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Title:
SURFING WAVE POOL
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2019/100107
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
Surfing wave pool systems and hull assemblies for surfing wave pool systems are provided. One surfing wave pool system includes a pool having a side wall defining a first pool edge and a bottom that extends away from the side wall towards a second pool edge, at least one rail traversing the pool proximate the first side wall, a carriage movably mounted to the rail, the carriage including a hull at least partially submerged in water within the pool and a cable drive system including a cable coupled to the carriage to urge the carriage along the rail and thereby drive the hull through the water so as to generate a wave in the surfing wave pool.

Inventors:
NEALE JOSHUA ROBERT
Application Number:
PCT/AU2018/051236
Publication Date:
May 31, 2019
Filing Date:
November 19, 2018
Export Citation:
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Assignee:
TUNNEL VISION IP PTY LTD (AU)
International Classes:
E04H4/00; A63B69/00; A63G31/00; B63B35/73
Domestic Patent References:
WO2000005464A12000-02-03
WO2009151548A12009-12-17
Foreign References:
US3913332A1975-10-21
US6928670B22005-08-16
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
IP GATEWAY PATENT & TRADE MARK ATTORNEYS (AU)
Download PDF:
Claims:
THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1) A surfing wave pool system including:

a) a pool having a side wall defining a first pool edge and a bottom that extends away from the side wall towards a second pool edge;

b) at least one rail traversing the pool proximate the first side wall;

c) a carriage movably mounted to the rail, the carriage including a hull at least partially submerged in water within the pool; and,

d) a cable drive system including a cable coupled to the carriage to urge the carriage along the rail and thereby drive the hull through the water so as to generate a wave in the surfing wave pool, wherein the carriage includes a tensioning system that tensions the cable and the tensioning system includes first and second cable pulleys orientated in a plane of cable drive bull wheels, a first end of the cable passing round the first cable pulley and being tensioned using a biasing member and a second end of the cable passing round the second cable pulley to a second end anchor.

2) A surfing wave pool system according to claim 1, wherein the second pool edge is defined by a sloped beach.

3) A surfing wave pool system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first pool edge is an inner edge defining a central island and the second pool edge is an outer edge.

4) A surfing wave pool system according to any one of the claims 1 to 3, wherein the wave pool includes two linear sections joined by curved ends and wherein the cable extends round bull wheels at the curved ends and passes between the bull wheels along the linear sections.

5) A surfing wave pool system according to any one of the claims 1 to 4, wherein the system includes a pair of parallel spaced rails.

6) A surfing wave pool system according to claim 5, wherein the rails are supported using a number of support pillars anchored on at least one of the pool bottom and the first pool edge.

7) A surfing wave pool system according to any one of the claims 1 to 6, wherein the cable drive system includes:

a) first and second bull wheels;

b) a drive system that drives at least one of the bull wheels; and, c) a cable attached to the bull wheels and the carriage.

8) A surfing wave pool system according to claim 7, wherein each bull wheel includes a substantially annular frame including inner, outer and centre rings interconnected via radial struts, and a number of support wheels mounted on the centre ring.

9) A surfing wave pool system according to claim 7 or claim 8, wherein each bull wheel includes:

a) an outer rim that engages the cable; and

b) an inner rim that engages:

i) a number of guide wheels; and,

ii) a number of drive wheels.

10) A surfing wave pool system according to any one of the claims 1 to 9, wherein the carriage includes a frame that supports wheels that engage the rails and the hull.

1 l)A surfing wave pool system according to claim 10, wherein the carriage includes:

a) wheel arms pivotally mounted proximate opposing ends of the frame; and, b) wheel sets supported by opposing ends of each wheel arm to engage respective rails and thereby mount the carriage to the rail.

12)A surfing wave pool system according to claim 11, wherein each wheel set includes upper and lower upright wheels configured to engage upper and lower faces of the rail and inner lateral wheels configured to engage an inner face of each rail.

13)A surfing wave pool system according to any one of the claims 10 to 12, wherein the carriage includes side wall engaging wheels.

14)A surfing wave pool system according to any one of the claims 10 to 13, wherein the hull is at least one of:

a) coupled to opposing ends of the frame via respective hull pivot arms; and,

b) pivotally mounted to the frame and wherein actuators are coupled to the frame and allow at least one of a hull pitch and hull depth to be controlled.

15) A surfing wave pool system according to any one of the claims 1 to 14, wherein the hull at least one of:

a) includes a surface curved about a lateral axis;

b) includes a constant beam; and, . c) defines incident and trailing surfaces, and wherein the incident surface has an angle at the water surface that is at least one of:

i) >1°;

ii) 5°-25°;

iii) l0°-20°;

iv) about 16°; and,

v) <45°.

16) A surfing wave pool system according to any one of the claims 1 to 15, wherein the tensioning system includes:

a) a first end anchor;

b) a biasing pulley;

c) a biasing member coupled to the biasing pulley; and,

d) a return pulley, wherein the cable passes from the first end anchor, round the biasing and return pulleys to the first cable pulley.

17) A surfing wave pool system according to claim 16, wherein the tensioning system includes one or more intermediate pulleys, and wherein the cable passes round the intermediate pulleys between the return and first cable pulleys so that the tensioning system is provided offset from and below the cable.

18) A surfing wave pool system according to claim 17, wherein the frame supports the first end anchor, the biasing member, at least one biasing pulley and the at least one return pulley and wherein the carriage further includes a secondary frame supporting the one or more intermediate pulleys and the first end pulley wheel, the second frame being pivotally mounted in line with a centre axis of the frame to allow lateral movement of the first and second end pulley wheels.

19) A surfing wave pool system according to any one of the claims 1 to 18, wherein the system includes a controller configured to control wave attributes by controlling at least one of: a) a speed of movement of the hull;

b) a depth of the hull; and,

c) a pitch of the hull.

20) A surfing wave pool system according to claim 19, wherein the controller dynamically adjusts wave attributes based on at least one of: a) a position of the hull within the wave pool;

b) an identity of a user;

c) a user profile; and,

d) a defined wave profile.

21)A hull assembly for use in a surfing wave pool system, the hull assembly including a hull, the hull including a leading portion and a trailing portion, and a curved base extending between the leading portion and the trailing portion, the curved base substantially uniform along a width of the hull, wherein the hull is configured to be at least partially submerged in water within the pool and driven along a surface of the water in the pool such that the curved base pushes downwardly onto the water to generate a wave, wherein the hull assembly is configurable to provide depth adjustment of the hull.

22) The hull assembly of claim 21, wherein the hull includes a top, wherein the curved base extends between opposing ends of the top.

23)The hull assembly of claim 22, wherein the top of the hull is substantially planar.

24)The hull assembly of claim 21, wherein the curved base of the hull is convex.

25)The hull assembly of claim 21, wherein a cross section of the hull is substantially shaped as a circular segment.

26) The hull assembly of claim 21, wherein the hull is substantially symmetrical with

reference to a transverse plane.

27)The hull assembly of claim 21, wherein the hull assembly is configurable to operate

bidirectionally.

28) The hull assembly of claim 21, including actuators coupled to the hull, the actuators

configured to adjust a depth of at least a portion of the hull.

29) The hull assembly of claim 28, wherein the actuators are provided at respective ends of the hull to enable the hull to be tilted.

30)The hull assembly of claim 21, wherein the hull includes planar sidewalls extending from the curved base to a top portion.

3 l)The hull assembly of claim 30, wherein the sidewalls include a planar inside wall,

extending along a length of the hull, and planar sidewalls that form a bevelled outer wall.

