Segmented flexure system for amusement park attractions

Abstract

To provide a segmented flexure system for an amusement park attraction.SOLUTION: A segmented flexure system includes a plurality of linkages coupled to one another in a stacked arrangement. The segmented flexure system also includes a plurality of rotating assemblies coupled to one another through the plurality of linkages. The plurality of rotating assemblies includes a plurality of cam members, each cam member of the plurality of members extending into a respective opening formed in a corresponding linkage of the plurality of linkages. At least one cam member of the plurality of cam members is offset from at least one other cam member of the plurality of cam members in a circumferential direction about a central axis of the plurality of rotating assemblies.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art that may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure, which are described and / or claimed below. This discussion is believed to be helpful in providing the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. As such, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art.

[0002] Amusement parks can include a variety of attractions to entertain guests. For example, an amusement park can include a ride attraction in which a ride vehicle transports one or more guests along a path past one or more animated figures (e.g., a figure including one or more actuators controllable to move figure components). The animated figures can include robotic assemblies themed to look like creatures (e.g., an assembly of one or more actuators themed to look like dragons). Additionally or alternatively, an amusement park can include other types of attractions, such as a haunted house attraction in which one or more guests walk along a path past one or more animated figures (e.g., themed robotic figures), or a character attraction in which one or more guests interact with one or more animated character heads (e.g., worn by human performers). Indeed, an amusement park can include any of a variety of different types of attractions having different types of entertainment elements, at least some of which (e.g., animated figures, animated character heads, mechanical structures) can have moving components to create visual effects. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] The following provides an overview of some embodiments disclosed herein. It should be understood that these aspects are merely intended to provide the reader with a summary of some embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In fact, the present disclosure may include various aspects that may not be set forth below.

[0004] In one embodiment, the segmented flexing system includes a plurality of linkages coupled together in a stacked arrangement. The segmented flexing system also includes a plurality of rotating assemblies coupled together through the plurality of linkages. The plurality of rotating assemblies includes a plurality of cam members, each cam member of the plurality of cam members extending into a respective opening formed in a corresponding linkage of the plurality of linkages. At least one cam member of the plurality of cam members is circumferentially offset about a central axis of the plurality of rotating assemblies from at least one other cam member of the plurality of cam members.

[0005] In one embodiment, a segmented flexion system includes a first segment having a first linkage and a first rotating assembly. The segmented flexion system also includes a second segment having a second linkage coupled to the first linkage and a second rotating assembly coupled to the first rotating assembly. The first rotating assembly includes a first cam member configured to engage a first opening in the first linkage and drive the first linkage to flex in a first direction in response to rotation of the first rotating assembly in a circumferential direction about an axis of the segmented flexion system, and the second rotating assembly includes a second cam member configured to engage a second opening in the second linkage and drive the second linkage to flex in a second direction in response to rotation of the first rotating assembly in the circumferential direction.

[0006] In one embodiment, the segmented flexion system includes a first linkage and a first rotating assembly, the first rotating assembly including a first ball joint, a first cup supporting the first ball joint, and a first cam member extending from the first cup into a first opening formed in a first bar of the first linkage. The segmented flexion system also includes a second linkage and a second rotating assembly, the second rotating assembly including a second ball joint, a second cup supporting the second ball joint, and a second cam member extending from the second cup into a second opening formed in a second bar of the second linkage, the second opening being circumferentially offset from the first opening. The segmented flexion system further includes a drive system configured to drive circumferential rotation of the first rotating assembly to flex the first linkage and first rotating assembly in a first flexion direction and to flex the second linkage and second rotating assembly in a second flexion direction different from the first flexion direction.

[0007] Various refinements of the features described above may be made in relation to the various aspects of the present disclosure, and additional features may be incorporated into these various aspects, and these refinements and additional features may exist individually or in any combination.

