Target assembly system and method

Abstract

The system includes a spout configured to eject a liquid. The system also includes a wall having a surface facing the spout and a thickness extending from the surface. The system also includes one or more capacitive sensors configured to detect the presence of liquid at or adjacent to the surface through the thickness of the wall.

Description

(19) State Intellectual Property Office (12) Invention Patent Application (10) Application Publication Number (43) Application Publication Date (21) Application Number 202480027513.3 (22) Application Date 2024.04.23 (30) Priority Data 63 / 461535 2023.04.24 US 18 / 641060 2024.04.19 US (85) PCT International Application Entering National Phase Date 2025.10.22 (86) PCT International Application Application Data PCT / US2024 / 025879 2024.04.23 (87) PCT International Application Publication Data WO2024 / 226535 EN 2024.10.31 (71) Applicant: Universal City Cinema LLC Address: California, USA (72) Inventors: B.M. Kirkland, N.D. Helmick IV (74) Patent Agency: China Patent Agency (Hong Kong) Limited 72001 Patent Attorneys: Zhao Rui, Song Yifan (51) Int.Cl. A63F 9 / 02 (2006.01) A63F 9 / 24 (2006.01) A63G 31 / 00 (2006.01) F41J 5 / 24 (2006.01) (54) Title of Invention: Component System and Method (57) Abstract: The system includes an nozzle configured to spray liquid. The system also includes a wall having a surface facing the nozzle and a thickness extending from the surface. The system also includes one or more capacitive sensors configured to detect the presence of liquid at or near the surface through the thickness of the wall. Claims (3 pages), Description (14 pages), Drawings (9 pages), CN 121079133 A, 2025.12.05, CN 1 21 07 91 33 A 1. A target component system comprising: a nozzle configured to spray a liquid; a wall having a surface facing the nozzle and a thickness extending from the surface; and one or more capacitive sensors configured to detect the presence of the liquid at or near the surface through the thickness of the wall. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the wall includes an additional surface opposite to the surface, such that the thickness extends from the surface to the additional surface, and the one or more capacitive sensors are disposed on the additional surface. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more capacitive sensors are configured to detect the presence of the liquid in response to the threshold parameter of the liquid within a detection distance of the one or more capacitive sensors. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the wall comprises a plastic or ceramic material. 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the surface of the wall includes a hydrophobic or superhydrophobic coating configured to repel the liquid.6. The system of claim 5, wherein the hydrophobic or superhydrophobic coating comprises acrylic acid. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the wall thickness is approximately 10 mm or less. 8. The system of claim 1, comprising an actuator configured to move the wall. 9. The system of claim 1, comprising one or more effects configured to operate based on the one or more capacitive sensors detecting the presence of liquid at or near the surface through the wall thickness. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the one or more effects comprise a light, a water feature, a speaker configured to emit sound, a pyrotechnic effect, a flame effect, a bubble effect, a confetti effect, an animated character actuation, or any combination thereof. 11. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more capacitive sensors, the wall thickness, the wall material, or any combination thereof are configured such that the one or more capacitive sensors do not detect the additional presence of rainwater at or near the surface through the wall thickness. 12. The system of claim 1, comprising a closure defining the interior of a closure in which the one or more capacitive sensors are disposed, wherein the closure is configured to protect the interior of the closure from external environmental influences. 13. The system of claim 1, wherein the nozzle includes an inner diameter defining a flow path of the liquid through the nozzle, and the inner diameter at or adjacent to the outlet of the nozzle is in the range of about 5 mm to about 7 mm. 14. The system of claim 1, wherein the nozzle is configured to spray the liquid such that the jet stream of the liquid sprayed by the nozzle includes a pressure between about 140 kPa and about 280 kPa. 15. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more capacitive sensors comprise: a first capacitive sensor configured to detect the presence of the liquid at or adjacent to the surface in response to a first threshold parameter of the liquid; and a second capacitive sensor configured to detect the presence of the liquid, the additional presence of the additional liquid, or both, at or adjacent to the surface in response to a second threshold parameter of the liquid, another liquid, or both. 16. The system of claim 15, further comprising: a first effect configured to operate based on first sensor feedback from the first capacitive sensor; and a second effect configured to operate based on the first sensor feedback and second sensor feedback from the second capacitive sensor. 17. The system of claim 1, wherein the nozzle is configured to eject a laminar flow of the liquid.18. The system of claim 1, wherein the nozzle is configured to spray a non-laminar flow of the liquid. 19. The system of claim 1, comprising: a first target corresponding to a first capacitive sensor; and a second target corresponding to a second capacitive sensor, wherein the one or more capacitive sensors include the first capacitive sensor, the second capacitive sensor, or both. 20. The system of claim 19, comprising a control system configured to: determine, based on sensor feedback from the first capacitive sensor, the second capacitive sensor, or both, the order in which the liquid appears at the first target and the second target; and instruct one or more effects of the system based on the order. 21. A target component for an amusement park attraction, comprising: a wall having a surface and a thickness extending from the surface; and one or more capacitive sensors configured to detect the presence of liquid at or near the surface through the thickness of the wall. 22. The target component of claim 21, wherein the thickness of the wall is 10 millimeters (mm) or less, and wherein the wall comprises a plastic or ceramic material. 23. The target component of claim 21, wherein the surface of the wall includes a hydrophobic or superhydrophobic coating configured to repel the liquid. 24. The target component of claim 21, comprising: an additional surface of the wall opposite to the surface such that the thickness extends from the surface to the additional surface; and a closure engaging with the additional surface of the wall to define an interior of the closure in which the one or more capacitive sensors are disposed, wherein the closure and the additional surface of the wall are configured to protect the interior of the closure from external environmental influences. 25. A recreational system comprising: a first nozzle operable by a first visitor to spray a first liquid; a second nozzle operable by a second visitor to spray a second liquid; a target facing the first nozzle and the second nozzle; one or more capacitive sensors configured to detect the presence of the first liquid, the second liquid, or both at the target through the thickness of the target; and a control system configured to: receive sensor feedback from the one or more capacitive sensors; and determine, at least in part, a first game score corresponding to the first visitor, a second game score corresponding to the second visitor, a team score corresponding to the first visitor and the second visitor, or any combination thereof, based on the sensor feedback.26. The amusement system of claim 25, further comprising: an additional target facing the first nozzle and the second nozzle; and one or more additional capacitive sensors configured to detect the additional presence of the first liquid, the second liquid, or both at the target through the thickness of the additional target, wherein the control system is configured to: receive additional sensor feedback from the one or more additional capacitive sensors; and determine, at least in part, the first game score, the second game score, the team score, or any combination thereof based on the sensor feedback and the additional sensor feedback. 27. The amusement system of claim 26, wherein the target and the additional target are disposed on a shared wall or surface. 28. The amusement system of claim 26, wherein the target is disposed on a first wall and the additional target is disposed on a second wall physically separated from the first wall. 29. The amusement system of claim 26, wherein the control system is configured to determine the first game score, the second game score, the team score, or any combination thereof based at least in part on the sensor feedback, the additional sensor feedback, and a scoring algorithm, wherein the scoring algorithm assigns score points to the first game score, the second game score, the team score, or any combination thereof based on: the total number of targets hit by the first liquid corresponding to the first nozzle, the second liquid corresponding to the second nozzle, or both; a first order, wherein the targets are hit by the first liquid and the second liquid in the first order; a second order, wherein the targets and the additional targets are hit by the first liquid in the second order; a third order, wherein the targets and the additional targets are hit by the second liquid in the third order; or any combination thereof. 30. The amusement system of claim 26, wherein the control system is configured to instruct one or more lighting or water effects of the amusement system based at least in part on the sensor feedback. Claims 3 / 3 Page 4 CN 121079133 A Target Assembly System and Method

[0001] Cross-Reference to Related Applications This application claims priority and benefit to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 461,535, filed April 24, 2023, entitled “Target Assembly System and Method,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Background Art

[0002] This paragraph is intended to introduce to the reader various aspects of the art that may be related to the following description and / or the claimed aspects of this disclosure.This discussion is believed to help provide readers with background information to better understand the various aspects of this disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that these statements should be understood in this context and not as an admission of prior art.

[0003] Entertainment venues (such as theme parks or amusement parks) are built to provide visitors with a variety of immersive experiences. These entertainment venues may include various attractions such as rides (e.g., roller coasters), shows, games, etc., some of which employ ride components configured to move (one or more) visitors along ride paths (e.g., tracks), show effects configured to enhance the immersive experience of (one or more) visitors, etc.

