Vehicle harness system and method

Abstract

A harness system configured to facilitate adjustably securing guests of different body types within a ride vehicle, the harness system comprising: a harness body configured to releasably couple with the ride vehicle, a waist engagement portion of the harness body including a waist fastening mechanism configured to contract or expand a functional length of the waist engagement portion to adjust engagement with the guest's waist, a vest portion of the harness body including a height adjuster configured to expand or contract to expand or contract the shoulder straps relative to the waist engagement portion, and a leg engagement portion including a first leg flap configured to adjustably secure around a first leg of the guest and a second leg flap configured to adjustably secure around a second leg of the guest.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 228,538, filed August 2, 2021, entitled "RIDING HARNESS SYSTEM AND METHOD," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. [Background technology]

[0002] Amusement park style ride systems have become increasingly popular among many different types of people. For example, people of all types are known to enjoy dark rides, roller coasters, log flumes, carousels, and the like. As many different types of people have become interested in experiencing such ride systems, it is now recognized that there is a need to improve the accessibility of such ride systems. More specifically, it is now recognized that there is a need to provide a ride restraint system that can accommodate people with different needs (e.g., people with different body types).

[0003] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art that may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure. 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. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Certain embodiments falling within the scope of the initially claimed invention are summarized below. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter, but rather, these embodiments are intended only to provide a brief summary of possible forms in which the subject matter can be implemented. Indeed, the subject matter may encompass a variety of forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.

[0005] In one embodiment, the harness system can be configured to facilitate adjustably securing guests of different body types within the ride vehicle. The harness system can include a harness body configured to releasably couple with the ride vehicle and a waist engagement portion of the harness body including a waist fastening mechanism configured to contract or expand a functional length of the waist engagement portion to adjust engagement with the guest's waist. The harness system can also include a vest portion of the harness body including a height adjuster configured to expand or contract to expand or contract the shoulder straps relative to the waist engagement portion, and a leg engagement portion including a first leg flap configured to adjustably secure around a first leg of the guest and a second leg flap configured to adjustably secure around a second leg of the guest.

[0006] In one embodiment, the ride restraint system can be configured to adjustably secure guests of different body types during the active portion of the ride. The ride restraint system can include a ride harness and a ride vehicle of the ride. The ride harness can include a vest having a front side and a rear side, a strap coupled to the front side of the vest, the strap including at least one key lock, a connector coupled to the rear side of the vest, configured to adjustably secure around the guest's torso, and a leg engagement portion including a leg restraint configured to adjustably secure around the guest's legs. The ride vehicle of the ride can include a plurality of brackets configured to receive the at least one key lock of the ride harness to secure the ride harness to the ride vehicle, and a restraint configured to limit access to the ride harness during the active portion of the ride with the restraint in the engaged configuration.

[0007] In one embodiment, the ride harness system includes a vest, one or more straps disposed on a first side of the vest and configured to provide restraint to the guest on the ride vehicle during an active portion of the ride, a connector disposed on a second side of the vest and configured to lock the guest within the vest, the connector positioned out of reach of the guest, a first leg restraint configured to adjustably secure around a first leg of the guest, and a second leg restraint configured to adjustably secure around a second leg of the guest.

[0008] 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]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an attraction system including a ride restraint system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2]FIG. 1 is a front view illustrating vehicle stiffness according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] 3 is a front perspective view of the vehicle harness of FIG. 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 3 is a rear perspective view of the vehicle harness of FIG. 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] 3 is a front perspective view of the ride harness of FIG. 2 strapped to a ride vehicle according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 3 is a side perspective view of the harness of FIG. 2 strapped to a ride vehicle according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] When introducing elements of various embodiments of the invention, the articles "a," "an," and "the" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the elements described. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the elements described. In addition, it should be understood that references to "one embodiment" or "one embodiment" of the invention are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the described features.