[0008] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will be better understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters refer to like elements throughout. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an attraction that can be used in an amusement park according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a flexion system that can be used in the attraction of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of the flexure system of FIG. 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the flexure system of FIG. 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of the flexion system of FIG. 2 in a flexed configuration, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a multi-directional bending system that can be used in the attraction of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below. In an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of the implementations are described herein. It will be understood that the development of any such implementation, as in any engineering or design project, requires numerous implementation-specific decisions to be made to achieve the developer's particular objectives, including compliance with system- and business-related constraints that may vary from implementation to implementation. Moreover, it will be understood that such a development effort may be complex and time-consuming, but would 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 present disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to mean the presence of one or more of the element. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. It should also be understood that references to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” of the present disclosure are not intended to exclude the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Numerical terms such as “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used to distinguish components for ease of description, and these numerical terms may be used in different ways or assigned to different elements in the claims. Furthermore, specific numbers (e.g., 90 degrees, 180 degrees) and / or dimensions (e.g., parallel, perpendicular) are used for ease of description and are intended to accommodate variations (e.g., to account for manufacturing tolerances, etc.).

[0012] In general, the present disclosure relates to a flexion system including multiple segments that operate cumulatively to provide a flexing effect (e.g., a curling effect). For example, the flexion system can include multiple segments that operate to provide a flexing effect on a portion of an animated figure (e.g., a robotic finger, a dragon's tail) in an amusement park attraction. The flexion system can advantageously include components, and component arrangements and / or component operating characteristics that provide sufficient durability to repeatedly transition between a straight configuration (e.g., an unrolled configuration) and a curled configuration (e.g., a curled configuration). The flexion system can also be compact, allowing for use of the flexion system in relatively small structures or various entertainment elements (e.g., animated figures, animated character heads, mechanical structures).

[0013] With this in mind, Figure 1 is a perspective view of an attraction 10 (e.g., a ride attraction) that can be used in an amusement park. The attraction 10 can include a ride vehicle 12 that can travel along a ride path 14 (e.g., a track). The ride vehicle 12 can pass one or more entertainment elements 16 as it travels along the ride path 14. The ride vehicle 12 can include one or more seats 18 configured to carry one or more guests on the ride vehicle 12.

[0014] It should be understood that the ride vehicle 12 can be stationary instead of moving along the ride path 14, or can move (e.g., tilt, turn, rise, descend) without circling the ride path 14 (e.g., without moving forward or backward along the ride path 14). It should also be understood that the one or more entertainment elements 16 can have any suitable form (e.g., any type of animated figure, animated character head, or mechanical structure) and can be used in any of the other types of attractions within the amusement park (e.g., haunted house attractions, character attractions, musical or theatrical shows), or in a variety of environments outside the amusement park.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a bending system 20 (e.g., a segmented bending system). The bending system 20 may be used in the attraction 10 of FIG. 1, such as in one or more entertainment elements 16 of the attraction 10 of FIG. 1. However, it should be understood that the bending system 20 may be used in any type of entertainment element in any type of attraction or environment. In one implementation, the bending system 20 may be used on a body part of an animated figure to bend or wrap the body part (e.g., a dragon's tail). The bending system 20 may be covered with a cover (e.g., cloth, fabric, plastic) that can hide the segments of the bending system 20 from view and / or provide a desired appearance (e.g., of the body part of the animated figure).

[0016] For ease of explanation, the flexion system 20 may be described with reference to an axial axis or direction 22, a lateral axis or direction 24, and a circumferential axis or direction 26. As shown, the flexion system 20 may include a power / control system 28 (e.g., an electronic system) that sends power / control signals to a drive system 30 (e.g., a motor). The flexion system 20 may also include a base structure 32 (e.g., a base linkage), a plurality of linkages 34, and an end structure 36 (e.g., an end linkage) disposed between a first end 40 (e.g., a proximal end) and a second end 42 (e.g., a distal end). The base structure 32, the plurality of linkages 34, and the end structure 36 are coupled in a stacked arrangement, at least in part, via fasteners 44 (e.g., pins). The fasteners 44 enable relative movement between the components, such as relative movement between adjacent linkages 34 (e.g., rotation about the lateral axis 24). Each linkage 34 includes a bar 38 (e.g., a transversely extending bar) and brackets 48 at the outer ends of the bar 38. Fasteners 44 connect the brackets 48 of adjacent linkages 34 to one another. It should be understood that the base structure 32 and / or end structures 36 can have the same or different configurations (e.g., shapes) as multiple linkages 34.

