NL2035368B1

NL2035368B1 - Rocker swing device for swing ride.

Info

Publication number: NL2035368B1
Application number: NL2035368A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Johannes Bilsen Camiel
Original assignee: Vekoma Rides Eng B V
Priority date: 2023-07-13
Filing date: 2023-07-13
Publication date: 2025-01-27
Also published as: WO2025012085A1

Abstract

A swing device for amusing passengers by a swing ride comprising a linkage of an upstanding first and second support 21,22 on a base 1 and at distal support ends interconnected by a coupling element 6. At least one of the first and second support 21, 22 is drivable by an actuator 5 to introduce a rocking motion. The swing device comprises at least one swing arm 31, 32 suspended from respectively one of the first and second support. The swing arm is movable along an own swing path. At least one passenger carrier 41, 42 is connected to a distal swing arm end 34 of the swing arm 31, 32. The combination of the rocking 10 motion of the supports, the swing motion of the swing arm and the rotating motion of the coupling element provide to public and passengers a spectacular attraction of superimposed movements. Fig. 5

Description

P36258NLO0/KHO

Title: Rocker swing device for swing ride.

The invention relates to a swing device for amusing passengers by providing a swing ride including at least one swing arm which is suspended from a first and second support and in which a passenger carrier is connected to the at least one swing arm. Further, the invention relates to a method for operating a swing device according to the invention.

EPO0.140.238B1 discloses an amusement ride system having a base formed by a left and right undercarriage to carry respectively a left and right support formed by erectable folding masts.

The undercarriages are spaced from each other and interconnected by spacing plates. Radially rotating heads are supported on the free ends of the left and right support. Each head is rotatable around a horizontal axis by an associated driving element. Each head is provided with a joint which supports a jib which is adapted to rotate around an axis of the joint. A gas pressure cylinder is used to damping a rotating motion of the jibs. A universal joint is disposed on the free end of each jib. Ends of a gondola-type passenger vehicle are connected to the universal joints. With the rotating motion of the jibs, the passenger vehicle can be driven in a circular trajectory and assume different respective positions of tilt while moving along the trajectory. In this way, it is possible to achieve a great number of variations in the effects of motion of the passenger vehicle.

EP2.754.472B1 discloses a substantially same attraction, but including multiple gondolas as disclosed in EP2517765. Each gondola is connected to a carrier arm for rotation about at least one rotation axis extending substantially transversely to the carrier arm. Thus, it is said that this attraction provides an additional degree of freedom of movement which results in a spectacular combination of rotation movements and provide a passenger with a unique experience.

A drawback of these known attractions is that despite the amount of implemented degree of movements, a trajectory of a gondola is still rather predictive. It is a challenge to provide an attraction which in operation is allowed to provide superimposed motions to the passengers which bring great excitement.

It is further seen that US10456695B1 discloses an amusement apparatus to provide an amusement ride in the nature of a swinging ride. The amusement ride comprises a spaced pair of base mounting structures secured to the ground. The base mounting structures define between themselves a generally horizontal rocking axis. Each base mounting structure pivotally supports a rocking boom. A pair of rocking booms extends from a common rocking axis to distal ends which are spanned by a crossbar serving as an axle. The amusement ride includes a swinging passenger carrier. The passenger carrier is suspended by spokes from the axle. The passenger carrier is suspended at rest, but not truly suspended while being driven in swinging motions. The distal ends of the booms support opposed drive systems to provide the swinging motion which may allow a full 360° revolution. The rocking booms are driven by their own drive system which are for example hydraulic cylinders to tilt between angular extremes of about 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock on an imaginary clock dial. The rocking booms are driven by a hydraulic system which is independent and not coupled to the drive system of the swinging carrier.

In the amusement industry, a swing motion is a rather classic motion which appeals to someone’s imagination. However, such a classic swing motion is somewhat predictive. It is a challenge to provide a swing motion which is more spectacular and provides more excitement to a passenger.

Regarding the above-mentioned prior art, it is remarked that any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like included in the present specification is for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention, and is not to be taken as an admission that any such matters form part of the prior art or were common general knowledge in the field relevant tothe present invention before the priority date of each claim of this application.

The general object of the present invention is to at least partially eliminate the above mentioned drawback and/or to provide a usable alternative. More specific, it is an object of the invention to provide a swing device including superimposed motions which brings more excitement to a swing ride.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by a swing device for providing a swing ride according to claim 1.

