Surf Pool Return Channel Layout for Space-Saving Wave Recirculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Water parks face challenges in managing large volumes of water in surf pools, leading to unnecessary expansion of space that could be used for other attractions without compromising aesthetics or utility.
Innovation Solution
A surf pool design incorporating a return channel system with a central and peripheral channel portion, utilizing grating panels to efficiently redirect water back into the basin, reducing eddies and maintaining wave consistency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the surf pool is extended to collect water at the periphery, then water collection capability is improved, but the space occupied is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The return channel is positioned vertically beneath the surf basin rather than extending horizontally along the periphery. This vertical placement allows water to be collected and returned through a central opening in the basin floor, effectively using the vertical dimension to resolve the space occupation issue while maintaining water collection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The return channel is nested within the surf basin structure itself, with the channel positioned in the vertical space beneath the basin and water returning through a central opening. This nesting approach allows the return channel to occupy minimal horizontal space while still effectively collecting and returning water.
2Reliability
If a return channel is positioned at the periphery, then water return function is achieved, but eddies are generated affecting wave quality
Solution Approach 1:
The return channel is repositioned from a horizontal peripheral location to a vertical position beneath the surf basin. Water is returned through a central opening in the basin floor, directing the return flow vertically upward and then horizontally across the basin. This dimensional change eliminates peripheral eddies and ensures uniform wave generation across the entire surf area.
3Productivity
If multiple wave generations are enabled, then productivity is improved, but calm periods between waves increase
Solution Approach 1:
The return channel system continuously circulates water back to the wave generator at the head of the basin, maintaining constant water movement and preventing calm periods. By positioning the return channel vertically beneath the basin and using a central return opening, the system ensures uninterrupted water flow that enables continuous wave generation without idle time between waves.
Data Source
AI summary
A surf pool includes a surf basin defining a first side, a second side opposite the first side, a first end, and a second end opposite the first end, the surf basin defining a substantially concave curvature at the second side, the substantially concave curvature extending towards the first side of the surf basin at a central region of the surf basin between the first end and the second end; and a wave generator disposed at the first side of the surf basin and configured to generate a first set of waves that travels to a distinct first section of the surf basin and a second set of waves that travels to a distinct second section of the surf basin.