A multidirectional amusement device is shown having a support structure extending above a support surface. A ride vehicle is secured to the support structure with support lines and is allowed to move freely beneath the support towers. A retraction tower receives a tow line connected to the ride vehicle to draw the ride vehicle to a desired height. A release mechanism attached between ends of the tow line engages a stop on the retraction tower and automatically releases the ride vehicle into a pendulum motion. The ride vehicle includes an attachment portion for receiving the support lines. The ride vehicle also includes a rider platform rotatably attached to the attachment portion. The ride vehicle further includes a coupling bar having a first end pivotally secured to the attachment portion of the ride vehicle and a second end extending outwardly from the ride vehicle for engaging the release mechanism. The coupling bar helps initiate a rocking motion which, in combination with the pendulum motion and the rotation motion, maximizes the thrill factor of the multidirectional amusement device. Redundant cabling, secured to each other at space intervals, adds safety to the system.
RELATED APPLICATIONS
The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Non-provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 10/007,599 entitled "Multidirectional Amusement Device," filed Nov. 13, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,511,381 which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/247,301, entitled "Multidirectional Ride Vehicle With Release Bar," filed Nov. 10, 2000, both applications herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.