[0011] While the embodiments described in this disclosure are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are described in detail herein. It should be understood, however, that the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. The disclosure is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

[0012] The present disclosure is directed to a ride restraint system for an amusement or theme park. The ride restraint system may include a ride harness that can accommodate a wide range of individuals (e.g., individuals with limb differences, atypical body shapes, asymmetric limb characteristics). Furthermore, the ride harness of the ride restraint system may facilitate complete restraint of the individual within a potential motion envelope. The ride restraint system may also include one or more anchors (e.g., brackets, receptacles, hooks, latches) located on a seat of the ride vehicle that receive or otherwise couple with the ride harness to provide fixation to the ride vehicle. In this manner, the ride restraint system may facilitate broad access to different types of ride systems for different types of individuals.

[0013] The present embodiments are directed to an adaptable, tamper-resistant, full body harness that can provide additional support and restraint to guests (e.g., passengers) of a ride system (e.g., amusement rides / attractions). For example, the ride harness of the present disclosure can provide additional restraint for individuals with different body types, restraint engagement preferences, and physical characteristics. As further described with reference to FIGS. 2-4, the ride harness can secure the guest's torso by wrapping around the shoulders and waist. The ride harness can also include lower leg straps (e.g., loops) operable to extend and secure around the guest's lower legs. These loops can be fully adjustable based on the difference in the guest's limbs. For example, if one leg is smaller than the other, adjustment between the loops can facilitate proper engagement with each leg despite the difference. If an adjustable point (e.g., height adjuster, lower limb adjuster) is within reach of the guest, a key may be required to unlock the adjustable point for adjustment, or a blocking feature may be utilized to prevent access (at least during an active ride scenario). For example, a flexible overlay (e.g., for friction-based turnbuckles) may be utilized to prevent adjustments while the guest is on the ride. Additionally, according to this embodiment, the connection point from the harness to the ride vehicle may require a locking carabiner that can only be unlocked by the ride operator, or the like.

[0014] With the above in mind, FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of an attraction system 50 for an amusement park. For example, the attraction system 50 may include a roller coaster, a motion simulator, a dark ride, a water ride, a walk-through attraction (e.g., a maze), and the like. The attraction system 50 may include a guest area 52 in which various guests 54 may be located. In one embodiment, the guest area 52 may include an open space, such as a walkable area (e.g., a queue or a line), in which the guests 54 may enter, exit, or otherwise move within the attraction system 50. In the guest area 52, the guests 54 may receive a ride harness 56 (e.g., a full body harness) from a ride operator prior to entering a ride 58, which may include a vehicle 60. The ride 58 may include, for example, a roller coaster, a water ride, a motion simulator, a dark ride, and the like. Thus, the vehicles 60, in one embodiment, may move (e.g., translate, rotate, pivot) along a motion base and / or track (e.g., a path or rail) of the attraction system 50. Indeed, the ride 58 may entertain guests 54 through the movement of the ride vehicles 60, such as by providing a particular kinesthetic sensation to the guests 54. As such, it may be beneficial to provide special restraints to certain guests 54 during the ride 58. In additional or alternative embodiments, the vehicles 60 may remain stationary on the platform of the ride 58 within the attraction system 50. For example, during boarding and disembarking of the ride 58, the ride vehicles 60 may be stationary for guests 54 to board and disembark from the ride vehicles 60.

[0015] Prior to boarding the ride 58, the guest 54 may receive a ride harness 58 for securing the guest 54. The ride harness 56 may include a harness body with adjustable points to accommodate the guest 54. The ride operator may provide the guest 54 with instructions for donning the ride harness 56 and then check for fit. For example, the ride operator may provide the guest 54 with a demonstration on how to put on and adjust the ride harness 56. In some cases, the guest 54 may be accompanied by another individual (e.g., family member, friend) who helps the guest 54 put on the ride harness 56. The individual or guest 54 may lift the harness 56, insert the guest 54 into the ride harness 56, drape the harness 56 over the guest's head, tighten or loosen one or more adjustment points on the ride harness 56, or secure the harness 56 to the guest 54. The anchorage points of the harness 56 may be easily accessible and observable. Thus, this embodiment allows the ride operator to verify proper fit of the ride harness 56 without touching or interacting with the guest 54. Once the ride harness 56 has been fitted, the ride operator may recheck the fit of the harness 56. For example, the operator may gently tug on an adjustable point on the ride harness 56 to verify that the ride harness 56 is securely attached.

