RIDE SYSTEM HAVING AN ARTICULATING ARM

Abstract

A ride system may include a ride vehicle configured to move along a ride path adjacent a track, and an arm coupled to the ride vehicle. The ride vehicle may be movable separately from the arm. The ride vehicle may include features to support the ride vehicle on a ride surface of the ride path, such that the ride vehicle may follow the ride's terrain. The arm may articulate (e.g., move between positions) to adjust a position of the ride vehicle relative to the ride path. The arm may adjust the lateral and/or vertical position of the ride vehicle along the ride. The ride system may include a chassis coupled to the track, and the arm may be coupled to the chassis. The arm may be extendable and pivotable relative to the chassis, such as to adjust the position of the ride vehicle as the chassis rides along the track.

Claims

1. A ride system comprising: a ride vehicle configured to move along a ride path adjacent a track; and an arm coupled to the ride vehicle, the arm configured to articulate to adjust a position of the ride vehicle relative to the ride path, wherein the ride vehicle is movable separately from the arm.

2. The ride system of claim 1, wherein the arm is extendable to move the ride vehicle towards and away from the track to adjust a lateral position of the ride vehicle on the ride path.

3. The ride system of claim 1, wherein the arm is configured to rotate about an axis to move the ride vehicle relative to the track to adjust a vertical position of the ride vehicle on the ride path.

4. The ride system of claim 1, further comprising a chassis coupled to the track, wherein the arm is coupled to the chassis and articulates to adjust the position of the ride vehicle as the chassis moves along the track.

5. The ride system of claim 4, wherein the arm is pivotably coupled to the chassis.

6. The ride system of claim 4, further comprising an actuator on the chassis to adjust the articulation of the arm.

7. The ride system of claim 1, wherein the arm is movable between a first position and a second position to locate the ride vehicle at different positions along the ride path.

8. The ride system of claim 7, wherein the arm is movable to locate the vehicle at a third position between the first position and the second position.

9. The ride system of claim 7, wherein the first position locates the ride vehicle at a first vertical position along the ride path, and wherein the second position locates the ride vehicle at a second vertical position along the ride path.

10. The ride system of claim 1, further comprising a coupling securing the ride vehicle to the arm, the coupling allowing the ride vehicle to rotate about an axis.

11. A ride system comprising: an arm movable between a first position and a second position; and a ride vehicle coupled to the arm and movable with the arm between the first position and the second position, the ride vehicle comprising one or more features to support the ride vehicle on a ride surface of a ride path.

12. The ride system of claim 11, wherein the one or more features comprise a wheel and a suspension coupling the wheel to the ride vehicle, the suspension configured to allow the wheel to ride along the ride surface.

13. The ride system of claim 11, further comprising a coupling securing the ride vehicle to the arm, wherein the coupling provides at least a one degree of freedom (DOF) connection between the ride vehicle and the arm.

14. The ride system of claim 13, wherein the coupling provides an at least three DOF connection between the ride vehicle and the arm.

15. The ride system of claim 11, wherein the first position locates the ride vehicle on the ride surface, and wherein the second position moves the ride vehicle away from the ride surface.

16. The ride system of claim 11, wherein the first position locates the ride vehicle at a first lateral position on the ride surface, and wherein the second position locates the ride vehicle at a second lateral position on the ride surface.

17. A ride system comprising: a track extending to define a ride path; a chassis coupled to the track; an arm coupled to the chassis, the arm extendable and pivotable relative to the chassis; and a ride vehicle coupled to the arm and movable with the arm to adjust a position of the ride vehicle on the ride path.

18. The ride system of claim 17, wherein the ride path comprises a first ride path on a first side of the track, and a second ride path on a second side of the track.

19. The ride system of claim 18, wherein the arm is configured to adjust a lateral position of the ride vehicle on the first ride path and the second ride path.

20. The ride system of claim 17, further comprising one or more coupling elements allowing the ride vehicle to ride along a ride surface of the ride path, wherein the one or more coupling elements comprise at least one of: a suspension of the ride vehicle; or a coupling providing at least a one degree of freedom connection between the ride vehicle and the arm.