The swing device is arranged to amuse passengers by a swing ride. The swing device comprises -seen in an imaginary plane of projection- a linkage of a first and second support which are upwardly directed from a base and which are interconnected by a coupling element.

The first and second support respectively have an elongated first and an elongated second support body. Each support body has a proximal support end and a distal support end. At the proximal support end, each support body is pivotable about respectively a first and second support axis connected to a base. At least one of the first and second support is driven by an actuator to introduce a tilt motion to the first and second support. The tilt motion is a rocking motion about the respective first and second support axis in which the first and second support are driven to move back and forth.

The coupling element is arranged to interconnect the first and second support. The coupling element has a first and second coupling end which are respectively connected to the distal support ends of the respective first and second support.

The swing device comprises at least one swing arm, in particular a first and second swing arm.

Each swingarm has an elongated swing body and is movable along an own swing path. The first and second swing arm have respectively an elongated first and second swing body. Each swing body has a proximal swing arm end and a distal swing arm end. At the proximal swing arm end, each swing arm body is pivotable about a swing axis connected to the respective first and second support body.

The swing device further comprises at least one passenger carrier, in particular a first and second passenger carrier being connected to the distal swing arm end of the respective first and second swing arm. The at least one passenger carrier is arranged to make an own swing motion. Each of the passenger carriers is movable along an own swing path. A swing device including only two passenger carriers may also be called a double swing device.

The swing axis of the at least one swing arm is displaceable by a movement of the linkage of the swing device. The swing axis is displaceable by the rocking motion of the supports. The displacement of the swing axis may provide a spectacular change of a swing path of a passenger carrier.

The interconnection of the first and second support by the coupling element may provide an interaction between the first and second swing arm. Due to the interconnection, a rocking motion of the first support causes a rocking motion of the second support, such that both swing axes move and the swing motion of both swing arms is affected by the rocking mation.

Passengers sitting in one of the passenger carriers will experience a change of their swing ride relative to the environment, but may in addition, also experience a change relative to another passenger carrier. Herewith, a highly dynamic swing ride is provided which contributes to a great improvement of the passenger thrill.

Additionally, in operation, the swing device presents a combination of moving parts in which the supports are rocking, the coupling element is rotating and the swing arms are swinging.

Due to this combination of movements, the swing device provides a visually attractive amusement device for people standing outside and watching the swing device.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, a subassembly of the first and second support body and the at least one swing arm is positioned aside the at least one passenger carrier. In particular, a subassembly of the first and second support and the first and second swing arm is positioned in between the first and second passenger carrier. Seen in a frontal view which is defined by the swing path which sways from a back side to a front side, the first and second passenger carrier are positioned laterally outside the supports and swing arms. The at least one of the first and second passenger carrier is laterally positioned with respect to the subassembly of the support and the swing arm. In comparison with conventional swing devices in which a swing arm is positioned between standers of a framework, the passenger carrier positioned aside the subassembly is beneficial in providing an open accessible load platform which allows passengers to entry or exit the passenger carrier. The passenger may have a free and open space on the load platform to enter the passenger carrier.

Beneficially, a passenger may easily enter or exit the passenger carrier without necessarily passing along a stander or foot of a support. Both passenger carriers can be positioned laterally outside the subassembly at a left and right side which is beneficial in providing a clear accessible platform to allow passengers to enter or exit from the load platform.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, a distance ‘Q’ between the first and second support axis is equal or shorter than a length of each of the first and second support. In particular, a length of a support is at least 10%, in particular at least 20% larger than the distance ‘Q’ between the support axes. The ratio of a support length versus a support axes distance larger than one is beneficial to provide sufficient height for the suspended swing arms and sufficient space to allow the tilt motion of the supports.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the coupling element has a length with is shorter than at least 70%, in particular shorter than at least 50% of the distance ‘Q between the first and second support axis. In particular, the coupling element has a length of at least 1 m and at most 3 m.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the first and second support body have a same length. Herewith, the swing device has a symmetrical appearance which may contribute to increase the visual attraction.

In an alternative embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the first and second support body and the respective first and second swing arm body have different lengths. A different length of a swing arm may result in different swing paths of each passenger carrier. The first swing arm may have a larger length than the second swing arm, such that the first passenger carrier swings along a larger swing path than the second passenger carrier.

Herewith, the swing device provides different swing paths which challenges passengers to enjoy different swing rides.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the coupling element has a length which is shorter than at least 70%, in particular shorter than at least 50%, of a distance ‘Q'’ between the first and second support axis. In particular, the coupling element has a coupling length of at least 1m and at most 3m. A configuration of the swing device including a relative small length of the coupling element may mitigate an adaption of a swing path from a classical circular trajectory. Herewith, the swing device may be configured to satisfy to park owner desires to provide a particular thrill level to the passengers.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the swing device -laterally seen in an imaginary plane in projection- forms a four-bar linkage according to a Grashof condition which defines a double-rocker mechanism. In particular, the Grashof condition as disclosed on Wikipedia states “If the sum of the shortest and longest link of a planar quadrilateral linkage is less than or equal to the sum of the remaining two links, then the shortest link can rotate fully with respect to a neighboring link.”. In a double-rocker mechanism according to the Grashof condition, the shortest link which is here formed by the coupling element can make a full revolution, while the neighbouring links which are here formed by the upstanding supports rock back and forth.

In other words, in an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the swing device forms four-bar double rock mechanism according to the Grashof condition, wherein the first and second support body, the coupling element and a distance between respectively a first and second support axis together form a Grashof double-rocker linkage, in which the first and second support body are respectively a first rocker and a second rocker having respectively a length ‘L' and a length ‘P’, the coupling element is a coupler having a length ‘S’ and the distance between the first and second support axis has a length ‘Q’ according to a formula (S + L) > (P + QQ) to obtain a tilt motion of the first and second rocker and wherein the coupler is allowed to make a full revolution.

Preferably, the coupling element of the swing device according to the invention is configured in the four-bar linkage to make a full revolution. The first and second support are then configured to tilt about their full range. A full revolution is beneficial in that the four-bar linkage smoothly moves during operation.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention having a double-rocker mechanism configuration but not according to the Grashof condition, a rocking motion of the first and second support may be limited to a predetermined tilt angle, such that the limitation prevents a full rotation of the coupling element.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the swing device comprises a control unit which is provided to control the rocking motion of the first and second support. In particular, the rocking motion is programmed not to exceed a tilt angle of at least 30° and at most 120° with respect to a horizontal. Each support body is tiltable relative to the base about the support axis between a tilt angle of at least 30° and most 120° with respect to the horizontal.

Herewith, the control unit is programmed to limit the rocking motion and thereby the limitation may also prevent a full rotation of the coupling element. The limited rocking motion of the first and second support may cause a limited rotating motion, a twist motion, of the coupling element.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the actuator for introducing a rocking motion to the first and second supports is positioned in between the coupling element and one of the first and second support. Preferably, in an embodiment of the swing device in which the coupling element is configured to make a full revolution, the actuator is arranged as a motor for driving the coupling element in rotation.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the actuator is positioned in between the base and at least one of the first and second support to introduce the rocking motion to the at least one of the first and second support body. Preferably, the first and second support body are each provided with an own actuator for tilting the respective first and second support body. The actuator may be a linear actuator, e.g. a hydraulic cylinder, including an elongated actuator body having a first actuator end being connected to the base and a second actuator end being connected to the support body. An arrangement of the swing device including an own actuator for each support body may be beneficial in obtaining a predetermined swing path and proper alignment of an actuator for operation.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the swing arm is freely pivotable connected to the support body. The swing arm may freely swing about a rotation shaft which forms the swing axis. The rocking motion of the support body may be carried out to promote the swing motion of the swing arm.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, a swing drive is provided at the proximal swing arm end of at least one of the swing arms to drive the swing arm in rotation relative to the support body. Advantageously, a swing motion of the swing arm can be controlled by the swing drive to obtain a predetermined swing path. In particular, the swing drive may be operable by a passenger to obtain an interactive attraction.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, a swing brake is provided at the proximal swing arm end of the at least one swing arm to decelerate a swing motion of the swing arm. Advantageously, a swing motion of the swing arm can be controlled by the swing brake to obtain a predetermined swing path. In particular, the swing brake may be operable by a passenger to obtain an interactive attraction.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, the at least one swing arm comprises a first swing arm part and a second swing arm part. The first swing arm part is rotatably connected to the second swing arm part. In particular, the first swing arm part is freely pivotable with respect to the second swing arm part. Beneficially, such a swing arm out of several parts may introduce further degrees of freedom to the swing device which may further contribute to the attractiveness of the swing device.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, at least one of the first and second passenger carrier is fixed in rotation connected to the respective swing arm. Preferably, at least one of the first and second passenger carrier comprises at least one passenger seat facing a direction of the tilt motion of the support body. Herewith, a passenger sitting in the seat swings backwards and forwards as in a classic swing ride. The passenger carrier is rigidly connected to the swing arm. By the fixation, the passenger carrier has a fixed orientation with respect to the swing arm. The fixation of the passenger carrier to the swing arm is beneficial in controlling the swing ride along a particular swing path. Alternatively, at least one of the first and second passenger carrier may be pivotally connected to the swing arm to tilt about a predetermined angle or to fully rotate with respect to the swing arm. Such a rotational connection of the passenger carrier may further increase a thrill of the swing ride. In particular, the passenger carrier is rotatable about a horizontal or vertical axis to obtain an extra spinning sensation.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the invention, a carrier brake is provided to rotationally lock a passenger carrier with respect to the swing arm. The carrier brake is beneficial in keeping the passenger carrier stable when a passenger enters or exits the passenger carrier. In particular, the carrier brake may be operable by a passenger during a ride to obtain an interactive attraction.

Further, the invention relates to a method for operating a swing device according to the invention, wherein the method comprises the step of introducing a tilt motion to a support, in particular to a support body, by at least one actuator to displace a swing axis of a swing arm to adapt a swing path of a passenger carrier.

Beneficially, the tilt motion of the support body may be carried out to promote the swing motion of the swing arm. Passengers may experience a further thrill by an acceleration, a deceleration due to a lengthening or shortening of a swing path during the swing ride.

In an embodiment of the method according to the invention, the method further comprises a step of introducing a swing motion to a swing arm by a swing drive. By introducing a combination of a tilt motion of the support body and a swing motion of the swing arm, an excited swing path can be obtained of a passenger carrier to increase a thrill of a swing ride.

In an embodiment of the method according to the invention, a full revolution of a swing arm with passenger carrier may be provided. The control unit may be programmed to provide a 360° swing motion in which a passenger carrier at the distal swing arm end loops about the swing arm axis.

In an aspect according to the invention, the invention relates to a swing device for amusing passengers by a swing ride, which swing device (10) comprises: - a support (2) including an elongated support body (20) having a proximal support end (23) and a distal support end (24) which support body (20) is at the proximal support end (23) pivotable about a support axis (02) connected to a base (1) to allow a rocking motion of the support body (20), wherein the support body (20) is drivable in rotation about the support axis (02) by an actuator (5) to introduce the rocking motion to the support body (20) - a swing arm (3) including an elongated swing body (30) which suspends from the support body (20) and which swing body (30) has a proximal swing arm end (33) and a distal swing arm end (34), in which the swing body (30) is at a proximal swing arm end (33) pivotable about a swing axis (03) connected to the support body (20) to allow a swing motion of the swing body (30); and

- a passenger carrier (4) for carrying at least one passenger in which the passenger carrier (4) is connected to the distal swing arm end (34) characterised in that the swing arm (3) is freely pivotable suspended from to the support body (20).

Beneficially, in operation, the swing motion of the freely suspended swing arm is obtained by rocking the support. The rocking motion of the support body may be carried out to promote the swing motion of the swing arm. Passengers may experience a further thrill by an acceleration, a deceleration due to a lengthening or shortening of a swing path by the rocking motion during the swing ride.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the aspect of the invention, the swing device comprises a control unit which is provided to control the rocking motion of the support.

In particular, the rocking motion is programmed not to exceed a tilt angle of at least 30° and at most 120° with respect to a horizontal. The support body is tiltable relative to the base about the support axis between a tilt angle of at least 30° and most 120° with respect to the horizontal.

Herewith, the control unit is programmed to limit the rocking motion.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the aspect of the invention, the actuator is positioned in between the base and the support to introduce the rocking motion to the support body. Preferably, the support body is each provided with an actuator for tilting the support body.

The actuator may be a linear actuator, e.g. a hydraulic cylinder, including an elongated actuator body having a first actuator end being connected to the base and a second actuator end being connected to the support body. An arrangement of the swing device including an actuator for the support body may be beneficial in obtaining a predetermined swing path and proper alignment of an actuator for operation.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the aspect of the invention, a swing brake is provided at the proximal swing arm end of the swing arm to decelerate a swing motion of the swing arm. Advantageously, a swing motion of the swing arm can be controlled by the swing brake to obtain a predetermined swing path. In particular, the swing brake may be operable by a passenger to obtain an interactive attraction.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the aspect of the invention, the swing arm comprises a first swing arm part and a second swing arm part. The first swing arm part is rotatably connected to the second swing arm part. In particular, the first swing arm part is freely pivotable with respect to the second swing arm part. Beneficially, such a swing arm out of several parts may introduce further degrees of freedom to the swing device which may further contribute to the attractiveness of the swing device.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the aspect of the invention, the at least one passenger carrier is fixed in rotation connected to the swing arm. Preferably, the passenger carrier comprises at least one passenger seat facing a direction of the rocking motion of the support body. Herewith, a passenger sitting in the seat swings backwards and forwards as in a classic swing ride. The passenger carrier is rigidly connected to the swing arm. By the fixation, the passenger carrier has a fixed orientation with respect to the swing arm. The fixation of the passenger carrier to the swing arm is beneficial in controlling the swing ride along a particular swing path. Alternatively, at least one passenger carrier may be pivotally connected to the swing arm to tilt about a predetermined angle or to fully rotate with respect to the swing arm.

Such a rotational connection of the passenger carrier may further increase a thrill of the swing ride. In particular, the passenger carrier is rotatable about a horizontal or vertical axis to obtain an extra spinning sensation.

In an embodiment of the swing device according to the aspect of the invention, a carrier brake is provided to rotationally lock a passenger carrier with respect to the swing arm. The carrier brake is beneficial in keeping the passenger carrier stable when a passenger enters or exits the passenger carrier. In particular, the carrier brake may be operable by a passenger during a ride to obtain an interactive attraction.

Further, the aspect of the invention relates to a method for operating a swing device, wherein the method comprises the step of introducing a rocking motion to a support, in particular to a support body, by at least one actuator to displace a swing axis of a swing arm to adapt a swing path of a passenger carrier.

Beneficially, the rocking motion of the support body may be carried out to promote the swing motion of the swing arm. Passengers may experience a further thrill by an acceleration, a deceleration due to a lengthening or shortening of a swing path during the swing ride.

In an embodiment of the method according to the aspect of the invention, a full revolution of a swing arm with passenger carrier may be provided. The control unit may be programmed to provide a 380° swing motion in which a passenger carrier at the distal swing arm end loops about the swing arm axis.

The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the appended drawings. The drawings show a practical embodiment according to the invention, which may not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the invention. Specific features may also be considered apart from the shown embodiment and may be taken into account in a broader context as a delimiting feature, not only for the shown embodiment but as a common feature for all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims, in which:

Fig. 1 shows in a perspective view an embodiment of a swing device according to the invention having a first and second passenger carrier which are each suspended by a swing arm being connected at a distal support end of a tiltable support body;

Fig. 2 shows a planar quadrilateral linkage which forms a double-rocker mechanism and which represents a kinetic scheme of the swing device according to the invention;

Fig. 3 and 4 show respectively a front and top view of the swing device as shown in fig.1 in which a subassembly of the first and second support and the first and second swing arm are positioned in between the first and second passenger carrier,

Fig. 5 shows a side view of the swing device in an initial position, an entry mode, in which passengers can enter or exit the passenger carriers and an extreme position of the first and second support in which a coupling element is in alignment with one of the first and second support; and

Fig. 6 shows in a schematic view a variant of the swing device in which a swing arm comprises a first swing arm part which is pivotally connected to a second swing arm part.

In Figs. 1-8, a swing device according to the invention is denoted overall by reference numeral 100. Identical reference signs are used in the drawings to indicate identical or functionally similar components.

Fig. 1 shows in a perspective view a swing device 100 in an embodiment according to the invention. Fig. 3 and fig. 4 respectively show a front and top view of the swing device 100. The swing device 100 is an amusement device which is arranged to allow passengers to enjoy a swing ride. The swing device 100 comprises a linkage of an upstanding first and second support 21, 22. The first and second support 21, 22 are upwardly directed and extend from a base 1 which is here a loading platform. The first and second support respectively have an elongated first and an elongated second support body 210, 220. Here, the first and second support body 210, 220 have a same length P, L. Each support body 210, 220 has a proximal support end 23 and a distal support end 24. At the proximal support end 23, each support body 210, 220 is pivotable about respectively a first and second support axis 02,02’. The first and second support axis 02, 02’ are spaced at a distance Q from each other.

The first and second support 21, 22 are interconnected by a coupling element 6. The coupling element has a first and second coupling end 61, 62 which are respectively connected to the distal support ends 24 of the respective first and second support body 210, 220. The coupling element has a length S.

Seen in a side view, the first and second support 21, 22, the base 1 and the coupling element 6 together form a four-bar linkage. The four-bar linkage is configured as a double rocker mechanism. The double rocker has a fixed base link Q and a short link S which is connected between two neighbouring rockers P,L. The first and second support 21, 22 each form one of the rockers P, L. The coupling element 6 forms the short link S. The distance Q between the first and second support axis 02,02’ forms the fixed base link Q. Here, the distance Q is equal or shorter than a length of each of the first and second support.

Preferably, the four-bar linkage complies to the so-called Grashof condition which defines that in accordance with a formula S+L>P+Q , the shortest link is allowed to make a full revolution.

The full revolution of the shortest link, simply called short link S, limits a tilting or so-called rocking motion of the neighbouring links L and P which are each tiltable about a tilt axis at a distance Q from each other.

As shown in fig. 1, the swing device 100 further comprises a first and second swing arm 31, 32. Each swing arm is suspended from a respective support body 210, 220. The first and second swing arm 31, 32 are each movable along an own swing path. The first and second swing arm respectively have an elongated first and second swing body 310, 320. Each swing body 310, 320 has a proximal swing arm end 33 and a distal swing arm end 34. At the proximal swing arm end 33, the swing body is suspended from the support body. The swing body is pivotally connected to the support body. A first and second passenger carrier 41, 42 is connected to the distal swing arm end of the swing body. Here, a rigid connection is provided between the passenger carrier and the swing body. Alternatively, the passenger carrier 41, 42 may be movable connected to the swing body to provide a further degree of freedom. In an embodiment, the passenger carrier 41, 42 may be provided with a carrier brake to rotationally lock a passenger carrier, e.g. to allow passengers to enter or exit.

The first and second swing arm 31, 32 may be freely swingable. At least one of the first and second swing arm 31, 32 may be freely pivotable suspended from the support body 20. In operation of the swing device, an introduced tilt motion may be used to promote the first and second swing arm to swing.

In an embodiment, a free swingable swing arm may be provided with a swing brake. In operation, in an entry mode of the swing device 100, the swing brake may be used to stabilise a passenger carrier when passengers enter or exit. In operation, in a swing mode of the swing device 100, the swing brake may be used to decelerate a swing motion.

In an embodiment, a swing drive and/or a swing brake may be provided at the proximal swing arm end 33 of at least one swing arm 31, 32. The swing drive is arranged to drive the swing arm in rotation relative to the support body. The swing brake is arranged to decelerate a swing motion of the swing arm.

Fig. 1 further shows a control unit 9. The control unit 9 is provided to control the tilt motion of the first and second support. In operation, the tilt motion may be configured not to exceed a tilt angle of at least 30° and at most 120° with respect to a horizontal.

As shown in fig. 3 and 4, a subassembly including the first and second support body 210, 220 and the first and second swing arm body 310, 320 is positioned in between the first and second passenger carrier 41, 42. Beneficially, passengers may have a free entrance to the passenger carrier without necessarily passing one of the supports.

As shown in fig. 1, at least one of the first and second support 21, 22 is driveable by an actuator 5 to introduce a tilt motion to the first and second support body 210, 220. Here, both the first and second support body 210, 220 are each provided with an own actuator 51, 52. The actuator is positioned in between the base 1 and the support body to introduce a tilt motion. Alternatively, the actuator 5, e.g. a motor, may be positioned between the coupling element 6 and at least one of the first and second support body.

The shown actuator 5 is here a linear actuator which is in particular a hydraulic cylinder. The linear actuator has an elongated actuator body 50 having a proximal actuator end 53 which is connected to the base 1 and a distal actuator end 54 which is connected to the support body 20.

Fig. 5 shows the swing device 100 in an entry mode in which both passenger carriers 41, 42 are accessible for passengers from the loading platform 1 and in dotted lines a swing motion in which the first and second supports 21, 22 are tilting, the swing arms 31, 32 are swinging and in which the coupling element 6 is rotating. In the entry mode, both swing arms 31, 32 are vertically suspended from the support 21, 22. The coupling element 6 is here oriented in a horizontal position. The illustrated position in the swing mode in dotted lines is an extreme position in which the coupling element 6 is in alignment with one of the supports 21, 22.

Fig. 6 shows in a schematic view a further variant in which a swing arm 31 comprises a first swing arm part 311 and a second swing arm part 312 which are pivotally connected to each other. The first swing arm part 311 is rotatably connected to the second swing arm part 312.

Beneficially, an additional degree of freedom is introduced in the swing device which may further contribute to its attractiveness.

Thus, the invention provides a swing device 100 for amusing passengers by a swing ride comprising a linkage of an upstanding first and second support 21,22 on a base 1 and at distal support ends interconnected by a coupling element 6. At least one of the first and second support 21, 22 is drivable by an actuator 5 to introduce a rocking motion. The swing device comprises at least one swing arm 31, 32 suspended from respectively one of the first and second support. The swing arm is movable along an own swing path. At least one passenger carrier 41, 42 is connected to a distal swing arm end 34 of the swing arm 31, 32. The combination of the rocking motion of the supports, the swing motion of the swing arm and the rotating motion of the coupling element provide to public and passengers a spectacular attraction of superimposed movements.

Numerous variants are possible in addition to the embodiment shown in the figures. For example, in a variant of the illustrated embodiment of the swing device, an alternative embodiment of the swing device may comprise a first and second support body 210, 220 of different lengths P, L.

Although the present invention has been described in detail, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as hereinafter claimed. It is intended that all such changes and modifications be encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure and claims.

Further, it is remarked that any feature of the system according to the invention which is described in the embodiments and/or mentioned in the dependent claims is in itself considered patentable without any dependency to another presented feature. In particular, any measure presented in a dependent claim is also considered patentable without dependency of the independent claim.

Reference signs list:

Q distance between support axes

L length of first support

P length of second support

S length of coupling element v vertical h horizontal 100 swing device 320 second swing arm body 1 base 33 proximal swing arm end 34 distal swing arm end 2 support 02 support axis 4 passenger carrier support body 41 first passenger carrier 21 first support 42 second passenger carrier 22 second support 210 first support body 5 actuator 220 second support body 50 actuator body 20 23 proximal support end 51 first actuator 24 distal support end 52 second actuator 53 proximal actuator end 3 swing arm 54 distal actuator end 03 swing axis 31 first swing arm 6 coupling element 310 first swing arm body 61 first coupling end 311 first swing arm part 62 second coupling end 312 second swing arm part 32 second swing arm 9 control unit

Claims

CONCLUSIONS

1. A swing device (100) for passenger amusement by means of a swing ride, the swing device (100) comprising an assembly of an upright first and second carrier (21, 22) interconnected by a coupling element (6), wherein: - the first and second carrier (21, 22) have an elongated first and an elongated second carrier body (210, 220) respectively, each carrier body (210, 220) having a proximal carrier end (23) and a distal carrier end (24), each carrier body (210, 220) being rotatable at the proximal carrier end (23) about a first and second carrier axis (02, 02') respectively connected to a base (1), at least one of the first and second carrier (21, 22) being drivable by an actuator (5) to effect a swinging movement to be imposed on the first and second carrier bodies (210, 220); - the coupling element (6) has a first and second coupling end (61, 62) which are respectively connected to the distal carrier ends (24) of the respective first and second carrier bodies (210, 220); and wherein the swivel device (100) comprises: - at least one swivel arm, in particular a first and second swivel arm (31, 32), wherein the at least one swivel arm is movable along its own swivel path, wherein the at least one swivel arm (31, 32) has an elongated swivel arm body (310, 320), wherein the swivel arm body (310, 320) has a proximal swivel arm end (33) and a distal swivel arm end (34), wherein the swivel arm body (310, 320) is rotatable at the proximal swivel arm end (33) about a swivel axis (03) connected to one of the first and second carrier bodies (210, 220), respectively; and - at least one passenger carrier (41, 42) for carrying at least one passenger, which at least one passenger carrier is connected to the distal swing arm end (34) of one of the swing arms (31, 32), respectively.