[0016] The attraction system 50 may also include show effects 58 (e.g., display, animated figures, instructional presentations provided via speakers) that may be operated to provide additional information regarding the ride harness 56. For example, the show effects 58 may include a video displayed on a screen, audio output from speakers, or one or more posters that visually represent the procedure for donning and adjusting the ride harness 56. The show effects 58 may also explain the safety features of the ride harness 56, the requirements of the attraction system 50 (e.g., height, weight, size), the specifications of the attraction system 50 (e.g., speed, special effects), etc. The guest 54 receives instructions for donning the ride harness 56 and may request additional assistance from the ride operator. Although the show effects 58 are located outside the guest area 52 in the illustrated attraction system 50, additional or alternative attraction systems 50 may have the show effects 58 located at least partially within the guest area 52.

[0017] Guest 54 may enter ride 58 from guest area 52, and the ride operator may secure guest 54 to ride vehicle 60. For example, ride vehicle 60 may include a seat having restraints (e.g., shoulder restraints, hip restraints, waist restraints) to secure guest 54 during the twists and turns of ride 58. Guest 54 may select a seat in ride vehicle 60, and the ride operator may secure guest 54 to ride vehicle 60 by one or more connection points. For example, ride vehicle 60 may include one or more clips, fasteners, brackets, etc. that may receive ride harness 56. Additionally, ride operator may lower the restraints to ensure guest 54 is supported and restrained during ride 58. In this manner, ride harness 56 may restrain (e.g., support) guest 54 during movement of ride vehicle 60. After the ride 58, the ride operator can unbuckle the guest 54 from the ride vehicle 62 and the guest 54 can exit the vehicle 60 into the guest area 52 and travel between the guest area 52 and the ride 58.

[0018] The attraction system 50 may also include a control system 64 (e.g., an automated or programmable controller) configured to operate the rides 56 and / or the show effects 58. The control system 64 may include a memory 66 and a processing circuit 68. The memory 66 may include volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM), and / or non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM), an optical drive, a hard disk drive, a solid-state drive, or any other non-transitory computer-readable medium that contains instructions to operate the attraction system 50. The processing circuit 68 may be configured to execute such instructions. For example, the processing circuit 68 may include one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), one or more general purpose processors, or any combination thereof.

[0019] The control system 64 may be communicatively coupled to the show effects 58 and the rides 56. For example, the control system 64 may start and stop instructional video or audio within the guest area 52 provided as the show effects 58, or otherwise control the appearance, e.g., sound, pitch, or speed, of visual or audio effects provided by the show effects 58. In another example, the control system 64 may control the movement of the ride vehicles 60 within the attraction system 50, and may adjust or modify one or more parameters of the rides 58. In certain embodiments, the ride operator may use the control system 64 to start or stop the show effects 58, the rides 58, associated ride features, or a combination thereof.

[0020] With the above in mind, FIG. 2 shows a schematic front view of a guest 54 engaged with a ride harness 56. The ride harness 56 may be a full body harness including a harness body 70 that extends over the guest's torso and leg restraints 80 that extend around the guest's lower legs. The harness body 70 may be made from a lightweight mesh material such as a polymer, synthetic fiber, or the like so that it is soft, durable, and easily moldable to the guest's torso. The harness body 70 may have openings for the guest's head, arms, and waist. The front side of the harness 56 (e.g., relative to the front side of the guest) may include one or more straps 72 having strap adjusters 74, key locks 76, and clamps 78. In the illustrated embodiment, the ride harness 56 may include three straps 72 across the harness body 70 and two key locks 76 per strap 72, although in a particular embodiment, there may be any suitable number of straps 72 and / or key locks 76. For example, the first strap 72 can cross the harness 56 diagonally from the right shoulder to the left leg, and the second strap 72 can cross diagonally from the left shoulder to the right leg. The third strap 72 can extend horizontally across the torso of the guest 54. The straps 72 are made of a firm woven material and gently restrain the guest 54 while the vehicle 60 is moving. Each end of the straps 72 can include a strap adjuster 74 for changing the length of the straps 72, such as expanding or contracting the functional strap length. The strap adjuster 74 can be a plastic or metal buckle with a locking bar. The straps 72 are woven between the locking bars and can be adjusted by pulling or loosening the ends of the straps 72. The functional length is adjusted by adjusting the key locks 76 to be positioned at different positions along the straps 72. For example, using the strap adjuster 74 to move the key locks 76 of a particular one of the straps 72 closer together shortens the functional strap length. In another example, moving the key lock 76 further away via the strap adjuster 74 increases the functional strap length.The strap adjuster 74 may be connected to a key lock 76 configured to be received by the ride vehicle 60 .