[0004] In some conventional attractions, one or more visitors can operate a device such as a ball launcher configured to launch a ball to hit a target component. Detection features may be configured to determine whether a visitor successfully hits the target component with (e.g.) a ball launched by the ball launcher. Unfortunately, the detection features of conventional attractions may be inaccurate or prone to failure, which can negatively impact the visitor experience. Furthermore, such conventional attractions may be limited in scope and immersion. Therefore, it is now recognized that improvements to target components and corresponding amusement attractions are desirable.

[0005] Certain embodiments commensurate with the scope of the subject matter initially claimed are summarized below. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure, but rather are intended only to provide a brief overview of certain disclosed embodiments. In fact, this disclosure may cover various forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.

[0006] In one embodiment, the system includes a nozzle configured to spray liquid. The system also includes a wall having a surface facing the nozzle and a thickness extending from the surface. The system also includes one or more target sensors (e.g., capacitive sensors) configured to detect the presence of liquid at or near the surface through the thickness of the wall.

[0007] In one embodiment, a target component for an amusement attraction includes a wall having a surface and a thickness extending from the surface. The target component also includes one or more target sensors (e.g., capacitive sensors) configured to detect the presence of liquid at or near the surface through the thickness of the wall.

[0008] In an embodiment, the amusement system includes a first nozzle operable by a first visitor to spray a first liquid, a second nozzle operable by a second visitor to spray a second liquid, a target facing the first and second nozzles, and one or more target sensors (e.g., capacitive sensors) configured to detect the presence of the first liquid, the second liquid, or both at the target by penetrating the thickness of the target.The amusement system may also include a control system configured to receive sensor feedback from the one or more target sensors (e.g., capacitive sensors), and to determine, at least in part, a first game score corresponding to a first visitor, a second game score corresponding to a second visitor, a team score corresponding to the first and second visitors, or any combination thereof, based on the sensor feedback.

[0009] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become more readily understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals denote similar parts throughout the drawings, in which: FIG1 is a top view of a scenic spot (e.g., a ride facility system) according to an aspect of the present disclosure, having a target sensor (e.g., a capacitive sensor) configured to detect the presence of liquid ejected from a nozzle of the scenic spot at a target component of the scenic spot; FIG2 is a schematic diagram showing a portion of the scenic spot of FIG1 according to an aspect of the present disclosure; FIG3 is a perspective view of a nozzle device and a target sensor (e.g., a capacitive sensor) according to an aspect of the present disclosure, corresponding to a target component that may be employed in the scenic spot of FIG1; FIG4 is a perspective view of a nozzle device that may be employed in the scenic spot of FIG1 according to an aspect of the present disclosure; FIG5 is a side view of a target component that may be employed in the scenic spot of FIG1 according to an aspect of the present disclosure, the target component including a wall having a first surface configured to face a nozzle of the scenic spot, and a target sensor (e.g., a capacitive sensor) disposed on a second surface of the wall opposite to the first surface. Figure 6 is a side view of a target component that can be used in the scenic spot of Figure 1 according to an aspect of the present disclosure, the target component including a wall having a surface with a nozzle configured to face the scenic spot, and a target sensor (e.g., a capacitive sensor) embedded in the wall; Figure 7 is a side view of a target component that can be used in the scenic spot of Figure 1 according to an aspect of the present disclosure, the target component including a closure configured to protect the target sensor (e.g., a capacitive sensor) from certain aspects of the surrounding environment; Figure 8 is a front view of multiple target components that can be used on a common wall (or role) in the scenic spot of Figure 1 according to an aspect of the present disclosure; Figure 9 is a perspective view of a target component that can be used in the scenic spot of Figure 1 according to an aspect of the present disclosure, the target component including a target sensor array (e.g., a capacitive sensor array) having at least two target sensors (e.g., capacitive sensors). Figure 10 is a schematic illustration of a site according to an aspect of the present disclosure, the site employing a target component and an electrical circuit for completing the liquid spraying onto the target component via a nozzle device; and Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a site according to an aspect of the present disclosure, such as the site in Figure 1, employing one or more target components and one or more nozzle devices configured to spray liquid onto the one or more target components.Detailed Description

[0010] One or more specific embodiments will be described below. To provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of the actual implementation are described in the specification. It should be recognized that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, many implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer’s specific objectives, such as complying with system-related and business-related constraints, which may differ from one implementation to another. Furthermore, it should be recognized that such development work may be complex and time-consuming, but remains routine work for design, construction, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill who benefit from this disclosure. Specification 2 / 14 pages 6 CN 121079133 A

[0011] When introducing elements of various embodiments of this disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to mean the presence of one or more elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that additional elements may exist in addition to the listed elements. Additionally, it should be understood that references to “an embodiment” or “an embodiment” in this disclosure are not intended to exclude the existence of other embodiments also incorporating the described features.

[0012] This disclosure generally relates to, for example, target components in amusement park attractions and corresponding control devices. According to some embodiments, an amusement park attraction may include a nozzle device (e.g., water cannon, spray gun, etc.) configured to spray liquid (e.g., water, treated water, such as fluoridated water, water colored by dye, watercolor, or paint) toward a target component. For example, a visitor may operate the nozzle device to spray liquid toward a first surface of a wall of the target component. A target sensor (e.g., a capacitive sensor) may be disposed on a second surface of the wall opposite to the first surface, or the target sensor may be embedded within the wall. In this way, the target sensor can be hidden from the visitor's perspective (e.g., when the first surface of the wall faces the visitor). The target sensor may be configured to detect the presence of liquid sprayed from the visitor-operated nozzle device at the first surface of the wall. For example, the target sensor may include a capacitive sensor configured to detect the presence of liquid at the first surface of the wall by detecting the capacitance of the liquid. Other types of target sensors may include imaging sensors (e.g., cameras, light detection and ranging (LIDAR) sensors, etc.), light sensors with or without light emitters (e.g., visible light sensors, infrared light sensors, ultraviolet light sensors, laser sensors), etc. A detailed discussion of target sensors and corresponding functions is provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0013] In some embodiments, the target component may be integrated with performance elements of amusement park attractions (such as avatars, humanoids, robots, sculptures, actuating characters, etc.).As described above, by concealing the target sensor (e.g., a capacitive sensor) from the visitor's perspective, the realism of the performance element is improved compared to conventional constructions where the sensor and / or other components are positioned on the target component facing the visitor. Furthermore, as detailed in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, the accuracy, precision, and / or reliability of the target sensor in detecting the presence of liquid at the wall of the target component are not diminished by movement of the target component. In fact, unlike some conventional sensing technologies, the target sensor may not include any movable mechanical components. Therefore, some embodiments employ a movable performance element with a target component (or a portion thereof) integrated therein, wherein movement of the performance element does not affect sensor readings according to the target sensor. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a hydrophobic or superhydrophobic coating may be applied to the first surface of the wall of the target component and configured to repel liquid from the wall, such that the liquid does not permeate the first surface of the wall and / or remain on the first surface of the wall for a longer time than desired (or time intervals). In this way, the target sensor can be able to rapidly and continuously detect multiple "hits" on the target component. More detailed aspects of the target component(s), target sensor(s), etc., will be provided with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0014] In some embodiments, the control system may control one or more effects of an amusement park attraction in response to a target sensor (e.g., a capacitive sensor) detecting the presence of liquid ejected from a visitor-controlled nozzle device at the wall of a target component. For example, the control system may control lighting, water features, speakers configured to emit sound, pyrotechnic effects, flame effects, bubble effects, confetti effects, animated character activating, movement of rides at the amusement park attraction, scoreboards (e.g., digital scoreboards), other effects, or any combination thereof, in response to a sufficient amount of liquid (e.g., a fluid membrane) hitting the wall of a target component and being detected by a target sensor. Control of other effects is also possible. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the amusement park attraction may employ control features that initiate the activation of certain effects in response to team achievements (e.g., by two visitors operating two corresponding nozzles), the sequence in which the nozzle device(s) operated by the visitors(s) hit the target, etc. These and other features are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0015] Turning now to the drawings, FIG1 is a top view of an embodiment of attraction 10 (e.g., a ride facility system) having one or more target sensors 12 (e.g., capacitive sensors, image sensors such as cameras or light detection and ranging (LIDAR) sensors, light sensors with or without light emitters (e.g., visible light sensors, infrared light sensors, ultraviolet light sensors, laser sensors, etc.), which are configured to detect from the nozzle device 16 of attraction 10. The presence of liquid 24 (e.g., water, treated water, such as fluoridated water, water colored by dyes, watercolors, or paints) sprayed at the target component 14 of attraction 10 (e.g., water cannons, spray guns, etc.) is present. Although the attraction 10 shown in Figure 1 is discussed below in the context of a ride facility system with ride facility path 18 (e.g., a track), ride facility vehicle 20 configured to move along ride facility path 18, and passenger station 19 where visitors can enter and exit ride facility vehicle 20, it should be understood that features involving target component 14 (and / or other target components of attraction 10, described in detail below) may also be used in the context of other types of attractions, such as those that do not employ ride facility path 18, ride facility vehicle 20, and passenger station 19 (e.g., platform-based attractions, walking attractions, shows, games, etc.).