A swivel device (100) according to claim 1, wherein a subassembly of the first and second carrier bodies and the first and second swing arm bodies (210, 220, 310, 320) is positioned between the first and second passenger carriers (41, 42).

A swivel device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a distance 'Q' between the first and second carrier axis (02, 02") is equal to or shorter than a length of each of the first and second carrier (21, 22).

A swivel device (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein the first and second carrier bodies (210, 220) have the same length.

A swivel device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first and second support bodies (210, 220) and the respective first and second swivel arm bodies (310, 320) have different lengths, such that the first and second passenger carriers (41, 42) move along different swivel paths.

6. A swivel device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the coupling element (6) is shorter than 70%, in particular shorter than 50%, of the distance between the first and second support axle (02, 02').

A swivel device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the swivel device (100) forms a four-bar connection according to a Grashof criterion defining a double rocker mechanism.

A swivel device (100) according to claim 7, wherein the Grashof criterion states that if the sum of the shortest link S formed here by the coupling element (6) and the longest link L that can be formed by one of the first and second carrier bodies (210, 220) or a distance Q between the first and second carrier axis (02, 02") of a planar quadrilateral rod mechanism is less than or equal to the sum of the remaining two links P, then the shortest link S is fully rotatable relative to its adjacent links L, P formed here by the first and second carrier bodies (210, 220).

A swivel device (100) according to claim 7, wherein the first and second support body (210, 220), the coupling element (8) and a distance Q between a first and second support axis (02, 02') respectively together form a Grashof double rocker mechanism, wherein the first and second support body (210, 220) are respectively a first and a second rocker with a length 'L' and a length 'P' respectively, the coupling element (6) is a coupling with a length "S" and the distance between the first and second support axis (02, 02) has a length "Q" according to a formula (S + L) > (P + Q) to obtain a swivel movement of the first and second rocker (210, 220) and wherein the coupling (6) can make a full revolution.

10. A swivel device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the swivel device (100) comprises a control unit (9) which controls the swivel movement of the first and second carrier (21, 22), in particular the swivel movement being programmed not to exceed a swivel angle of at least 30° and at most 120° with respect to a horizontal.

11. A swivel device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuator (5) is positioned between the coupling element (6) and one of the first and second carriers (21, 22).

A swivel device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the actuator (5) is connected between the base (1) and at least one of the first and second carrier bodies (210, 220) to impart the swivel movement to at least one of the first and second carrier bodies (210, 220).

13. A swivel device according to claim 12, wherein the first and second support bodies (210, 220) are each provided with their own actuator (51, 52) for swivelling the respective first and second support bodies (210, 220).

A swivel device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the actuator (5) is a linear actuator having an elongated actuator body (50) with a proximal actuator end (53) connected to the base (1) and a distal actuator end (54) connected to the carrier body (20).

15. A swivel device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the first and second swivel arms (31, 32) is freely pivotally suspended from the carrier body (20).

A swivel device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein a swivel drive and/or swivel brake is provided at the proximal swivel arm end (33) of at least one swivel arm (31, 32) to rotate the at least one swivel arm (31, 32) relative to the carrier body (210, 220) and/or to brake a swivel movement of the swivel arm (31, 32), wherein in particular the swivel drive and/or swivel brake can be operated by a passenger during a ride.

A swivel device (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one swivel arm (31, 32) comprises a first swivel arm portion (311) and a second swivel arm portion (312) which are rotatably connected to each other.

18. A swivel device (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the first and second passenger carriers (41, 42) is fixedly connected in rotation to the respective swivel arm (31, 32).

A swivel device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein at least one of the first and second passenger carriers (41, 42) is pivotally connected to the swivel arm (3) to tilt through a predetermined angle or to rotate fully relative to the swivel arm (3), in particular the passenger carrier (41, 42) being pivotable about a horizontal or vertical axis.

20. A swivel device (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein a carrier brake is provided to lock a rotation of a passenger carrier (41, 42), in particular the carrier brake being operable by a passenger during a ride.

A method of operating a swivel device (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein the method comprises imposing a swivel movement on a carrier (2) by at least one actuator (5) to move a swivel axis (03) of a swivel arm (3) to adjust a swivel path of a passenger carrier (4).

22. The method of claim 21, further comprising a step of introducing a pivoting movement to a pivot arm (3) by a pivot drive.

23. A method according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the swivel path comprises a loop.