32)The hull assembly of claim 21, wherein the hull is substantially hollow.

33)The hull assembly of claim 21, wherein the hull is configured to receive ballast. 34)The hull assembly of claim 33, wherein the ballast comprises liquid, and one or more baffles are provided to regulate the flow of the liquid within the hull.

35) The hull assembly of claim 21, wherein the hull includes one or more access holes, for providing access into an inside of the hull.

36) The hull assembly of claim 21, wherein the hull is formed of a plurality of sheets of

planar material, such as steel sheets, which are joined to form the hull or a substantial portion thereof.

37)The hull assembly of claim 21, wherein comprises a Kelvin wave, or a Kelvin wave-like wave.

38)The hull assembly of claim 21, wherein the hull is configured to generate a trough

preceding the wave.

39)The hull assembly of claim 21, wherein the hull is further configured to generate a soliton wave that precedes the trough.

40) A surfing wave pool system including:

a pool having a side wall defining a first pool edge and a bottom that extends away from the side wall towards a second pool edge;

a hull at least partially submerged in water of the pool and configured to generate a wave when driven along the water; and

one or more depth adjustment bodies, configured to adjust a depth of the water adjacent to the hull to thereby provide a variable depth of water along a path in which the hull travels.

41)The surfing wave pool system of claim 40, wherein the pool includes a closeout section, located at an end of a surfing zone, including one or more depth adjustment bodies that are configured to close out a wave generated by the hull.

42)The surfing wave pool system of claim 41, wherein the pool includes a substantially linear section, wherein the closeout section is provided at or in proximity to an end of the substantially linear section.

43)The surfing wave pool system of claim 40, wherein the closeout section is configured to cause the wave to converge. 44) The surfing wave pool system of claim 40, wherein the closeout section includes first and second raised portion, which converge.

45)The surfing wave pool system of claim 44, wherein the first and second raised portions are sloped.

46) The surfing wave pool system of claim 40, wherein the depth adjustment bodies are removable.

47)The surfing wave pool system of claim 46, wherein the depth adjustment bodies include an anchor point to enable the depth adjustment bodies to be lifted.

48)The surfing wave pool system of claim 40, wherein the depth adjustment bodies are at least partially hollow and are configured to receive water in the at least partially hollow area.

49) The surfing wave pool system of claim 40, wherein the depth adjustment bodies are solid.

50)The surfing wave pool system of claim 40, wherein the depth adjustment bodies include a substantially planar upper surface configured to provide a reduced depth region in the water.

51)The surfing wave pool system of claim 50, wherein the depth adjustment bodies include at least one sloped sidewall from a base of the depth adjustment body to the substantially planar upper surface.

52) The surfing wave pool system of claim 40, wherein the depth adjustment bodies are symmetrical.

53)The surfing wave pool system of claim 40, wherein the pool includes a substantially

linear portion, and a plurality of depth adjustment bodies are positioned along that substantially linear portion.

54) A surfing wave pool system including:

a pool having a side wall defining a first pool edge and a bottom that extends away from the side wall towards a second pool edge; one or more obstacles positioned in the pool between the first and second edges, the obstacles provided to enable a surfer surfing a wave in the pool to interact therewith.

55)The surfing wave pool system of claim 54, wherein one or more of the obstacles comprise floating obstacles.

56)The surfing wave pool system of claim 54, wherein one or more of the obstacles are configured for direct interaction with the surfer, such as by touching, standing on, or sliding along the obstacle.

57)The surfing wave pool system of claim 54, wherein one or more of the obstacles are configured for indirect interaction with the surfer, such as by avoiding the obstacle.

58)The surfing wave pool system of claim 54, wherein one or more of the obstacles comprises a floating base.

59)The surfing wave pool system of claim 58, wherein one or more interaction elements are provided on the floating base.

60) The surfing wave pool system of claim 58, wherein the floating base is anchored to a bottom of the pool.

61)The surfing wave pool system of claim 60, wherein the floating base is anchored to the bottom of the pool by a plurality of tethers, that enable the floating base to move with the wave.

62) The surfing wave pool system of claim 61, configured to operate in a manner that that creates a residual current, wherein the residual current causes the tethers to remain taut, and thus cause the floating obstacle to be positioned at a particular location in the pool.

63)The surfing wave pool system of claim 61, wherein the floating obstacle is tethered such that it can move vertically, and tilt.

Description:
SURFING WAVE POOL

Background of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates broadly to a surfing wave pool and components thereof.

Description of the Prior Art

[0002] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that the prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

[0003] AU2004240161 describes a wave-generating apparatus including a pool having a deeper area surrounding a substantially central area; a pool edge bounding the pool; a body having a wave-generating shaped surface located within the pool adjacent the pool edge and moveable along the pool edge relative thereto to generate a wave in the water in the pool, and impeller means generating a current in the water in a direction opposite to the direction of movement of the body.

[0004] AU2009316496 describes a surface gravity wave generator and wave pool. The wave pool is formed of opposing side walls and a centre channel of water. The channel includes a bottom contour with a depth that runs from a deep end to a shoal or beach. One or more three- dimensional foils are vertically arranged along at least one side wall and moved against the water in the channel. Each foil has a curvilinear cross-sectional geometry that defines a leading surface that is adapted to generate a wave in water moving past the leading surface, and a trailing surface configured for flow recovery to avoid separation of the flow of water in the wave and to mitigate drag from the foil from the water moving past the leading surface.

[0005] However, these arrangements suffer from a number of issues, including a lack of wave configurability and a lack of a viable propulsion system for moving the wave generating body. [0006] A further problem with these arrangements is that the wave created is generally small with respect to the amount of power used to generate the wave, as the foils must generally be moved through the water very quickly.

[0007] A further problem with these arrangements is that they can generate waves that can become repetitive, or otherwise become boring to surf on.

[0008] As such, there is clearly a need for an improved surfing wave pool and components thereof.

Summary of the Present Invention

[0009] In one broad form the present invention provides a surfing wave pool system including: a pool having a side wall defining a first pool edge and a bottom that extends away from the side wall towards a second pool edge; at least one rail traversing the pool proximate the first side wall; a carriage movably mounted to the rail, the carriage including a hull at least partially submerged in water within the pool; and, a cable drive system including a cable coupled to the carriage to urge the carriage along the rail and thereby drive the hull through the water so as to generate a wave in the surfing wave pool.

[0010] In one embodiment the second pool edge is defined by a sloped beach.

[0011] In one embodiment the first pool edge is an inner edge defining a central island and the second pool edge is an outer edge.

[0012] In one embodiment the wave pool includes two linear sections joined by curved ends and wherein the cable extends round bull wheels at the curved ends and passes between the bull wheels along the linear sections.

[0013] In one embodiment the system includes a pair of parallel spaced rails.

[0014] In one embodiment the rails are supported using a number of support pillars anchored on at least one of the pool bottom and the first pool edge. [0015] In one embodiment the cable drive system includes: first and second bull wheels; a drive system that drives at least one of the bull wheels; and, a cable attached to the bull wheels and the carriage.

[0016] In one embodiment each bull wheel includes a substantially annular frame including inner, outer and centre rings interconnected via radial struts, and a number of support wheels mounted on the centre ring.

[0017] In one embodiment each bull wheel includes: an outer rim that engages the cable; and an inner rim that engages: a number of guide wheels; and, a number of drive wheels.

[0018] In one embodiment the carriage includes a frame that supports wheels that engage the rails and the hull.

