Water Control System for Closed Loop Water Systems

Abstract

The water control system includes at least one water effects device configured to release water in response to a control signal using a water source, a plurality of sensors configured to generate water condition data for the closed-loop water source, and a controller having a processor and a memory. The memory can store instructions executable by the processor that cause the controller to receive the water condition data from the plurality of sensors. The controller is also configured to determine whether the water condition data is indicative of acceptable or unacceptable water quality for the closed-loop water source, and to send a control signal to the water effects device to release water using the closed-loop water source as the water source if the controller determines that the water condition data is indicative of acceptable water quality.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 319,046, entitled "WATER CONTROL SYSTEM FOR CLOSED-LOOP WATER SYSTEMS," filed on March 11, 2022, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

[0002] (Technical field) The present disclosure relates generally to the field of amusement parks. In particular, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to techniques for managing amusement park operations, including monitoring and maintaining a closed-loop water source for amusement park attractions. [Background technology]

[0003] Water-based attractions in amusement parks have grown significantly in popularity in recent years. To address this increased demand, water amusement parks have expanded by adding new types of water-based rides, attractions, and a variety of water-based effects, including water-based shows, weather effects, and queue effects for the entertainment or interaction of guests. Because these water-based effects may be in close proximity to or in contact with guests, the effects utilize potable water sourced directly from local municipalities, which can be costly and wasteful, or from isolated bodies of water where the water is maintained locally. For example, potable water may be continuously drawn from local municipalities that are used to generate water-based effects, such as fog or rain effects, to cool guests waiting in queues. However, the continuous use of potable water is expensive, and the creation of water-based effects can negatively impact water quality, creating further challenges for water monitoring. Summary of the Invention

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

[0005] In one embodiment, the water control system includes at least one water effects device configured to use a water source to release water in response to a control signal, a plurality of sensors configured to generate water condition data for the closed-loop water source, and a controller having a processor and a memory. The memory can store instructions executable by the processor that cause the controller to receive the water condition data from the plurality of sensors. The controller is also configured to determine whether the water condition data is indicative of acceptable water quality or unacceptable water quality for the closed-loop water source, and to send a control signal to the water effects device to release water using the closed-loop water source as the water source if the controller determines that the water condition data is indicative of acceptable water quality.

[0006] In one embodiment, the method includes generating water condition data using a plurality of sensors in the closed-loop water source and determining, based on the water condition data, that the water condition of the closed-loop water source is outside a predetermined tolerance. The method can also send instructions to a water effects controller to stop the flow of water from the closed-loop water source to the water effects device and generate updated water condition data using the plurality of sensors. The method can then determine, based on the updated water condition data, that the water condition of the closed-loop water source is within a predetermined tolerance and send instructions to the water effects controller to resume the flow of water from the closed-loop water source to the water effects device.

[0007] In one embodiment, the fluid effect device comprises one or more fluid outlets configured to emit fluid in response to a control signal, and a controller comprising a processor and a memory. The memory stores instructions executable by the processor, the instructions configured to cause the controller to emit fluid from the one or more fluid outlets in response to receiving a first control signal, where fluid is drawn from a first fluid source, and receive fluid source control commands from the fluid monitoring system. The controller is also configured to switch from the first fluid source to a second fluid source based on the fluid source control commands, and emit fluid from the one or more fluid outlets in response to receiving a second control signal, where fluid is drawn from the second fluid source.

[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 one embodiment of a theme park including various water effect devices utilizing a control system in accordance with the present technology. [Diagram 2] 1A-1D are close-up views of various embodiments of theme park water effect devices utilizing a water control system in accordance with the present technology. [Diagram 3] 1 is a flow chart of one embodiment of a process for operating a theme park water control system in accordance with the present technology. [Figure 4] 1 is a flow chart of an embodiment of a process for operating a theme park water control system in accordance with the present technology. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a theme park water control system in accordance with the present technology. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure are described below. For purposes of providing a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of an actual implementation are 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 in order to achieve the developer's particular goals, which may vary from implementation to implementation, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints. It is to be further understood that such a development effort may be complex and time-consuming, but will be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0011] 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 element. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. 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 recited features.

[0012] The present disclosure is directed to monitoring and maintaining at least one water condition of a closed-loop water system that generates water-based effects at multiple pick-up points for entertaining or interacting with guests. A water amusement park may include various water-based attractions (e.g., water slide rides, kiddie splash pools) and water effect devices for generating water-based effects, such as weather effect devices (e.g., rain, fog, steam, mist), water toys (e.g., water guns, water blasters), and / or water-based show devices (e.g., fountain shows). In some cases, the water effect devices may utilize drinking water directly from a local municipality, which is costly and wasteful, or water from a locally maintained closed-loop water source (e.g., pools, lagoons, fountains, other isolated bodies of water), for generating water-based effects. Since many water-based effects are in close proximity to, may be attached to, or may even be ingested by guests, it is necessary to ensure good water conditions and / or water chemistry. To ensure the safety of persons exposed to water effects, a water control system must be applied to monitor and ensure that water conditions (e.g., water quality) are maintained and to limit exposure to water that falls outside of generally accepted water conditions. If water quality falls outside acceptable limits, exposure may be automatically limited by eliminating the use or ability to operate the water effects device to produce water effects.

