Human-operated, athletic, amusement ride utilizing user-held, wheeled, mechanical devices running on a fabricated track

Abstract

An invention utilizes a new concept for an athletic, amusement ride that can be used in settings like amusement parks or outdoor athletic spaces. The purpose of this new invention is to provide a new type of ride that is both entertaining and physically demanding. Different embodiments have two parallel tracks (one left and one right) with four mechanical devices called “carts” (two on each side of the track). Users would hold these carts one in each limb. The carts enable movement along the track in one direction only. Such arrangement allows for climbing of steep inclines on the track by use of the user's own physical effort, while enabling acceleration downwards along descents in the track by way of gravity. Users would have safety harnesses attached which attach to trolley and run on a separate safety track on top of the user's track which protects the user from falling.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application, pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 119(e), claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. Nos. 63 / 388,940 filed Jul. 13, 2022.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates to a new concept for an athletic, amusement ride that can be used in settings similar to amusement parks or outdoor athletic spaces. The purpose is to provide a new type of ride that is both entertaining and physically demanding. Different embodiments utilize two parallel tracks made of pipes and four mechanical devices called “carts” running through the tracks. Each independent cart is held by a user's hand or foot, where the right and left limbs are on opposite tracks. The user holding the carts would climb uphill the track using physical effort, then accelerate downhill. The carts enable travel in one direction only and lock when attempting to move in the opposite direction to enable climbing.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Amusement parks and their many variations feature various attractions and games for entertainment purposes. These attractions offer an immersive and sometimes thrilling experience for users to enjoy. Over the years, such attractions have evolved to include various small and large rides. Some well-known attractions include carousels, drop towers, Ferris wheels, roller coasters, pendulum rides, amusement trains, river rides, water slides.

[0004] Probably the most defining and iconic ride of many amusement parks around the world is their roller coasters. It is a ride that utilizes an elevated track where users ride in connected, open cars or vehicles, forming a train. Some are self-powered, while others may be pulled employing lifts uphill and then released downhill utilizing the potential energy gained from the rise. Roller coaster rides often feature high accelerations, high decelerations, tight turns, and rollovers that provide a high level of thrill for the users.

[0005] On the other hand, it is not as common to find rides that require physical effort to operate by the user in amusement parks. Such rides may require a certain level of physical fitness and be attractive as a physical challenge. Examples are some attractions that may include climbing or some water rides. Therefore, there is room in the market for a new type of attraction that is both physically challenging to a certain extent and provides the high level of thrill found in rides such as roller coasters.

[0006] The present invention relates to a new amusement ride which can be potentially implemented in an amusement park setting or an outdoor setting for athletic devices. The invention has multiple embodiments all having two parallel tracks and utilize four mechanical devices, called “carts” running through the tracks. Each independent cart is held by a user's hand or foot, where the right and left limbs are on opposite tracks. The user holding the carts would climb uphill the track using physical effort, then accelerate downhill. The carts enable travel in one direction only and lock when attempting to move in the opposite direction to enable climbing.

[0007] The invention would have tracks with multiple rises, falls, tight turns, twists, and potentially vertical loops, horizontal loops, and many other designs commonly used in typical roller coaster tracks for a more thrilling experience. The whole track is to be supported by a structure that takes the load from both the user's weight and any centrifugal forces during any change in direction. To compensate for the lack of a vehicle that provides safety, a safety system comprising a harness, a safety track following on top of the user's track, and structure supporting the safety system are available.

[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 10,843,090 “Suspended rollercoaster vehicle with rotational lockage” showcases a roller coaster design that includes a rotatable substructure for a passenger seat that moves relative to the main structure of the roller coaster vehicle

[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 8,453,576 “Rollercoaster amusement device” showcases a roller coaster arrangement wherein the passengers are in a racing position in two adjacent carriages.

[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 11,400,383 B2, US 20150217783 A1, U.S. Pat. No. 9,884,633 B2, US 20180154909 A1, U.S. Pat. No. 10,683,018 B2, US 20200269881 A1, and US 20220362681 A1 “Zip Line Rail System” showcases Zip line rail systems that employ a track with wheels rolling on them for training or recreation purposes.