[0016] In the illustrated embodiment, the ride facility vehicle 20 may include a plurality of seats 21, such as six pairs of two seats 21 (e.g., a total of twelve seats 21). However, any number of seats 21 or other restraint mechanisms may be employed, and other configurations of the seats 21 are possible according to this disclosure. A passenger 22 located in one of the seats 21 on the ride facility vehicle 20 may operate a nozzle device 16 (e.g., a water cannon, spray gun, etc.) to spray liquid 24 onto the target component 14. For simplicity, only one example of a nozzle device 16 corresponding to the ride facility vehicle 20 is shown. However, in other embodiments, multiple nozzle devices may be employed, such as one nozzle device 16 per seat 21.

[0017] The nozzle device 16 may spray a laminar flow or a non-laminar flow of liquid 24. Furthermore, the nozzle device 16 may be operated while the ride facility vehicle 20 is in motion, during a period of time in which the ride facility vehicle 20 is stationary, or both. In some embodiments, target component 14 may be configured to move (e.g., change position, change orientation). As shown, target component 14 may be moved along target component path (e.g., track) 26. In other embodiments, target component 14 may be a drone or other device configured to move without target component path 26.

[0018] The movement of the target component 14, the ride facility vehicle 20, or both may be controlled by a control system (e.g., a controller, control component) 28. For example, the control system 28 may include a memory circuit 30 (e.g., one or more memories) on which instructions are stored, a processing circuit 32 (e.g., one or more processors) configured to execute the instructions stored on the memory circuit 30, and a communication circuit 34 (e.g., one or more transmitters, receivers, transceivers, wired connections, etc.) configured to receive communication information and / or transmit communication information to various components of the attraction 10. As an example, the memory circuit 30 may store instructions thereon that, when executed by the processing circuit 32, cause the processing circuit 32 to instruct (e.g., via communication information achievable through the communication circuit 34) the movement of the ride facility vehicle 20, the movement of the target component 14, the actuation of various effects of the attraction 10, or any combination thereof, as described in detail below. It should be noted that the memory circuitry 30, processing circuitry 32, and / or communication circuitry 34 may be independent (e.g., independent systems, independent components, independent parts) and not integrated into a single controller (e.g., control system 28). In other words, the memory circuitry 30, processing circuitry 32, and / or communication circuitry 34 may be separate from the integrated control device. For example, in embodiments where the control system 28 includes a controller, the communication circuitry 34 may be separate from the controller and coupled to the controller via a wired or wireless connection.

[0019] Furthermore, the processor circuitry 32 (e.g., of control system 28) may include one or more microprocessors, one or more "general purpose" microprocessors, one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and / or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or combinations thereof. For example, the processing circuitry 32 may include one or more Reduced Instruction Set Computing (RISC) or Complex Instruction Set Computing (CISC) processors. The memory circuitry 30 (e.g., of control system 28) may include one or more volatile memories such as random access memory (RAM), and / or one or more non-volatile memories such as read-only memory (ROM). The memory circuitry 30 may store various information and can be used for various purposes. For example, memory circuitry 30 may store processor-executable instructions (e.g., firmware or software) for processing circuitry 32 to execute, such as instructions for controlling various components of attraction 10. Memory circuitry 30 and / or processing circuitry 32 may be located in any suitable part of attraction 10.

[0020] Target component 14 may include at least one instance of target sensor 12 (e.g., capacitive sensor), as previously described, wherein target sensor 12 is configured to detect the presence of liquid 24 ejected from nozzle device 16 in response to operation of nozzle device 16 by visitor 22 at target component 14.That is, the target sensor 12 can be configured to detect the presence of liquid 24 on the forward-facing surface 36 of the wall of the target component 14 and detect the presence through the thickness of the wall (e.g., without the liquid 24 directly contacting the target sensor 12). In this way, the target sensor 12 can be hidden from the perspective of the tourist 22 on the ride facility vehicle 20. In some embodiments, the target component 14 can be a sculpture, an avatar, a humanoid, a robot, a cartoon character, or some other performance element (e.g., where the target component 14 includes aesthetics corresponding to the theme of the attraction 10), or can be formed thereon. By hiding the target sensor 12 from the perspective of the tourist 22, the realism of the target component 14 (e.g., an image, an avatar, a humanoid, a robot, a cartoon character, etc.) can be improved compared to a configuration in which the sensing technology is visible from the perspective of the tourist 22 in the ride facility vehicle 20.

[0021] Furthermore, the target sensor 12 (e.g., a capacitive sensor) can be non-mechanical or (in other words) capable of detecting the presence of liquid 24 at the target component 14 without any apparent movement of the structure of the target sensor 12. For example, target sensor 12 may detect the presence of liquid 24 at target component 14 in response to the amount of liquid 24 appearing on the forward-facing surface 36 of target component 14 exceeding a threshold amount (e.g., a threshold quantity). In some embodiments, target sensor 12 may detect the presence of liquid 24 in response to the presence and / or formation of a fluid film of liquid 24 on the forward-facing surface 36 (e.g., fluid film size (e.g., fluid film thickness, fluid film area, fluid film volume)) exceeding a threshold fluid film presence and / or formation (e.g., threshold fluid film size (e.g., fluid film thickness, fluid film area, fluid film volume)). In practice, target sensor 12 may be a capacitive sensor configured to detect the capacitance of liquid 24 in response to the satisfaction of the aforementioned threshold conditions (e.g., where liquid 24 is conductive and / or has a dielectric constant different from that of air). In other embodiments, target sensor 12 may include an imaging sensor (e.g., a camera or LIDAR sensor), a light sensor with or without a light emitter (e.g., a visible light sensor, an infrared light sensor, an ultraviolet light sensor, or a laser sensor), etc.

[0022] Alternatively or additionally, the target sensor 12 may be configured to accurately and reliably detect the presence of liquid 24 at the target component 14 even in the presence of movement of the target component 14 described above and / or movement of the target sensor 12 attached to the target component 14. Therefore, the target sensor 12 may be more accurate and reliable than a sensing technology (and / or a target on which the sensing technology is disposed) that is negatively affected by movement of the sensing technology. More detailed aspects of the target component 14 and the target sensor 12 corresponding to the target component 14 will be provided below with reference to the following figures.

[0023] The control system 28 may be communicatively coupled to the target sensor 12 and configured to indicate one or more aspects (e.g., one or more effects) of the attraction 10 in response to the visitor 22 successfully hitting the target component 14 with the liquid 24 sprayed from the nozzle device 16. For example, in response to determining that the visitor 22 successfully hit the target component 14 with the liquid 24 sprayed from the nozzle device 16, the control system 28 may be configured to indicate the movement or animation of the ride vehicle 20 and / or its seat (e.g., roll, pitch or yaw movement, change of direction, speed or acceleration, turn, rise or fall, or change of height, etc.), the target component 14 or certain parts thereof (such as appendages of the character corresponding to the target component 14 (e.g., arms, legs), the character's body (e.g., torso), the character's head, any other part of the character, etc.)), one or more other effects of the attraction 10, or any combination thereof.

[0024] One or more other effects of attraction 10 may include, for example, a visual effects system 38, a speaker 40, a water feature 42, a scoreboard, a ride path 18 (or related components, such as switches), additional targets, environmental weather effects, another effect 46, or any combination thereof, wherein the visual effects system 38 (e.g., a projector, image projector, or display (e.g., LED display, OLED display, liquid crystal display)) is instructed to emit visual output (e.g., various colors, brightness, images, etc.), the speaker 40 is instructed to emit sound (e.g., controlling the speaker 40 to have different volumes, to play music, to play dialogue, etc.), the water feature 42 is instructed to start, deactivate, or to change the color of a liquid (e.g., water), to produce a liquid fountain (e.g., a water fountain) or fog, etc., and / or to change a body of water (e.g., a lake, pond, lagoon, liquid reservoir) to include a specific color of a liquid (e.g., water), to produce waves or flow, etc., and the scoreboard is instructed to change the score on the scoreboard. Instructing the ride facility path 18 (or related components, such as switches) to change the path, direction, speed, acceleration, etc. of the ride facility vehicle 20; instructing the additional target to change or cause its appearance or non-appearance; instructing environmental weather effects to change the environment (e.g., external environment) of the attraction 10, such as wind speed or direction, cloud cover, sunlight (e.g., switching between day and night) simulated by the attraction 10; instructing the additional effect 46 to activate confetti cannons, pyrotechnic effects, flame effects, bubble effects, animated character movement, and / or activating other effects. The above-described effects of the attraction 10 form a non-exhaustive illustration of examples according to this disclosure, and it should be understood that this disclosure includes other examples of effects.