[0013] Provided herein is a technique for monitoring water conditions and operationally controlling water effects based on these conditions. For example, acceptable water conditions may permit water release, while poor water conditions may cause selective deactivation of affected devices, e.g., a change in conditions may affect a single water effect device while not affecting other devices or other parts of the theme park. The system may also allow the water effect device to release water from a secondary water source (e.g., reservoir, tank) when water conditions are poor. Additionally or alternatively, the system may switch operational modes to permit the water effect device to release bubbles, lights, and / or sounds to continue interacting with guests.

[0014] Although the examples provided herein may be presented generally in the context of water amusement parks and water-based attractions, such as using the technology of the present disclosure to facilitate water condition monitoring and control by monitoring various water condition factors in a water amusement park to efficiently supply water to multiple locations, it should be noted that the technology of the present disclosure may be applied to other attractions (e.g., non-water based attractions) in an amusement park and non-water related conditions and / or associated situations. Non-water attractions and non-water related conditions may include one or more weather effects (e.g., smoke effects, bubble effects, steam effects, slime effects) based on any liquid or fluid that may draw water or liquid from a closed-loop water system.

[0015] With the above in mind, FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a water theme park 110 having at least one water attraction 112 and at least one water effect device 134 that generates water-based effects via a water control system. The water attraction 112 and device 134 may operate as part of a closed-loop system, meaning that they receive water and return water to a closed-loop water source 124. However, as generally discussed herein, the device 134 may be capable of using a secondary or different water source in the event that the water quality changes. In one embodiment, the water attraction 112 may include a closed-loop water source 124 whose water quality is locally monitored and maintained by the water control system and may be the primary water source for the device 134. The closed-loop water source 124 provided herein may additionally or alternatively be a body of water such as a pond, lagoon, fountain, or aquarium. The water attractions 112a and 112b may include closed-loop water sources 124a and 124b that may be fluidly connected to form a water supply for the devices 134a and 134b. Additionally, the device 134c may be connected to the closed-loop water sources 124b and 124c. That is, the device 134c may draw water from or return water to either closed-loop water source. In one embodiment, the water theme park 110 may operate as a single closed-loop system. In other embodiments, each attraction 112 or other water feature may be implemented as a separate water source 124, and the water theme park 110 may include multiple closed-loop systems. For example, a first closed-loop system may include the attraction 112a with the closed-loop water source 124a and at least one water effect device 134a. The water attraction 112a may draw water from the closed-loop water source 124a and inject it into the top of the ride to recirculate the water. Additionally, device 134a can draw water from closed-loop water source 124a for water-based effects.The device 134a can also return water to the closed-loop water source 124a to maintain a constant water level in the closed-loop system. The water theme park 110 can also have a second closed-loop water system having the water attraction 112b, the closed-loop water source 124b, and the device 134b, and a third closed-loop system having the water attraction 112c, the closed-loop water source 124c, and the device 134c. Thus, poor water conditions in one closed-loop system may not affect the water conditions in another system. Furthermore, water can be diverted from one closed-loop system to another closed-loop system based on the water control system.

[0016] Returning to FIG. 1 , a particular water attraction 112 may feature multiple water slides 118. For example, in the depicted embodiment, the water attraction 112a may include multiple water slides 118 that may be accessed via a single queue 117, which may provide access to a launch location 116 for guests. To provide entertainment for or interaction with guests, the queue 117 and launch location 116 may include one or more water effect devices 134a that emit water effects, such as water or weather effects (e.g., rain, mist, steam, fog), or may include water toys (e.g., water guns, water blasters). For example, a user (e.g., operator) may flip a switch on the device 134a to generate a weather effect (e.g., fog) to cool guests down while they wait in the queue 117. In another example, users (e.g., guests) can interact with devices 134a (e.g., water toys) and spray water on each other while in queue 117 for entertainment. Device 134a can draw water from closed-loop water source 124a, and the water can return as it flows down the side of water attraction 112a. Additionally or alternatively, device 134a can have a secondary water source (e.g., reservoir, tank) located near launch location 116 and / or within device 134a that can supply water to device 134a based on commands from a water control system. Thus, devices 134a can be distributed throughout the park, and water pick-up points can be dynamic.

[0017] Upon arriving at the launch location 116, guests may board the ride vehicle 115 and enter the water slide 118 to experience the water attraction 112a. The ride vehicle 115 may include one or more devices 134a for water-based effects and a second water source (e.g., a reservoir). The device 134a may draw water from the closed-loop water source 124a to generate the water-based effects. For example, the device 134a may be a water gun that guests may use to squirt water during the ride. The water gun may draw water from the closed-loop water source 124a in response to guest activation. In another embodiment, the ride vehicle 115 may include a reservoir that may draw and store water from the closed-loop water source 124a based on commands from the water control system. The water gun of the ride vehicle 115 may also receive water from the reservoir and release water in response to guest activation.

[0018] Guests who do not ride the water attraction 112 can still interact with or enjoy the water effect device 134. For example, a guest walking by the water attraction 112c can use the device 134c (e.g., a water blaster) to generate water-based effects such as jets of water. A guest observing the water attraction 112c can use the water blaster to shoot water at other guests who are on or walking by the attraction 112c. A guest can activate the water blaster by inserting a token, pressing a button, tapping a display, or in such a manner. The water blaster can receive water from the closed-loop water source 124c based on commands from the water control system. The water blaster can also release water in response to guest activation. In another embodiment, the closed-loop water source 124d can be the device 134c that reuses water for water-based effects. The closed-loop water source 124d may be a permanent body of water such as a fountain, lagoon, or pond, and may include a device 134c, such as jetting, that may emit water. Park operators may use the device 134c to perform water-based shows for the entertainment of park guests. In this manner, the device 134 may draw water from the permanent body of water based on commands from the water control system. The device 134c may emit water that returns to the closed-loop water source 124d.