[0017] As shown, the base structure 32 can support and / or house the drive system 30. Each of the plurality of linkages 34 (including the end structures 36) can be associated with a respective rotating assembly 50, which extends through the plurality of linkages 34 in a stacked arrangement. Each linkage 34 (including the end structures 36) and each rotating assembly 50 can be considered to form a segment of the flexion system 20. Thus, the illustrated flexion system 20 includes six segments. However, the flexion system can include any number of segments (e.g., two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or more).

[0018] Each rotating assembly 50 includes a ball joint 52, a cup 54, and a cam member 56 that extends (e.g., radially outward) from the cup 54 into an opening 58 formed in the bar 38 of the linkage 34. The ball joints 52 and cups 54 are stacked end-to-end in an alternating pattern (e.g., coaxially along the axial axis 22 in a linear configuration). While FIG. 2 only numbers certain components of the rotating assembly 50 of the linkage 34 adjacent the base structure 32 for clarity of illustration, it should be understood that each rotating assembly 50 includes the same components. The rotating assemblies 50 are mechanically coupled to one another (e.g., in a stacked arrangement) and rotate together to provide coordinated movement (e.g., flexion) of the segments of the flexion system 20.

[0019] Further features and operational characteristics of the bending system 20 of Figure 2 can be understood with reference to Figures 3-5. Specifically, Figure 3 is a perspective view of a portion of the bending system 20 of Figure 2, Figure 4 is an exploded view of a portion of the bending system 20 of Figure 2, and Figure 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the bending system 20 of Figure 2 in a bent configuration (e.g., a rolled configuration).

[0020] As shown in FIG. 3 , a portion of the flexion system 20 includes multiple linkages 34 joined in a stacked arrangement via fasteners 44. For ease of explanation, three linkages 34 will be described in detail herein. Specifically, a first linkage 34, 60, a second linkage 34, 62, and a third linkage 34, 64 overlap one another. The first linkage 34, 60 and the second linkage 34, 62 are coupled via respective pairs of fasteners 44 that pass through openings in the bracket 48. The second linkage 34, 62 and the third linkage 34, 64 are coupled via respective pairs of fasteners 44 that pass through openings in the bracket 48.

[0021] Each of the first linkages 34, 60, the second linkages 34, 62, and the third linkages 34, 64 includes a respective rotating assembly 50. Each rotating assembly 50 includes a ball joint 52, a cup 54, and a cam member 56. However, FIG. 3 omits the cup 54 and cam member 56 of the first linkages 34, 60 to facilitate illustration of certain other features, such as the slot 66 formed in the ball joint 52 and configured to receive the slotted pin 68. It should be understood that each ball joint 52 of the flexion system 20 can include the slot 66 configured to receive the slotted pin 68. However, in some instances, the slot 66 and the slotted pin 68 are oriented in different directions along the stack of rotating assemblies 54. For example, the slots 66 and slot pins 68 of the ball joints 52 of the first linkage 34, 60, the sink linkage 34, 60, etc. (e.g., all other ball joints 52 of all other linkages 34) are oriented as shown in the exploded view of the rotation assembly 150 of the first linkage 34, 60 in FIG. 3 (e.g., perpendicular to the lateral axis 24 in the straight configuration), and the slots 66 and slot pins 68 of the ball joints 52 of the second linkage 34, 62, the fourth linkage 34, etc. (e.g., all other ball joints 52 of all other linkages 34) are oriented 90 degrees (e.g., aligned with the lateral axis 24 in the straight configuration) relative to the slots 66 and slot pins 68 of the ball joints 52 of the first linkage 34, 60, the sink linkage 34, 60, etc. This can provide stability when the flexion system 20 changes between the straight and flexion configurations. Additionally, as best seen in the third linkage 34, 64, the slotted pin 68 can engage with a slotted pin opening 70 formed in the cup 54 (e.g., in a sidewall of the cup 54) that supports the ball joint 52. Also, a pin 72 extending from the cup 54 of one linkage 34 can engage with a pin opening 74 formed in the ball joint 52 of an adjacent linkage 34 (e.g., in a sidewall of the ball joint 52).For example, a pin 72 extending from the cup 54 of the third linkage 34,64 can engage a pin opening 74 formed in the ball joint 52 of the second linkage 34,62.

[0022] For purposes of explanation, Figure 4 will be described as including the first linkage 34, 60 and second linkage 34, 62 of Figure 3. As shown, the rotational assembly 50 of the first linkage 34, 60 includes a ball joint 52, a cup 54, and a cam member 56. The ball joint 52 includes a slot 66 that receives a slotted pin 68, and the cup 54 includes a slotted pin opening 70 that receives the slotted pin 68. Thus, when the ball portion of the ball joint 52 is supported within a recess (e.g., a bowl) of the cup 54 and the slotted pin 68 is positioned through the slot 66 and the slotted pin opening 70, the slotted pin 68 can drive the ball joint 52 to rotate in the circumferential direction 26 with the cup 54. However, the ball joint 52 can also have limited movement relative to the cup 54 (e.g., rotation about an axis perpendicular to the central axis of the slotted pin 68) to facilitate flexing of the flexing system 20.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 4 , the cam member 56 may include multiple components, such as an extension 80 (e.g., an outer extension) extending from the cup 54, a sleeve 82 (e.g., an annular sleeve), and a cap 84 that passes through the sleeve 82 (e.g., via threads 86) and couples to the extension 80. This configuration may allow the sleeve 82, which contacts the surfaces defining the opening 58, to be formed from a wear-resistant material or a material having other properties that impart durability to the flexure system 20. Additionally or alternatively, this configuration may allow for efficient replacement of the sleeve 82 for maintenance operations. However, it should be understood that the cam member 56 may have any suitable shape (e.g., unitary structure, integrally formed with the cup 54) that extends from the cup 54 into the opening 58.

[0024] 4 , the cup 54 of the second linkage 34, 62 includes a pin 72 that engages with a pin opening 74 in the ball joint 52 of the first linkage 34, 60. Specifically, the cup 54 of the second linkage 34, 62 may include a connector 90 (e.g., an axial extension) that extends below the second linkage 34, 62 (e.g., along the axial axis 22) after assembly and / or through an opening in the bar 38 of the first linkage 34, 60. This location allows the pin 72 extending from the connector 90 of the cup 54 of the second linkage 34, 62 to engage with the pin opening 74 in the ball joint 52 of the first linkage 34, 60. Thus, the slotted pin 68 and the pin 72 provide a mechanical link between adjacent rotating assemblies 50. This mechanical linkage allows rotation of one rotating assembly 50 (e.g., in the circumferential direction 26, via the drive system 30 of FIG. 1) to drive the rotation of all rotating assemblies 50. It should be understood that the features of the linkages 34 and rotating assemblies 50 described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4 may also be included in other linkages 34 and other rotating assemblies 50 of the flexure system 20.

[0025] In operation, the flexing system 20 can be configured to change from a straight configuration (e.g., an unrolled configuration), such as the straight configuration shown in Figures 2-4, to a bent configuration, such as the bent configuration shown in Figure 5. The flexing system 20 can advantageously change from the straight configuration to the bent configuration in response to a control signal that controls the drive system 30 of Figure 1 to rotate the cup 54 of the linkage 34 (e.g., the first linkage 34, 60) adjacent the base structure 32 in the circumferential direction 26. As a result of the mechanical linkages 34 (including the base structure 32 and the end structure 36) and the mechanical linkages between the rotating assemblies 50, rotation of the cup 54 of the linkage 34 adjacent the base structure 32 causes the segments to bend together and the flexing system 20 to achieve the bent configuration.

[0026] Specifically, as the cup 54 of the linkage 34 adjacent the base structure 32 rotates, the cup 54 drives the cam member 56 to rotate in the circumferential direction 26. The cam member 56 is positioned within the opening 58 of the bar 38 of the linkage 34 and slides within the opening 58 to drive the linkage 34 to flex (e.g., via rotation at the fastener 44). For example, the cam member 56 changes position within the opening 58 from a first outer end of the opening 58 located distal to the cup 54 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3 ) to an intermediate portion of the opening 58 proximal to the cup 54 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 5 ). It should be understood that the cam member 56 can change position within the opening 58 from the first outer end of the opening 58 to a second outer end of the opening located proximal to the cup 54, resulting in further flexion than shown in FIG. 5 .

