodiments, if the arm carrier 128 is capable of storing the gondola arm 86, the controller 40 can cause the drive element 130 to move the gondola arm 86 along the arm carrier 128 to couple to the cable 23 to make room for more arriving gondola arms 86. In effect, once the gondola arm 86 is coupled to the cable 23, it is handed over to the corresponding gondola station 20.

[0037] The loading path 122 (e.g., loading truck) may include a guidance system 137 utilized to facilitate loading or engagement of the vehicle 14 onto the cable 23 of the gondola system 16 for aerial movement across the amusement park 10. For example, the guidance system 137 may include a guide rail 138 configured to contact the side of the vehicle 14 to guide the vehicle 14 along the loading path 122 to the centerline 132 to facilitate engagement between the vehicle 14 and the gondola arm 86. In some embodiments, the guide rail 138 may include a flare entrance 140. In effect, the guide rail 138 may function as a funnel configured to guide the vehicle 14 onto the centerline 132 on the loading path 122. Additionally, in some embodiments, the guidance system 137 may include one or more sub-surface positioning systems 142 configured to position the vehicle 14 on the centerline 132. That is, the subsurface positioning system 142 may include one or more elements configured to interact with the wheels 80 (or underside) of the vehicle 14 to position the vehicle 14 on the centerline 132. For example, in some embodiments, the subsurface positioning system 142 of the loading path 122 may include the dynamic drive area grid elements of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0070262, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Additionally, in some embodiments, the subsurface positioning system 142 of the loading path 122 may include the propulsion system of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0056792, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0038] Further, in some embodiments, the cable 23 is configured to lift the vehicle 14 off the loading path 122 before the vehicle 14 reaches the end 144 of the loading path 122 to ensure engagement of the locking device 66 of the gondola arm 86 with the gondola attachment 64 of the vehicle 14. Indeed, as noted above, in some embodiments, the locking device 66 and the gondola attachment 64 can be engaged when the vehicle 14 is lifted such that the wheels 80 are not supporting the weight of the vehicle 14 or based on various sensor inputs. Thus, by lifting the vehicle 14 before the end of the loading path 122, the gondola attachment 64 can be actuated to create engagement between the gondola arm 86 and the vehicle 14 while the vehicle 14 is positioned on the surface of the loading path 122. In this manner, as previously described, if the gondola arms 86 and vehicle 14 are not properly engaged when the vehicle 14 is lifted off the surface of the loading path 122, the gondola system 16 may cease operation (in response to one or more signals from the controller 40) such that the vehicle 14 is held stationary on the loading path 122 via the cables 23. One or more maintenance operations may then be performed on the vehicle 14, such as by a system operator / technician.

[0039] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an autonomous vehicle transportation system 12 including a vehicle 14 and a gondola system 16. Specifically, FIG. 8 includes a gondola station 20 having a departure zone 120 and an arrival zone 148. Similar to the embodiment discussed above with reference to FIG. 7, the gondola station 20 can include a loading path 122, a guide rail 138, a subsurface positioning system 142, an arm carrier 128, and a bull wheel 21. In the current embodiment, the vehicle 14 includes a gondola arm 86 integrally attached to an upper portion 88 of the vehicle 14. Thus, the arm carrier 128 can include separate first and second portions 150, 152. Specifically, the first portion 150 of the arm carrier 128 can be associated with the departure zone 120, and the second portion 152 of the arm carrier 128 can be associated with the arrival zone 148. For example, the vehicle 14 can be driven to the loading path 122 and interact with the guidance system 137 (e.g., the guide rails 138 and / or the subsurface positioning system 142). That is, the guidance system 137 can position the vehicle 14 on the centerline 132 of the loading path 122. Once positioned on the centerline 132, the vehicle 14 can be coupled to the first portion 150 of the arm carrier 128. The drive element 130 of the arm carrier 128 can then drive the gondola arm 86 and the vehicle towards the cable 23, where the attachment manager 126 is configured to couple the grips 108 to the cable 23. In some embodiments, the motor 48 of the vehicle 14 can drive the vehicle 14 along the arm carrier 128 (e.g., via the wheels 80) towards the cable 23, where the attachment manager 126 is configured to couple the grips 108 to the cable 23. Once coupled to the cable 23, the cable 23 can carry the vehicle 14 to a corresponding gondola station 20, as indicated by arrow 154.