[0019] The water control system may include a water monitoring system 114 that monitors one or more water conditions of the closed loop system and outputs a signal to the water control system. The water monitoring system 114 may include one or more sensors 146 that monitor water conditions, such as for water quality (e.g., pass, fail), chemical composition, pH, and bacteria, of the water in the closed loop system (e.g., closed loop water source, secondary water source) to ensure that the water conditions are within tolerances (e.g., tolerance ranges). For example, the water monitoring system 114 may receive a signal indicative of one or more water conditions of the closed loop water source 124 and determine whether the water conditions are within tolerances. The water monitoring system 114 may output the signal to the water control system. Additionally, the water monitoring system 114 may receive a signal of the water conditions with the secondary water source. In one embodiment, the water control system may receive the signal and cause the device 134 to automatically switch water sources. The default state of the device 134 may be to draw water from the closed-loop water source 124, and the water control system can, in response to a signal from the water monitoring system 114, cause the device 134 to switch to drawing water from a secondary water source.

[0020] To ensure guest safety, the water control system may permit the release of water for effects if the water conditions of the closed loop system are within tolerance. In certain embodiments, if all or most of the water conditions are within tolerance, the water control system may output a signal (e.g., a control signal) to activate the flow of water to and / or from the device 134. For example, in response to the water conditions being within tolerance, the water control system may allow a guest to use the device 134c to squirt water at other guests. In other embodiments, one or more water conditions that are out of tolerance may cause the water control system to stop the water flow and / or to switch water sources to actively control the water flow. For example, the water control system may switch the mode of the device 134 to limit exposure to water that is out of tolerance. The water control system may send a signal to the device 134 to change from a mode that emits water to another mode that emits bubbles, lights, sounds, etc. for continued guest operation. Thus, the water control system may remove the ability to use or project water from the device 134 by changing the operating mode. In another example, the water control system can switch the water source for the device 134 by stopping the flow of water from the closed-loop water source 124 and activating the flow of water from the secondary water source. The water control system can receive a signal indicating the through water condition of the secondary water source and output a signal to the device 134 to enable the release of water.

[0021] In one embodiment, water conditions determined by the water monitoring system 114 can be synchronized to a system that communicates with an operator device 120 (e.g., a smart phone, a guest wristband, a tablet). The operator device 120 can be used to indicate where water conditions are out of tolerance for maintenance purposes. In some embodiments, the water monitoring system 114 is centralized and can include multiple notifications 122, systems, and / or connections (e.g., wired and / or wireless connections) to other systems within the park 110. In one example, task notifications can be communicated to and from the water monitoring system 114 to indicate one or more devices 134 that have out of tolerance water conditions to be assigned as an operator task. The notifications can include water condition data provided via signals transmitted from sensors, the location of the device 134, and / or the time of failure.

[0022] In the depicted embodiment, the water monitoring system 114 may be centralized and connected to other parts of the park. When the water monitoring system 114 determines a change in water conditions based on signals from the sensors, it may send an alert of the change to the monitoring system 132. The monitoring system 132 may be a user or virtual machine that sends real-time water condition and task notifications to resolve water conditions outside of predefined thresholds. For example, an operator may receive task notifications via the operator device 120 and manually stop the water flow in the closed-loop system via a stop mechanism (e.g., a button, a display on the operator device) to override the activated water flow signal if the operator finds a problem beyond that determined by the water effects controller 114. The monitoring system 132 may also be used to recalibrate the sensors 146 to ensure accurate water condition data. In this manner, the water control system may monitor the water conditions of the closed-loop system to ensure that the water meets certain predefined thresholds before allowing the release of water. Thus, monitoring multiple water conditions of a closed-loop system may be complex and require consideration of a variety of water-related and device-related conditions.

[0023] FIG. 2 illustrates a front perspective view of an exemplary water attraction 112a that can be used in combination with a water control system (FIG. 1) to provide instructions for water effects release based on water condition determinations from a water monitoring system 114. The depicted embodiment illustrates various examples of sensors 146 that can be used in any suitable closed-loop water source, alone or in combination with each other. Signals can be transmitted based on conditions (e.g., device, water) detected by one or more sensors 146 distributed throughout the closed-loop system (e.g., water attraction 112a, ride vehicle 115, device 134a, closed-loop water source 124). In one embodiment, the sensors 146 can monitor device conditions that may be additional contributors to water effects. That is, device 134a can include sensors 146 that monitor one or more device conditions (e.g., component condition, blockage, functionality) to determine the functional status of the device. Device 134a may have a broken pump and cannot receive water from the water supply. The sensor 146 of the water blaster can provide a signal indicating a broken pump, and the water control system can stop the flow of water to and / or from the device 134a. In another embodiment, the sensor 146 can monitor water conditions (e.g., quality), such as water level, pH level, flow rate, chemical composition, bacterial composition, temperature, etc. For example, the sensor 146 can include a pH sensor that generates pH measurement data. The measurement data can be a pH value from the device 134a or the closed-loop water source 124a. The measured pH value or values ​​can be compared to a preset desired pH range (e.g., about 7.2 to about 7.8). In another example, the sensor 146 can be a chemical composition sensor that monitors the water composition of the closed-loop water source 124a. Depending on the nature of the measured water condition, values ​​that fall outside of a preset range, or values ​​that are greater than or less than a preset threshold, can be considered to be outside of tolerance (e.g., failing). Although the illustrated embodiment includes sensors 146 distributed throughout the closed-loop system, in other embodiments, the sensors 146 may be located in a central location, such as the closed-loop water source 124 .