21. The ride system of claim 17, wherein the ride vehicle is configured to follow a terrain of the ride path.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] FIG. 1A illustrates an example ride system including an articulating arm.

[0021] FIG. 1B illustrates another example ride system including an articulating arm.

[0022] FIG. 2 illustrates another example ride system including an articulating arm.

[0023] FIG. 3 illustrates a partial top view of the ride system of FIG. 2.

[0024] FIG. 4 illustrates a partial side view of the ride system of FIG. 2.

[0025] FIG. 5 illustrates example ride paths of the ride system of FIG. 2.

[0026] FIG. 6 illustrates another example ride system including an articulating arm.

[0027] FIG. 7 illustrates a partial top view of the ride system of FIG. 6.

[0028] FIG. 8 illustrates a partial side view of the ride system of FIG. 6.

[0029] FIG. 9 illustrates example ride paths of the ride system of FIG. 6.

[0030] FIG. 10 illustrates another example ride system including an articulating arm.

[0031] FIG. 11 illustrates a partial top view of the ride system of FIG. 10.

[0032] FIG. 12 illustrates a partial side view of the ride system of FIG. 10.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] The disclosed ride systems provide an immersive and unique guest experience. In examples, a ride system may facilitate ride vehicle articulation and accelerations independent of track geometry. The ride system may allow a ride vehicle to span gaps in the ride or show floor and/or allow for jumping-type (e.g., vertical lift) experiences, such as through attachment to an articulating arm. To facilitate such experiences, such as to allow the ride vehicle to be translated over clear negative space, the ride vehicle may be situated (e.g., laterally) in a different position relative to its means of conveyance. Depending on the application, the position of the arm may be achieved by an actuator and/or a cam rail.

[0034] In examples, the ride system may allow for guest control (e.g., guest control over arm position), such as a telescoping distance and/or rotational actuation of the arm. The telescoping and/or rotating arm may provide guest control of the ride experience (e.g., via a steering user interface, drive controls, or the like), such as during at least a portion of the ride path. For example, the arm may provide guest control over arm actuation and position (e.g., for jumping or avoiding obstacles, etc.) via an on-board user interface, such as a button lever, etc.

[0035] Along these lines, FIG. 1A illustrates an example ride system 100. The ride system 100 may include a ride vehicle 102 and an arm 104 (e.g., a boom arm). The ride vehicle 102 is configured to carry one or more passengers or guests, such as through an attraction or ride. For example, the ride vehicle 102 may include a body 108 (e.g., to house or receive on or more passengers or guests), on-board suspension 110, one or more wheels, rollers, gliders, etc. 112 (hereinafter wheels for sake of convenience, without intent to limit), and other features. The ride vehicle 102 may have different configurations based on applicable restrictions, a ride or attraction theme, a desired guest experience, or the like. For example, the ride vehicle 102 may include an open or closed cockpit or cabin space, be sized and shaped to mimic a desired vehicle or theme (e.g., air vehicle, water vehicle, ground vehicle, movie vehicle, etc.), be realistic or unrealistic (e.g., imaginary), etc., but generally be configured to receive one or more guests. For example, the cockpit may be configured as a compartment that includes a seating area to allow a guest to sit comfortably within the vehicle. In other examples, the cockpit or compartment may be configured to allow multiple guests (e.g., driver and passenger) and/or include a standing or other position configuration for the guests.

[0036] In examples, the ride vehicle 102 is configured to move along a ride path 114 adjacent a track 116 (e.g., the track 116 extending to define the ride path 114). The ride path 114 may include a ride surface 120. The ride surface 120 may be defined by the ground, a show floor, or another surface on which the ride vehicle 102 is supported. In such examples, the ride system 100 may include one or more features to support the ride vehicle 102 on the ride surface 120. For example, the suspension 110 may couple the wheel(s) 112 to the ride vehicle 102 and allow the wheel(s) 112 to ride along the ride surface 120, such as allowing relative motion between the wheel(s) 112 and the body 108. In such examples, the ride vehicle 102 may ride along the ride surface 120 with movement of the ride vehicle 102 along the ride path 114 (e.g., as the ride system 100 moves along the track 116). In this manner, the ride system 100 may simulate real world conditions, such as to provide real world movement, sensations, or experiences for the rider or guest.

