Adaptive Waterslide Water Jet Control for Rider Weight
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Solution Overview
Problem
Waterslide amusement devices that rely solely on gravity for propulsion are expensive to construct and maintain, and existing solutions like lift mechanisms or water jets lack precision in adjusting force for riders of different weights, leading to inconsistent experiences and safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A waterslide system that incorporates a weight-measuring device and a control system to adjust the force of water jets based on rider weight, ensuring safe and exciting experiences by optimizing the force applied to riders along the slide path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If water jets are used to propel riders, then riders can be accelerated along the slide path, but riders of different weights experience inconsistent acceleration and speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The water jet system is made dynamic by continuously adjusting the water flow rate based on real-time rider weight measurements. A load cell measures rider weight, and a control system modifies the water flow rate accordingly, transforming a static propulsion system into an adaptive one that responds to varying rider masses.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical parameter of water flow rate to accommodate different rider weights. By measuring rider weight and adjusting the water flow rate parameter in real-time, the system ensures consistent acceleration across riders of varying masses, directly addressing the adaptability issue.
2Device complexity
If fixed force water jets are used, then the propulsion system is simple, but lighter riders may be propelled too forcefully while heavier riders move too slowly
Solution Approach 1:
A feedback loop is implemented where a load cell continuously measures rider weight, and this information is fed to a control system that adjusts the water flow rate. This closed-loop control ensures that the propulsion force is always appropriate for the current rider's weight, maintaining safety and consistency without requiring overly complex mechanical adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an electronic control system. Instead of using variable mechanical components to adjust water flow, the system uses electronic sensors and controllers to dynamically regulate water delivery, simplifying the overall mechanical complexity while improving reliability.
3Device complexity
If gravity alone propels the rider, then the system is simple, but a large high tower and intricate framework are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses hydraulic propulsion through water jets to replace the need for a large gravitational drop. By directing high-pressure water streams against the rider, the system generates sufficient propulsion force to move riders uphill and along the slide path without requiring a towering structure, thereby reducing structural complexity and material requirements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides adjustable acceleration tailored to individual riders, enhancing safety and excitement by ensuring riders of varying weights can navigate the slide path effectively, reducing the need for large structures and minimizing safety hazards.
Implementation Method 1
a water jet assembly positioned to direct water along a portion of the slide surface and apply a force to the rider
Implementation Method 2
A series of water jets may be used to direct high-pressure water along the waterslide surface, and in the process propel the rider along the slide path
Implementation Method 3
The sensor is preferably a weight-measuring device with the sensed parameter being the weight of the rider
Implementation Method 4
the control system can be adapted to control the speed of the variable speed conveyor belt based upon the sensed speed of the rider
Implementation Method 5
adjust the force applied to the rider by operation of the water jet assembly based upon input received from the sensor that is representative of the sensed parameter
Implementation Method 6
The rider then enters an entrance of the waterslide and is propelled by gravity along the waterslide until splashing into a pool located at an end of the waterslide
Implementation Method 7
Water flows down the waterslide along with the rider to decrease friction and enhance the entertainment value of the ride
Data Source
AI summary
In waterslide amusement devices one or more water jets can be directed along the waterslide surface and used to apply a force to riders using the amusement device. In the present approach the operation of such water jet assemblies is adjusted based on the weight of each rider, so that riders of different weights can negotiate the waterslide amusement device safely and with an appropriate degree of excitement. The rider weight is conveniently measured on the waterslide amusement device, for example, using a load cell assembly, and a signal is sent to a controller to adjust the output of one or more downstream water jet assemblies based on the measured rider weight.