[0024] In certain embodiments, based on a determination from the water monitoring system 114 that the water conditions are out of tolerance, the water control system can switch to a secondary water source or stop the water flow. For example, the water control system can cause the device 134 to draw water from a secondary water source if the water conditions of the closed-loop water source 124a are unacceptable. The device 134 can include a reservoir that holds an amount of water that is within tolerance (e.g., acceptable). In this manner, the water control system can cause the device 134 to release the water drawn from the secondary water source. The water control system can also stop the water flow by triggering one or more mechanical or electrical effects, such as closing one or more valves, cutting off power from a pump, pinching a hose, or otherwise diverting the water flow in the park 110. Additionally, the water control system can cause the device 134 to switch operating modes to limit exposure to out-of-tolerance water. The device 134 can operate in one or more alternative operating modes, including a bubble mode, a light mode, a sound mode, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, device 134 may include a button or user display capable of switching modes in response to receiving user input. As a result, guests may still interact with device 134a without causing water-based effects to occur. In this manner, device 134a may remain operational even if water conditions are not within tolerances. In other embodiments, water conditions outside of pre-set tolerances may result in other consequences, such as partial or complete closure of water attraction 112 or water theme park 110, as described herein.

[0025] The water control system may output a signal indicating an instruction to bring the water condition back into tolerance. Indeed, the water control system may trigger mechanical or electrical effects within the closed-loop system to resolve the unacceptable water condition. For example, the water control system may send a signal to cause the treatment system 147 to initiate cleaning of the water of the closed-loop water source 124 to bring the water condition back into tolerance. The treatment system 147 may remove particulates and / or chemicals in the water by reverse osmosis, UV sterilization and filtering, heat, and / or chemicals. In this example, the operation of the treatment system 147 may be dynamic, i.e., cleaning may be triggered as needed based on detection of unacceptable water conditions. The operation of the treatment system 147 may also be periodic (e.g., hourly, daily), which may be set by an operator or the water control system. In another example, the water condition of the secondary water source may be out of tolerance. For example, the water in the reservoir of the ride vehicle 115 may be out of tolerance, and the water control system may output a signal to the pump of the ride vehicle 115 to release the water in the reservoir to the closed-loop water source 124 for filtering. The water control system may also output a signal to the pump indicating an instruction to refill the reservoir with new water to bring the water conditions back into tolerance. The pump may be configured to initiate refilling periodically based on intervals (e.g., after each ride trip, once an hour, once a day) predefined by the operator or the water control system. In certain embodiments, if the water conditions may be trending out of tolerance, the water control system may activate the pump and / or treatment system 147 as a safeguard to prevent the water conditions from worsening. In other embodiments, the operator may use the operator device 120 to provide instructions to the water control system to activate the pump or treatment system 147.

[0026] In certain embodiments, the water control system can instruct a park operator to resolve the failed water condition. For example, the water control system can indicate to the operator via light indicators 142 on the operator device 120 and / or device 134 used by the operator that have failed water conditions. For example, the water control system can output a signal to the operator device 120 indicating the location (e.g., device 134, closed-loop water source 124) that has failed water conditions. The operator can go to that location to correct the water condition by releasing the water by pressing a button, adding new water within tolerances, beginning water filtering, or a combination of these. In another example, the ride vehicle 115 can include a light indicator (e.g., a light emitting diode (LED)) that flashes red in response to a failed water condition and flashes green in response to a passed water condition. The operator can watch the ride vehicle 115 with the red LED and pull the ride vehicle 115 out of the ride to correct the failed water condition. An operator can add water to the reservoir when the ride vehicle 115 reaches the launch location 116 via a water injection point.

[0027] With the above in mind, FIG. 3 is a process flow diagram 200 of the water monitoring and control technique. The process begins with the water control system receiving user input to activate a water-based effect of the device 134 (block 202). As an example, a guest on the ride vehicle 115 may provide user input (e.g., activate) to the water gun by pressing a button, lifting the water gun from a holder, or tapping a display on the ride vehicle 115. In another example, a guest may want to use a water blaster located near the water attraction 112a. In such a case, the guest may provide input by inserting a coin or pressing a button to activate the water-based effect. Nevertheless, an operator may trigger activation of a water-based effect, such as a water-based show, by giving instructions to the water control system via the operator tablet 120. An operator may set periodic activation of weather-based effects, such as rain or fog, for devices 134 located within the park 110 (e.g., hourly, daily, monthly). In yet another example, an operator may provide user input by moving a valve, flipping a switch, plugging in a device, or the like to activate a mist machine, rain machine, fountain, or other water effects device 134.