[0021] The strap 72 may also include a key lock 76 configured to be received by the ride vehicle 60. The key lock 76 may include a connecting link having a safety closure that may connect the ride harness 56 to the vehicle 60. In one embodiment, the key lock 76 includes a dual locking carabiner with a safety closure, fastener, lock, or the like. For example, the key lock 76 may be a carabiner having a first loop that connects the ride harness 56 and a second loop that locks. In an embodiment, the key lock 76 may include an additional lock on the second loop or globe lock for triple redundant security. In yet another embodiment, the key lock 76 may include a hook operable to engage a feature of the ride vehicle 60 (e.g., a bracket or a fastening loop) and be locked in place by a ratchet. Although only a few such key locks 76 are described, many such key locks and different types of such key locks may be employed in accordance with the present embodiment. The key lock 76 may be locked in place via a coupling (e.g., a locking carabiner), via tension (e.g., a ratchet), or via a different locking mechanism.

[0022] The strap 72 may also include one or more clamps 78 for securing the strap 72 during movement of the vehicle 60. The clamps 78 may be metal or plastic parts that can slide up or down the strap 72. For example, the clamps 78 may include acetate seat belt clamps or molded keepers. The clamps 78 may also be clipped onto or unclipped from the strap 72 to allow the vehicle operator to easily reposition the clamps 78. The clamps 78 may also be placed over the strap 72 and connected to the vehicle harness 56 to prevent the strap 72 from moving or coming loose during movement of the ride vehicle 60. In this manner, the strap 72 may remain flat and secure during the ride 58 at high speeds, in high winds, etc.

[0023] Additionally, the ride harness 56 may include a leg strap employing a leg restraint 80 (e.g., loop, leg strap). In certain embodiments, the guest 54 may have one leg that is shorter (e.g., amputated) than the other leg. The leg restraint 80 may accommodate and support the shorter leg. For example, the leg restraint 80 may be made of a soft, padded, expandable or contractible material that conforms to the shape or size of the guest's lower leg. The leg restraint 80 may cup and secure around the lower leg like a sock. The leg restraint 80 may include a fastening mechanism 82 to assist the guest 54 in donning the leg restraint 80 without assistance from another individual or operator. The fastening mechanism may include an extra loop, a ratchet band, an elastic connector band, a buckle, a hook and loop fastener, or a strap adjuster. The guest 54 may pull the leg restraint 80 to secure it to the lower leg and adjust the leg restraint 80 with the fastening mechanism 82. For example, the guest 54 can use the strap adjusters of the fastening mechanism 82 to stretch the leg restraint 80 to fit around a longer or larger leg. In another example, the guest 54 can also tighten the leg restraint 80 by moving the strap adjusters of the fastening mechanism 82 closer (e.g., relative to the guest's torso) for a tighter or snug fit. In another example, the leg restraint 80 can include a material that wraps around the guest's lower leg and closes with a closure mechanism 84, such as a hook and loop mechanism and a buckle mechanism. For example, the leg restraint 80 can include a buckle that releasably couples to the closure mechanism 84. The closure mechanism 84 can include a strap that wraps around the guest's lower leg and is coupled to a tab that fits into the buckle to secure the leg restraint 80. In one embodiment, the guest 54 can insert the tab into the buckle and pull the strap to fit tightly around the leg. In another embodiment, the closure mechanism 84 includes a hook and loop mechanism. In this manner, guest 54 can secure leg restraints 80 by locking the hooks and loops.