[0011] US Patent Publication Number US 20210246008, “WHEEL-OPERATED TREE CLIMBING APPARATUS AND METHOD” showcases tree climbing device which uses a motor to enable users to climb tree trunks using wheels

[0012] US Patent Publication Number 20190338593, “INTEGRATED CLIMB ASSIST AND FALL ARREST SYSTEMS AND METHODS” showcases an integrated motorized climb assist and fall arrest system used while climbing or descending ladders or other climbing devices In general the prior art covers items related to Zip lines or typical roller coasters that are associated with a unique design for a typical cart hosting individuals.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to an amusement ride utilizing two parallel tracks having mechanical devices “carts” running through them. Two of the carts would be held by the user's hands and are attached to handles (30) and elbow supports (29) with soft elbow pads (28), while the other two would be held by the user's feet and are attached to foot pedals (27) and knee rests (25) with soft knee pads (24).

[0014] The carts used can come in two embodiments. One embodiment as shown in FIG. 3 utilizes a cart (20) which runs on the inside perimeter of the track pipes that have a longitudinal slot opening (43). Each cart has eight arms (18) (a set of 4 in the front and a set in the rear) with each having a one-directional bearing (17) housed in a steel sleeve (10) as well as a compression spring (9). The one-directional bearing (17) allows rotation in one direction only. The compression springs (9) provide sufficient contact force between the one-directional bearing steel sleeves (10) and the inner perimeter of the pipe tracks with a longitudinal slot opening (43). Two guiding wheels (19) are installed on the carts (20) to have them align the carts (20) on about the track pipes'longitudinal slot opening (43).

[0015] Such design allows movement of the cart (20) in one direction only, while locking when attempting to move in the opposite direction. As a result of this and the friction from the contact force between the one-directional bearing steel sleeves (10) and the inner perimeter of the pipe tracks with a longitudinal slot opening (43), climbing of relatively steep ascents along the pipe tracks (1) is possible. On the other hand, relatively smooth movement along the pipe tracks (1) is possible at high speeds during descents.

[0016] Another embodiment utilizes such as what is shown in FIG. 4 a cart (38) which runs on the outside perimeter of a pipe track (1) with a guiding mechanism. The guiding mechanism is made of a teethed rack that is attached to the pipe tracks (1). On the cart (38), a gear (31) matching the teeth of the teethed rack houses a one-directional bearing (32). This arrangement allows the gear (31) rotation in one direction only. Six wheels (34) are arranged on the cart (38) to rotate on the outer perimeter of the pipe tracks (1).

[0017] Such design allows movement of the cart (38) in one direction only, while locking when attempting to move in the opposite direction as the gear (31) attempts to rotate on the teethed rack. As a result of this, climbing of relatively steep ascents along the pipe tracks (1) is possible. The teethed rack, is installed in such sections of the pipe track (1) to prevent the cart (38) from moving backwards. On the other hand, relatively smooth movement along the pipe tracks (1) is possible at high speeds during descents.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 7 applicable to all different embodiments, a safety system is used to protect the user from falling in case of a loss of grip. The system comprises a harness (39) worn by the user, ropes (40) carrying the user, a trolley (41) running on a safety track (8) following on top of the user's track (1). A structure supporting the safety system (5) is integrated with a main structure (2) supporting the user's tracks (1) which ends in mounting plates (3) anchored to the ground.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] FIG. 1 is an overall view of the system with pipe tracks and structure, and safety track and structure.

[0020] FIG. 2 is a general view of the system while in use.

[0021] FIG. 3 is an embodiment of the carts running on the inside of the pipe tracks.

[0022] FIG. 4 is an embodiment of the carts running on the outside of the pipe tracks.

[0023] FIG. 5 is a detailed view of the arms and components used in the carts running inside the pipe tracks.

[0024] FIG. 6 is a view of the of the handles to be held by the users'hands.

[0025] FIG. 7 is a view of the knee rests to be held by the user's feet.

[0026] FIG. 8 is a section view of a track segment with a longitudinal opening with the carts running inside.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates an overall view of the invention showing a main track (1) made of two sections of pipes each to be used for the user's left-side limbs and right-side limbs. The track (1) is constructed from a series of bended pipes joined together to create a single continuous track for both the right side and left side. The track (1) is supported and held together by a main structure (2) composed of multiple beams that are anchored to the ground through mounting plates (3) each with multiple holes. The structure (2) supports the track (1) under different loads while being traversed by the users and provides rigidity. Each pipe used for the track (1) is joined with the subsequent pipe and bolted to the structure through circular brackets (6).