[0037] The arm 104 may include one or multiple segments that articulate or move to adjust a position of the ride vehicle 102 relative to the ride path 114. For instance, the arm 104 may be a single arm or multiple arms that connect the ride vehicle 102 to the track 116. In examples, the arm 104 and ride vehicle 102 may be coupled together such that movement of the arm 104 moves the ride vehicle 102. The arm 104 and the ride vehicle 102 may be a directly linked, such that movement of the ride vehicle 102 corresponds directly to the movement of the arm 104, or may be geared or otherwise modified, so that there is some similar movement (e.g., not in the same amount). In such examples, a coupling 124 may secure the ride vehicle 102 to the arm 104. The coupling 124 may be at the rear of the ride vehicle 102, or the coupling 124 may be at different portions of the ride vehicle 102 (e.g., the side of the ride vehicle 102, the bottom of the ride vehicle 102, etc.). In examples, the coupling 124 may not be visible to the rider or guest, such as when riding the ride or attraction, or the visibility of the coupling 124 may be minimal. Such examples may enhance the guest experience, such as providing an increased sensation of realism. As described below, the coupling 124 may allow the ride vehicle 102 to be movable separately from the arm 104. For example, the ride vehicle 102 may rotate or otherwise move separately or independently from the movement of the arm 104 (e.g., to control a position or orientation of the ride vehicle 102 as desired by a guest or rider).

[0038] In examples, the arm 104 is movable between multiple positions, such as between a first position and a second position. The multiple positions may be discrete positions or a range of positions. In such examples, the ride vehicle 102 is movable with the arm 104 between the first position and the second position. The arm 104 may move in any desired way or motion (e.g., articulate, rotate, telescope, pivot, expand/contract, etc.) to adjust the position of the ride vehicle 102, such that movement of the arm 104 is not limited to any particular type of motion. For example, the arm 104 may include any number of members, joints, or couplings allowing the arm 104 to move between positions, including via linkages, joints, extendable or telescoping sections, slides, rails, passive systems, active systems, etc.

[0039] The first and second positions may be any position of the arm 104 to position the ride vehicle 102 in first and second positions relative to the track 116. In examples, the arm 104 may move along at least one axis (e.g., two axes). For instance, the arm 104 may be extendable, such as to define an adjustable length of the arm 104. The extendable arm 104 may move the ride vehicle 102 towards and away from the track 116, such as to adjust a lateral position of the ride vehicle 102 on the ride path 114 (e.g., between multiple positions across or along the arm 104, between illustrated positions A and B, between illustrated positions C and D, etc.). For example, the ride vehicle 102 may be positioned at first and second positions (e.g., minimum and maximum positions) or multiple positions/stops between the first and second positions (e.g., along a range anywhere between minimum and maximum positions). In such examples, the first position may locate the ride vehicle 102 at a first lateral position on the ride surface 120 (e.g., one of position A or B), and the second position may locate the ride vehicle 102 at a second lateral position on the ride surface 120 (e.g., the other of position A or B). In other examples, the arm 104 may be pivotable, such as configured to rotate about an axis 126 or pivot, to adjust a vertical position of the ride vehicle 102 on the ride path 114 (e.g., to move the ride vehicle 102 between positions A and C, between B and D, etc.). In such examples, the first position may locate the ride vehicle 102 on the ride surface 120 (e.g., position A or B), and the second position may move the ride vehicle 102 away from the ride surface 120 (e.g., position C or D). In other examples, the arm 104 is both extendable and pivotable, such as to move the ride vehicle 102 between positions A and D, between positions B and C, etc.

[0040] In examples, the ride system 100 may include a chassis 130 coupled to the track 116. The chassis 130 may slide or roll along the track 116, such as to move the ride vehicle 102 along the ride or attraction. The chassis 130 may glide along the track 116 passively, or the chassis 130 may actively traverse the track 116, such as using motors, drives, or other means. For example, the chassis 130 may include a propulsion system, such as a drive system. In examples, the ride system 100 may include an actuator 134, a balance spring 136, or any combination thereof, such as on the chassis 130, on the arm 104, defining the arm 104, or any combination thereof.