[0024] In certain embodiments, another individual may help the guest 54 put on the ride harness 56 including the leg restraint 80. For example, the individual may place the ride harness 56 over the guest's head. The individual may lift the guest 54 and slide the leg restraint 80 out from under the guest 54 and place the leg restraint 80 around the legs of the guest 54. In one embodiment, the leg restraint 80 may not be useful to the guest 54, in which case the guest 54 may not close the leg restraint, allowing it to lie flat under the legs of the guest 54. In this manner, the ride harness 56 may be adapted to different types of guests 54.

[0025] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the ride harness 56 without the straps 72. The harness body 70 (e.g., the vest portion of the harness) extends over the torso of the guest and can be securely engaged about the torso via a connection 100 adjacent the guest's back when the harness body 70 is properly positioned on the guest (in the engaged position). The connection 100 is shown in dashed lines in the illustrated embodiment to represent a view through a portion of the harness body 70. The connection 100 can be a locking mechanism that is out of reach of the guest 54, such as a zipper, carabiner, button, etc. The harness body 70 includes shoulder straps 102 having padding that provides body positioning flexibility, engagement range adjustment (e.g., via compression and expansion of padding), and comfort. As described with reference to FIG. 4, the height of the harness body 70 can be adjusted via the illustrated adjustment features or height adjusters 120 (e.g., belts, sliders, tensioners, elastic bands) to change the relative positional relationship between the shoulder and waist regions. Additionally, the harness body 70 includes a waist fastening mechanism including an adjustable waist 104 (e.g., a drawstring or belt) in the waist region (waist engagement portion of the harness) that facilitates fastening about the guest's waist, and a fastening mechanism 105 for the adjustable waist 104 that is located behind and out of reach of the guest in the engaged position. The adjustable waist 105 can contract or expand the functional length of the waist portion. The fastening mechanism 105 can include clamps, stoppers, locks, etc., to prevent the adjustable waist 104 from stretching or retracting after fastening. The harness body 70 also includes a strap 72 (which may be representative of various engagement features, as shown in FIG. 2) that is used to releasably couple the harness 56 to the ride vehicle 60.

[0026] Also shown in FIG. 3 are adjustable leg restraints 80 (e.g., loops, flaps) that may be connected to other features or may be separately attachable. As discussed above, these leg restraints 80 may adjustably extend around the guest's legs to secure the guest 54 to the remainder of the harness 56 and / or the ride vehicle 60. Once secured by the closure mechanism 82, the leg restraints 80 may transition to a sock-like or tubular configuration to completely encase the guest's lower legs. The material of the leg restraints 80 may be parallel to the guest's torso around the guest's lower legs and may be angled inward toward the guest's torso to encase the guest's lower legs. In this manner, the leg restraints 80 may fully support the guest's lower legs. The adjustable leg restraints 80 may connect directly to the ride vehicle 60 or through a connection to the remainder of the harness 56 (e.g., the harness body 70). Additionally, the locking mechanism 82 of the leg restraints 80 may not be accessible to the guest 54 after engagement (e.g., due to access blocking by a ride vehicle restraint, such as a hip restraint) or may never be reachably positioned behind the ride harness 56 for access by the ride operator. In some embodiments, the various locking devices may extend entirely across the seat of the ride vehicle such that the ride operator can secure the guest 54 to the harness 56 without contacting the guest 54.

[0027] FIG. 4 shows a rear view of the ride harness 56 with the height adjuster 120 and locking mechanism 122. As described herein, the ride harness 56 can be adjusted to the height of the guest 54 via the height adjuster 120 (e.g., belt, slider, tensioner, elastic band). By locating the height adjuster 120 on the back side, the height adjuster 120 can be out of reach of the guest 54, preventing the guest 54 from tampering with the harness 56. Additionally, in one embodiment, the harness body 70 can open from the back side to prevent the guest 54 from reaching the connection 100. For example, the individual or guest 54 can bring the ride harness 56 to the torso of the guest 54 so that the guest 54 can extend their arms through the arm holes. The individual can secure the ride harness 56 to the guest 54 at the connection 100. The connections 100 may include zippers, clips, fasteners, carabiners, etc. For example, an individual may secure the ride harness 56 to the guest 54 by clipping and locking a carabiner. In another example, an individual may fasten a zipper along the back side of the ride harness 56. In this manner, the ride harness 56 may be both adjustable to fit the guest 54 and tamper-resistant to the guest 54.

