A water slide

Abstract

This invention relates to a water slide (A) designed for safe and enjoyable use in water parks and amusement areas. The slide (A) includes at least two symmetrically arranged elevations (20) in a curved form with a radius increasing outward from the center. A junction point (50) connects these elevations (20), forming a gap (40) beneath the slide (A) to accommodate additional inlets (30). The sliding path (10) is equipped with at least two symmetrically placed inlets (60) and at least one additional inlet (30) positioned between them. The water slide (A) also includes at least two symmetrically arranged outlets (70) and at least one additional outlet (80) associated with the additional inlet (30). The bridge structure (90) directs the inlets (60) and additional inlets (30) at different height levels to the outlets (70) and additional outlets (80) in a single plane, enhancing the structural stability of the slide A.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] A WATER SLIDE

[0003] Technical Field

[0004] This invention relates to water slides used in amusement parks, water parks, and similar recreational areas. Specifically, it involves a slide structure designed to ensure safe and enjoyable use. The water slide features symmetrically arranged curved elevations with an increasing radius from the center outward, multiple inlets and outlets, and a bridge structure that connects the inlets at different height levels, directing them to a single plane for the outlet.

[0005] This design enhances the water slide's efficiency and structural stability. The multiple inlets at different height levels allow users to enter the slide from various starting points. The bridge structure securely integrates these inlets, maintaining the slide's overall structural integrity. The invention aims to improve the user experience while enhancing the safety and durability of water slides.

[0006] Background of the Art

[0007] Water slides are essential components of amusement and water parks, providing entertainment and adventure for all ages. Traditional water slides typically consist of a simple inclined structure that accelerates users downward by gravity, leading them into the water. However, innovations in water slide design are continually evolving to enhance user experience and safety.

[0008] T raditional water slides usually feature a single inlet and outlet, requiring all users to slide down the same path. This limitation restricts the number of users who can enjoy the slide simultaneously and can make the experience monotonous. Additionally, using the same structure for different age groups and skill levels can raise safety concerns, as the ideal speed and experience vary between children and adults.

[0009] The issues with traditional water slides affecting user experience include: Limited inlets and outlets: Traditional slides generally have a single inlet and outlet, limiting the user experience. This forces all users to slide down the same path, leading to long wait times during peak hours and increasing crowding and safety risks at the exit.

[0010] Monotonous experience: Traditional slides offer a constant speed and linear motion, leading to a repetitive experience that may not satisfy users of different ages and skill levels. Visitors seeking more dynamic activities may find this monotonous.

[0011] Safety and stability concerns: Simple structures can result in safety issues, especially when different user groups slide simultaneously, leading to potential collisions. The simplicity of the structure can also impact its stability, particularly with large groups of users.

[0012] Aesthetic and functional deficiencies: Traditional designs often lack visual appeal and functionality, reducing the park's overall attractiveness and the likelihood of visitors returning.

[0013] Lack of innovation: Traditional slides often lack new features that could enhance and diversify the user experience. Without innovation, parks may lose their competitive edge and see a decline in visitor numbers.

[0014] Recent innovations in water slide design, such as slides with multiple inlets and outlets, have sought to diversify the user experience and increase capacity. These structures offer entry and exit points at different heights, allowing users to experience various speeds and angles, making the experience more engaging and dynamic.

[0015] However, designing water slides with multiple inlets and outlets presents challenges, such as ensuring users are safely directed to the same outlet and maintaining structural stability. A strong structure is crucial for user safety and the longevity of the slide system. A reference in the literature is the European patent "EP2550075B1 ," which describes a water slide structure with two separate tubes at the same level, allowing users to slide simultaneously. While this design aims to diversify the experience, it still results in a similar sliding experience for both users, as they start at the same level and move through parallel tubes. In contrast, this invention offers multiple inlets and outlets at different height levels, creating a more dynamic and varied user experience. The EP2550075B1 patent also has limitations in safety, as users moving at different speeds in parallel tubes can create unsafe situations. This invention addresses these issues with a bridge structure and outlet points at different heights, improving safety and structural stability. Additionally, while the EP2550075B1 patent only accommodates two users at a time, the invention allows for multiple users, reducing wait times and increasing satisfaction.

[0016] Another reference, the PCT application "WO2021155475A1 ," describes a similar structure with parallel tubes but also suffers from limitations in user experience and safety. Like the EP2550075B1 patent, it provides a monotonous sliding experience and potential stability issues. This invention improves upon these designs by offering multiple inlets and outlets at different height levels and ensuring a safe and dynamic experience.

[0017] In conclusion, innovations in water slide design focus on enhancing user experience, increasing safety, and ensuring structural stability. Multiple inlets and outlets, bridge structures, and advanced materials play a significant role in modern designs, enabling parks to offer visitors more diverse and exciting experiences. Continuous research and development of new design techniques are crucial for the water slide industry's growth and evolution.