[0040] When the vehicle 14 arrives at the gondola station 20 via the cable 23, the grip 108 of the gondola arm 86 can interact with the attachment manager 126 of the second part 152 of the arm carrier 128, as indicated by the arrow 156. In particular, the attachment manager 126 can detach the grip 108 of the gondola arm 86 from the cable 23 and position the grip 108 along the second part 152 of the arm carrier 128. At the second part 152 of the arm carrier 128, the drive element 130 of the arm carrier 128 can move the vehicle 14 out of the gondola station 20 and forward, as indicated by the arrow 158. In some embodiments, the motor 48 of the vehicle 14 can drive the vehicle 14 out of the gondola station 20 and along the arm carrier 128 (through contact with the ground).

[0041] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an autonomous vehicle transportation system 12 including a vehicle 14 and a gondola system 16. Specifically, FIG. 9 includes a gondola station 20 having both an arrival zone 148 and a departure zone 120 directly coupled via a transition zone 160. In other words, the gondola station 20 includes a single path 162 configured for the vehicle 14 to engage and disengage with the vehicle compartment 112. Indeed, in the current embodiment, the gondola system 16 includes a gondola arm 86 integrally coupled to the vehicle compartment 112, as described above in FIG. 6. For illustrative purposes, the vehicle 14 (or the vehicle compartment 112 without the vehicle 14) is configured to arrive at the gondola station 20 via the cable 23, as indicated by the arrow 164. At the same time, the vehicle 14 can be positioned along the path 162 in the arrival zone 148. When the vehicle compartment 112 arrives at the transition zone 160, the grip 108 of the gondola arm 86 can interact with the attachment manager 126 to decouple the grip 108 from the cable 23 and position the grip 108 on the arm carrier 128. On the arm carrier 128, the drive element 130 can position the vehicle compartment 112 within the transition zone 160 of the boarding path 162. Once positioned along the transition zone 160 of the boarding path 162, if the vehicle compartment 112 is engaged with the vehicle 14, the vehicle compartment 112 disengages from the vehicle 14 and the vehicle 14 can drive away from the vehicle compartment 112, as indicated by arrow 166. As the vehicle 14 drives away from the vehicle compartment 112, a vehicle 14 from the departure zone 120 can enter the vehicle compartment 112, as indicated by arrow 168, and engage with the vehicle compartment 112, as discussed above with reference to Figure 6. In other words, when the vehicle compartment 112 is positioned in the transition zone 160 without a vehicle 14 being engaged with the vehicle compartment 112, the next vehicle 14 in the arrival zone 148 can enter and engage with the vehicle compartment 112.When a vehicle 14 from the arrival zone 148 is engaged with the vehicle compartment 112, the drive element 130 can move the vehicle compartment 112 onto the cable 23 where the grip 108 of the gondola arm 86 can interact with the attachment manager 126. The attachment manager 126 can then couple the grip 108 to the cable 23 which can carry the vehicle 14 to the corresponding gondola station 20 as indicated by arrow 170.

[0042] It should further be noted that the length of the arm carrier 128 can be designed based on the estimated throughput of the gondola station 20. In fact, the length of the arm carrier 128 as shown is only one example of the possible lengths of the arm carrier 128. In some embodiments, the arm carrier 128 can be longer to hold more gondola arms 86 (and / or vehicle compartments 112). In fact, in some embodiments, the gondola arms 86 can arrive at the gondola station 20 more quickly than the vehicles 14 can disengage and engage with the vehicle compartments 112 in the transition zone 160. In such an embodiment, it may be advantageous for the arm carrier 128 to store a sufficient number of vehicle compartments 112.

[0043] Further, in some embodiments, the pathway 162 can include a guidance system 137, which can include a subsurface positioning system 142 and / or a guide rail 138. As shown, in the current embodiment, the guide rail 138 can include a gap 172 along an edge of the pathway 162 disposed adjacent the arm carrier 128. The gap 172 is to allow the vehicle compartment 112 to enter the pathway 162 through the gap 172.