[0041] The arm 104 may be coupled to the chassis 130. In examples, the arm 104 is pivotably coupled to the chassis 130, such as about an axis 126. As the chassis 130 moves along the track 116, the arm 104 may articulate to adjust the position of the ride vehicle 102, such as in a manner described above. For example, the arm 104 may extend and/or pivot relative to the chassis 130 as the chassis 130 rolls or otherwise moves along the track 116, such as to move the arm 104 between a minimum position, a maximum position, or anywhere in between (e.g., a third position between the first and second positions). In examples, the actuator 134 may adjust the articulation of the arm 104, such as the actuator 134 moving the arm 104 to lift the ride vehicle 102 away from the ride surface 120, to provide a sensation of movement or increased speed, etc. Depending on the application, the ride system 100 may include one actuator or multiple actuators. The multiple actuators may combine to move the arm 104, such as moving the arm 104 in unison, each actuator performing a different function or movement of the arm 104, etc. The actuator 134 may be implemented at the axis 126 or away from the axis 126, whether by a motor, a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, an electrical actuator, a gear box, a rotating mechanism at the connection point (e.g., axis 126), or the like. For example, a gear box may be used with a variable frequency drive (VFD) motor driving the arm 104, such as a motor living on the arm 104 and driving a gear assembly around the axis 126, although other configurations are contemplated.

[0042] The balance spring 136 or other balancing element may counteract the arm 104. For example, the balance spring 136 may provide a force (e.g., a lift force) counteracting a weight of the arm 104 and ride vehicle 102. Such examples may reduce a requirement of the actuator 134, such as to reduce the size or power of the actuator needed to move the arm 104. The balance spring 136 may include one or more multiple springs to provide a desired force counteracting the arm 104 and ride vehicle 102. Additionally, or alternatively, other balancing elements may be utilized to counteract the weight of the arm 104, such as motorized elements, counter weights, dynamic elements, static elements, etc.

[0043] FIG. 1B illustrates another implementation of the ride system 100. In examples, the ride system 100 may be implemented using a linkage assembly 150. The linkage assembly 150 may be defined by multiple arms or links that connect the ride vehicle 102 to the track 116. For example, the linkage assembly 150 may be defined at the connection of the arm 104 to the chassis 130, at the connection of the ride vehicle 102 to the arm 104, or both. In such examples, the linkage assembly 150 may maintain the orientation of the ride vehicle 102 as the arm 104 pivots relative to the chassis 130 (e.g., regardless of the angle of the arm 104). For instance, the ride vehicle 102 may have a flat or level orientation when the arm 104 is at a lowered position, a raised position, or anywhere in between (e.g., throughout movement of the arm 104).

[0044] In one implementation, the linkage assembly 150 may be defined by a four bar linkage 152. The four bar linkage 152 may include four bars or links 154 connected in a loop by four joints 156. The joints 156, which may be defined by revolute joints or prismatic joints, may allow the links 154 to move (e.g., in parallel planes) as the arm 104 is raised and lowered. The four bar linkage 152 may be or define a secondary arm that moves relative to the arm 104.

[0045] FIGS. 2-5 illustrate another implementation of the ride system 100. Referring to FIG. 2, the ride system 100 may be implemented in a water ride. In such implementations, the ride vehicle 102 may be implemented as a boat or water vehicle, and the ride path 114 may be defined by a water channel 202. The ride surface 120 may be the top surface of the water or the bottom surface of the water channel 202. The arm 104 may adjust the vertical position of the ride vehicle 102 within or relative to the water channel 202, such as to lift the ride vehicle 102 from the water and place the ride vehicle 102 back on the water (e.g., to simulate jumping of the ride vehicle 102 in or above the water). Additionally, or alternatively, the arm 104 may adjust the lateral position of the ride vehicle 102 relative to the track 116, such as to move the ride vehicle 102 laterally within the water channel 202, laterally above the water channel 202, etc.