[0018] Objective of the Invention

[0019] The primary objective of this invention is to enhance the user experience on water slides. Traditional water slides often provide a constant, monotonous speed, which can diminish visitor interest. This new design introduces multiple inlets and outlets at varying height levels, allowing users to experience different speeds and angles during their descent. As a result, the water slide offers an engaging and satisfying experience for users of all ages and skill levels.

[0020] Another objective of the invention is to improve safety on water slides. Traditional slides, with their limited inlets and outlets, can increase the risk of collisions. This invention mitigates that risk by incorporating strategically placed multiple inlets and outlets, allowing users to safely enjoy the slide simultaneously. Inlets located at different height levels further enhance safety. Additionally, structural elements like the bridge structure play a critical role in increasing user safety by providing a broader area on the slide. The invention also aims to ensure the structural stability of water slides. Complex designs with multiple inlets and outlets can pose engineering challenges that affect stability. This invention addresses those challenges with a bridge structure that enhances the slide's stability, ensuring a safe and durable design. This is crucial not only for user safety but also for the longevity of the slide and its operation with low maintenance costs.

[0021] A further objective of the invention is to enhance the aesthetic and functional appeal of water slides. Traditional water slides often have simple, aesthetically limited designs that can negatively impact the overall attractiveness of parks. This invention offers a modern, visually appealing design that serves as a focal point for park visitors. The various inlets and outlets not only enrich the sliding experience but also increase the park's overall appeal.

[0022] Finally, the invention seeks to promote innovation in water slide design. Modern water parks are constantly seeking new designs to provide visitors with dynamic and innovative experiences. This invention offers a fresh approach to water slide design, potentially setting new industry standards and inspiring further innovations in water park equipment. By doing so, it will increase competition in the water slide industry and allow visitors to enjoy more diverse and exciting experiences.

[0023] To achieve these objectives, the invention relates to a water slide designed for use in water parks, amusement parks, and similar recreational areas. It is structured to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, featuring at least two symmetrically placed elevations with an outwardly increasing radius from the center. The design includes at least one junction point connecting these two elevations at the symmetry point, creating a gap to place additional inlets under the slide. The slide also features at least two symmetrically placed inlets and at least one additional inlet located between these inlets under the junction point. There are at least two symmetrically placed outlets and one additional outlet associated with the additional inlet. A bridge structure connects the two elevations above the junction point, directing the inlets and additional inlets at different height levels to the outlets and additional outlets in a single plane, thereby increasing the slide's structural stability. Explanation of the Figures

[0024] Figure 1 : A representative general view of the water slide that is the subject of the invention.

[0025] Figure 2: A front perspective view of the water slide that is the subject of the invention.

[0026] Figure 3: A rear perspective view of the water slide that is the subject of the invention.

[0027] Explanation of Part References

[0028] A. Slide

[0029] 10. Sliding Path

[0030] 20. Elevation

[0031] 30. Additional Inlet

[0032] 40. Gap

[0033] 50. Junction Point

[0034] 60. Inlet

[0035] 70. Outlet

[0036] 80. Additional Outlet

[0037] 90. Bridge

[0038] 91. Drive Element

[0039] 92. Water Outlet Gap

[0040] 100. Aquarium

[0041] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0042] Referring to Figure 1 , the invention relates to a water slide (A) designed for use in water parks, amusement parks, and similar recreational areas. This modern and innovative structure is developed to ensure users slide safely and enjoyably. The invention includes symmetrically placed elevations (20), multiple inlets (60) and outlets (70), a bridge structure (90), and additional inlets (30) and outlets (80) that enhance the user experience and increase safety.

[0043] The sliding path (10) on the slide (A) serves as the main route where users slide at a specified speed and angle. Extending along the slide, it guides users from the start to the end. The surface of the sliding path (10) is made of slippery and durable materials to ensure user safety. The slope is optimized to allow users to slide at a consistent speed, and the rounded edges of the elevations (20) minimize the risk of injury. The path also features a downward slope that enables users to move smoothly from the inlets (60) and additional inlets (30) towards the outlets (70) and additional outlets (80), providing a natural acceleration and a more enjoyable sliding experience.

[0044] The slide (A) includes at least two symmetrically placed elevations (20) that are curved with a radius increasing outward from the center. These elevations (20) offer varying heights and angles along the sliding path (10), maximizing enjoyment and excitement by increasing speed and enhancing sliding dynamics. The distance and slope between the elevations (20) are carefully calculated to ensure user safety.