[0025] The above-described controls, as well as other controls according to this disclosure, can improve the immersive experience associated with the attraction 10.It should be noted that certain effects may be integrated with (e.g., formed on or attached to) the target component 14 in some embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the visual effects system 38 and / or the speaker 40 may be coupled to or otherwise integrated with the target component 14. As an example, the visual effects system 38 may include one or more lights, and the lights may be integrated with cartoon eyes corresponding to a cartoon character of the target component 14, wherein the visual effects system 38 is controlled by the control system 28 to be bright red in response to the target sensor 12 (e.g., a capacitive sensor) detecting the presence of liquid 24 on the forward-facing surface 36 of the target component 14. The above features are provided as non-limiting examples and it should be understood that this disclosure may include other controls in response to the visitor 22 successfully hitting the target component 14 via liquid 24 sprayed through a nozzle device 16 operated by the visitor 22.

[0026] As shown, attraction 10 may include (e.g., configured to move along a second target component path 50) a second target component 48, the second target component 48 including at least one second target sensor 52 (e.g., a capacitive sensor), a second speaker 54 associated with the second target component 48, a second light 56 ​​associated with the second target component 48, and a second additional effect 57 associated with the second target component 48. Similarly, attraction 10 may include (e.g., configured to move along a third target component path 60) a third target component 58, the third target component 58 including at least one third target sensor 62 (e.g., a capacitive sensor), a third speaker 64 associated with the third target component 58, a third light 66 associated with the third target component 58, and a third additional effect 67 associated with the third target component 58. As shown, the second target component 48 is positioned along the ride facility path 18 at a location different from the target component 14, and the third target component 58 is positioned along the ride facility path 18 at a location different from the target component 14 and the second target component 48. In this way, the visitor 22 can control the nozzle device 16 at various intervals along the ride path 18 to attempt to hit various target components 14, 48, 58 with the liquid 24 sprayed from the nozzle device 16. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, multiple targets (e.g., target component 14, second target component 48, third target component 58, etc.) may be integrated into or integrated onto a single feature (e.g., scenery, architecture, plants), character (e.g., sculpture, animated figure, humanoid, robot, avatar, cartoon character), etc. For example, target component 14 may correspond to an appendage of a character (e.g., arm, leg), second target component 48 may correspond to the body or torso of a character, and third target component 58 may correspond to the head of a character.

[0027] Further addressing the above points, in some embodiments, multiple ride facilities and / or multiple nozzle devices may be employed. As shown, a second ride facility vehicle 70 may be employed in attraction 10. The second ride facility vehicle 70 may be similar to the first ride facility vehicle 20 (e.g., the second ride facility vehicle 70 may include various seats 71). A second passenger 72 may be positioned in one of the seats 71 and may be controlled to spray a second nozzle device 74 via the operation of the second passenger 72 to spray a second liquid 75. In the illustrated embodiment, the second liquid 75 sprayed by the second nozzle device 74 does not hit the target component 14, as shown. In embodiments employing two or more nozzle devices 16, 74 (e.g., two ride facility vehicles 20, 70, or one ride facility vehicle having multiple nozzle devices 16, 74 thereon), attraction 10 may include a group-oriented purpose or standard. In other words, control system 28 can instruct certain components of attraction system 10 to be activated in some manner in response to meeting certain team-oriented objectives or standards. For example, control system 28 can instruct the activation of components (e.g., visual effects system 38, speaker 40, etc.) in a first manner in response to visitor 22 successfully hitting target component 14 but second visitor 72 fails to hit target component 14; instruct the activation of components in a second manner in response to both visitors 22 and 72 successfully hitting target component 14; and instruct the activation of components in a third manner in response to visitor 22 failing to hit target component 14 but second visitor 72 successfully hitting target component 14. Alternatively, various components (e.g., effects of attraction 10) can be controlled (e.g., instructed) by control system 28 based on the order in which visitor 22 and / or second visitor 72 successfully hit target component 14. Alternatively, various components (e.g., effects of attraction 10) can be controlled (e.g., instructed) by control system 28 based on the order in which various target components 14, 48, 58 are hit by visitor 22, second visitor 72, or both.

[0028] In some embodiments, the control system 28 may calculate various scores based on the performance of the first visitor 22, the second visitor 72, or both. For example, the control system 28 may calculate a first score corresponding to the first visitor 22, a second score corresponding to the second visitor 72, a team score corresponding to the first visitor 22 and the second visitor 72, or any combination thereof. The control system 28 and / or other components of the attraction system 10 may be configured to recognize when liquid 24 ejected from the first nozzle device 16 hits a specific target (e.g., target component 14) and when liquid 75 ejected from the second nozzle device 74 hits a specific target (e.g., target component 14).That is, in response to the detection of the presence of liquid (e.g., liquid 24 corresponding to nozzle device 16 or another liquid 75 corresponding to second nozzle device 74) by target sensor 12 (e.g., capacitive sensor), point 10 may be able to distinguish which of nozzle device 16 or nozzle device 74 was used to hit the corresponding target component 14.

[0029] In some embodiments, multiple instances of target sensor 12 may be disposed on target component 14 in such a manner that target sensor 12 and / or control system 28 can distinguish the direction of the detected liquid 24 or liquid 75, which may be used to infer which of nozzle device 16 or nozzle device 74 is responsible for hitting target component 14. Alternatively or additionally, the position of the ride vehicle 20, 70 on ride path 18 that can be tracked by control system 28 may be used to determine which of nozzle device 16 or nozzle device 74 is responsible for hitting target component 14. Alternatively or additionally, the control system 28 may receive data from the nozzle devices 16, 74, which itself indicates: when the nozzle devices 16, 74 are triggered to spray liquid 24, 75; where the nozzle devices 16, 74 are when triggered to spray liquid 24, 75 (or when contact with liquid 24, 75 is detected by target sensor(s)(12)); and / or in what orientation the nozzle devices 16, 74 are (e.g., in what direction each nozzle device 16, 74 faces when triggered to spray liquid 24, 75 (e.g., relative to the ride facility vehicle, ride facility path, walking path, any other relative frame of reference, absolute frame of reference, primary orientation, position and / or orientation)). The control system 28 may use additional data and / or feedback to determine the above conditions and calculate scores corresponding to the first tourist 22, the second tourist 72, or a group including the first tourist 22 and the second tourist 72. Such a score may be based at least in part on the total number of targets hit by the liquids 24, 75 ejected from each nozzle 16, 74, the order in which the liquids 24, 75 ejected from each nozzle 16, 74 hit the targets, the order in which the liquids 24, 75 ejected from each nozzle 16, 74 hit the targets, and / or other conditions.

[0030] FIG2 is a schematic diagram showing an embodiment of a portion of the spot 10 of FIG1. ​​Various aspects of the control system 28 of FIG1 are shown in FIG2. It should be understood that FIG2 is an example implementation of various components of the spot 10 of FIG1, and other implementations are possible according to this disclosure. Specification 7 / 14 pages 11 CN 121079133 A

[0031] As shown, the target component 14 may include at least one target sensor 12 (e.g., a capacitive sensor) and at least one visual effects system 38 (e.g., one or more lights) integrated with the target component 14.Target sensor 12 can be communicatively connected to a ride facility / performance branch line (RSB) component connection box 100, which distributes multiple conductive cables to separate paths within the performance motion equipment. Typically, RSB component connection box 100 can be configured to transmit data to and / or receive data from various components of attraction 10 (e.g., multiple pairs of data). For example, as shown, RSB component connection box 100 is communicatively connected to a pneumatic valve control device 102, which is used to control various aspects of target component 14 or multiple target components (e.g., a torso actuator 104 for actuating the torso corresponding to the figure 125 of target component 14 or multiple target components, an accessory actuator 106 for actuating the appendages (e.g., arms, legs) corresponding to the figure 125 of target component 14 or multiple target components, and a head actuator 108 for actuating the head corresponding to the figure 125 of target component 14 or multiple target components). In some embodiments, the image 125 may include multiple targets (e.g., a first target corresponding to an appendage actuated by appendage actuator 106, a second target corresponding to a torso actuated by torso actuator 104, and a third target corresponding to a head actuated by head actuator 108). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the image 125 (e.g., an animated image) may be detachable from targets and may be actuated in response to feedback from one or more target sensors 12 associated with the target. A facility pneumatic supply device 111 (e.g., a pressurized tank) may be employed to provide pneumatic forces for operating the aforementioned actuators 104, 106, 108.