[0028] The water control system may then receive signals from the sensors indicative of water condition data for the closed-loop system (block 204). The water conditions may include water level, chemical composition, pH, flow rate, temperature, bacterial composition, or the like. In one embodiment, the sensors 146 may be located in a central location, such as in the closed-loop water source 124, to ensure that the water flowing to the device 134 is within a predetermined tolerance. As an example, the sensors 146 may include a bacterial composition sensor and a pH sensor located in the closed-loop water source 124 to monitor the bacterial level and pH value of the closed-loop water source 124. In another embodiment, the sensors 146 may be distributed throughout the closed-loop system. The sensors 146 may include a chemical composition sensor, a pH sensor, and a temperature sensor, which may be located in a reservoir of the ride vehicle 115 to generate multiple water condition points for the secondary water source. Additionally, the water monitoring system 114 may receive additional water condition data from the sensors 146 located in the attraction 112 to verify the water conditions of the closed-loop system. In this manner, the water control system can provide redundant and safe monitoring of the water in a closed loop system.

[0029] The water monitoring system 114 may determine whether one or more water conditions are outside of a predetermined tolerance (decision block 206). In certain embodiments, an operator may determine the threshold (e.g., upper, lower) and / or range (e.g., deviation) for the water condition. In other embodiments, the water control system may receive the tolerance (e.g., tolerance range) from a database for each water condition and calculate this determination by a machine algorithm. The algorithm may analyze the received data (e.g., signals indicative of the water condition) and compare it to a predetermined tolerance, which may be set by a user or operator. The machine algorithm may also determine a pass / fail for the water quality based on the predetermined tolerance for each water condition and calculate an overall pass / fail based on the tolerance for all water conditions. In one example, the sensor 146 may be a pH sensor that generates pH measurement data. The measurement data may be pH values ​​from a central location or multiple locations in a closed loop system. The measured pH value or values ​​may be compared to a preset desired pH range (e.g., about 7.2 to about 7.8). In another example, the water level may be measured by an optical sensor to determine if there is sufficient water in the reservoir of the device 134, in the closed-loop water source 124, or in one or more areas of the water attraction 112. Depending on the nature of the measured water conditions, values ​​above, below, or outside of a predetermined tolerance and / or range may be considered to be outside the tolerance.

[0030] If the water conditions are within tolerance or if the overall water conditions are within tolerance (e.g., pass), the water control system may activate the water flow to the water-based effect (block 208). The water monitoring system 114 may provide a signal to the water control system indicating the passed water conditions, and the water control system may send a signal (e.g., a control signal) to the pump controller indicating an instruction to activate the water flow. For example, the water control system may output a signal to the pump controller of the closed-loop water source 124 indicating an instruction to activate the water flow to the device 134. The water control system may also provide a signal to the pump controller of the device 134 to release water for the water effect. In this manner, the device 134 may create a water effect with water within tolerance. The process 200 may then return to receiving user input (block 202), receiving a water condition reading (block 204), and determining whether the water conditions are outside of tolerance (decision block 206), as described above. It may be beneficial to redundantly monitor water conditions because the continued operation of device 134 may change the water conditions in the closed-loop system (i.e., device 134 may draw water from closed-loop water source 124, which may cause one or more water conditions to deteriorate). Thus, the water control system may continuously monitor and control the flow of water within the closed-loop system.

[0031] If the water monitoring system 114 determines that one or the water conditions are out of tolerance (e.g., fail), the water control system can limit the exposure by stopping the water flow (block 210). In one embodiment, a single measured factor being out of tolerance can result in an overall fail determination, regardless of the state of other measured factors. For example, the water monitoring system 114 can receive a signal from a chemical sensor in the closed-loop water source 124 indicating a chlorine level outside a predetermined threshold and determine the overall water condition of the closed-loop system to fail. The water control system can output a signal to cause the device 134 to change operating mode and / or switch to a secondary water source. In one example, the operating mode is released and the pump controller shuts off the water flow. For example, the water control system can output a signal to the pump controller indicating an instruction to stop the water flow by closing a valve, cutting power to the motor, pinching a hose, or diverting the water flow. Additionally or alternatively, the water control system may switch the mode of the device 134 to operate in alternative modes, such as a bubble mode, a light mode, a sound mode, or combinations thereof.

[0032] In certain embodiments, the water control system may switch the water source of the device 134 to enable the creation of water-based effects. That is, the device 134 may be configured to draw water from the closed-loop water source 124 as a default state. The water control system may cause the device 134 to draw water from a reservoir for a water effect. The water monitoring system 114 may determine the water condition of one or more of the reservoirs it passes through, and the water control system may send a signal to a pump controller of the device 134 indicating an instruction to create a water effect.