[0045] In addition to the main inlets (60), the slide (A) features at least one additional inlet (30) positioned within a gap (40) in the lower part of the structure. This gap (40) allows for the integration of inlets (60) at different height levels into the sliding path (10). The additional inlets (30) provide alternative starting points for users, diversifying the sliding experience. An aquarium (100) within the gap (40) gives users the impression of sliding underwater, with the aquarium (100) displaying underwater life for a visually enriched experience. The additional inlets (30) are made of transparent material, such as glass, allowing users to view the underwater scene as they slide. These inlets (30) offer different sliding options, including lanes for feet-first or mat sliding, tube sliding, and raft sliding, catering to various user preferences.

[0046] The slide (A) is equipped with at least two symmetrically placed inlets (60) and two corresponding outlets (70). Additionally, there is at least one additional outlet (80) associated with the additional inlet (30). These outlets (70, 80) ensure users reach the water safely, with water pools at the exit points to slow them down and ensure a controlled and safe exit.

[0047] A bridge (90) located above the junction point (50) directs the inlets (60) and additional inlets (30) at different height levels to the outlets (70) and additional outlets (80) in a single plane. The bridge (90) is a critical component that enhances the stability of the slide (A). Furthermore, water outlet gaps (92) and drive elements (91) on the bridge (90) allow water to be pumped through, creating a waterfall effect that adds visual appeal and further enriches the user experience.

[0048] The invention incorporates various measures to ensure structural stability and user safety. Key components, such as elevations (20), inlets (30, 60), and the bridge structure (90), are made of durable materials. The bridge (90) not only increases the stability of the slide structure but also allows for the integration of inlets at different height levels. Additionally, rounded edges on different parts of the slide (A) structure reduce the risk of collisions, enhancing user safety. For instance, the bridge (90) has rounded edges where it intersects with the inlets (60) and outlets (70).

[0049] This invention is designed to diversify and enhance the user experience. Multiple inlet (30, 60) and outlet (70, 80) points cater to users of different age groups and skill levels, while visual elements such as the aquarium (100) add aesthetic value. The bridge (90) and the waterfall effect created by the water outlet gaps (92) add dynamism to the slide structure, attracting users' attention. These elements ensure that the slide (A) offers a more attractive and memorable experience for park visitors.

[0050] This water slide (A) design is developed to provide users with safe, enjoyable, and varied sliding experiences. Structural stability, safety features, and aesthetic elements all contribute to the overall quality of the slide (A). This invention will enhance the capacity of water parks and amusement parks to offer visitors more diverse and exciting experiences, setting new standards in the water slide industry.

Claims

CLAIMS1. The invention relates to a water slide (A) designed for safe and enjoyable use in water parks, amusement parks, and similar recreational areas, characterized by:• at least two symmetrically placed elevations (20) forming a sliding path (10) with a radius increasing outward from the center,• at least one junction point (50) connecting the two elevations (20) from the symmetry point and creating a gap (40) to accommodate additional inlets (30) beneath the slide (A),• at least two symmetrically placed inlets (60) and at least one additional inlet (30) located between these inlets (60) beneath the mentioned junction point (50),• at least two symmetrically placed outlets (70) for user exit and at least one additional outlet (80) associated with the additional inlet (30) located between the outlets (70),• at least one bridge (90) connecting the two elevations (20) of the slide (A) above the junction point (50), directing the inlets (60) and additional inlets (30) at different height levels to the outlets (70) and additional outlets (80) in a single plane, and structurally enhancing the stability of the slide (A).

2. A water slide (A) according to Claim 1 , characterized by a downward slope that guides the user along the sliding path (10) from the inlets (60) and additional inlets (30) towards the outlets (70) and additional outlets (80).

3. A water slide (A) according to Claim 1 , characterized by the inclusion of at least one aquarium (100) within the gap (40) through which the additional inlet (30) passes, providing the user with the impression of sliding underwater.

4. A water slide (A) according to Claim 3, characterized by the additional inlets (30) being made of transparent material to allow the user to view the aquarium (100) while sliding.

5. A water slide (A) according to Claim 4, characterized by the transparent material being glass or another transparent material.

6. A water slide (A) according to Claim 1 , characterized by the inclusion of at least one drive element (91) on the bridge (90) to create a waterfall effect over the outlets (70) and additional outlets (80) by pumping water through the water outlet gaps (92) positioned on the bridge (90).

7. A water slide (A) according to Claim 1 , characterized by water pools at the outlets (70) and additional outlets (80) to slow users at the end of the slide (A) and ensure their safety.

8. A water slide (A) according to Claim 1 , characterized by the rounded edges of the elevations (20) to enhance user safety on the slide (A).

9. A water slide (A) according to Claim 1 , characterized by the rounded edges of the bridge (90) where it intersects with the inlets (60) and outlets (70) to enhance user safety.

10. A water slide (A) according to Claim 1 , characterized by the additional inlet (30) offering one or two lanes for sliding in a feet-first position or with a mat, two lanes for tube sliding, and one lane for raft sliding.

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