[0046] In examples, the arm 104 may rotate about the axis 126 or pivot through an angle 206. The angle 206 may be defined by a lowermost position of the arm 104 (e.g., to position the ride vehicle 102 on the ride surface 120) and an uppermost position of the arm 104 (e.g., to position the ride vehicle 102 at its maximum height above the ride surface 120). The angle 206 may limit the vertical adjustment of the ride vehicle 102 above the ride surface 120. For example, the angle 206 may be between about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees, between about 5 degrees and about 30 degrees, between about 5 degrees and about 15 degrees, etc., such as based on ride constraints or a desired experience.

[0047] Referring to FIGS. 3-4, the coupling 124 may provide at least a one degree of freedom (DOF) connection between the ride vehicle 102 and the arm 104. For example, the coupling 124 may allow the ride vehicle 102 to pivot or rotate about an axis, such as a single axis (e.g., a longitudinal axis of the ride vehicle 102) or multiple axes. In the examples of FIGS. 3-4, the coupling 124 provides a two DOF connection between the ride vehicle 102 and the arm 104. For instance, the coupling 124 may define a first axis 300 and a second axis 302. The first axis 300 may define a roll axis of the ride vehicle 102. The second axis 302 may define a yaw axis of the ride vehicle 102. In such examples, the coupling 124 may allow the ride vehicle 102 to roll and/or yaw, such as to provide a desired ride experience, to allow the ride vehicle 102 to conform to or move along the ride surface 120, as controlled by the rider or guest, etc. As a result, the ride vehicle 102 may follow the terrain of the ride path 114.

[0048] In examples, one or more dampers or springs may bias or control rotation of the ride vehicle 102 about the first axis 300, the second axis 302, or any combination thereof. Referring to FIG. 4, a first set of springs 310 may bias or control rotation of the ride vehicle 102 about the first axis 300, such as to limit roll of the ride vehicle 102 and/or bias the ride vehicle 102 to a neutral roll position. Referring to FIGS. 3-4, a second set of springs 312 may bias or control rotation of the ride vehicle 102 about the second axis 302, such as to limit yaw of the ride vehicle 102 and/or bias the ride vehicle 102 to a neutral yaw position. For example, absent active control to the contrary, the first set of springs 310 and the second set of springs 312 may bias the ride vehicle 102 to a forward position level with the ride surface 120. Although shown and described with reference to springs, control of the ride vehicle 102 about the first axis 300 and the second axis 302 may include dampers, shocks, motors, or other elements (e.g., powered or free-damped).

[0049] FIG. 5 illustrates example ride paths of the ride system 100. As noted above, the arm 104 may allow the ride vehicle 102 to move laterally and/or vertically, such as based on user control. For example, the ride vehicle 102 may include a steering user interface (e.g., a steering wheel, joystick, lever, etc.) enabling the rider or guest to position the ride vehicle 102 as desired (e.g., up, down, left, or right), such as to avoid real or virtual obstacles, for rider enjoyment, etc. FIG. 5 illustrates a first ride path 500 and an alternative second ride path 502 within the water channel 202. The rider may choose or steer the ride vehicle 102 to the first ride path 500, such as to avoid one or more obstacles 504 (e.g., bumps, jumps, rocks, etc.). The rider may choose or steer the ride vehicle 102 to the second ride path 502, such as to hit one or more obstacles 504. The first and second ride paths 500, 502 are exemplary only, and the ride vehicle 102 may take any ride path as controlled by the rider. Additionally, or alternatively, the ride path 114 of the ride vehicle 102 may change, such as randomly or in a pre-set manner, to provide a different guest experience. In such examples, the ride path 114 may be controlled by a controller (e.g., computer, ride control system, etc.).

[0050] In addition, or as an alternative, to control of the vehicle's lateral position along the ride path 114, the vertical position of the ride vehicle 102 may also be controlled. For example, depending on the ride or attraction, the vertical position of the arm 104 may be controlled to simulate physical dynamics of the ride vehicle 102 and/or provide a level of guest control to the ride. For instance, the vertical position of the arm 104 may be adjusted to simulate ramps, jumps (e.g., to span gaps in the ride or show floor), falls, waves, crashes, etc., without intent to limit. In one example, the ride or attraction may simulate an acceleration boost (e.g., as requested or controlled by the rider or guest with a launch button). In such examples, the actuator 134 may lift the arm 104 at a higher acceleration to simulate the acceleration or boost.