[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, the RSB element junction box 100 may also be communicatively coupled to the Water Effect (WFX) pneumatic control device 112, which may be fluidly coupled to the facility pneumatic supply device 111 of the attraction 10. WFX pneumatic control device 112 may be configured to control (e.g., indicate) one or more water features 42 (e.g., WFX nozzles) of point 10 via (e.g., indicate) a water regulator 114 connected to (e.g., extending from facility water supply device 117) one or more booster water lines 116 and a booster water hose 118 connecting the water regulator 114 and one or more water features 42 (e.g., WFX nozzles). As previously described, the actuators 104, 106, 108 and one or more water features 42 (e.g., WFX nozzles) may be controlled based on the detection by target sensor 12 of the presence of liquid 24, 75 ejected from one or more nozzle devices 16, 74 of FIG. 1 at target assembly 14 or multiple target assemblies.In addition to other possible actuation techniques according to this disclosure, actuators 104, 106, 108 (and / or other actuators or actuable features according to this disclosure) may be actuated mechanically, electrically, magnetically, pneumatically, and / or hydraulically. In addition to or in lieu of pneumatic techniques, WFX feature 42 may be controlled by other methods (e.g., hydraulic, mechanical, electromagnetic methods).

[0033] In the illustrated embodiment, RSB element connection box 100 may be communicatively connected to a Ride Facility-Show Distribution (RSD) box 119, wherein RSD box 119 includes networked input / output devices and receives commands via a network to read the status of inputs and control the status of outputs. For example, RSD box 119 may be connected to a subsystem controller (SSC) 120, which may be a programmable logic controller (PLC) based computer that controls the entire ride facility / show system via RSD box 119 or multiple RSD boxes. In some embodiments, the RSD box 119 is powered (e.g., via 24V DC power) via the SSC 120. The RSD box 119 or multiple RSD boxes may be connected to a network via a ride facility / performance network (RSN) box 122, which is configured to control (e.g., indicate) and / or facilitate all or some communication between the various components of the attraction 10, as shown. The RSN box 122 may be configured (e.g., via fiber optic connections, multi-pair data connections, etc.) to transmit data to and / or receive data from various components (such as the Performance Control Monitor (SCS) box 124), as shown. The SCS box 124 may be a PLC-based computer that determines performance system responses (e.g., lighting, sound, video, other visual elements, other effects) based on input received from the SSC box 120.

[0034] The audio / video (AV) rack 126 can be controlled (e.g., indicated) to provide audio signals to the speaker junction box (SBB) 128, which transforms, modifies, packages, and / or forwards the audio signals to the speaker 40, as shown. The light control rack (SLCR) 130 and the stage light dimmer rack (SLDR) 132 can cooperate to ultimately control (e.g., indicate) the visual effects system 38 shown in FIG. 2 and their outputs. For example, the SLCR 130 can transmit digital multiplexer (DMX) signals to a light-emitting diode (LED) driver 134, which transforms, modifies, packages, and / or forwards the DMX signals to a DMX decoder 136. The DMX decoder 136 also receives power (e.g., 24 V DC power) from a transformer 138 configured to receive input power (e.g., 120 V AC power) from the SLDR 13, as shown.Typically, the DMX decoder 136 generates a voltage output for regulating the operation of the visual effects system 38 (e.g., in response to the target component 14 being struck by the nozzle device). As shown, the data communication and / or power connections of the point 10 may include any wired connections, circuitry, etc., corresponding to the target sensor(s) 12, visual effects system 38, DMX decoder 136, RSB component junction box 100, pneumatic valve control device 102, accessory actuator 104, torso actuator 106, head actuator 108, WFX pneumatic control device 112, water regulator 114, booster water line 116, and / or WFX feature 42 (e.g., nozzle). According to this disclosure, it should be understood that any analog or digital communication channels shown in the point 10 of FIG. 1 may be wired or wireless.

[0035] FIG3 is a perspective view of nozzle devices (e.g., first nozzle device 16 and second nozzle device 74) and target sensors (e.g., first target sensor 12, second target sensor 52 and third target sensor 62), corresponding to various target components (e.g., first target component 14, second target component 48 and third target component 58, respectively) that may be employed in the attraction 10 of FIG1. ​​While the features shown in FIG3 may be employed in the context of the attraction 10 of FIG1, which includes one or more ride facility vehicles, it should be understood that the currently disclosed features may also be employed in the context of attractions such as attractions arranged in booths or platforms (e.g., performances, games, etc.) that do not employ ride facility vehicles that move along a ride facility path (e.g., track).

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment, target components 14, 48, 58 are disposed on a common wall 160 or in a role corresponding to the common wall 160. For simplicity, the common wall 160 in the illustrated embodiment comprises a flat cylindrical shape. However, it should be understood that the common wall 160 may represent a scene (e.g., plants, buildings, fences) or a character such as a humanoid, robot, avatar, figure, or sculpture, and the target components 14, 48, 58 may correspond to various locations on the common wall 160, such as the head of a character, the appendages of a character, the torso of a character, etc. Furthermore, although, as shown, the target component 14 includes a target sensor 12 (e.g., a capacitive sensor), it should be understood that in other embodiments, multiple instances of the target sensor 12 may be provided at the target component 14, which may also be the case for the other target components 48, 58 in FIG. 3.

[0037] As shown, the nozzle device 16 includes a base 162, a nozzle 164 protruding from the base 162 and configured to eject liquid 24 therefrom, and a control panel 166.Control panel 166 may include a nozzle control plate 168 configured to control (e.g., indicate) the movement of nozzle 164 (e.g., pivoting nozzle 164 about anchor point 169) and a liquid control plate 170 configured to control the ejection of liquid 24 from nozzle 164. Similarly, additional nozzle device 164 includes a base 172, nozzle 174, control panel 176, nozzle control plate 178, and liquid control plate 180. The inner diameter 182 of nozzle 164 of first nozzle device 16 and the inner diameter 184 of nozzle 174 of second nozzle device 74 may each be in the range of approximately 5 mm to approximately 7 mm. Furthermore, nozzle devices 16, 74 may be configured to eject liquids 24, 75 respectively, such that the respective jet of liquid 24, 75 includes a pressure between approximately 140 kPa and approximately 280 kPa. Furthermore, each of the nozzle devices 16 and 74 may be configured to eject liquid 24 and 75 in bursts within a range of 1 second to 10 seconds (e.g., bursts of approximately 2 seconds). It should be understood that each of the nozzle devices 16 and 74 is configured to receive a pressurized liquid, such as water, and eject the pressurized liquid from the respective nozzle 164 and 174. Various liquid regulating valves, tanks, pumps, etc., may be employed to provide pressurized liquid ejected from the nozzles 164 and 174 of the nozzle devices 16 and 74, respectively. A larger or smaller range of the inner diameters 182 and 184 of the nozzles 164 and 174, pressure, flow rate, etc., may be used depending on the desired output of the liquid pressure and / or the liquid ejection distance (e.g., the desired distance at which liquid 24 and 75 are ejected).

[0038] In some embodiments, the nozzle devices 16 and 74 may be configured differently from those shown in FIG3 and described above. For example, Figure 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of seat 189, platform 191, and nozzle device 193 mounted on platform 191 and applicable in attraction 10 of Figure 1 and / or any other attraction according to this disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, a liquid actuator 194 (e.g., lever, trigger, switch, dial, button, etc.) may be employed to actuate the flow of liquid 195, such as water, from nozzle 196 of nozzle device 193. Furthermore, nozzle 196 may be actuated (e.g., moved) via a handle 199 attached to nozzle 196 and accessible to the visitor in a first circumferential direction about a first pivot point 197 (e.g., one or more hinges, one or more ball joints, etc.) and a second circumferential direction about a second pivot point 198 (e.g., hinge, ball joint, etc.). The first pivot point 197 and the second pivot point 198 may be located at or on the bracket 201, or integrated with the bracket 201, which is located between the nozzle 196 and the platform 191.

[0039] It should be noted that the various features of each nozzle device 16, 74, 193 described above and / or below are not mutually exclusive. That is, for example, some features of nozzle device 16 may be adopted in nozzle device 193, and vice versa. Furthermore, other nozzle device features may be adopted according to this disclosure. Generally, nozzle devices 16, 74, 193 may be configured for aiming with or without the aid of a system for rotating, circumferentially moving, or otherwise moving nozzles 164, 174, 196, respectively (e.g., with or without seats for passengers), such a system may be a yoked system that may include triggers in which aiming and / or rotation are controlled together. Another system may include a holding system for all aiming, such as a water gun on one or more ball joints (e.g., one or more rotating connections (e.g., pivot joints, ball joints, universal joints)) and / or a pedal for rotating the system used by the user, the holding system may include one or more holding parts (e.g., handles or grips) for stabilization during use (e.g., aiming, spraying water). Additionally or alternatively, nozzle devices 16, 74, 193 may include a handheld water gun held by the user (e.g., including a seat that can be rotated or otherwise moved by the user for orientation or angle control by the user). Other nozzle device features according to this disclosure are also possible.

[0040] Turning now to FIG3, the common wall 160 includes a first (e.g., forward-facing) surface 36 described above with respect to FIG1, a second surface 190 opposite to the first surface 36 (e.g., a rearward-facing surface), and a thickness 192 extending from the first surface 36 (e.g., extending to the second surface 190). In some embodiments, target sensors 12, 52, 62 (e.g., capacitive sensors) are disposed on a second surface 190 facing away from the nozzle assembly 16, 74, such that the presence of target sensors 12, 52, 62 is obscured from the user's angle at the nozzle assembly 16, 74. Wall 160 may comprise a material (e.g., plastic, ceramic, or some other non-metallic material), through which (one or more) target sensors 12, 52, 62 can detect (one or more) liquids 24, 75 present at the first surface 36. The placement of the target sensors (e.g., capacitive sensors), the thickness 192 of wall 160, the material of wall 160, other aspects of this disclosure, or any combination thereof, can be adjusted to ensure, for example, that when liquid 24 strikes a target component corresponding to target sensor 12, target sensor 12 will detect the presence of liquid 24 at the first surface 36.In some embodiments, for example, for the factory setting of target sensor 12 (e.g., a capacitive sensor), the thickness 192 of wall 160 may be set to approximately 10 mm or less to ensure that target sensor 12 detects the presence of liquid 24 at the first surface 36 through the thickness 192 of wall 160. In this way, the thickness 192 may correspond to the detection distance at which target sensor 12 is calibrated or otherwise configured to detect liquid 24.

[0041] Furthermore, aspects may be configured to prevent target sensors 12, 52, 62 from erroneously indicating a hit on the corresponding target components 14, 48, 58 based on the presence of rainwater. For example, typically, target sensors 14, 52, 58 (e.g., capacitive sensors) may be configured to detect a fluid film of liquid (e.g., corresponding to liquids 24, 75) on the first surface 36 of wall 160 (e.g., the forward-facing surface). Precipitation (e.g., relatively light rain) may not be suitable for generating a sufficient fluid film on the first surface 36 to be detected by target sensors 14, 52, 58. In practice, calibrable target sensors 14, 52, 58 (e.g., capacitive sensors) can detect the threshold fluid membrane, and precipitation (e.g., relatively light rain) may not reach the threshold fluid membrane. Furthermore, the first surface 36 of wall 160 (see specification page 10 / 14, CN 121079133 A) may be angled downwards (e.g., with respect to the gravity vector) to reduce or eliminate the amount of rainwater contacting and / or approaching the first surface 36, particularly when the rainwater is not substantially directional (e.g., due to strong winds). Additionally or alternatively, a protective element 188 (e.g., a wall) may be configured to resist or reduce the amount of rainwater from contacting wall 160. Although protective element 188 is shown as a cantilever wall 160 in the illustrated embodiment, protective element 188 may be configured to protect wall 160 from above, from below, and / or from one or more sides of wall 160. Therefore, the currently disclosed embodiments are suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments, either of which may be referred to as the external environment.

[0042] As previously described with respect to Figures 1 and 2, various effects of the attraction 10 in Figures 1 and 2 can be controlled in response to the impact of liquid 24 and / or liquid 75 on targets on wall 160. Additionally or alternatively, scores can be calculated with respect to the first nozzle device 16 (or a first visitor operating the first nozzle device 16), the second nozzle device 74 (or a second visitor operating the second nozzle device 74), a combination of the first nozzle device 16 and the second nozzle device 74 (e.g., a group including the first and second visitors), or any combination thereof. Scores can be calculated based on various criteria (e.g., total target hits, total hits on one or more targets, order of target hits, accuracy).

[0043] Figures 5 through 8 illustrate various embodiments of a target component 14 that can be employed in the attraction 10 of Figure 1.For example, FIG5 is a side view of an embodiment of a target component 14 that may be used in the attraction 10 of FIG1. ​​The target component 14 includes a wall 160 (attached to or integrated with thereto), the wall 160 having a first (e.g., forward-facing) surface 36 configured to face one or more nozzles of the attraction 10, and a target sensor 12 (e.g., a capacitive sensor) disposed on a second (e.g., rearward-facing) surface 190 of the wall 160 opposite to the first surface 36. In the illustrated embodiment, the target region 200 may be visible on the first surface 36 of the wall 160. Furthermore, the target region 200 may be substantially aligned with the target sensor 12 disposed on the second surface 190 of the wall 160. Thus, liquid (e.g., a fluid film) appearing on the first surface 36 at the target region 200 can be detected by the target sensor 12. In some embodiments, a hydrophobic or superhydrophobic coating 202 may be disposed on (or form the first surface 36 of) the wall 160. Coating 202 may be configured to repel liquid from wall 160, enabling target sensor 12 to rapidly and continuously detect multiple hits on target region 200. Coating 202 may include, for example, an acrylic material, but other materials are also possible. Typically, target sensor 12 in FIG. 5 may be configured to detect the presence of liquid in target region 200 through the entire thickness 192 of wall 160. As previously described, the target sensor 12 can detect liquid in response to an amount of liquid exceeding a threshold amount (e.g., fluid film threshold amount or size (e.g., thickness, area, volume)).

[0044] FIG6 is a side view of an embodiment of a target component 14 that may be employed in the spot 10 of FIG1, the target component 14 including a wall 160 (attached to or integrated with thereto), the wall 160 having a first (e.g., forward-facing) surface 36 configured to face one or more nozzles of the spot 10 and a target sensor 12 (e.g., a capacitive sensor) embedded in the wall 160. The embodiment in FIG6 may be the same as (or similar to) the embodiment in FIG5, except that the target sensor 12 in FIG6 is embedded in the wall 160 while the target sensor 12 in FIG5 is disposed on a second (e.g., rearward-facing) surface 190 of the wall 160. Thus, in FIG6, the target sensor 12 is configured to detect the presence of liquid in the target region 200 through a portion of the thickness 192 of the wall 160.

[0045] FIG7 is a side view of an embodiment of the target component 14 that may be used in the spot 10 of FIG1. ​​The target component 14 includes a closure 210 configured to protect the target sensor 12 (e.g., a capacitive sensor) from certain aspects of the surrounding environment, such as rain, moisture, sunlight, hail, and temperature changes. The embodiment in FIG7 may be the same as (or similar to) the embodiment in FIG5, except that FIG7 includes the closure 210.In the illustrated embodiment, a gasket 212 is used between the closure 210 and the wall 160, wherein the gasket 212 forms a seal to prevent or reduce the entry of ambient rainwater or moisture into the interior 214 of the closure, which is defined by the closure 210 and surrounds the target sensor 12. Depending on the embodiment, the closure 210 may be fastened to, welded to, adhered to (e.g., via adhesive), or otherwise attached to the second surface 190 of the wall 160. In some embodiments, the closure 210 may be dimensional such that the interior 214 of the closure is larger than the thickness 192 of the wall 160. For example, the width 216 of the interior 214 of the closure may be larger than the thickness 192 of the wall 160. Other dimensions measured from the target sensor 12 (e.g., a capacitive sensor) to the closure 210 may also be larger than the thickness 192 of the wall 160. In this way, the target sensor 12 (e.g., a capacitive sensor) may not detect false alarms corresponding to liquid accumulated on (or otherwise in contact with) the closure 210, because such liquid may be too far from the target sensor 12 (e.g., a capacitive sensor) to be detected.

[0046] In embodiments, the target sensor (e.g., a capacitive sensor, an imaging sensor (e.g., a camera or LIDAR sensor), a light sensor with or without a light emitter (e.g., a visible light sensor, an infrared sensor, an ultraviolet sensor, or a laser sensor), etc.) may be adhered to, coupled to, or otherwise partially or wholly placed in front of the first surface 36 (e.g., substantially placed between the nozzle(s) of the spot 10 and the first surface, wherein the sensor may be deviated from the path or intended path of the liquid ejected from the nozzle(s) of the spot 10).

[0047] FIG8 is a front view of an embodiment of a common wall 160 having multiple target components (e.g., first target component 14, second target component 48, and third target component 58) disposed thereon. As previously described, the common wall 160 may not be completely flat and instead may include curved surfaces designed to reflect the aesthetics of a scene (e.g., plants, architecture) and / or a character (such as an avatar, humanoid, robot, figurine, or sculpture). In the illustrated embodiment, the common wall 160 is presented as a grizzly bear. Target components 14, 48, and 58 are disposed at various locations on the common wall 160, such as the first target component 14 at the grizzly bear's appendages (e.g., legs 230), the second target component 48 at the grizzly bear's torso 232, and the third target component 58 at the grizzly bear's head 234.Although hidden in the illustrated viewpoint, the first target sensor 12 (e.g., a capacitive sensor) of FIG. 1 may correspond to the first target component 14 shown in FIG. 8, the second capacitive sensor 52 (e.g., a capacitive sensor) of FIG. 1 may correspond to the second target component 48 shown in FIG. 8, and the third capacitive sensor 62 (e.g., a capacitive sensor) of FIG. 1 may correspond to the third target component 58 shown in FIG. 8.

[0048] Although some of the features described above are discussed in the context of a single target sensor corresponding to a single target component, it should be understood that multiple target sensors may be employed with respect to a single target component according to this disclosure. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a target component 300 employing a wall 302 and a target sensor array 304 disposed on a surface 305 of the wall 302. For simplicity, FIG. 9 includes a first target sensor 306 (e.g., a capacitive sensor) and a second target sensor 308 (e.g., a capacitive sensor) of the target sensor array 304, although more target sensors (e.g., three or more, five or more, ten or more, etc.) may be employed in some embodiments. As described with respect to the previous embodiments, a target sensor array 304 may be disposed on a surface 305 of wall 302 opposite to an additional surface 310 configured to face a nozzle device (not shown) that sprays liquid toward and onto which the liquid is sprayed.

[0049] According to this disclosure, target sensors 306, 308 may be employed to determine (e.g., among a plurality of nozzle devices) which nozzle device or which nozzle devices successfully hit the target component 300. This may be done in one or more ways. For example, in an embodiment, a first target sensor 306 may be configured to detect liquid in response to an amount of liquid appearing on the additional surface 310 exceeding a first threshold amount, while a second target sensor 308 may be configured to detect liquid in response to an amount of liquid appearing on the additional surface 310 exceeding a second threshold amount, wherein the second threshold amount is different from the first threshold amount (e.g., greater than the first threshold amount). Furthermore, the first nozzle device may be configured to spray a larger amount (e.g., volume) of liquid (and / or a liquid with a higher flow rate and / or a liquid with a higher pressure) than the second nozzle device. In this way, sensor readings from the first target sensor 306, the second target sensor 308, or both can be used to determine whether the first nozzle, the second nozzle, or a combination of the first nozzle and the second nozzle successfully hit the target component 300 at a given moment (or time interval).As described above, additional target sensors (e.g., besides the first target sensor 306 and the second target sensor 308, as described on pages 12 / 14 of the specification, CN 121079133 A) can be used in the target sensor array 304 with graded liquid volume thresholds, liquid flow rate thresholds, etc., to further facilitate the differentiation of which nozzle devices successfully hit the target component 300 with liquid.

[0050] Alternatively or additionally, the target sensors 306 and 308 may be designed with directional features such that the target sensor 306 detects liquid appearing on another surface 310 of the target component 300 and approaching or contacting that other surface 310 at a first angle, and the target sensor 308 detects liquid appearing on another surface 310 of the target component 300 and approaching or contacting that other surface 310 at a second angle different from the first angle. In this way, sensor feedback from the target sensors 306 and 308 can be used to determine which nozzle devices successfully hit the target component 300 with liquid. In some embodiments, the directional features of the target sensors 306, 308 described above can be combined with position and / or orientation data corresponding to one or more nozzle devices to distinguish which nozzle device successfully hit the target component 300.

[0051] In other embodiments, each nozzle device may be configured to spray a different type of liquid, and each of the target sensors 306, 308 may be configured to detect a specific type of liquid based on a corresponding target of that specific type of liquid. Of course, in any embodiment described herein, more than two of the target sensors 306, 308 of the illustrated embodiments may be used in the target sensor array 304 to improve the accuracy of distinguishing which nozzle device successfully hit the target component 300. By distinguishing which nozzle device successfully hit the target component 300, the system can calculate a score for each of the nozzle devices (or the tourist operating each of the nozzle devices). Furthermore, a team score may be calculated based on a combination of two or more nozzle devices (and / or two or more corresponding tourists). A discussion of the scoring features has been provided above with reference to the preceding figures.

[0052] FIG10 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of the attraction 400, which employs a target component 402 and an electrical circuit 404, which completes (e.g., closes) the target component 402 by spraying liquid 410 onto the nozzle device 406. As shown, the target component 402 may include an electrical contact 408 disposed thereon and configured to be contacted by liquid 410 sprayed from the nozzle device 406. An additional electrical contact 412 may be disposed in or on the nozzle device 406, wherein the additional electrical contact 412 is configured to contact the liquid 410 when the liquid 410 is sprayed from the nozzle device 406.Line 414 extends from an additional electrical contact 412 of the nozzle device 406 to an electrical contact 408 of the target component 402. Therefore, when the liquid 410 comes into contact with both the electrical contact 408 of the target component 402 and the additional electrical contact 412 of the nozzle device 406, the electrical circuit 404, including the electrical contacts 408, 412, line 414, and liquid 410, can be closed. With the electrical circuit 404 closed, the power supply 416 can transmit current through the electrical circuit 404, which can be detected by the sensor 418. In response to the sensor 418 detecting current (or some other parameter indicating the closure of the electrical circuit 404), the point 400 can determine that the nozzle device 406 has successfully struck the target component 402 with liquid 410. The illustrated embodiment can be more accurate and / or reliable if the nozzle device 406 employed in the point 400 is configured to spray a laminar flow of liquid 410.

[0053] In other embodiments, electrical contacts 408, 412 and / or lines 414 may not be included, and the flow of liquid 410 between nozzle device 406 and target component 402 (e.g., laminar flow) may carry light (e.g., visible light sensor, infrared light sensor, ultraviolet light sensor, laser light sensor, or any other suitable light) transmitted from nozzle device 406 to target component 402. That is, although electrical contacts are described above with reference numeral 408, reference numeral 408 may represent a sensor (e.g., visible light sensor, infrared sensor, ultraviolet light sensor, laser sensor, etc.) configured to detect light transmitted through the flow of liquid 410. Furthermore, although electrical contacts are described above with reference numeral 412, reference numeral 412 may represent a light emitter (e.g., visible light sensor, infrared light emitter, ultraviolet light emitter, laser light emitter, etc.). In some embodiments, data may be packaged in light and the data may indicate the source of the light, such as the nozzle device 406 of the spot 400 or a separate nozzle device. In this way, data packaged in light (e.g., via controllable and / or predetermined wavelength, intensity, frequency, period, etc.) can be used to distinguish which nozzle device (such as nozzle device 406) successfully hits the target component 402. Alternatively or additionally, light transmitted via the flow of liquid 410 (e.g., laminar flow) may include a specific color corresponding to the respective nozzle device (such as nozzle device 406). As an example, nozzle device 406 may be configured to transmit red light, while another nozzle device of the spot 400 may be configured to transmit blue light. In this way, the color of light (e.g., red light) can be detected and used to distinguish which nozzle device (such as nozzle device 406) successfully hits the target component 402.

[0054] FIG11 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method 500 for operating a scenic spot (such as scenic spot 10 in FIG1), which employs one or more target components and one or more nozzle devices configured to spray liquid onto the one or more target components. In the illustrated embodiment, method 500 includes instructing (box 502) movement of the target component via a control system of the scenic spot. For example, the target component may be moved along a path of the target component (e.g., a track). In some embodiments, the target component may be located on a drone (e.g., remotely controlled or pre-programmed) instructed to fly along a particular target component path.

[0055] Method 500 also includes spraying liquid (box 504) onto a forward-facing surface of the target component via one or more nozzle devices. Each nozzle device may be operated by a visitor to the scenic spot. In some embodiments, the nozzle device is stationary (e.g., positioned on a platform), while in other embodiments, the nozzle device is positioned on a ride facility vehicle moving along a ride facility vehicle path (e.g., a track), and in still other embodiments, the nozzle device may be positioned along a walking path or other path (e.g., the nozzle may be positioned on a guide rail along the path), wherein the nozzle device may additionally be movable along the path (e.g., the nozzle device may be positioned on a guide rail along the path and may slide or roll along the guide rail).