[0027] Cam members 56 and openings 58 operate to translate rotation of cam members 56 about circumferential axis 26 into rotation of linkages 34 about lateral axis 24, with each linkage 34 configured to move in this manner to allow flexion system 20 to reach the bent configuration. Each ball joint 52 also rotates within a recess in a cup 54 that supports it, allowing flexion system 20 to reach the bent configuration. Thus, in the bent configuration, each ball joint 52, the cup 54 above ball joint 52 (which engages ball joint 52 via connector 90 and / or pin 72 shown in FIG. 4 ), and the linkage 34 of ball joint 52 flex together (e.g., in a plane) relative to the linkage 34 below ball joint 52. Each ball joint 52, the cup 54 above the ball joint, and the adjacent linkage 34 flex together at a fixed angle relative to the adjacent linkage 34 below the ball joint 52, and each subsequent or stacked linkage 34 and component of the rotating assembly 50 flexes in this manner (e.g., the linkage 34 flexes at a fixed angle relative to the adjacent linkage 34) causing the flex system 20 to bend or coil along its length.

[0028] The flexing system 20 can be configured to flex in a first direction (e.g., forward / outward from the page with rotation of the linkage 34 about the transverse axis 24 in a first direction) as shown in FIG. 5 when the rotating assembly 50 rotates in the circumferential direction 26, and in a second direction opposite the first direction (e.g., backward / into the page with rotation of the linkage 34 about the transverse axis 24 in a second direction) when the rotating assembly 50 rotates in the opposite circumferential direction. Note that FIG. 5 only numbers some of the components of the rotating assembly 50 for clarity. Additionally, portions of the cam members 56 and cups 54 of the first linkages 34, 60 have been omitted for clarity.

[0029] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a multi-directional bending system 120. The bending system 120 may be used in the attraction 10 of FIG. 1 , such as in one or more entertainment elements 16 of the attraction 10 of FIG. 1 . However, it should be understood that the bending system 120 may be used in any type of entertainment element in any type of attraction or environment. In one implementation, the bending system 120 may be used on a body portion of an animated figure (e.g., a dragon's tail) to bend or wrap the body portion of the animated figure. The bending system 120 may be covered with a covering (e.g., cloth, fabric, plastic) that can hide segments of the bending system 120 from view and / or provide a desired appearance (e.g., of the body portion of the animated figure).

[0030] For ease of explanation, flexion system 120 may be described with reference to axial axis or direction 122, lateral axis or direction 124, and circumferential axis or direction 126. Flexion system 120 may also be described with reference to a central axis 128 that is parallel to axial axis 122. It should be understood that flexion system 120 may include a power / control system (e.g., an electronic control system) that sends power / control signals to a drive system (e.g., a motor), such as power / control system 28 and drive system 30 of FIG. 2.

[0031] The flex system 120 may also include a base structure and an end structure, such as the base structure 32 and the end structure 36 of FIG. 2 . The flex system 120 may include a plurality of linkages 134 (e.g., brackets) between the base structure and the end structure. The plurality of linkages 134 may be coupled in a stacked arrangement via fasteners (e.g., pins), such as the fasteners 44 of FIG. 2 , that may pass through aligned openings 146 in the plurality of linkages 134. As shown, each of the plurality of linkages 134 may be associated with a respective rotating assembly 150, which passes through the plurality of linkages 134 in the stacked arrangement. Each link 134 and each rotating assembly 150 may be considered to form a segment of the flex system 120. Thus, the illustrated flex system 120 includes six segments. However, the flex system may include any number of segments (e.g., two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or more).

[0032] Each rotating assembly 150 includes a ball joint 152, a cup 154, and a cam member 156 that extends from the cup 154 ​​into an opening 158 in the linkage 134. In the linear configuration shown in FIG. 6, the ball joints 152 and cups 154 may be centered about and / or stacked (e.g., coaxially) along the central axis 128 (e.g., end-to-end, in an alternating pattern). However, as shown in FIG. 6, the linkages 134 and rotating assemblies 150 may be shaped to provide bending in a number of different directions (e.g., in different planes, about different axes) and positioned relative to one another in any of a variety of ways. For ease of explanation, the linkages 134 are referred to as the first linkage 134, 160, the second linkage 134, 162, the third linkage 134, 164, the fourth linkage 134, 166, the fifth linkage 134, 168, and the sixth linkage 134, 170. The first linkages 134, 160 and the rotating assemblies 150 of the first linkages 134, 160 may be the same as the first linkages 34, 60 and the rotating assemblies 50 of the first linkages 34, 60 in Figures 3-5. In Figure 6, for clarity, the cups 154 and cam members 156 of the rotating assemblies 150 of the first linkages 134, 160 are omitted.