[0051] FIGS. 6-9 illustrate another implementation of the ride system 100. Referring to FIG. 6, the ride system 100 may be implemented in a land ride. In such implementations, the ride vehicle 102 may be implemented as a land vehicle. The arm 104 may adjust the vertical position of the ride vehicle 102 relative to the ride surface 120, such as to lift the ride vehicle 102 from the ride surface 120 and place the ride vehicle 102 back on the ride surface 120, to simulate movement of the ride vehicle 102 on the ride surface 120, etc. Additionally, or alternatively, the arm 104 may adjust the lateral position of the ride vehicle 102 relative to the track 116, such as to move the ride vehicle 102 laterally along the ride surface 120, laterally above the ride surface 120, etc.

[0052] In examples, the ride path 114 may include a first ride area 602 on a first side of the track 116, and a second ride area 604 on a second side of the track 116. In such examples, the arm 104 may rotate about the axis 126 or pivot to position the ride vehicle 102 in either the first ride area 602 or the second ride area 604 (e.g., to allow the ride vehicle 102 to jump from one ride area to the other). As a result, the angle 206 may be defined by a first position of the arm 104 positioning the ride vehicle 102 in the first ride area 602, and a second position of the arm 104 positioning the ride vehicle 102 in the second ride area 604. For example, the angle 206 may be between about 135 degrees and about 225 degrees, between about 150 degrees and about 210 degrees, about 180 degrees, etc.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 7-8, the coupling 124 may provide an at least three DOF connection between the ride vehicle 102 and the arm 104. For instance, in addition to the first axis 300 and the second axis 302, the coupling 124 may define a third axis 704. The third axis 704 may define a pitch axis of the ride vehicle 102. In such examples, the coupling 124 may allow the ride vehicle 102 to roll, pitch, and yaw, such as to provide a desired ride experience, to allow the ride vehicle 102 to conform to or move along the ride surface 120, as controlled by the rider or guest, etc. A third set of springs 714 may bias or control rotation of the ride vehicle 102 about the third axis 704, such as to limit pitch of the ride vehicle 102 and/or bias the ride vehicle 102 to a neutral pitch position. The third set of springs 714 may bias the ride vehicle 102 to a level position with the ride surface 120. Although shown and described with reference to springs, control of the ride vehicle 102 about the third axis 704 may include dampers, shocks, motors, or other elements (e.g., powered or free-damped). In examples, three DOF may be a minimum, with the coupling 124 allowing more degrees of freedom, such as via a spherical connection, etc.

[0054] FIG. 9 shows example ride paths of the ride system 100, and illustrates a third ride path 904 and a fourth ride path 906. The first and second ride paths 500, 502 may be on the first side of the track 116 (e.g., in the first ride area 602), and the third and fourth ride paths 904, 906 may be on the second side of the track 116 (e.g., in the second ride area 604). The rider may choose or steer the ride vehicle 102 to the third ride path 904, such as to avoid one or more obstacles 504 (e.g., bumps, jumps, rocks, water, etc.) in the second ride area 604. The rider may choose or steer the ride vehicle 102 to the fourth ride path 906, such as to hit one or more obstacles 504 in the second ride area 604. The ride paths are exemplary only, and the ride vehicle 102 may take any ride path as controlled by the rider. Additionally, or alternatively, the ride path 114 of the ride vehicle 102 may change, such as randomly or in a pre-set manner, to provide a different guest experience. In such examples, the ride path 114 may be controlled by a controller (e.g., computer, ride control system, etc.). In addition, or as an alternative, to control of the vehicle's lateral position along the ride, the vertical position of the ride vehicle 102 may also be controlled. For example, depending on the ride or attraction, the vertical position of the arm 104 may be controlled to simulate physical dynamics of the ride vehicle 102 (e.g., to simulate moguls, washboards, bumps, etc.), to provide a level of guest control to the ride, and/or to simulate ramps, jumps, falls, crashes, acceleration boosts, etc., without intent to limit. In some examples, the suspension 110 may move with the moguls, washboards, bumps, or undulations in the ride surface 120. In such examples, the suspension 110 and/or coupling 124 may allow the ride vehicle 102 to follow the terrain of the ride path 114 or ride surface 120.