[0033] The water control system may also output a signal indicating instructions to resolve the failed water condition. For example, the water control system may resolve the out of tolerance water condition by outputting a signal notifying an operator of the problem and / or automatically resolving the problem. The water control system may output a signal to an operator tablet indicating one or more locations having a failed water condition for an operator to resolve. The operator may go to the location to resolve the failed water condition by adding water, triggering water filtering, or switching the water source in the closed loop system. Or, the operator may use the operator tablet to instruct the water control system to trigger water filtering, switch the water source, and / or shut off the water flow in the closed loop system. For example, the water control system may output a signal to a light indicator of the device 134, which provides a notification of the failed water condition and / or a mode switch to the user. In another example, the water control system may automatically resolve the failed water condition by filtering the water or adding new water. The water control system can trigger the operation of the reservoir controller to filter or release water in the reservoir of the device 134 to prevent the user from experiencing water effects with water that is out of tolerance. The water control system can also instruct the pump controller to draw water from a potable water source to dilute the water in the closed-loop system, thereby bringing the water conditions back into tolerance. For example, the water conditions of one or more devices 134 (e.g., water blasters) located near the water attraction 112 may be out of tolerance. The water control system can trigger the reservoir controller to begin filtering the water in the reservoir of the device 134 to resolve the out of tolerance water conditions. In another example, the ride vehicle 115 may have a reservoir filled with water that is out of tolerance. Thus, the water control system can signal the ride vehicle 115 to release water (e.g., open a valve) from the reservoir to the closed-loop water source 124.Additionally or alternatively, the water control system may trigger the reservoir controller to begin flushing the water in the reservoir as a way of bringing the water conditions back into tolerance. In another example, the water control system may trigger filtering or sterilization of the closed-loop water source 124 in response to water being returned by the ride vehicle 115 so that water conditions are maintained within tolerance.

[0034] In certain embodiments, the water control system may check whether the water condition has indeed been brought back within tolerance. This check may be completed by another machine algorithm in the water monitoring system 114 that monitors and detects changes in the sensor data. The process 200 may receive new water condition measurements from the sensor 146 (block 204) and determine whether the unacceptable water condition has come within tolerance (decision block 206). If the water condition has been brought within tolerance, the process 200 may proceed to supply water and operate the water effects (block 208) and return to receive user input (block 202). If the water condition is outside of tolerance and / or trending outside of tolerance, the process 200 may output a signal indicating a notification (block 210), trigger one or more mechanical or electrical effects, and / or attempt to resolve the unacceptable water condition. In this manner, the water control system may monitor the water condition in a closed loop water source and control the water flow to the water effects device.

[0035] The above-described process may be stored on one or more tangible, non-transitory, machine-readable media and / or executed by a processor of the water control system described above or on another suitable controller. The steps of process 200 may be performed in the order disclosed above or in any other suitable order. Additionally, certain steps of the process may be omitted.

[0036] As shown by process 250 in Figure 4, the water monitoring system 114 considers various water condition factors or inputs for actuating the water flow. The process may begin with the water control system and / or the water monitoring system 114 receiving optimal water condition instructions from a user design (block 252), which may be stored in the memory of the water monitoring system 114. The optimal water condition instructions may include predetermined tolerances for each water condition considered. As previously mentioned, a processor-based machine algorithm in the water monitoring system 114 may calculate whether a water condition is outside or trending toward a tolerance.

[0037] Upon receiving and storing the optimal or desired water condition, the water monitoring system 114 may receive (block 254) sensor data inputs of a number of water conditions. The water conditions may include, but are not limited to, water injection, water level, water composition, and environmental changes (e.g., weather changes) at or near the water attraction. Each device 134, closed-loop water source 124, and water attraction 112 may be associated with a respective individual tolerance or condition to pass or become part of the overall water condition status. The particular attraction condition may be binary. For example, a water condition may be "Token input to water blaster?" with "yes" associated with a passing water condition and "no" associated with a failing water condition. In another example, a pH level of the water within a desired range may be associated with a passing water condition, and pH out of range may be associated with a failing water condition. As provided herein, an overall failing water condition may be triggered if only one or at least one of the multiple water conditions is outside of tolerance. Conversely, a passing water condition may be associated with all or most conditions being within tolerance or passing. As provided herein, the device 134 can have a default fail water state as a failsafe.

[0038] In another embodiment, the appropriate water level may be a water condition that is considered by the water monitoring system 114 when determining the water flow for the water-based effect. The water level in the device 134 may be considered as it ensures that the reservoir contains enough water to maintain the continuous generation of the water effect. For example, a guest using a water blaster may expect a minute of water-based effects. If the reservoir does not contain enough water to meet the expectation, the guest may be disappointed with the experience. The sensor 146 may detect the water level in the reservoir of the device 134 or in the closed-loop water source 124, which may include the water level in the ride vehicle 115, the device 134, and / or the reservoir of the closed-loop water source 124. A threshold or tolerance for the water level may be set to allow a constant flow of water from the device 134 to generate the water effect.

[0039] In yet another embodiment, the proper water composition may be a water condition considered by the water monitoring system 114 in determining the passing water condition. The water composition may be considered to ensure the chemical balance of the water, further ensuring that contamination of the water is minimized. The sensor 146 may detect the pH level of the closed loop system, which may include the pH level of the water in the device 134, the closed loop water source 124, and / or the attraction 112. Maintaining the proper water composition, such as by pH level and / or chlorine level, may prevent discomfort for guests upon contact with the water, maintain the equipment, and maintain chlorine function to prevent contamination. The tolerance of the pH level may be set between 7.2 and 7.8. Another sub-factor that may be used as an indicator of proper water composition may include, but is not limited to, the presence or absence of certain contaminants. Such contaminants include bacteria, chemicals, particulates, or combinations thereof. The threshold value may be set according to the tolerance level of the type and amount of contamination.

[0040] Additionally, in another embodiment, appropriate water temperature may be a water condition considered by the water monitoring system 114 in determining water conditions. Water temperature is important to ensure that the water discharged from the device 134 and in contact with the guest is not too cold or too hot to prevent guest discomfort. The water temperature tolerance may be set between 75-85°F. This threshold may be changed by the park operator based on the time of day or season, or due to weather changes.