[0033] Furthermore, the rotating assembly 150 of the second linkage 134, 162 can be the same as the rotating assembly 50 of the second linkage 34, 62 of FIGS. 3-5 , and the cam member 156 of the rotating assembly 150 of the second linkage 134, 162 can be positioned within the opening 158 of the second linkage 134, 162. Also, as shown, the openings 158 of the first linkage member 134, 160 and the openings 158 of the second linkage member 134, 160 are aligned within one another (e.g., stacked along the axial axis 122 on the first side of the central axis 128 in a straight configuration). Thus, the first link member 134, 160 and the second link member 134, 160 can be flexed as shown in FIG. 5 .

[0034] However, the second linkage 134, 162 can differ from the second linkage 34, 62 of FIGS. 3-5 in that it includes a bar 190 (e.g., a laterally extending bar) having an opening 158 on a first side of the central axis 128 and a portion 192 extending on a second side of the central axis 128. This shape allows the second linkage 134, 162 to couple to (e.g., be adjacently stacked with) the third linkage 134, 164. Specifically, this shape allows the second linkage 134, 162 to accommodate the rotating assembly 150 of the third linkage 134, 164, which includes a cam member 156 on the second side of the central axis 128 (e.g., offset 180 degrees from the cam member 156 of the rotating assembly 150 of the second linkage 134, 162). The cam member 156 of the rotating assembly 150 of the third linkage 134, 164 passes through an opening 158 in the third linkage 134, 164 on a second side of the central axis 128 (e.g., offset 180 degrees from the opening 158 in the second linkage 134, 162). Thus, the third linkage 134, 164 can flex in a different direction (e.g., a different direction than the first linkage 134, 160 and the second linkage 134, 162). Specifically, the first linkage 134, 160 and the second linkage 134, 162 flex in a first direction about the transverse axis 124, and the third linkage 134, 164 flexes in a second direction about the transverse axis 124. It should be understood that other variations, such as other variations in the angle of the cam 56 relative to the cup 54, can be implemented to provide different amounts and / or degrees of travel for each link 134.

[0035] As shown, the fourth linkage 134, 166 and the rotating assembly 150 of the fourth linkage 134, 166 are similar in that the cam member 156 of the rotating assembly 150 of the fourth linkage 134, 166 resides on the second side of the central axis 128. The cam member 156 of the rotating assembly 150 of the fourth linkage 134, 166 passes through an opening 158 in the fourth linkage 134, 166 that resides on the second side of the central axis 128. Thus, the fourth linkage 134, 166 can flex in the same direction as the third linkage 134, 164 and in a different direction (e.g., a different direction than the first linkage 134, 160 and the second linkage 134, 162).

[0036] When these various different segments are stacked and used together in this manner (e.g., in alternating bending directions), the flexing system 120 can flex back and forth along the length of the flexing system 120 (e.g., like a sinusoid in a side view). While two segments are shown bending in a first direction and two segments are shown bending in a second direction, it should be understood that any number of linkages 134 can be coupled together in any sequence or pattern to provide a wave configuration. For example, any number (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more) of linkages 134 can be stacked in series to flex in a first direction, and any number (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more) of linkages 134 can be stacked in series to flex in a second direction. Furthermore, the linkages 134 can be stacked to provide any number of waves (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more) alternating peaks and valleys.

[0037] 6 , the fifth linkage 134, 166 may have a cross-type structure. The cross-type structure may be formed by a first bar 200 (e.g., a transversely extending bar) and a second bar 202 (e.g., a cross bar) oriented transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to the first bar 200. The first bar 200 extends axially and transversely between brackets 204 that connect to the fourth linkage 134, 166, and the second bar 202 extends between brackets 206 that connect to the sixth linkage 134, 170. The rotating assembly 150 of the fifth linkage 134, 168 includes a cam member 156 on a second side of the central axis 128 that extends into an opening 158 formed in the first bar 200 of the fifth linkage 134, 168. Thus, the fifth linkage 134, 168 can bend in the same direction as the third linkage 134, 164 and the fourth linkage 134, 166, as well as in a different direction (e.g., a different direction than the first linkage 134, 160 and the second linkage 134, 162).