[0044] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an autonomous vehicle transportation system 12 including a vehicle 14 and a gondola system 16. The embodiment shown in FIG. 10 may be similar to the embodiment discussed above with reference to FIG. 8. However, as opposed to having a first portion 150 of the arm carrier 128 and a second portion 152 of the arm carrier 128, the arm carrier 128 may be a continuous unit that couples the arrival zone 148 to the departure zone 120. For example, as the vehicle 14 approaches the gondola station 20 via the cable, as indicated by arrow 174, the vehicle 14 may be decoupled from the gondola arm 86 and exit the gondola station 20, as indicated by arrow 176. As the vehicle 14 disengages from the gondola arm 86, the gondola arm 86 may continue along the arm carrier 128 to the departure zone 120 in response to the drive element 130. Once the gondola arm 86 is aligned with the centerline 132 of the loading path 122 of the departure zone 120, the gondola arm 86 can be coupled to the vehicle 14 from the departure zone 120. The gondola arm 86 can then carry the vehicle 14 from the gondola station 20 along the gondola path 18, as indicated by arrow 180.

[0045] 11 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an autonomous vehicle transportation system 12 including vehicles 14 and a gondola system 16. The embodiment shown in FIG. 11 may be similar to the embodiment discussed above with reference to FIG. 10. However, the gondola station 20 may include an arrival zone 148 that corresponds to a separate gondola path 18 from the departure zone 120. For example, as shown, the gondola path 18 may form a 90 degree angle. However, it should be understood that any suitable angle may exist between the gondola paths 18.

[0046] Similar to FIG. 7, the vehicle 14 shown in FIG. 11 is configured to engage with the cable 23 of the gondola path 18 at the departure zone 120 of the gondola station 20. The same gondola station 20 can further include an arrival zone 148 of a separate gondola path 18. The arrival zone 148 can function similarly to the arrival zone 148 of FIG. 10. Furthermore, the gondola station 20 can include an arm carrier 128 coupled between the bull wheel 21 of the departure zone 120 and the bull wheel 21 of the arrival zone 148. In fact, similar to the arm carrier 128 of FIG. 10, the arm carrier 128 is configured to move the gondola arm 86 from the arrival zone 148 to the departure zone 120 via the drive element 130 as shown. In fact, in some embodiments, the arm carrier 128 can be configured to store the gondola arm 86 coming from the gondola path 18 corresponding to the arrival zone 148 and to transport the gondola arm 86 to the departure zone 120 as required by the arrival of the vehicle at the departure zone 120.

[0047] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an autonomous vehicle transportation system 12 including a vehicle 14 and a gondola system 16. As shown, in some embodiments, a gondola station 20a can be located along the gondola path 18, such as between the bull wheels 21 of the gondola path 18 (as shown by the gondola station 20a in FIG. 1). In fact, the arrival zone 148 and the departure zone 120 of the gondola station 20a can be substantially in-line or parallel. To illustrate, the vehicle 14 can arrive at the arrival zone 148 via the cable 23 as shown by the arrow 182 and interact with the attachment manager 126. The attachment manager 126 can disengage the grip 108 of the gondola arm 86 from the cable 23 and position the grip 108 on the arm carrier 128. In some embodiments, the cable 23 can continue along or adjacent to the arm carrier 128. Once positioned on the arm carrier 128, the gondola arm 86 can be disengaged from the gondola attachment 64 of the vehicle 14. Once disengaged, the vehicle 14 can exit the gondola station 20, as indicated by arrow 184. Furthermore, once the vehicle 14 is disengaged from the gondola arm 86, the gondola arm 86 can be moved along the arm carrier 128 by the drive element 130. Specifically, the gondola arm 86 can be positioned in the departure zone 120 and coupled to another vehicle 14. In fact, the vehicle 14 can arrive at the gondola station 20 via a route other than the arrival zone 148, as indicated by arrow 186. Once the vehicle 14 has arrived at the gondola station 20, it can be driven to the departure zone 120, as indicated by arrow 188, where the vehicle 14 will be coupled to the gondola arm 86. When coupled to the gondola arm 86, the gondola arm 86 and vehicle 14 can further move along the arm carrier 128 (e.g., in response to the vehicle motor 48 and / or arm carrier 128 drive element 130), where the grip 108 of the gondola arm 86 interacts with the attachment manager 126.Specifically, the attachment manager 126 can couple the grip 108 to the cable 23. Once coupled to the cable 23, the cable 23 can pull the gondola arm 86 and vehicle 14 out of the gondola station 20a along the gondola path 18, as indicated by arrow 190.