[0019] In one embodiment the carriage includes: wheel arms pivotally mounted proximate opposing ends of the frame; and, wheel sets supported by opposing ends of each wheel arm to engage respective rails and thereby mount the carriage to the rail.

[0020] In one embodiment each wheel set includes upper and lower upright wheels configured to engage upper and lower faces of the rail and inner lateral wheels configured to engage an inner face of each rail.

[0021] In one embodiment the carriage includes side wall engaging wheels.

[0022] In one embodiment the hull is coupled to opposing ends of the frame via respective hull pivot arms.

[0023] In one embodiment the hull is pivotally mounted to the frame and wherein actuators are coupled to the frame and allow at least one of a hull pitch and hull depth to be controlled.

[0024] In one embodiment the hull includes at least one of: a surface curved about a lateral axis; and, a constant beam. [0025] In one embodiment the hull defines incident and trailing surfaces, and wherein the incident surface has an angle at the water surface that is at least one of: >1°; 5°-25°; l0°-20°; about 16°; and, <45°.

[0026] In one embodiment the carriage includes a tensioning system that tensions the cable.

[0027] In one embodiment the tensioning system includes first and second cable pulleys orientated in a plane of cable drive bull wheels, a first end of the cable passing round the first cable pulley and being tensioned using a biasing member and a second end of the cable passing round the second cable pulley to a second end anchor.

[0028] In one embodiment the tensioning system includes: a first end anchor; a biasing pulley; a biasing member coupled to the biasing pulley; and, a return pulley, wherein the cable passes from the first end anchor, round the biasing and return pulleys to the first cable pulley.

[0029] In one embodiment the tensioning system includes one or more intermediate pulleys, and wherein the cable passes round the intermediate pulleys between the return and first cable pulleys so that the tensioning system is provided offset from and below the cable.

[0030] In one embodiment the frame supports the first end anchor, the biasing member, at least one biasing pulley and the at least one return pulley and wherein the carriage further includes a secondary frame supporting the one or more intermediate pulleys and the first end pulley wheel, the second frame being pivotally mounted in line with a centre axis of the frame to allow lateral movement of the first and second end pulley wheels.

[0031] In one embodiment the system includes a controller configured to control wave attributes by controlling at least one of: a speed of movement of the hull; a depth of the hull; and, a pitch of the hull.

[0032] In one embodiment the controller dynamically adjusts wave attributes based on at least one of: a position of the hull within the wave pool; an identity of a user; a user profile; and, a defined wave profile. [0033] In another broad form the present invention provides a hull assembly for use in a surfing wave pool system, the hull assembly including a hull, the hull including a leading portion and a trailing portion, and a curved base extending between the leading portion and the trailing portion, the curved base substantially uniform along a width of the hull, wherein the hull is configured to be at least partially submerged in water within the pool and driven along a surface of the water in the pool such that the curved base pushes downwardly onto the water to generate a wave, wherein the hull assembly is configurable to provide depth adjustment of the hull.

[0034] In one embodiment, the hull includes a top, and the curved base extends between opposing ends of the top. The top may be substantially planar.

[0035] The curved base of the hull may be convex. A cross section of the hull may be substantially shaped as a circular segment.

[0036] The hull may be substantially symmetrical with reference to a transverse plane. The hull may be configurable to operate bidirectionally.

[0037] In one embodiment, the hull assembly includes actuators coupled to the hull are configured to adjust a depth (e.g. a vertical direction) of at least a portion of the hull. Actuators may be provided at respective ends of the hull to enable the hull to be tilted.

[0038] The hull may be configured such that it moves through the water with a trailing surface lower than a leading surface.

[0039] The hull may include planar sidewalls extending from the curved base to a top portion. The sidewalls may include a planar inside wall, which extends along a length of the hull. The sidewalls may include planar sidewalls that form a bevelled outer wall. Each of the sidewalls forming the bevelled outer wall may be substantially planar.

[0040] The hull may be substantially hollow. The hull may be configured to receive ballast. The ballast may be in the form of water or another liquid. One or more baffles may be provided to regulate the flow of the water or other liquid within the hull. The hull may comprise two or more distinct chambers. [0041] The hull may include one or more access holes, for providing access into an inside of the hull.

[0042] The hull may be formed of a plurality of sheets of planar material, such as steel sheets, which may be welded or otherwise joined to form the hull or a substantial portion thereof.

[0043] The wave may comprise a Kelvin wave, or a Kelvin wave-like wave.

[0044] The hull may be configured to generate a trough preceding the wave. The hull may be further configured to generate a soliton wave that precedes the trough.

[0045] In another broad form the present invention provides a surfing wave pool system including:

a pool having a side wall defining a first pool edge and a bottom that extends away from the side wall towards a second pool edge;

a hull at least partially submerged in water of the pool and configured to generate a wave when driven along the water; and

one or more depth adjustment bodies in the pool, configured to adjust a depth of the water adjacent to the hull to thereby provide a variable depth of water along a path in which the hull travels.

[0046] In one embodiment the pool includes a closeout section, located at an end of a surfing zone, including one or more depth adjustment bodies that are configured to close out a wave generated by the hull.

[0047] In one embodiment the pool includes a substantially linear section, wherein the closeout section is provided at or in proximity to an end of the substantially linear section.

[0048] In one embodiment the closeout section is configured to cause the wave to converge.

[0049] In one embodiment the closeout section includes first and second raised portion, which converge. The first and second raised portions may be sloped.

[0050] The depth adjustment bodies may be removable. The depth adjustment bodies may include an anchor point to enable the depth adjustment bodies to be lifted, e.g. by a crane. [0051] The depth adjustment bodies may be at least partially hollow and configured to receive water in the at least partially hollow area. Alternatively, the depth adjustment bodies may be solid, e.g. of cast concrete.

[0052] Preferably, the depth adjustment bodies include a substantially planar upper surface configured to provide a reduced depth region in the water.

[0053] Preferably, the depth adjustment bodies include at least one sloped sidewall from a base of the depth adjustment body to the substantially planar upper surface.

[0054] The depth adjustment bodies may be symmetrical. The depth adjustment bodies may be frustoconical in shape, or in the shape of a truncated pyramid, for example.

[0055] The pool may include a substantially linear portion, and a plurality of depth adjustment bodies may be positioned along that substantially linear portion.

[0056] In another broad form the present invention provides a surfing wave pool system including:

a pool having a side wall defining a first pool edge and a bottom that extends away from the side wall towards a second pool edge;

one or more obstacles positioned in the pool between the first and second edges, the obstacles provided to enable a surfer surfing a wave in the pool to interact therewith.

[0057] The obstacles may be floating obstacles.

[0058] The obstacle may be one in which the surfer directly interacts, such as by touching, standing on, or sliding along the obstacle. Alternatively, the obstacle may be one which the surfer indirectly interacts, e.g. by avoiding the obstacle.

[0059] The obstacle may comprise a floating base. The floating base may be hollow. One or more interaction elements may be provided on the floating base.

[0060] The floating base may be anchored to a bottom of the pool. The floating base may be anchored to the bottom of the pool by a plurality of tethers, that enable the floating base to move with the wave. [0061] The surfing wave pool system may be configured to operate in a manner that that creates a residual current, wherein the residual current causes the tether to remain taut, and thus cause the floating obstacle to be positioned at a particular location in the pool.

[0062] Preferably, the floating obstacle may be tethered such that it can move vertically, and tilt.

[0063] It will be appreciated that the broad forms of the invention and their respective features can be used in conjunction, interchangeably and/or independently, and reference to separate broad forms is not intended to be limiting.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0064] Various examples and embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: -

[0065] Figure 1 A is a schematic perspective view of an example of a wave pool;

[0066] Figure 1B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the wave pool of Figure 1A along the line A- A';

[0067] Figure 2A is a schematic perspective view of a close-up view of an example of a bull wheel of the cable drive system;

[0068] Figure 2B is a schematic plan view of the bull wheel of Figure 2A;

[0069] Figure 2C is a schematic side view of the bull wheel of Figure 2A;

[0070] Figure 3 A is a schematic side view of an example of a carriage;

[0071] Figure 3B is a schematic perspective view of the carriage of Figure 3A;

[0072] Figure 3C is a second schematic side view of the carriage of Figure 3 A;

[0073] Figure 3D is a schematic end view of carriage of Figure 3 A;

[0074] Figure 3E is a schematic plan view of the carriage of Figure 3 A; [0075] Figure 3F is a second schematic plan view of the carriage of Figure 3 A whilst cornering;

[0076] Figure 3G is a schematic side view of the carriage of Figure 3A with part of the frame omitted to show the tensioning system;

[0077] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of an example of a controller;

[0078] Figure 5a illustrates a perspective view of a hull, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0079] Figure 5b illustrates a top view of the hull of Figure 5a;

[0080] Figure 5c illustrates a side view of the hull of Figure 5a;

[0081] Figure 5d illustrates a perspective cut away view of the hull of Figure 5a;

[0082] Figure 5e illustrates a side view of the hull of Figure 5a coupled to a carriage and placed in the water;

[0083] Figure 5f illustrates a side view of the hull and carriage of Figure 5e, with the hull tilted in a first use configuration;

[0084] Figure 6a illustrates an upper schematic view of an example of a wave pool system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0085] Figure 6b illustrates a side cross sectional view of a portion of the wave pool system of Figure 6a;

[0086] Figure 6c illustrates an enlarged upper view of a portion of the wave pool system of Figure 6a;

[0087] Figure 7a illustrates a perspective view of a depth adjustment body, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0088] Figure 7b illustrates a side view of the depth adjustment body of Figure 7a; [0089] Figure 7c illustrates an upper schematic view of an example of a wave pool system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0090] Figure 7d illustrates a diagram of a linear portion of a wave pool system, in which the water height, and thus wave shape, is illustrated;

[0091] Figure 8a illustrates a side view of a floating obstacle, in a linear section of a wave pool system, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0092] Figure 8b illustrates a side view of a floating obstacle of Figure 8a, when a wave is passing.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

[0093] An example of a surfing wave pool system will now be described with reference to Figures 1 A and 1B.

[0094] In this example, the pool system 100 includes a pool 110 having a side wall 111 defining a first pool edge and a bottom 112 that extends away from the side wall towards a second pool edge 113. A variety of different pool shapes could be used, with the first and second edges being inner and outer edges, or vice versa.

[0095] At least one rail 121 traverses the pool proximate the first side wall 111. In one example, spaced apart parallel rails are provided although this is not essential and a single monorail system could alternatively be used.

[0096] A carriage 130 is movably mounted to the rail, typically using one or more sets of wheels that engage the rail(s). The carriage 130 includes a hull 132 that is at least partially submerged in water within the pool.

[0097] The pool system further includes a cable drive system 140, including a cable 142, which is coupled to the carriage 130, allowing the cable to be used to urge the carriage along the rail(s). This in turn drives the hull through the water so as to generate a wave in the surfing wave pool. [0098] The above described arrangement provides a number of benefits. For example, the use of a cable drive system enables the hull to be easily drawn through the water without requiring driver mechanisms to be mounted on the carriage, for example to drive the carriage along the rail. This simplifies construction of the carriage, and avoids the need for the carriage to support heavy drive systems. Despite this, the cable drive system can allow significant driving power to be employed, which in turn allows for the creation of large waves, as well as allowing multiple carriages to be used, enabling multiple waves to be created. Additionally, the use of the rails ensures that the carriages travel along a defined path at a set height relative to the pool, which in turn ensures consistency of the waves.

[0099] Accordingly, the above described configuration allows for the creation of consistent large waves to be generated.

[00100] A number of further features will now be described.

[00101] Whilst a number of different pool configurations can be utilised, in one preferred example, the pool has a generally race track shape, including two intermediate linear sections connected via 180° curved end portions. The wave pool is typically configured with the first wall 111 provided at a centre of the pool, to thereby define an island 114, allowing the cable drive system and associated supporting equipment to be mounted on the island 114, whilst providing unobstructed access to the wave pool via the shallower second pool edge.

[00102] The pool bottom 112 typically defines a deep channel 112.1, terminating in a slope 112.2 that angled at about 45° to about half the water depth. The bottom then rises progressively towards the second outer edge 113, to define a beach 112.3, which can facilitate with the breaking of the wave, whilst a gutter 113.1 may be provided along the outer edge to absorb any residual wave energy.

[00103] This particular arrangement helps provide a safe learning environment with repeatable wave conditions and long ride lengths. In this regard, the length of a smooth, unbroken wave crest is defined as a usable“wall” width. A wide steep wall provides surfers sufficient vertical and lateral space to perform manoeuvres. As waves commence breaking when the water depth is less than 1.13 times the wave height, the waves is prevented from breaking by keeping the water depth greater than 1.13 times the maximum wave height in the channel 112.1 and at the start of the sloped region 112.2, whilst the sloped region 112.2 can lower the water depth to less than 1.13 times the wave height at the start of the beach 112.2, forcing waves to break on the beach.

[00104] Thus, the deep water in the channel 112.1, under the hull 132, allows the hull 132 to generate large, smooth, unbroken waves. The deep water in the channel 112.1, which has a water depth greater than 1.13 times the maximum wave height, prevents wave breaking until it reaches the beach 112.3, and provides a wide wall for manoeuvres. The deep water between the hull 132 and beach 112.2 also resists water disturbance, decreasing the time for the waves to dissipate. By lowering the water depth at the beach 112.2 to less than 1.13 times the wave height at the beach, the waves are forced to break on the beach. In this regard, the slope 112.2 at the start of the beach 112.3 mimics the bottom shape of the ocean and assists in formation of a round“barrel” shaped wave for expert surfers. The easing slope further up the beach 112.3 allows smaller waves to break as intermediate to beginner waves, with smaller waves generated by moving the hull at slower speeds through the pool. The shallow beach 112.3 also helps dissipate the broken wave, whilst the edge gutter 113.1 captures the last of the broken wave, preventing it from rebounding back across the pool.

[00105] In one example, two spaced parallel rails 121 are supported by a number of inverted“J” shaped supports 122 that are embedded within the pool bottom 112 and island 114, with the supports being spaced around the first pool edge 111, to thereby support the rails 121 above the water’s surface. The rails and supports 121, 122 are typically made of steel beams, or other similar components, which can be welded and/or fastened together using bolts, rivets, or the like. In one example, the supports 122 act to define a barrier, separating the pool users from the hull. This can be further facilitated through the use of foam padding on the supports, and a mesh or net extending between adjacent supports 122, to prevent surfers passing between the supports, and preventing injury upon impact with a support.

[00106] Whilst any suitable cable drive arrangement may be used, in a preferred example the cable 142 is driven by first and second bull wheels 141, with these advantageously being positioned coincident with the curved end sections of the pool, so that the carriage 130 passes around the bull wheels 141 when traversing the curved section, and with the cable extending linearly between the bull wheels along the linear sections of the pool, as shown in Figure 1A.

[00107] An example of the drive system, and in particular the bull wheels, will now be described in more detail with reference to Figures 2A to 2C. For the purpose of illustration, similar reference numerals to those shown in Figures 1A and 1B, albeit increased by 100, are used to denote similar features.

[00108] As shown in this example, each bull wheel 241 is formed from a generally annular frame 241.1 having outer, inner and centre rings 241.11, 241.12, 241.13, interconnected by a series of circumferentially spaced radial struts 241.14. The outer ring 241.11 defines an outer rim that engages the cable 242, whilst the centre ring includes a number of support wheels 241.15 that travel on a raised annular platform 214.1 provided on the centre island 214, thereby support the weight of the bull wheel 214 in use. In this example, twenty support wheels are shown spaced around the centre ring, but it will be appreciated that this is not essential and any suitable number of support wheels required to support the weight of the bull wheel, could be used.

[00109] The inner ring 241.12 engages a number of pairs of guide wheels 241.21, supported by three sets of gantries 241.2 circumferentially spaced around the bull wheel. The guide wheels 241.21 engage opposing surfaces of the inner ring 241.12 to thereby constrain lateral movement of the bull wheel, thereby maintaining alignment between the support wheels 241.15 and the platform 214.1. Although eight pairs of guide wheels arranged in three spaed sets are shown, this is for illustration only and in practice any suitable number of guide wheels could be used.

[00110] Additionally, twenty four drive wheels 241.31, arranged in four sets are provided, supported by respective drive wheel gantries 241.3, which engage an inner surface of the inner ring 241.12. The drive wheels are typically driven by respective motors (not shown), thereby rotating the bull wheel. Again, it will be appreciated that any number of drive wheels could be provided, depending on the requirements of the system, for example depending on the number of hulls to be moved through the water, the maximum desired hull speed, or the like.

[00111] As further shown the outer and inner rails 221.1, 222.2 are held in place by the supports 222, which include outer and inner uprights 222.1, 222.3, interconnected by a lateral beam 222.2, so that the cable 242 is aligned with (although offset vertically from) a mid-point between the rails.

[00112] An example of a carriage will now be described with more detail with references to Figures 3 A to 3G. For the purpose of illustration, similar reference numerals to those shown in Figures 1 A and 1B, albeit increased by 200, are used to denote similar features.

[00113] In this example, the carriage 330 includes a frame 331 that supports wheels 334, which engage the rails 321, and the hull 332.

[00114] In the current example, the frame 331 includes a primary frame 331.1 and a secondary frame 331.2. The primary frame 331.1 includes upper and lower beds 331.11, 331.12, each of which has a generally rectangular shape and is formed from steel beams or similar, supported in a spaced arrangement by a number of uprights and diagonal struts 331.13. The frames are typically made from SHS (square hollow section) beams,“I” beams, or the like, interconnected by welding, bolting, or the like, although other suitable arrangements could be used. The primary frame 331.1 further includes triangular-shaped end portions 331.16 again having upper and lower beds.

[00115] The wheels 334 are arranged in wheel sets, with each set including longitudinally spaced pairs of upper and lower upright wheels 334.3, 334.4 configured to engage upper and lower faces of the rail 321 and inner lateral wheels 334.5 configured to engage an inner face of each rail 321. In use, this example, the wheels are mounted to arm end pieces 334.2, provided at opposing ends of respective wheel arms 334.1, which are in turn pivotally mounted to an apex of each triangular end piece 331.16, so that the wheel arms extend laterally outwardly to support the wheels 334 in contact with the rails 321. The arm end piece 334.2 that includes an upright beam 334.21, and three vertically spaced horizontal wheel supports 334.22, 334.23, 334.24 that support the longitudinally spaced pairs of upper, lower and lateral wheels 334.3, 334.4, 334.5, respectively. This arrangement allows the wheel arms to pivot, so that as the carriage 330 passes round the curved section of rail at the pool ends, the wheels follow the path of the rail, as shown in Figures 3E and 3F.

[00116] The carriage typically includes side wall engaging wheels 336 which can be mounted directly on an inner edge of the hull to engage the first side wall and prevent impact between the hull and the side wall.

[00117] The hull 332 is typically mounted to the primary frame 331.1 via respective hull pivot arms. This includes two pairs of first end pivot arms 333.1, 333.2, which are pivotally interconnected, and pair of second end pivot arms 333.3, which are supported by respective brackets 331.15 mounted on a lower edge of the frame 331.

[00118] The first end pivot arms 333.1, 333.2 pivotally interconnected to allow a separation between the hull 332 and frame 331 to be adjusted, which in turn allows a pitch and height of the hull 332 to be adjusted. This is achieved using actuators 333.4, 333.5, typically linear actuators such as pistons, electric worm gear linear drives, or the like, that connect the hull 332 and frame 331 at opposing ends.

[00119] The hull includes a surface curved about a lateral axis mid-way along the carriage to thereby define incident and trailing surfaces 332.1, 332.2. Although a curved shape is used, this is not essential, and alternatively V-shaped or sinusoidal profiles could be used. The hull preferably has a constant beam (width) so that in use, the hull surface pushes vertically down on the water surface, as opposed to a hull with a changing beam that also pushes laterally (sideways) on the water. The result is the hull efficiently generates large smooth waves with minimal energy required and avoids undesirable broken water wash around the hull, reducing the wave generating efficiency and reducing the use of the generated waves for surfing as surfers ride the unbroken face of the wave. The hull can also have a length equal to half a wavelength of the surfing wave, which optimises the magnitude of the wave, whilst minimising the energy required to generate the wave.

[00120] Additionally, adjusting the pitch of the hull allows an angle of incidence of the hull at the water level to be adjusted between different angles, such as greater than 1°, less than 45°, between 5° and 25°, between 10° and 20° and about 16°. The incident angle and depth of the hull can be used to control the size and shape of the resulting wave.

[00121] In this example, the carriage 330 further includes a cable tensioning system 335. The cable tensioning system includes first and second cable pulleys 335.1, 335.7 which are orientated in a plane of the bull wheels. A first end of the cable passed around the first cable pulley and is tensioned using a biasing member whilst a second end of a cable passes around the second cable pulley 335.7, to a second end anchor. The biasing member ensures that tension is maintained in the cable, whilst providing the first and second cable pulleys 335.1, 335.7 in a plane of the bull wheel facilitates engagement between the cable pulleys and cable, and the cable and bull wheels, without the cable pulleys and bull wheels coming into direct contact, which could in turn lead to damage.

[00122] Whilst the biasing member could be attached directly to the cable end, more typically the tensioning system includes a first end anchor, a biasing pulley 335.5, a return pulley 335.4 and the biasing member 335.6, in the form of a spring, pneumatic piston, or the like, which is coupled to the biasing pulley 335.5. In this arrangement, biasing force is applied via the biasing pulley 335.5 to tension the cable 342 using mechanical advantage to increase the degree of force that can be applied. In a preferred embodiment, pairs of parallel spaced biasing and return pulleys are used, with the cable extending round the biasing and return pulleys in turn, to thereby obtain further mechanical advantage, and hence increase the degree of tension in the cable.

[00123] Whilst the biasing arrangement could be provided at any location, in one preferred example this is supported by the primary frame 331.1, with intermediate pulleys 335.2, 335.3 and the cable pulleys 335.1, 335.7 being provided on the secondary frame 331.2. In this arrangement, the intermediate pulleys 335.2, 335.3 are used to divert the cable 342 between the first cable pulley 335.1 and the return pulleys 335.4, so that the tensioning system is provided offset from and substantially below the cable. The secondary frame 331.2 can then be pivotally mounted above a centre line of the primary frame 311.1 via pivotal mountings 331.14, allowing for lateral deflection of the cable pulleys 335.1, 335.7 when the carriage passes 330 around the bull wheels. This operates to reduce forces on the bull wheels and carriage, helping reduce damage.

[00124] Whilst a tensioning arrangement is shown, it will be appreciated that this is only required on a single carriage, and if multiple different carriages are provided, the other carriages do not need to include tensioning, instead allowing these to be attached using a bracket or other mechanism, similar to those used on chair lifts, or the like. This allows other carriages to be easily added and removed as required, allowing different numbers of waves to be generated, depending on the intended use. In this instance, the tensioning mechanism on a single carriage operates to continually tension the cable, ensuring the required tension is maintained as forces on the system vary, for example during stopping and starting.

[00125] Accordingly, the above described arrangement provides a cable drive system that can be used to drive carriages 330 along the rails 321 whilst the hull 332 is partially submerged in the water, thereby generating a surfing wave. The system uses bull wheels 241 mounted on an island 114 within the pool, with the bull wheels being positioned coincident with curved pool ends, so that the cable naturally follows the pool shape. This has the benefit of removing the drive mechanism from the carriages, and locating this on the island, to avoid this interfering with access to the surfing pool. A tensioning system is mounted on board each carriage, thereby avoiding the need to tension the bull wheels.

[00126] In one example, the hull is adjustably mounted to the carriage, allowing a depth and pitch of the hull to be adjusted, which in combination with changes in hull speed, can be used to produce waves having different attributes, including different wave sizes and shapes. Configuration of the wave can be performed based on a number of factors, such as position of the hull within the wave pool, an identity of a user, a user profile and a defined wave profile.

[00127] For example, a defined wave profile can use a combination of speed, depth and pitch settings in order to generate a desired shape of wave. The wave shape could remain constant along the linear sections, or could be adjusted as the hull moves along the linear section to dynamically adjust the shape of the wave. In a further example, this can be performed based on a user defined profile so that detection of a particular user allows a predetermined wave form to be produced. Particularly in competition, this allows individuals to compete either by using set defined wave forms which are equal for all competitors, or by allowing competitors to define their own wave form.

[00128] In one example, configuration of the wave is achieved using a controller an example of which is shown in Figure 4.

[00129] In this example, the controller 400 includes at least one microprocessor 410, a memory 411, an optional input/output device 412, such as a keyboard and/or display, and an external interface 413, interconnected via a bus 414 as shown. In this example the external interface 413 can be utilised for connecting the controller 400 to peripheral devices, such as one or more sensors, and to the actuators 335.4, 335.5 and drives for the bull wheels. Although a single external interface 413 is shown, this is for the purpose of example only, and in practice multiple interfaces using various methods (eg. Ethernet, serial, USB, wireless or the like) may be provided.

[00130] In use, the microprocessor 410 executes instructions in the form of applications software stored in the memory 411 to allow the required processes to be performed. The application software may include one or more software modules, and may be executed in a suitable execution environment, such as an operating system environment, or the like.

[00131] Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the controller 400 may be formed from any suitable processing system, such as a suitably programmed client device, PC, or the like. However, it will also be understood that the processing system could be any electronic processing device such as a microprocessor, microchip processor, logic gate configuration, firmware optionally associated with implementing logic such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or any other electronic device, system or arrangement.

[00132] In use, the controller 400 is typically adapted to access a wave profile, that defines a combination of hull pitch, depth and speed, which can be used to generate a particular size and shape of wave.

[00133] Different profiles could be used to generate different waves, for example, allowing smaller waves to be created for teaching purposes, whilst larger waves are generated for use in competition. It will be appreciated that as different facilities can be constructed according to defined specifications, this allows waves to be produced which are substantially consistent across different venues, allowing surfers in different venues to directly compete against each other in competition.

[00134] Additionally, surfers could define their own wave preferences, with the controller 400 operating to detect the identity of a surfer, for example using an identifier such as an RFID tag, biometric data, such as facial recognition, or the like, using the identifier to retrieve a pre-defmed user profile and hence generate a user selected wave.

[00135] Figure 5a illustrates a perspective view of a hull 500 for use in a surfing wave pool system, such as the system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5b illustrates a top view of the hull 500 and Figure 5c illustrates a side view of the hull 500.

[00136] The hull 500 is similar to the hulls 132, 332 and is driven through water to generate surfing waves therein. The hull 500 has a planar upper surface 502, a curved lower surface 504, and inner and outer sidewalls 506, 508 extending substantially vertically between the upper and lower surfaces 502, 504.

[00137] As best illustrated in Figure 5b, the inner sidewall 506 is planar, and at an angle of 90 degrees to leading and trailing surfaces of the hull, and at an angle of 90 degrees to the upper surface 502.

[00138] In contrast, the outer sidewall 508 is bevelled and comprises outer portions 508a, 508b, defining leading and trailing parts of the outer sidewall 508, and a central portion 508c therebetween. Each of the outer portions 508a, 508b and the central portion 508c are planar, but do not lie in a common plane. In particular, the central portion 508c is parallel to the inner sidewall 506, and the outer portions 508a, 508b each extend inwardly towards the inner sidewall 506 at an angle of about 15 degrees to form bevelled or sloped edges.

[00139] The bevelled edges defined by the outer portions 508a, 508b are particularly advantageous as they enable a hull 500 to be used in an environment with curves or corners, while reducing the overhang of the comers on such curves or corners. This in turn enables a larger hull to be used than was otherwise possible, particularly if support bars or frames are positioned at or near the corners or curves.

[00140] The lower surface 504 of the hull 500 is curved from a leading surface, where the lower and upper surfaces meet, to a trailing surface, again where the upper and lower surfaces meet, and as such, in cross section vertically and along a length of the hull 500, the hull 500 is shaped like a circular segment.

[00141] The hull 500 is symmetrical with reference to a transverse plane, and as such the leading and trailing surfaces are symmetrical. This enables the hull 500 to travel in either direction without redirecting (turning around) the hull 500.

[00142] The hull 500 is formed of reinforced sheet metal (e.g. steel or alloy) which is cut and welded. The hull 500 is hollow, and can be partially filled with water (or other liquid) to provide a ballast.

[00143] Figure 5d illustrates a cut-away perspective view of the hull 500, where the upper surface 502 and a portion of the outer sidewall 508 has been removed to illustrate an interior of the hull 500.

[00144] The hull 500 comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending, vertical supports 510, which extend along a length of the hull 500 and have approximately the same shape as the inner sidewall 506, and a plurality of laterally extending, vertical supports 512, that extend across a width of the hull 500 between the sidewalls 506, 508. Each of the supports 510, 512 is planar, and extends from the lower surface 504 of the hull 500 to the planar upper surface 502.

[00145] The plurality of longitudinally extending supports 510 include apertures 514 therein, to enable liquid (ballast) in the hull 500 to flow laterally within the hull. This thus simplifies the process of filling the hull 500 with ballast, as segments defined by the supports do not need to be filled individually. [00146] The laterally extending supports 512 include central supports, which are solid and provide a boundary between a front and a rear of the hull, and thus prevent liquid (ballast) from flowing between a front and rear. The laterally extending supports 512 also include leading and trailing supports, adjacent to leading and trailing edges respectively, which do have apertures 514, which enables water to flow between such adjacent chambers.

[00147] In addition to enabling the flow of liquid between adjacent chambers, the apertures 514 also enable the supports 510, 512 to function as baffles, thus controlling rate at which the liquid ballast moves around the hull 500.

[00148] Such configuration provides a limited number of sealed chambers, distributed along a length of the hull, that is easy to fill and adjust, while providing stability from the ballast in that the ballast is controlled.

[00149] Furthermore, a plurality of support ribs 514 are provided both lengthwise and across a width of the hull to add further support to the hull and the supports 510, 512 located therein.

[00150] The hull 500 includes plurality of removable covers 516 in the upper surface 502, which provides access to an inside of the hull 500. The covers 516 are positioned along both a length and a width of the hull 500, and covers 516 are provided for each of the chambers defined by the supports 510, 512 within the hull 500.

[00151] Finally, the hull 500 includes mounting members 518 for mounting the hull 500 to a carriage, to enable the hull to be used in a wave pool system.

[00152] Figure 5e illustrates a side view of the hull 500 coupled to a carriage 550 and driven by a cable 552 above water 554 in a resting or inactive state, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[00153] The carriage 550 is similar to the carriage 330, and includes a frame 556, that supports wheels 558, which engage with rails (not illustrated). [00154] Pivot arms 560 couple the hull 500 to the frame, and actuators 562 allow a separation between the frame 556 (which is at a fixed height) and the hull 500 to be adjusted, and thereby control a depth of the hull. The front and rear actuators 562 are individually adjustable, which enables the hull to be lowered on one side, as outlined below. As such, the actuators enable both a pitch and height of the hull 500 relative to the water 554 to be adjusted.

[00155] Figure 5f illustrates a side view of the hull 500 coupled to the carriage 550 and in an active configuration, where a trailing end of the hull 500 is lowered, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In particular, the trailing actuators 562 are extended such that the trailing edge of the hull is pushed down into the water. In Figure 5f, the hull is configured to move to the right.

[00156] The actuators 562 allow the hull to be adjusted to different depths and angles with reference to the water 554. A broad range of angles may be used, as outlined above, such as greater than 1°, less than 45°, between 5° and 25°, between 10° and 20° and about 16°. The incident angle and depth of the hull can be used to control the size and shape of the resulting wave.

[00157] Figure 6a illustrates an upper schematic view of an example of a wave pool system 600, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6b illustrates a cross sectional view of s portion of the wave pool system 600. The wave pool system 600 is similar to the wave pool system 100.

[00158] The wave pool system 600 includes an inner side wall 602 defining a first pool edge and a bottom 604 that extends away from the inner side wall 602 towards an outer side wall 606. The inner side wall 602, the bottom 604 and the outer side wall 606 define a pool that is generally race track shaped, including two intermediate linear sections connected via curved end portions. The inner side wall 602 defines an island 608, around which a hull 500 is pulled, to generate waves for surfing, particularly along the linear sections.

[00159] As best illustrated in Figure 6b, the bottom 604 comprises a deep region 604a, adjacent to the inner side wall 602, a shallow region 604b adjacent to the outer side wall 606, and a sloped region 604c between the shallow region 604b and the deep region 604a. [00160] The sloped region 604c is illustrated as abruptly extending upwardly from the deep region 604a, and abruptly stopping at the shallow region 604b for the sake of clarity, but the skilled addressee will readily appreciate that a smooth (e.g. curved in cross section), gradual change in depth may occur from the deep region 604a to the shallow region 604b.

[00161] The deep and shallow regions 604a, 604b are substantially parallel to a water surface 600a, and while the water level may be adjusted, the shallow region 604b is generally about 1 2m deep, and the deep region 604a is generally at least twice to three times that depth.

[00162] In the deep region 604a, large, smooth, unbroken waves are generated, and in the shallow region 604b causes round, barrel-shaped waves that break.

[00163] First and second closeout portions 608 are also provided at ends of the linear sections, to cause the wave to close out at the end of the linear section. In short, the system 600 is configured to enable a surfer to surf a wave along a linear section. As the wave reaches the closeout portions 608, the wave closes out, which defines an end of the linear section in which the surfer shall surf, and prevents the surfer from inadvertently surfing a wave past an end of the linear section.

[00164] As best illustrated in Figure 6c, the closeout portions 608 are located intermediate the inner inner side wall 602 and the outer side wall 606 and extend onto the sloped region 604c. A leading surface 608a of the closeout portion 608 is sloped upwards towards a shallow platform 608b, and converges with the sloped region 604c. In particular, the sloped leading surface 608a is sloped such that it causes the waves to break towards the outer side wall 606, and the sloped region 604c is sloped such that it causes the waves to break towards the inner side wall 602, as illustrated by respective arrows. As such, the inward and outward direction of the wave causes the wave to converge and close out.

[00165] Side and rear surfaces 608c, 608d are also sloped from the deep portion 604a to the shallow platform 608b, to provide a smooth transition between the closeout portion 608 and the deep portion 604a. [00166] The closeout portions 608 are illustrated at ends of the linear sections when the system is configured to operate in a clockwise direction, as indicated by the arrows. The skilled addressee will readily appreciate, however, that closeout portions 608 may be provided on both ends of each linear section, and mirrored, such that the closeout portions 608 are provided at ends of the linear sections regardless of what direction the system 600 operates.

[00167] Furthermore, in addition to providing closeout portions 608, one or more depth adjustment bodies may be provided along a length of the linear sections, to provide a variable wave along the length of the linear sections. A uniform wave along the length of the linear section may be good for learning to surf, but as a surfer becomes more experienced, surfing a uniform wave may become boring. As such, depth adjustment bodies, similar to the closeout portions 608, may be provided along the length of the linear sections to provide variability in the wave as it progresses along the linear section, and thus more accurately mimics a real wave at a beach, where depths vary and bodies such as rocks and reefs may cause changes in a wave.

[00168] Figure 7a illustrates a perspective view of a depth adjustment body 700, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7b illustrates a side view of the depth adjustment body 700.

[00169] The depth adjustment body 700 includes a substantially planar base 702, from which sidewalls 704 upwardly and inwardly extend to a substantially planar top 706. The depth adjustment body 700 is in the shape of a truncated pyramid.

[00170] As the sidewalls 704 extend upward and inwards at an angle of around 45 degree from horizontal, a gradual transition is provided from the deep region 604a to a shallow region thereon defined by the planar top 706. As such, water is able to be directed smoothly by the depth adjustment body 700, and in a manner that does not create excess turbulence.

[00171] The depth adjustment body 700 is removable and movable. In other words, the depth adjustment body may be placed in the system 600 as desired, and removed when not needed. For this purpose, the depth adjustment body 700 includes an anchor point 708, which enables the depth adjustment body 700 to be lifted using a crane, for example. Furthermore, the depth adjustment body 700 may including further anchors (not illustrated), for enabling the depth adjustment body to be anchored in position against the deep region 604a.

[00172] The depth adjustment body 700 may be hollow, and be configured to be filled with water as it is lowered into the water. Weights may be provided at a base of the depth adjustment body, to ensure that it sinks to the bottom of the deep region 604a. Alternatively, the depth adjustment body 700 may be solid, e.g. formed of concrete or cement, or another suitable material.

[00173] In addition to the truncated pyramid shape of the depth adjustment body 700, any other suitable shape may be used. As an illustrate example, depth adjustment bodies may form the shape of a truncated cone. A cross section of the depth adjustment bodies may be substantially rectangular in shape, oval or circular in shape, or triangular in shape, for example.

[00174] It is preferable that the depth adjustment body includes one or more sloped edges, to provide a relatively smooth transition between a deep portion, and a shallow portion defined by the depth adjustment body. However, if desired, the depth adjustment body may include abrupt edges, configured to create turbulence in the water.

[00175] While the depth adjustment body 700 includes a planar base, the skilled addressee will readily appreciate that sloped, or partially sloped bases may be used to enable the depth adjustment body 700 to be positioned on, or partly on, the sloped region 604c.

[00176] Figure 7c illustrates an upper schematic view of the wave pool system 600, including a plurality of depth adjustment bodies 700a-d, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[00177] The depth adjustment bodies 700a-d include first and second square bodies 700a, 700b positioned in the deep region 604a, the first square body 700a positioned perpendicular to a direction of travel of a wave, and the second square body 700b positioned at an angle (approximately 45 degrees) to the direction of travel of the wave. As such, the first and second square bodies 700a, 700b, while being similar in shape, are configured to provide different effects on the wave. [00178] A rectangular depth adjustment body 700c is provided in the shallow region 604b and extending over onto the sloped region 604c, and a circular (frustoconical) depth adjustment body is provided in the deep region 604a.

[00179] As can be seen from Figure 7c, various depth adjustment bodies may be used to create an environment along a length of the linear sections that ensures that the wave varies, and in a manner that is not repetitive (along the length) or predictable. To achieve this, various heights, shapes and configurations of depth adjustment bodies may be used.

[00180] As can be seen from Figure 7c, one of the linear sections includes a plurality of depth adjustment bodies 700a-d positioned along its length, and the other of the linear sections does not. This enables the system 600 to be used for both beginners and training on the linear section without depth adjustment bodies, and for more advanced surfers on the linear section with the depth adjustment bodies 700a-d.

[00181] As outlined above, the hull is driven by a cable drive system (not illustrated) similar to the cable drive system of the wave pool system 100. In particular, the hull 500 is pulled along the water, it is configured to push vertically down on the water surface, as opposed to a hull with a changing beam that also pushes laterally (sideways) on the water. As outlined above, this results in large smooth waves with minimal energy required and avoids undesirable broken water wash around the hull.

[00182] Figure 7d illustrates a diagram of a linear portion of the system 600, in which the water height, and thus wave shape, is illustrated.

[00183] As the hull 500 is driven through the water, a minor soliton wave 702 is created from an interaction with a front of the hull 500 with the water. As the hull 500 pushes down on the water surface, a trough 704 is created, which is followed by a surf wave 706.

[00184] The surf wave 706 is a Kelvin wave, or mimics a Kelvin wave, and is about lm above the level of water when stationary. The trough 704 is about lm below the level of water when stationary, and as the trough 704 immediately precedes the surf wave 706, a difference in height of about 2m is provided, thus creating a wave of significant size that is particularly useful for surfing.

[00185] The depth and pitch of the hull 500 may be adjusted, which in combination with changes in hull speed, can be used to produce waves having different attributes, including different wave sizes and shapes. Similarly, a depth of water can be adjusted up and down, essentially causing a change in depth of the deep, and more importantly, shallow regions.

[00186] Even with the use of various depth adjustment bodies to create a varied environment, the systems described above may still become boring for experienced surfers, particularly over time. As such, the systems may be complemented with obstacles with which the surfers may interact.

[00187] Static obstacles, like what are used in cable ski parks and the like, are not suitable for surfing, as the wave changes a height of the level of water, which will either submerge or bring an obstacle to far out of the water, which can be dangerous. Furthermore, such static obstacles will generally disrupt the wave, and thus disrupt the surfers surfing.

[00188] As such, floating but fixed obstacles are provided which are able to move up and down with the waves, providing an obstacle that can be interacted with by the surfer, without being dangerous (like a submerged obstacle) or affecting the wave.

[00189] Figure 8a illustrates a side view of a floating obstacle 800, in a linear section of the system 600, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8a illustrates the obstacle 800 in a resting configuration, i.e. without any wave.

[00190] The floating obstacle 800 includes a floating platform 802, upon which a rail 804 is attached. The platform is attached to the bottom 604 by a plurality of tethers 806. A residual current in the water 808, as indicated with an arrow, causes the tethers 806 to remain taut, and thus retain the floating obstacle 800 in a stable position.

[00191] Figure 8b illustrates a side view of the floating obstacle 800, as illustrated in Figure 8a, but when a wave is passing. [00192] As can be seen from Figure 8b, the wave causes the floating obstacle 800 to rise with the wave, and as a result, enables a surfer to interact with the floating obstacle 800 regardless of where the surfer is placed on the wave.

[00193] The rail 804 resembles a handrail and is configured for the surfer to jump from the wave, onto the rail 804, and back onto the wave, much like a skateboarder is able to jump onto and off of a handrail.

[00194] The rail 804 may be any suitable shape, including an arch shaped rail.

[00195] Other types of floating obstacles may be used. As an illustrative example, a relatively simple floating obstacle may comprise a floating platform alone, which in use, the surfer surfs beside the platform, jumps off from the surfboard and onto the platform and then back onto the surfboard.

[00196] In addition to floating obstacles which the surfer is configured to interact with, the obstacles may define a path in which the surfer is to follow or avoid. As an illustrative example, obstacles may define an object over which the surfer is to jump, or define a path (much like a slalom path) through which the surfer is to travel. Similarly, an obstacle may define a hoop through which the surfer is to jump.

[00197] The use of obstacles in the system 600 not only creates an environment which is more challenging and exciting for surfers, but also enables a new sport to be created in which the surfers interact with the obstacles to get points, similar to other stunt and obstacle based sports.

[00198] The platform is advantageously formed of hollow plastic, but any other suitable material may be used. The platform and or the obstacle generally may include padding to prevent or minimise injury should a surfer fall onto the obstacle.

[00199] Advantageously, the cable systems described above enable waves to be efficiently generated, and the hulls described enable good quality waves to be generated using relatively little energy. For example, good quality waves can be generated by the systems described above by driving the hull through the water at as little as 6.5 m/s. The waves generated include a leading trough, which provides a tall relative wave height.

[00200] Furthermore, the systems described above are configurable in many ways, from speed to depth and pitch of the hull, which enables good variability of waves generated. The pools in which the waves are generated are also configurable, to provide variability along the wave, which increases a surfing quality of the wave, particularly for experienced surfers.

[00201] The systems are easily reversible, which enables residual currents in the pool to be actively counteracted, and further enables the pool to be configured based according to a surfing direction, e.g. with reference to an audience, which is particularly useful in competitions.

[00202] Finally, the addition of obstacles enables surfers to not only surf a wave in a manner that likens beach surfing, but also in a manner that enables wide variety of tricks and stunts to be performed.

[00203] Throughout this specification and claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word“comprise”, and variations such as“comprises” or“comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers. As used herein and unless otherwise stated, the term "approximately" means ±20%.

[00204] It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms“a,”“an,” and“the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to“a support” includes a plurality of supports. In this specification and in the claims that follow, reference will be made to a number of terms that shall be defined to have the following meanings unless a contrary intention is apparent.

[00205] It will of course be realised that whilst the above has been given by way of an illustrative example of this invention, all such and other modifications and variations hereto, as would be apparent to persons skilled in the art, are deemed to fall within the broad scope and ambit of this invention as is herein set forth.