[0038] The cross-type configuration of the fifth linkage 134, 166 allows the fifth linkage 134, 168 to couple to (e.g., stack adjacent to) the sixth linkage 134, 170, which includes a crossbar 210 that is transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to the first bar 200 of the fifth linkage 134, 168. Specifically, this configuration allows the second bar 202 of the fifth linkage 134, 166 and the crossbar 210 of the sixth linkage 134, 170 to couple to each other (e.g., via respective brackets 206, 212). The cam member 156 of the rotating assembly 150 of the sixth linkage 134, 170 can extend into an opening 158 formed in the crossbar 210 of the sixth linkage 134, 170 that is offset (e.g., between 0 degrees and 360 degrees, between 90 degrees and 180 degrees, about 90 degrees) from the opening 158 formed in the second bar 202 of the fifth linkage 134, 168. The cam member 156 of the rotating assembly 150 of the sixth linkage 134, 170 is offset (e.g., between 0 degrees and 360 degrees, between 90 degrees and 180 degrees, about 90 degrees) from the cam member 156 of the rotating assembly 150 of the fifth linkage 134, 168. In operation, the sixth linkage 134, 170 can flex in a different direction (e.g., in a different plane and in a different direction than the other linkages 134 shown in FIG. 6 ). For example, as the rotating assembly 150 rotates in the circumferential direction 126, the sixth linkage 134, 170 rotates about an axis transverse to the transverse axis 124, and the other linkages 134 rotate about the transverse axis 124. It should be understood that this offset can be any suitable offset (e.g., 0-360 degrees, 90-180 degrees, 90 degrees, 180 degrees) that results in various flexures and movements of the linkages 134.

[0039] Accordingly, various combinations of the bending systems 120 and / or components disclosed herein can be used to create a variety of visual effects and types of bends (e.g., curls). As noted above, the arrangement of linkages 134 is exemplary only, and other arrangements are contemplated, such as other arrangements that create different bend directions, wavy bends, 90-degree turns, etc. Additionally, any number (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more) of linkages 134 can be stacked to bend in one direction, followed by any number (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more) of linkages 134 to bend in another direction, etc. The features described with reference to FIGS. 1-6 can be combined in any suitable manner. For example, the segment of FIG. 6 can have the features of any of the segments of FIGS. 2-5, and vice versa. It should be understood that the bending systems 20, 120 may operate in coordination with the attraction 10 of FIG. 1 based on the position of the ride vehicle 12 within the attraction 10, etc., and / or repeatedly during operation of the attraction 10 (e.g., moving back and forth between straight and bent configurations, periodically, based on a timer).

[0040] 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 have been described in detail herein. It should be understood, however, that the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. The present disclosure covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives within the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the following appended claims.

[0041] The technology shown and claimed herein refers to and applies to tangible objects and specific examples of a practical nature that will materially improve the art, and thus are not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Furthermore, where any claim appended at the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as "means for [performing] ... [function]" or "step for [performing] ... [function]," such elements are to be construed pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 112(f). Conversely, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, such elements are not to be construed pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 112(f). [Explanation of symbols]

[0042] 20 Flexion System 22 Axial axis 24 Horizontal axis 26 Circumferential axis 28 Power / Control Systems 30 Drive System 32 Base Structure 34 Linkage 36 End structure 38 Bar 40 first end 42 Second end 44 Fasteners 48 Bracket 50 Rotating Assembly 52 ball joint 54 cups 56 Cam member 58 Opening

Claims

1. 1. A segmented bending system comprising: a plurality of linkages coupled to one another in a stacked arrangement; a plurality of rotating assemblies coupled to one another through the plurality of linkages; the plurality of rotating assemblies including a plurality of cam members, each cam member of the plurality of cam members extending into a respective opening formed in a respective laterally extending bar of a corresponding one of the plurality of linkages to enable rotation of the plurality of rotating assemblies and drive the plurality of linkages to flex relative to one another; 1. A segmented bending system comprising:

2. Each of the plurality of rotating assemblies includes a ball joint and a cup supporting the ball joint. The segmented bending system of claim 1 .