[0048] In some embodiments, the vehicle 14 arrives at the arrival zone 148, maintains engagement with the gondola arm 86 as it moves along the arm carrier 128, and then proceeds to the departure zone 120 where the vehicle 14 will proceed along the gondola path 18. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the gondola station 20a can be located between two separate gondola paths 18. For example, in some embodiments, the gondola station can include a first bull wheel 21 configured to move the cable 23 through the first gondola path 18a. The gondola station 20 can further include a second bull wheel 21b configured to move the cable 23 through the second gondola path 18b. Thus, in some embodiments, the first gondola path 18a can be positioned at an angle relative to the second gondola path 18b.

[0049] The discussion of the embodiments shown in Figures 7-12 has focused on specific embodiments of the gondola attachment 64, gondola arms 86, vehicle compartment 112, or combinations thereof in order to provide a concise description of the embodiments. However, it should be understood that the gondola station 20 of Figures 7-12 can include any combination of the gondola attachment 64, gondola arms 86, and / or vehicle compartment 112, as shown in Figures 3-6.

[0050] Additionally, as discussed herein, certain embodiments of the autonomous vehicle transportation system 12 may rely on engaging either the gondola arms 86 and / or the vehicle compartments 112 to engage the vehicles 14 with the gondola system 16. To this end, in some embodiments, the controller 40 may determine a position for each of the vehicles 14 (e.g., via the sensors 58) and provide a corresponding number of gondola arms 86 and / or vehicle compartments 112 at appropriate gondola stations 20 to facilitate movement of the vehicles 14 through the gondola system 16. For example, a destination of the vehicles 14, which may be received via the user input 60, may require utilization of one or more particular gondola stations 20. Thus, the controller 40 may transmit one or more signals to the gondola system 16 to cause the gondola system 16 to redirect the appropriate number of gondola arms 86 and / or vehicle compartments 112 to the appropriate gondola stations 20 to facilitate efficient movement of the vehicles 14 to the destination. In other words, the controller can ensure that each gondola station 20 used to move vehicles 14 includes an appropriate number of gondola arms 86 and / or vehicle compartments 112 so that vehicles 14 do not have to wait an excessive amount of time at a gondola station 20 to access the gondola system 16.

[0051] Overall, the autonomy of the vehicle 14 can greatly facilitate travel via the gondola system 16. Indeed, as discussed herein, engagement between the vehicle 14 and the gondola system 16 can require precise control of the vehicle 14. Thus, the autonomy of the vehicle 14 can provide precise control for utilizing the gondola system 16. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the vehicle 14 may be a non-autonomous vehicle 14.

[0052] While only certain features have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art, and it is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes which fall within the true spirit of the present disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0053] 10. Amusement Park 12 Autonomous Vehicle Transportation Systems 14 Vehicles 16 Gondola System 18 Gondola Route 20 Gondola Station 22 Amusement Park Boundary 26 Visitor Housing 24 Amusement Park Area 28 Attractions 30 Shop 32 Parking 34 Vehicle Routes 36 Obstacles 40 Controller

Claims

1. 1. An amusement park transportation system comprising: an autonomous vehicle configured to drive along a ground surface within a plurality of isolated amusement park areas; a gondola system configured to transport the autonomous vehicles between the separated amusement park areas; a control system configured to operate the autonomous vehicle to engage and disengage with the gondola system to facilitate transportation of the autonomous vehicle by the gondola system; and An amusement park transportation system comprising:

2. 10. The amusement park transportation system of claim 1, wherein the autonomous vehicle comprises a gondola attachment integrally coupled to a roof of the autonomous vehicle.

3. 3. The amusement park transportation system of claim 2, wherein the gondola attachment integrally coupled to the roof is configured to engage a gondola arm of the gondola system to engage the gondola system.

4. 4. The amusement park transportation system of claim 3, wherein a gondola attachment integrally coupled to the roof is configured to engage a locking device coupled to an end of the gondola arm to engage the gondola system.

5. 3. The amusement park transportation system of claim 2, wherein the gondola attachment integrally coupled to the roof comprises a gondola arm configured to engage cables of the gondola system.

6. 2. The amusement park transportation system of claim 1, wherein the gondola system includes a plurality of gondola stations configured to facilitate engagement and / or disengagement of the autonomous vehicle to and / or from the gondola system, and the autonomous vehicle is configured to operate along a ground surface independent of the plurality of gondola stations.