[0028] In one embodiment, an additional key lock or glove lock option can be added to the connection 100 and / or the height adjuster 120. For example, the connection 100 can include a locking carabiner with a key insertion point (e.g., hole) to triple lock the carabiner. In another embodiment, a glove locking mechanism can be used to lock the carabiner, thereby preventing other individuals from tampering with the ride harness 56. For example, the glove can include a special key or point that fits into the insertion point of the locking carabiner. In one embodiment, the ride operator or individual can use the glove to lock the connection 100, thereby preventing tampering with the ride harness 56. Additionally, the leg restraint 80 can include an additional key lock or glove locking mechanism to secure the ride harness 56 to the guest 54. The additional key lock can be standardized such that one key (e.g., a master key) or one glove can be used to unlock all of the connections 100 of the ride harness 56.

[0029] FIG. 5 illustrates a front view of the ride harness 56 connected to a seat 138 of the ride vehicle 60. A guest 54 wearing the ride harness 56 may select the seat 138 of the ride vehicle 60 from among a number of available seats. Various restraints 139 of the ride vehicle 60 may provide an additional layer of restraint for securing the guest 54. The restraints 139 may ride over the ride harness 56 to prevent the guest 54 from reaching or tampering with the locking mechanism of the ride harness 56. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 5, the ride vehicle 60 includes a shoulder restraint 140 having a handlebar 142, a hip restraint 144, and a head restraint 146. The shoulder restraint 140 and the hip restraint 144 block access to the sides of the ride harness 56 when in an engaged position (e.g., when in a position to secure the passenger within the ride vehicle 60). The shoulder restraint 140 is vertically movable and may include a locking mechanism to secure the shoulders of the guest 54. The shoulder restraint 140 fits over the shoulder straps 102 of the ride harness 56 and may apply light pressure to the shoulders. The shoulder straps 102 provide a barrier between the guest 54 and the shoulder restraint 140, thereby relieving some of the pressure from the guest's shoulders. The shoulder restraint 140 and hip restraint 144 are connected and move together in the illustrated embodiment; however, multiple separate restraints may be employed in other embodiments.

[0030] After the guest 54 is seated in the ride vehicle 60, the ride operator can verify that the seat 138 is in the desired orientation (e.g., fully upright position, approximately 90 degrees to the path) and that the rear of the guest 54 is fully in contact with the seat 138. The ride operator can pull the shoulder restraint 140 firmly down and gently press it against the guest's body to ensure a tight fit. The shoulder restraint 140 can contact the shoulder straps 102 of the ride harness 56 to secure the torso of the guest 54 to the ride vehicle 60. A locking mechanism within the shoulder restraint 140 can be activated to secure the guest 54 within the ride vehicle 60. The ride operator can pull up on the shoulder restraint 140 to verify that it is locked in place. The shoulder restraint 140 can include a handle bar 142 for the guest 54 to hold on to during the ride 58.

[0031] Additionally or alternatively, the hip restraint 144 can be pulled over the guest 54 parallel to the shoulder restraint 140. For example, the hip restraint 144 can be connected to the shoulder restraint 140 and the ride operator can snap the hip restraint 144 over the lap of the guest 54. Once snapped into place, a locking mechanism of the hip restraint 144 can be activated to secure the guest 54 in the seat 138. The ride operator can push down or pull up the hip restraint 144 to ensure that the locking mechanism is activated. In one embodiment, the hip restraint 144 can include a buckle that connects to a strap on the ride vehicle 60. In this manner, the ride restraint system can include multiple locking points that facilitate a secure fit for the guest 54. Additionally, the hip restraint 144 can be positioned above or on the lower legs of the guest 54 to prevent the guest 54 from tampering with the leg restraints 80. For example, hip restraint 144 may be conveniently positioned in the hip area to prevent guest 54 from reaching over and tampering with the locking mechanism of leg restraint 80. In another example, hip restraint 144 may be positioned directly above locking mechanism 82 to block access to locking mechanism 82.