[0028] On top of the track (1) is a safety track (8) constructed from pipes that is used to support the safety system attached to the user while moving along the track (1). The safety track (8) is hung above the main track (1) by means of structural elements (5) that are bolted to and integrated with the main structure (1). The structural elements (5) are held together and with the safety track (8) by being bolted to sleeves (7). The structural elements (5) specifically holding the safety track (8) are cantilevered and supported by tie rods (4). Such tie rods (4) significantly improve the strength and rigidity of the overall structure (5) holding the safety track (8).

[0029] FIG. 2 provides a closer illustration of the invention while in use. A user is shown traversing a track (1) using mechanical devices (42) called “carts”. Attached to the user is a safety harness (39), a rope (40) connecting the harness (39) to a trolley (41) which moves along a safety track (8). The safety system ensures the user is protected from falling in case of a loss of grip to the carts (42). FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of the carts (42) used wherein the carts (42) are able to run inside of the pipes for the track (1). As shown in FIG. 8 for this embodiment, the carts (42) run within the track (1) which resembles a pipe with a longitudinal opening (43) to allow the carts (42) to protrude.

[0030] FIG. 3 as well as the details in FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of a cart (42) which runs inside the tracks (1). The cart's main body (20) is attached to multiple arms (18) by means of shoulder bolts (24), sleeves (13), washers (21), and nuts (22). This allows the arms (18) to rotate around their mounting points. In a similar manner, one-way bearings (17) are mounted to the arms (18) by means of shoulder bolts (24), keyed sleeves (11), keys (14), washers (21), and nuts (22). The one-way bearings (17) are each press fit into a sacrificial ring (10) that protects both the one-way bearing (17) and the inside surface of the pipes with the longitudinal opening (43) from wear and tear from constant use. The sacrificial rings (10) can be replaced whenever necessary.

[0031] Opening of a longitudinal slot throughout the length of the track pipe (43) is required for the carts (42) to protrude from the pipes (43). The opening in the pipe (43) is done to be a certain constant width and be angled in the correct direction ensuring it is always perpendicular to the plain of the track (1). This ensures smooth movement of the carts (42) throughout the track (1).

[0032] Compression springs (9) are mounted on the arms (18) and provide sufficient force which pushes the one-way bearings (17) on to the inner wall of the pipe with a longitudinal opening (43) that makes up the track (1). This arrangement provided sufficient grip between the one-way bearings (17) and the inner wall of the pipe with a longitudinal opening (43) that makes up the track (1) which ensures that the carts (42) do not move in the opposite direction along the track (1). The carts'main body (20) contains 2 guiding wheels (19) which are mounted horizontally on the cart's main body and are used to align the cart (42) with the pipe's longitudinal opening (43).

[0033] The fundamental concept of the system's design relies on friction to prevent the one-way bearings (17), and hence the cart (42), from moving in the opposite direction along the track (1). Having sufficient friction force between the one-way bearings (17) and the pipe's inner wall (43) is crucial to ensure the carts (42) operate in the intended manner and prevent sliding backwards.

[0034] On the top of the cart's main body, (20) threaded vertical mounts (23) are bolted which are used to attach to contraptions used to be held by the user's hand or feet. Examples of such are shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7. An elbow rest (29) with elbow pads (28) is used by the user to rest the elbows, while a handle (30) is held by the users'hands. Likewise, a knee rest (25) with knee pads (24) is used by the user to rest the knees, while a foot pedal (27) with a rotatable spindle (26) are used to rest the users'feet as typical of what is used in bicycles.

[0035] Such a design provides a level of flexibility that allows the carts (42) some movement which is necessary to clear any irregularities in the track (1), such as from slight misalignment in fabrication and assembly or from ovality, without jamming. Meanwhile, the carts'(42) movement was also made relatively rigid to avoid the cart's main body (20) from tilting and then and interfering with the tracks'pipes (1) which would result in friction during movement and damaging the carts (42). In general, the carts'(42) movement is restricted within a certain range to allow it to clear any irregularities in fabrication while also keeping it from interfering with the tracks'pipes (1).