7. 7. The amusement park transportation system of claim 6, wherein a gondola station of the plurality of gondola stations comprises a guide rail configured to contact a side of the autonomous vehicle to guide the autonomous vehicle into an engagement position within the gondola station.

8. 7. The amusement park transportation system of claim 6, wherein a gondola station of the plurality of gondola stations comprises a sub-surface positioning system disposed below a surface of a gondola drive path and configured to contact wheels of the autonomous vehicle to guide the autonomous vehicle to an engagement position within the gondola station.

9. a controller for the control system, the controller comprising: receiving a first signal indicative of a first position of the autonomous vehicle; receiving a second signal from a user interface of the autonomous vehicle indicative of a second position; providing a third signal to a vehicle controller of the autonomous vehicle to move the autonomous vehicle from the first location to the second location; 13. The amusement park transportation system of claim 1 configured as follows:

10. 10. The amusement park transportation system of claim 9, wherein the first location is located in a first amusement park area and the second location is located in a second amusement park area geographically remote from the first amusement park area, and based on the third signal, the vehicle controller is configured to cause the autonomous vehicle to engage the gondola system and move from the first location to the second location.

11. 11. The amusement park transportation system of claim 10, wherein the first amusement park area is geographically separated from the second amusement park area by a public road, a body of water, a terrain, or a combination thereof.

12. 1. An autonomous vehicle transportation system, comprising: The gondola system, a vehicle configured to drive at least partially autonomously along a surface, the vehicle comprising a gondola attachment integrally coupled to an upper portion of the vehicle, the gondola attachment configured to support a weight of the vehicle, the gondola attachment including a locking tool configured to engage and disengage from the gondola system; a controller configured to steer the vehicle into an engaged position relative to the gondola; An autonomous vehicle transportation system comprising:

13. The autonomous vehicle transportation system of claim 12 , wherein the gondola attachment is configured to engage a gondola arm of the gondola system.

14. 14. The autonomous vehicle transportation system of claim 13, wherein the gondola attachment includes a convex surface and the gondola arm includes a concave surface, the convex surface of the gondola attachment configured to move along the concave surface of the gondola arm to facilitate engagement between the vehicle and the gondola system.

15. 14. The autonomous vehicle transportation system of claim 13, wherein the vehicle includes wheels configured to drive the vehicle along the surface, and the gondola attachment is configured to engage the gondola arm based on a position of the wheels.

16. 16. The autonomous vehicle transportation system of claim 15, wherein the wheels are configured to switch between a stowed position and an extended position, and movement from the stowed position to the extended position is configured to engage the lock tool with the gondola arm.

17. 13. The autonomous vehicle transportation system of claim 12, wherein the gondola attachment comprises a gondola arm integrally coupled to an upper portion of the vehicle, the gondola arm including a grip configured to engage with a cable of the gondola system.

18. 13. The autonomous vehicle transportation system of claim 12, wherein the vehicle comprises a seat configured to support a passenger.

19. 1. A vehicle transportation system, comprising: Multiple vehicles and a gondola station including an arrival zone and a departure zone; Equipped with a first vehicle of the plurality of vehicles is configured to arrive in the air at the arrival zone via a cable of the gondola station, disengage from the cable, and drive along a first path out of the gondola station; A vehicle transportation system, wherein a second vehicle of the plurality of vehicles is configured to drive along a second path into the gondola station, engage the cable, and depart from the departure zone via the cable.

20. 20. The vehicle transportation system of claim 19, wherein the first vehicle is configured to arrive at the arrival zone while supported in the air by a gondola arm, and the first vehicle is configured to disengage from the cable through disengagement from the gondola arm.

21. 21. The vehicle transportation system of claim 20, wherein the second vehicle is configured to engage the cable via engagement to the gondola arm, and the first vehicle is configured to depart from the gondola station while being supported in the air by the gondola arm.

22. 20. The vehicle transportation system of claim 19, wherein the gondola station comprises a bull wheel configured to drive a cable through the gondola station, the gondola station comprises a first arm carrier extending from the bull wheel and a second arm carrier extending from the bull wheel and separated from the first arm carrier, the first vehicle configured to disengage from the cable and engage with the first arm carrier to travel along the first path, and the second vehicle configured to engage with the arm carrier, travel along the second path, engage with the cable, and depart from the departure zone via the cable.

23. 20. The vehicle transportation system of claim 19, wherein the first path and the second path intersect with each other.

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