[0041] After receiving input data of various attraction conditions, including but not limited to water level, water composition, and water temperature, a processor-based machine algorithm of the water monitoring system 114 may determine whether one or more water conditions are outside of tolerances (block 256). The machine algorithm may make the determination by comparing the received input data to pre-set tolerances set by a user and / or stored in a database. In this manner, the water monitoring system 114 may monitor and determine whether the attraction conditions are within pre-set tolerances before activating a water flow for a water-based effect.

[0042] The above-described process may be stored on one or more tangible, non-transitory, machine-readable media and / or may be executed by a processor of the water control system described above or on another suitable controller. The steps of process 250 may be performed in the order disclosed above or in any other suitable order. Additionally, certain steps of the process may be omitted.

[0043] 5 is a block diagram of a water control system 300. The system 300 includes a water monitoring system 114 and may include a memory 304 that stores instructions executable by a processor 302 to perform the methods and control operations described herein. The processor 302 may include one or more processing devices, and the memory 304 may include one or more tangible, non-transitory, machine-readable media. By way of example, such machine-readable media may include RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that may be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and that may be accessed by the processor 302 or other processor-based devices (e.g., mobile devices). For example, the water monitoring system 114 may be accessed by an operator interface (e.g., a computer-based workstation or a mobile device, and / or may include an input / output interface 308 and a display). The water monitoring system 114 may include communication circuitry 306, such as an antenna, wireless transceiver circuitry, signal processing hardware and / or software (e.g., hardware or software filters, A / D converters, multiplexer amplifiers), and / or combinations thereof. The communication circuitry 306 may be configured to communicate over wired or wireless communication paths, such as via IR wireless communication, satellite communication, broadcast radio, microwave radio, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Wifi, UHF, NFC, and the like. Such communications may also include intermediate communication devices, such as radio towers, cell towers, and the like. Although the processor 302, memory 304, communication circuitry 306, and operator interface elements, such as input / output interfaces, have been discussed in the context of the water monitoring system 114, it should be understood that at least some of these hardware components may also be present in other controllers of the system 300.

[0044] The water monitoring system 114 communicates with the water effects controller 310 to provide a signal (e.g., a control signal) indicative of one or more water conditions, including a pass or fail determination. Based on the data generated by the one or more sensors 146, the water monitoring system 114 can evaluate the water conditions to determine an overall water condition. The one or more sensors 146 can include, by way of example, a water level sensor, a flow rate sensor, a pH sensor, a temperature sensor, a bacterial composition sensor, and / or a chemical composition sensor (e.g., an oxidation-reduction potential sensor indicative of chlorine sterilization activity, a free chlorine sensor, a combined chlorine sensor). Additionally, the one or more sensors 146 can include an optical sensor to detect the water level in a reservoir of the device 134 and / or the closed-loop water source 124.

[0045] In one embodiment, water monitoring system 114 can output a signal indicative of passing water conditions to water effects controller 310 to activate water flow for water-based effects. Water effects controller 310 can output a signal to pump controller 312 to activate water flow from closed-loop water source 124 to device 134 to fill a secondary water supply for later use. Additionally or alternatively, water effects controller 310 can trigger the generation of water effects from device 134 by activating the release of water from device 134.

[0046] In another embodiment, water monitoring system 114 may output a signal to water effects controller 310 indicating a failing water condition or a declining water condition. For example, water effects controller 310 may output a signal to operator tablet 140 indicating the location of a failing water condition in the closed loop system. Water effects controller 310 may send a signal to operator tablet 140 indicating a "HOLD" status to notify the operator to prevent persons from riding ride vehicle 115 and / or water attraction 112. Water effects controller 310 may also send a signal to light indicator 142 to switch from a green LED to a red LED to indicate to the user that the water conditions are failing.

[0047] In addition to notifying an operator, the system 300 may also operate to automatically resolve certain failed water conditions. The water effects controller 310 may output signals to the pump controller 312 to start or stop water flow, the reservoir controller 316 to release the water in the device 134, the treatment system 147 to sterilize the water, and / or the user input controller 318 to switch modes of the device 134. For example, based on the sensor data, the water effects controller 310 may cause the pump controller 312 to start water flow from the potable water source to the closed-loop water source to bring the water conditions to tolerance. That is, adding fresh potable water that may be within tolerance may dilute the water in the closed-loop water source and change the water conditions to achieve a measurement within tolerance. The water effects controller 310 may cause the reservoir controller 316 to release the water in the reservoir of the device 134 for filtering. That is, the reservoir controller 316 may open a valve in the device 134 so that water is released back to the closed-loop water source (eg, the water attraction 112, the closed-loop water source 124).

[0048] Additionally or alternatively, the reservoir controller 316 may function as a treatment system in the device 134. The water effects controller 310 may operate the treatment system via the filtration controller 320 to initiate cleaning (e.g., filtering, sterilization) of the water in the closed-loop water source 124. For example, the treatment system may include one or more filters, heat lamps, chemicals, UV lamps, etc. The treatment system 147 may also include a pump to push the water through the system for cleaning. For example, the treatment system 147 may include one or more filters (e.g., that may capture small particles, debris, or bacteria in the water source, allowing for removal or reduction of substances in the water by reverse osmosis, UV sterilization and filtering, heat, and / or chemicals). The treatment system 147 may include one or more filters (e.g., mechanical, adsorptive, neutralizing) that may remove or reduce chemicals, particles, or other substances by capturing them before they are recirculated back to the water source. In another embodiment, the treatment system 147 may operate based on the water conditions tending to be outside of tolerance. In this manner, a closed loop water system can be monitored and maintained within water amusement park 110 .