3. a pin configured to engage the ball joint and the cup to prevent relative circumferential movement between the ball joint and the cup; The segmented bending system of claim 2 .

4. the pin includes a slotted pin disposed in a slot of the ball of the ball joint through a slotted pin opening formed in a side wall of the cup; The segmented bending system of claim 3 .

5. the slot is configured to allow the ball joint to rotate relative to the cup about an axis of rotation perpendicular to a central pin axis of the slotted pin. The segmented bending system of claim 4 .

6. the plurality of rotating assemblies are stacked end-to-end through the plurality of linkages; The segmented bending system of claim 1 .

7. each linkage of the plurality of linkages includes the respective laterally extending bar, a first bracket on a first outer end of the laterally extending bar, and a second bracket on a second outer end of the laterally extending bar; The segmented bending system of claim 1 .

8. the plurality of linkages are coupled together in a stacked arrangement via fasteners that couple brackets of adjacent linkages of the plurality of linkages together; The segmented bending system of claim 1 .

9. the plurality of rotating assemblies rotate in response to a first rotating assembly of the plurality of rotating assemblies rotating circumferentially about a central axis of the plurality of rotating assemblies to drive the linkages to bend relative to one another; The segmented bending system of claim 1 .

10. at least one cam member of the plurality of cam members is offset circumferentially about a central axis of the plurality of rotating assemblies from at least one other cam member of the plurality of cam members; The segmented bending system of claim 1 .

11. 1. A segmented bending system comprising: a first segment including a first linkage and a first rotating assembly; a second segment including a second linkage coupled to the first linkage and a second rotating assembly coupled to the first rotating assembly; the first rotating assembly including a first cam member configured to engage a first opening of the first linkage to drive the first linkage to bend in response to circumferential rotation of the first rotating assembly, and the second rotating assembly including a second cam member configured to engage a second opening of the second linkage to drive the second linkage to bend in response to the circumferential rotation of the first rotating assembly.

1. A segmented bending system comprising:

12. the first rotating assembly includes a first ball joint and a first cup supporting the first ball joint, the first cam member extending outwardly from the first cup; The segmented bending system of claim 11 .

13. a slotted pin configured to engage the first ball joint and the first cup to prevent relative movement between the first ball joint and the first cup in the circumferential direction; The segmented bending system of claim 12.

14. the second rotating assembly includes a second ball joint and a second cup supporting the second ball joint, the second cam member extending outwardly from the cup; The segmented bending system of claim 12.

15. a pin configured to engage the first ball joint and the second cup to prevent relative circumferential movement between the first ball joint and the second cup; The segmented bending system of claim 14.

16. 1. A segmented bending system comprising: a first linkage and a first rotating assembly; a second linkage and a second rotating assembly; A drive system; Equipped with the first rotating assembly includes a first ball joint, a first cup supporting the first ball joint, and a first cam member extending from the first cup into a first opening formed in a first bar of the first linkage; the second rotating assembly includes a second ball joint, a second cup supporting the second ball joint, and a second cam member extending from the second cup into a second opening formed in a second bar of the second linkage, the second opening being offset from the first opening in a circumferential direction about an axial axis of the segmented flexure system; the drive system is configured to drive the circumferential rotation of the first rotating assembly to cause bending of the first linkage and the second linkage about a transverse axis of the segmented bending system.

1. A segmented bending system comprising:

17. the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly are coupled to one another via a pin that prevents relative movement of the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly in the circumferential direction; 17. The segmented bending system of claim 16.

18. the first ball joint and the second cup are coupled to each other via the pin; 20. The segmented flexure system of claim 17.

19. the first ball joint is configured to rotate within the first cup when the first rotating assembly rotates in the circumferential direction to flex the first linkage and the first rotating assembly about the transverse axis.

17. The segmented bending system of claim 16.

20. the second opening is offset from the first opening in the circumferential direction.

17. The segmented bending system of claim 16.

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