Creo Customers: Riding the Crest of a Wave with Creo

By Geoff Hedges | Published: July 1, 2011

American Wave Machines, based out of Solana Beach, California, USA, has produced the world’s first standing wave surf machine. Found in malls and water parks all over the world, the SurfStream unlocks the potential of a coastal experience and culture to communities far removed from the ocean.

As a reader of this blog, however, you’re probably more interested in how it works exactly —and how entrepreneur Bruce McFarland thought of the idea of producing an indoor wave that never closes out. The answer involves fluid dynamics, foils, and Creo.



McFarland, an avid surfer, uses Creo’s direct modeling approach and advanced surfacing extensions to create the structures that determine the shape and direction of the waves. Water circulates over the structures to create a hydraulic jump, which looks and acts just like a standing wave.

SurfStreams are engineered to order. Waves can cut left, cut right, challenge seasoned surfers, or produce bubblers suitable for beginners. Just as importantly, the machines are built to fit the space and scope of a customer’s park.

All these custom specifications make Creo’s direct modeling approach a good choice for American Wave Machines (AWM)—Creo provides flexibility when it comes to changing designs. It also allows AWM to show customers 3D prototypes and visualizations—to make sure the customer knows just what to expect. Plus, Creo makes last-minute changes easy in case the customer changes its mind!