[0049] Although only certain embodiments 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. It is to be understood that any of the features illustrated or described with respect to the above figures may be combined in any suitable manner.

[0050] The approaches presented and claimed herein refer to and apply substantial objects and specific embodiments of a practical nature that clearly improve the technical field of the present invention, and are therefore not abstract, intangible, or theoretical in nature. Moreover, when any claim appended to the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as a "means for "performing" a "function" or a "step for "performing" a "function," such elements are to be construed pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 112(f). However, for any claim that contains an element designated in any other manner, such elements are not to be construed pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 112(f).

[0051] 110 Water Theme Park 112 Water Attractions 115 Vehicles 118 Water Slide 124a, 124b Closed loop water source 134 Water Effect Device

Claims

1. 1. A water control system comprising: at least one water effects device configured to emit water in response to a control signal using a water source; a plurality of sensors configured to generate water condition data for the closed-loop water source; a controller having a processor and a memory; Equipped with the memory stores instructions executable by the processor; The instruction: receiving the water condition data from the plurality of sensors; determining whether the water condition data indicates acceptable or unacceptable water quality for the closed-loop water source; and, when the water condition data determines that the water quality is acceptable, sending the control signal to the water effects device to release water from the closed-loop water source. and configuring the controller to: Water control system.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the water condition data received from the plurality of sensors includes water level data, water flow data, water composition data, water pH data, environmental changes, weather changes, or combinations thereof.

3. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one water effects device comprises a reservoir and a pump controller, the pump controller configured to trigger water flow from the closed-loop water source to the reservoir when the reservoir is low and when water condition data indicates acceptable water quality.

4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the water effects device pump controller is configured to activate a water-based effect based on the control signal.

5. The system of claim 1 , wherein a default state of the water effects device is to use the closed-loop water source as a water source.

6. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the instructions are configured to cause the controller to send the control signal to the water effects device to release water using a secondary water source if the water condition data indicates unacceptable water quality.

7. 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the water condition data is indicative of the unacceptable water quality when the water condition data from at least one sensor of the plurality of sensors is outside a tolerance.

8. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the water condition data is outside a tolerance based on a measured data value of the water condition data being outside a predetermined range, above a predetermined threshold, or below a predetermined threshold.

9. The system of claim 6 , wherein the secondary water source is a reservoir of the water effects device.

10. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the instructions are configured to cause the controller to send the control signal to the water effects device to stop emitting the water if the water condition data indicates the unacceptable water quality.

11. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the instructions are configured to cause the controller to trigger operation of a treatment system to filter or sterilize water of the closed-loop water source upon receiving the water condition data indicating the unacceptable water quality.

12. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the instructions are configured to cause the controller to switch an operational mode of the water effects device upon receiving the water condition data indicating the failing water quality.

13. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the instructions are configured to cause the controller to switch the operational mode of the water effects device by switching from a water effects mode to a light or sound effects mode.

14. 1. A water control method comprising: generating water condition data using a plurality of sensors in a closed loop water source; determining, based on the water condition data, that a water condition of the closed-loop water source is outside a tolerance; sending a first command to a water effects controller to stop water flow from the closed-loop water source to a water effects device; generating updated water condition data using the plurality of sensors; determining that a water condition of the closed-loop water source is within tolerance based on the updated water condition data; sending a second command to the water effects controller to resume water flow from the closed-loop water source to the water effects device; A method comprising:

15. sending a filtering notification to a processing system based on the water condition data being outside the tolerance; initiating filtering or sterilization of the closed-loop water source based on the transmitted filtering notification; generating updated water condition data using the plurality of sensors of the closed-loop water source after the initiating filtering or sterilization step; 15. The method of claim 14, comprising:

16. sending a notification to a pump controller based on the water condition data being outside a tolerance; initiating the addition of potable water to the closed-loop water source after the step of sending the notification to the pump controller; determining that a water condition of the closed-loop water source is within the tolerance after the step of commencing the addition of potable water to the closed-loop water source; 15. The method of claim 14, comprising:

17. 15. The method of claim 14, comprising sending a notification to a pump controller to supply water to the water effects device from a secondary water source based on the water condition data being outside a tolerance.

18. 1. A fluid effect device comprising: one or more fluid outlets configured to emit fluid in response to a control signal; a controller having a processor and a memory; Equipped with the memory stores instructions executable by the processor; The instruction: in response to receiving a first control signal, ejecting fluid from the one or more fluid outlets, the fluid being drawn from a first fluid source; receiving a fluid source control command from the fluid monitoring system; switching from the first fluid source to a second fluid source based on the fluid source control command; in response to receiving a second control signal, releasing fluid from the one or more fluid outlets, the fluid being drawn from the second fluid source. The fluid effect device causes the controller to

19. The system of claim 18 , wherein the first fluid source is a closed-loop water source.

20. 20. The system of claim 18, wherein the second fluid source is a drinking water source.

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