[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, the strap 72 can also function as a waist restraint. As described with respect to FIG. 2, the strap 72 can extend horizontally across the thorax of the guest 54 and function as a waist restraint. The ride operator can connect the strap 72 (via the key lock 76) to the ride vehicle 60 and pull the strap 72 to securely attach the ride harness 56 (via the strap 72) to the ride vehicle 60. Additionally, the ride vehicle 60 can include a head restraint 146 that can limit movement of the guest's head. In this manner, the restraint of the ride vehicle 60 can restrain the guest 54 during the ride 58.

[0033] FIG. 6 shows a side view of a ride vehicle 60 connected to a ride harness 56 via one or more brackets 150, which may be representative of any receptacle or fastening device. The brackets 150 may be permanently or semi-permanently attached to any seat of the ride vehicle 60. The brackets 150 may be metal or plastic parts secured to the seat by screws, washers, nuts, bolts, or the like. The seat 138 of the ride vehicle 60 may include three brackets on either side of the seat 138 for releasably coupling to the key lock 74 of the harness 56. For example, the brackets 150 may be installed on the outer seats and / or middle row of the ride vehicle 60 to facilitate access for the ride operator and limit the experience of acceleration forces by the guest 54. The connection points (e.g., location of the brackets 150) may vary from ride to ride, depending on the ride specifications, but the ride harness 56 may remain the same due to adjustable components.

[0034] Once the guest 54 is seated in the ride vehicle 60, the ride operator can start with the inboard attachment located toward the platform of the ride vehicle 58. The ride operator can releasably couple each key lock 76 of the ride harness 56 to a bracket 150 of the ride vehicle 60. For example, the ride operator can insert each of the three key locks 76 into a respective bracket 150 and lock the three key locks 76. In one embodiment, the ride operator can use a key or glove to triple lock the key locks 76. Additionally, the ride operator can use the strap adjusters 74 to adjust the functional length of the straps 72 to secure the guest 54 to the ride vehicle 60.

[0035] The operator may then perform outboard attachments located away from the platform of the ride 58. Before the ride vehicle 60 leaves the platform, the ride operator may perform a safety check by fully closing and checking the ride restraint systems of each seat 138, including seats not currently occupied by guests 54. In one embodiment, preparation of the ride 58 may include multiple ride operators releasably connecting the ride harnesses 56 in parallel. In this manner, the time that the ride vehicle 60 spends on the platform may be limited, and guest 54 throughput may be increased for the ride 58, as compared to other techniques.

[0036] This embodiment may be superior to conventional restraints because it provides customization, additional securement, and improved functionality (e.g., tamper resistance). Indeed, the ride restraint system may be customized for a particular attraction, tamper resistant, and actionable by the operator to ensure that the ride harness can be properly attached to both the guest and the ride vehicle. The ride restraint system described herein may be installed on both new and existing ride systems. Installation of the ride restraint system includes fastening one or more brackets to the ride vehicle with screws, washers, nuts, bolts, etc. to securely attach the ride harness. Additionally, multiple brackets may be added or removed, and the placement of the brackets may be determined based on the specifications of the ride. Additionally or alternatively, the ride harness may be designed or customized to the attraction (e.g., ride). In this manner, the ride restraint system may provide greater accessibility to the ride system for different types of guests.

[0037] While only certain features of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. It is therefore to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes that fall within the true spirit of the present disclosure. The approach presented and claimed herein refers to and applies to substantial objects and specific embodiments of a practical nature that clearly improve the technical field of the invention, and is therefore not abstract, intangible, or theoretical in nature. Furthermore, when any claim appended at the end of this specification includes one or more elements designated as "means for "performing" a "function"" or "steps for "performing" a "function," such elements are to be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f). However, for any claim that includes an element designated in any other manner, such elements are not to be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f). [Explanation of symbols]

[0038] 50 Attraction System 52 Visitor Area 56 Visitors 58 Show Effects 60 Vehicles 62 vehicles 54 Visitors 64 Control System