[0055] FIGS. 10-12 illustrate another implementation of the ride system 100. Referring to FIG. 10, the ride system 100 may be implemented in a flying ride. In such implementations, the ride vehicle 102 may be implemented as an airplane or air vehicle. The arm 104 may adjust the vertical position of the ride vehicle 102 above the ground, such as to lift or lower the ride vehicle 102 relative to the ground, to simulate flight of the ride vehicle 102, etc. Additionally, or alternatively, the arm 104 may adjust the lateral position of the ride vehicle 102 relative to the track 116.

[0056] The first ride area 602 may be on one side of the track 116, and the second ride area 604 may be on the opposite side of the track 116. In such examples, the arm 104 may rotate about the axis 126 or pivot to position the ride vehicle 102 in either the first ride area 602 or the second ride area 604 (e.g., to allow the ride vehicle 102 to fly from one side of the track 116 to the other). As a result, the angle 206 may be defined by a first position of the arm 104 positioning the ride vehicle 102 in the first ride area 602, and a second position of the arm 104 positioning the ride vehicle 102 in the second ride area 604.

[0057] Referring to FIGS. 11-12, the coupling 124 may provide a single DOF connection between the ride vehicle 102 and the arm 104. For instance, the coupling 124 may define the first axis 300 only, such that only roll of the ride vehicle 102 may be adjusted, permitted, or controlled. Although shown as having a single DOF connection, in other examples, the coupling 124 may provide multiple DOF, such as two DOF or three DOF, as described above.

[0058] Although shown and described as including an active arm 104 to adjust or control the position of the ride vehicle 102, in some examples, the ride system 100 may include passive means to control vehicle position. For instance, the arm 104 may roll along a separate track (e.g., via a roller wheel attached to the arm 104). In such examples, an elevation change in the separate track may cause the arm 104 to move up or down.

[0059] The description of certain embodiments included herein is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the scope of the disclosure or its applications or uses. In the included detailed description of embodiments of the present systems and methods, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and which are shown by way of illustration specific to embodiments in which the described systems and methods may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice presently disclosed systems and methods, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and that structural and logical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Moreover, for the purpose of clarity, detailed descriptions of certain features will not be discussed when they would be apparent to those with skill in the art so as not to obscure the description of embodiments of the disclosure. The included detailed description is therefore not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the disclosure is defined only by the appended claims.

[0060] From the foregoing it will be appreciated that, although specific embodiments of the invention have been described herein for purposes of illustration, various modifications may be made without deviating from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0061] The particulars shown herein are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present invention only and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of various embodiments of the invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for the fundamental understanding of the invention, the description taken with the drawings and/or examples making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the invention may be embodied in practice.

[0062] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the terms a and an are taken to mean one, at least one or one or more. Unless otherwise required by context, singular terms used herein shall include pluralities and plural terms shall include the singular.

[0063] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words comprise, comprising, and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of including, but not limited to. Words using the singular or plural number also include the plural and singular number, respectively. Additionally, the words herein, above, and below and words of similar import, when used in this application, shall refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions of the application.

[0064] Of course, it is to be appreciated that any one of the examples, embodiments or processes described herein may be combined with one or more other examples, embodiments and/or processes or be separated and/or performed amongst separate devices or device portions in accordance with the present systems, devices and methods.

[0065] Finally, the above discussion is intended to be merely illustrative of the present system and should not be construed as limiting the appended claims to any particular embodiment or group of embodiments. Thus, while the present system has been described in particular detail with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should also be appreciated that numerous modifications and alternative embodiments may be devised by those having ordinary skill in the art without departing from the broader and intended spirit and scope of the present system as set forth in the claims that follow. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative manner and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims.