Application (pre-grant publication)
RIDER INCLUSIVE TRANSPORT AIDE
- Number
- 20260272736
- Published
- 2026-09-17
- Filed
- 2025-03-11
- Assignee
- DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
- Inventors
- Laffin; Kristopher M.
- CPC
- A61G3/061; A61G3/0808; A63G31/007
- Verdict
- Medium Hardware
- First reported
- 2026-W38 (2026-09-18)
- Source
- Google Patents · FreePatentsOnline
The keeper's note
A self-leveling platform on a theme-park ride vehicle that stays flat (for wheelchairs/gear) as the vehicle tilts over water or uneven ground.
Abstract
A ride vehicle may include a platform configured to receive an object. In one example, the platform is configured to move in response to a tilting motion of the ride vehicle to transport the object on the moveable platform in a flat orientation with respect to a water or ground surface. In another example, the platform forms a load surface configured to receive an object, wherein the platform is configured to move in response to a movement of the vehicle to maintain the platform in a flat orientation with respect to a water or ground surface.
Background
FIELD
The present application relates generally to a ride system, such as rides or attractions with movable vehicles for carrying one or more passengers. BACKGROUND
It is desirable for rides or ride systems to be accessible to a variety of passengers, including passengers with disabilities. For example, ride vehicles may be configured to allow passengers with disabilities to experience a ride or attraction, such as allowing passengers using a wheelchair, scooter, or other mobility aide to drive their wheelchair or scooter onto the vehicle without needing to transfer out of the wheelchair or scooter (e.g., a rider inclusive transport aide). However, it is often difficult to load the wheelchair or scooter onto and off the ride vehicle. The space required to maneuver the wheelchair or scooter, including ramp angles, turn radii, and passthrough widths, also limits the size of vehicle that can accommodate the wheelchair or scooter. Special accommodations often need to be made, such as adding removable sections of the vehicle, doors, and/or complex platforms, which significantly decrease the reliability and increase the weight, complexity, and cost of the ride vehicle.
In addition, boat rides have additional limitations that further add to the difficulty in loading and unloading objects (e.g., wheelchairs or scooters). Typically, the sides of the boat (e.g., gunwales) need to be higher or taller than a typical ride vehicle, such as to ensure no water can intrud