[0056] Method 500 also includes detecting liquid appearing on the forward-facing surface of the target component via one or more target sensors (e.g., capacitive sensors) and through the thickness detection (box 506) of the target component. As previously described, the one or more target sensors may be disposed on the rearward-facing surface of the target component or embedded within the target component such that the one or more target sensors are concealed from the perspective of one or more visitors operating the one or more nozzle devices.

[0057] Method 500 may also include at least one effect of the attraction via a control system and sensor feedback indication (box 508) based on the one or more target sensors. As previously described, various effects may indicate the attraction, such as movement of the target component (or a separate component thereof), movement of the vehicle of the ride facility, one or more lights (e.g., integrated with or separate from the target component), one or more speakers configured to emit sound, confetti effects, water effects or features, fireworks effects, flame effects, bubble effects, confetti effects, animated characters, scoreboards (e.g., showing scores for various visitors, groups of two or more various visitors, etc.), additional or alternative effects or features, or any combination thereof.

[0058] It should be noted that some methods according to this disclosure (e.g., method 500) do not require all of steps 502, 504, 506, 508 shown in FIG. 11.Furthermore, it should be noted that Figure 11 should not be construed as implying a specific order of steps 502, 504, 506, 508, but steps 502, 504, 506, 508 may be performed in any suitable order.

[0059] Although only certain features are shown and described herein, many modifications and variations will occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it is to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and variations as falling within the true spirit of this disclosure.

[0060] The techniques shown and claimed herein are referenced and applied to specific examples of material objects and practical properties that clearly improve the technical field, and are therefore not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Furthermore, if any claim appended at the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as “device for [performing] [function]…” or “steps for [performing] [function]…”, such elements are intended to be interpreted according to 35 USC 112(f). However, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, such elements are not intended to be interpreted according to 35 USC 112(f). Instruction manual, page 14 / 14, 18 CN 121079133 A, Figure 1, Instruction manual, Figure 1 / 9, page 19 CN 121079133 A, Figure 2, Instruction manual, Figure 2 / 9, page 20 CN 121079133 A, Figure 3, Instruction manual, Figure 3 / 9, page 21 CN 121079133 A, Figure 4, Instruction manual, Figure 4 / 9, page 22 CN 121079133 A, Figure 5, Instruction manual, Figure 5 / 9, page 23 CN 121079133 A, Figure 6, Instruction manual, Figure 6 / 9, page 24 CN 121079133 A, Figure 7, Figure 8, Instruction manual, Figure 7 / 9, page 25 CN 121079133 A, Figure 9, Figure 10, Instruction manual, Figure 8 / 9, page 26 CN 121079133 A, Figure 11, Instruction manual, Figure 9 / 9, page 27 CN 121079133 A.

Claims

1. A target assembly system comprising: a spout configured to eject a liquid; a wall having a surface facing the spout and a thickness extending from the surface; and one or more capacitive sensors configured to detect, through the thickness of the wall, a presence of the liquid at or proximate to the surface.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the wall includes a further surface opposite the surface such that the thickness extends from the surface to the further surface, and the one or more capacitive sensors are disposed on the further surface.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more capacitive sensors are configured to detect the presence of the liquid in response to a threshold parameter of the liquid within a detection distance of the one or more capacitive sensors.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the wall comprises a plastic or ceramic material.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the surface of the wall comprises a hydrophobic or superhydrophobic coating configured to repel the liquid.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the hydrophobic or superhydrophobic coating comprises acrylic.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the thickness of the wall is approximately 10 millimeters or less in size.

8. The system of claim 1, comprising an actuator configured to move the wall.

9. The system of claim 1, comprising one or more effects configured to operate based on the one or more capacitive sensors detecting, through the thickness of the wall, the presence of the liquid at or proximate to the surface.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the one or more effects comprise a light, a water feature, a speaker configured to emit a sound, a pyrotechnic effect, a flame effect, a bubble effect, a confetti effect, an animated figure actuation, or any combination thereof.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more capacitive sensors, the size of the thickness of the wall, the material of the wall, or any combination thereof are configured such that the one or more capacitive sensors do not detect a further presence of rain at or proximate to the surface through the thickness of the wall.

12. The system of claim 1, comprising an enclosure defining an interior of the enclosure in which the one or more capacitive sensors are disposed, wherein the enclosure is configured to protect the interior of the enclosure from an external environment.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein the spout includes an inner diameter defining a flow path of the liquid through the spout, and the inner diameter of the spout at or proximate to an outlet of the spout is approximately 5 millimeters (mm) to approximately 7 mm in size.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the spout is configured to eject the liquid such that a spray of the liquid ejected by the spout includes a pressure of between approximately 140 kiloPascals (kPa) and approximately 280 kPa.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more capacitive sensors comprise: ​ a first capacitive sensor configured to detect a presence of the liquid at or proximate to the surface in response to a first threshold variable of the liquid; and a second capacitive sensor configured to detect the presence of the liquid, an additional presence of an additional liquid, or both in response to a second threshold variable of the liquid, the additional liquid, or both at or proximate to the surface.

16. The system of claim 15, comprising: a first effect configured to operate based on first sensor feedback from the first capacitive sensor; and a second effect configured to operate based on the first sensor feedback and second sensor feedback from the second capacitive sensor.

17. The system of claim 1, wherein the spout is configured to eject a laminar flow of the liquid.

18. The system of claim 1, wherein the spout is configured to eject a non-laminar flow of the liquid.

19. The system of claim 1, comprising: a first target corresponding to a first capacitive sensor; and a second target corresponding to a second capacitive sensor, wherein the one or more capacitive sensors include the first capacitive sensor, the second capacitive sensor, or both.

20. The system of claim 19, comprising a control system configured to: determine an order in which the liquid appears at the first target and the second target based on sensor feedback from the first capacitive sensor, the second capacitive sensor, or both; and indicate one or more effects of the system based on the order.

21. A target assembly for an amusement attraction, comprising: a wall having a surface and a thickness extending from the surface; and one or more capacitive sensors configured to detect a presence of a liquid at or proximate to the surface through the thickness of the wall.

22. The target assembly of claim 21, wherein the thickness of the wall is 10 millimeters (mm) or less in size, and wherein the wall comprises a plastic or ceramic material.

23. The target assembly of claim 21, wherein the surface of the wall comprises a hydrophobic or superhydrophobic coating configured to repel the liquid.

24. The target assembly of claim 21, comprising: an additional surface of the wall opposite the surface such that the thickness extends from the surface to the additional surface; and an enclosure engaged with the additional surface of the wall to define an enclosure interior in which the one or more capacitive sensors are disposed, wherein the enclosure and the additional surface of the wall are configured to protect the enclosure interior from an external environment.

25. An amusement system, comprising: a first spout operable by a first guest to eject a first liquid; a second spout operable by a second guest to eject a second liquid; a target facing the first spout and the second spout; one or more capacitive sensors configured to detect a presence of the first liquid, the second liquid, or both at the target through a thickness of the target; and a control system configured to: receive sensor feedback from the one or more capacitive sensors; and determine, based at least in part on the sensor feedback, a first game score corresponding to the first guest, a second game score corresponding to the second guest, a team score corresponding to the first guest and the second guest, or any combination thereof.

26. The play system of claim 25, comprising: a further target facing the first spout and the second spout; and one or more further capacitive sensors configured to detect a further presence of the first liquid, the second liquid, or both at the target through a thickness of the further target, wherein the control system is configured to: receive further sensor feedback from the one or more further capacitive sensors; and determine, based at least in part on the sensor feedback and the further sensor feedback, the first game score, the second game score, the team score, or any combination thereof.

27. The play system of claim 26, wherein the target and the further target are disposed on a shared wall or surface.

28. The play system of claim 26, wherein the target is disposed on a first wall and the further target is disposed on a second wall physically separate from the first wall.

29. The play system of claim 26, wherein the control system is configured to determine the first game score, the second game score, the team score, or any combination thereof based at least in part on the sensor feedback, the further sensor feedback, and a scoring algorithm, wherein the scoring algorithm assigns points to the first game score, the second game score, the team score, or any combination thereof based on: a total number of targets hit by the first liquid corresponding to the first spout, the second liquid corresponding to the second spout, or both; a first order in which the target is hit by the first liquid and the second liquid; a second order in which the target and the further target are hit by the first liquid; a third order in which the target and the further target are hit by the second liquid; or any combination thereof.

30. The play system of claim 26, wherein the control system is configured to indicate, based at least in part on the sensor feedback, one or more light or water effects of the play system.

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