Claims

1. 1. A harness system configured to facilitate adjustably securing guests of different body types within a ride vehicle, comprising: a harness body including a strap configured to at least partially encircle or at least partially cross the waist of a guest, the harness body configured to releasably couple with the ride vehicle; a waist engagement portion of the harness body, the waist engagement portion including a waist fixing mechanism configured to contract or expand a functional length of the waist engagement portion to adjust engagement with the guest's waist; a vest portion of the harness body including a height adjuster configured to expand or contract to expand or contract the shoulder straps relative to the waist engagement portion; a leg engagement portion including a first leg flap configured to adjustably secure around a first leg of the guest and a second leg flap configured to adjustably secure around a second leg of the guest; A harness system equipped with

2. 10. The harness system of claim 1, wherein an end of the strap includes a strap adjuster configured to change a functional length of the strap and a key lock configured to attach to the ride vehicle.

3. The harness system of claim 1 , wherein the harness body includes an additional strap extending diagonally across the harness body from a first shoulder strap to an opposing leg flap.

4. The harness system of claim 2 , wherein the key lock includes a dual locking mechanism configured to couple the harness body to the ride vehicle.

5. The harness system of claim 4 , wherein the key lock includes an additional key lock or globe lock mechanism that provides a triple locking mechanism.

6. 2. The harness system of claim 1, wherein the vest portion of the harness body includes a locking mechanism configured to secure the vest to the waist of the guest, the locking mechanism being located out of reach of the guest, and the locking mechanism being a dual locking mechanism.

7. 10. The harness system of claim 1, wherein the first leg flap is configured to be flush between a first leg of the guest and a seat of the ride vehicle.

8. 10. The harness system of claim 1, wherein the leg engagement portion includes a locking mechanism configured to lock the first leg flap or the second leg flap from being adjusted by the guest.

9. 1. A ride restraint system configured to adjustably secure guests of different body types during an active portion of a ride, comprising: Equipped with a vehicle harness, The vehicle harness is a vest having a front side and a back side; a strap coupled to a front of the vest, the strap including at least one key lock; a connector coupled to a rear side of the vest configured to adjustably secure the vest around the guest's torso; a leg engagement portion including a leg restraint configured to adjustably secure around the leg of the guest; Including, The vehicle restraint system further comprises a vehicle vehicle of the vehicle; The ride vehicle is a plurality of brackets configured to receive at least one key lock of the vehicle harness to secure the vehicle harness to the vehicle; a restraint configured to restrict access to the vehicle harness during the active portion of the vehicle when the restraint is in an engaged configuration; and Including, Vehicle restraint system.

10. 10. The ride restraint system of claim 9, wherein the restraints include hip restraints configured to restrain the leg restraints in the engaged configuration and to prevent the guest from adjusting the leg restraints.

11. 10. The ride restraint system of claim 9, wherein the restraint includes shoulder restraints positioned over the vest and configured to restrict movement of the guest's torso during an active portion of the ride.

12. 12. The vehicle restraint system of claim 11, wherein the vest includes shoulder pads configured to contact the shoulder restraints.

13. 10. The ride restraint system of claim 9, wherein a rear side of the vest includes a height adjuster configured to change the functional length of the vest to accommodate the guest.

14. 10. The vehicle restraint system of claim 9, wherein the connector includes a dual locking carabiner configured to prevent tampering by the guest.

15. 10. The ride restraint system of claim 9, wherein the leg engagement portion is configured to provide a flush surface between the guest's leg and the ride vehicle when the leg engagement portion is not in use.

16. 10. The ride restraint system of claim 9, wherein the vest includes a waist adjustment mechanism configured to expand or contract a functional width of the vest to fit the guest's torso.

17. 10. The vehicle restraint system of claim 9, wherein the vest is integral with the leg restraints.

18. 1. A vehicle harness system comprising: A vest and one or more straps disposed on a first side of the vest configured to provide restraint to a guest on the ride vehicle during an active portion of the ride; a connector disposed on a second side of the vest configured to lock the guest within the vest, the connector being positioned out of reach of the guest; a first leg restraint configured to adjustably secure about a first leg of the guest; a second leg restraint configured to adjustably secure around a second leg of the guest; A vehicle harness system comprising:

19. 20. The ride harness system of claim 18, wherein the ride vehicle comprises one or more brackets configured to receive the one or more straps and couple them to the ride harness to provide restraint for the guest.

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