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<\/a><\/p>\nThe patent<\/a> abstract points out that typical rides are guided by an assembly under the vehicle attached to equipment like wheels, chains, and tracks.<\/p>\n \u201cHowever, the equipment can present a hazard or pinch points to the passenger of the ride, in particular, when the passenger embarks and disembarks the ride,\u201d the patent states. The patent goes on to describe \u201cfluid propulsion techniques that can eliminate or reduce many of the hazards associated with propulsion of amusement park rides.\u201d<\/p>\n With this system, an apparatus under each vehicle would use the flow of fluids to propel the vehicle forward.<\/p>\n The vehicle could be moving through a trough full of a \u201cfirst fluid\u201d \u2014\u00a0water that would be visible to guests like on Fyre Drill at Epic Universe (pictured above). But the patent could also apply to wheeled vehicle moving across a surface.<\/p>\n The propulsion apparatus of the vehicle would extend down below the surface or main trough into a second trough. It would use adjustable surfaces to engage a \u201csecond fluid\u201d and move the vehicle forward. The flow rate of the second fluid could be the same or different from the rate of the first fluid.<\/p>\n The assembly\u2019s controllable surfaces could switch from one configuration to a second that would change the speed or direction of the vehicle.<\/p>\n The surfaces could be controlled remotely by the ride system or an employee, or locally onboard the ride by a passenger.<\/p>\n Gates could be in the fluid or trough to brake the vehicle in certain areas. For example, the gate could back up the fluid, causing flow to stop or slow down.<\/p>\n Universal notes that their descriptions showcase just some examples of the technology\u2019s potential use. It could be implemented \u201cacross many different platform types, devices, systems, shapes, sizes, and\/or packaging arrangements.\u201d<\/p>\n Just because Universal filed and was awarded the patent doesn\u2019t mean we\u2019ll see this system in use any time soon \u2014\u00a0if ever. But the patent opens up doors for future technologically-advanced rides.<\/p>\n What kind of attraction would you like to see utilize this system? Let us know on social media.<\/p>\n For more Universal Studios news from around the world, follow Universal Parks News Today on Twitter<\/a>, Facebook<\/a>, and Instagram<\/a>. For Disney Parks news, visit WDWNT<\/a>.<\/p>\n \t\t<\/a><\/p>\n