[0036] FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of a cart (42) which runs on the outside of the tracks (1). The cart's main body (38) surrounds the track (1) and is attached to multiple arms (35) (36). Larger arms (35) are towards the top side of the track (1), while smaller arms (36) are on the bottom side of the track (1). This is due to the top arms (35) taking higher loads from the users'weight, while the smaller arms (36) take low loads.

[0037] Each of the larger arms (35) are fitted with 2 wheels (34). Each of the smaller arms (36) are fitted with 1 wheel (34). All wheels (34) are arranged to align with the pipes of the track (1). From the top side, gears (31) with one-way bearings (32) are installed on a fixed shaft (33). A matching teethed rack is installed on the track pipes (1) where the gear (31) rotates on. Since the gear (31) is fitted with a one-way bearing (32), this arrangement prevents the carts (42) and the user from moving in the opposite direction along the tracks.

[0038] A threaded mounting point (37) is used for install contraptions used to be held by the user's hand or feet. Examples of such are shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7. An elbow rest (29) with elbow pads (28) is used by the user to rest the elbows, while a handle (30) is held by the users'hands. Likewise, a knee rest (25) with knee pads (24) is used by the user to rest the knees, while a foot pedal (27) with a rotatable spindle (26) are used to rest the users'feet as typical of what is used in bicycles.

Claims

1. An amusement ride comprising:tracks (1) made of pipes supported by a structure (2) which can be utilized as an athletic ride utilizing only the users'own physical effort to operate and navigate the tracks' (1) different sections of climbs, descents, and turns without the use of vehicles running on the tracks (1).

2. An amusement ride comprising:tracks (1) made of pipes supported by a structure (2) where mechanical devices (42) installed on the tracks (1) are used by each of the user's hands and feet to traverse the track (1) and allow movement in one direction, but not the opposite direction and are utilized by the users to navigate the tracks' (1) different sections of climbs, descents, and turns.

3. A mechanical device (42) comprising:multiple wheels which is installed on the outside perimeter of tracks (1) made of pipes supported by a structure (2) for an amusement ride and used to traverse the tracks (1) of the amusement ride and has a mechanism to allow movement of the mechanical device (42) in only one direction on the track (1), but not in the opposite direction which allows users the ability to climb vertical or near vertical sections of the track (1).

4. A mechanical device (42) comprising:multiple wheels which is installed and runs on the inside perimeter of the track pipes that have a longitudinal slot opening (43) where the track pipes that have a longitudinal slot opening (43) are supported by a structure (2) for an amusement ride and used to traverse the tracks (1) of the amusement ride and has a mechanism to allow movement of the mechanical device (42) in only one direction on the track (1), but not in the opposite direction which allows users the ability to climb vertical or near vertical sections of the track (1).

5. The apparatus of claim 1 and claim 2 further comprising:a safety harness (39), ropes (40), and trolley (41) connected to a safety track (8) running on top of the main track (1) that is utilized by the user and protects the user from falling in case of losing grip of the mechanical devices (42) or falling of the tracks (1).

6. The mechanical device (42) of claim 3 and claim 4, further comprising:gears (31) with one-way bearings (32) and a teethed rack attached to the tracks (1) as a mechanism to allow movement in only one direction, but not the opposite direction which allows users the ability to climb vertical or near vertical sections of the track (1).

7. The mechanical device (42) of claim 3 and claim 4, further comprising:one-way bearings (17) and compression springs (9) installed on levered arms (18) to provide sufficient grip on the tracks (1) as a mechanism to allow movement in only one direction, but not the opposite direction which allows users the ability to climb vertical or near vertical sections of the track (1).

8. The mechanical device (42) of claim 3 and claim 4, further comprising:elbow supports (29) and handles (30) attached to them specifically for mechanical devices (42) that are to be held by the user's hands to allow users to easily grip the mechanical device (42) through the handles (30) while resting their elbows on the elbow supports (29) which have elbow pads (28) for comfort.

9. The mechanical device (42) of claim 3 and claim 4, further comprising:knee rests (25) and foot pedals (27) attached to them specifically for mechanical devices that are to be held by the user's feet to allow users to easily rest their knees and feet on the mechanical device (42) through foot pedals (27) while resting their knees on the knee rests (25) which have knee pads (24) for comfort.

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