Entertainment Image System

Abstract

An entertainment figure system (104) includes: an entertainment figure (102) having an attachment point (116), a bogie (112) coupled to a track (108) and to the attachment point (116) of the entertainment figure (102) via a cable (126); and a winch (122) coupled to the cable (126). The bogie (112) is configured to translate along the track (108), and the winch (122) is configured to adjust the length of the cable (126) extending from the winch (122) and thereby modify the distance between the attachment point (116) and the bogie (122).

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 789,624, filed on January 8, 2019, entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING AN ENTERTAINMENT IMAGE,” which is hereby incorporated by reference. Background Art

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of amusement park entertainment. More specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a system for controlling entertainment figures via cables.

[0004] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various technical aspects that may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure, which are described below. This discussion is considered to be helpful in providing the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that these statements will be read from this perspective, rather than as an admission of the prior art.

[0005] Amusement parks include a variety of features that provide unique experiences to park patrons. For example, an amusement park may include entertainment characters (e.g., animated characters) that provide entertainment to park patrons, such as on a ride or during a show at the amusement park. The entertainment characters may vary in size and / or movement to provide a variety of entertainment. However, flexible control of certain entertainment characters may be difficult. For example, it is now recognized that large entertainment characters may be difficult to control in an accurate and / or precise manner while still allowing for natural-looking movement. Summary of the invention

[0006] The following is an overview of some of the embodiments disclosed herein. It should be understood that these aspects are merely presented to provide the reader with a brief overview of these certain embodiments, and these aspects are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In fact, the present disclosure may include various aspects that may not be illustrated below.

[0007] In an embodiment, an entertainment figure system includes: an entertainment figure having an attachment point; a bogie coupled to a track and to the entertainment figure's attachment point via a cable; and a winch coupled to the cable. The bogie is configured to translate along the track, and the winch is configured to adjust the length of the cable extending from the winch and thereby modify the distance between the attachment point and the bogie.

[0008] In an embodiment, an entertainment figure system includes: an entertainment figure including an attachment point; a bogie coupled to a track and to the entertainment figure's attachment point via a cable; and a winch coupled to the cable and configured to adjust the length of the cable extending from the winch and thereby modify the distance between the attachment point and the bogie. The amusement park attraction system also includes a controller communicatively coupled to the bogie and the winch, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the position of the bogie along the track, and the controller is configured to operate the winch to adjust the length of the cable extending from the winch.

[0009] In an embodiment, an entertainment figure system includes: an entertainment figure having a first attachment point and a second attachment point; a first bogie coupled to a first track and coupled to the first attachment point via a first cable; a second bogie coupled to a second track and coupled to the second attachment point via a second cable; a first winch coupled to the first cable and configured to adjust a first length of the first cable extending from the first winch and thereby modify a first distance between the first attachment point and the first bogie; and a second winch coupled to the second cable and configured to adjust a second length of the second cable extending from the second winch and thereby modify a second distance between the second attachment point and the second bogie. In addition, the first track is positioned between the entertainment figure and the ceiling, wherein the first bogie is configured to translate along the first track, and the second track is positioned between the entertainment figure and the floor, wherein the second bogie is configured to translate along the second track. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like characters refer to like parts throughout the drawings, and in which:

[0011] Figure 1 is a plan view of an embodiment of an amusement park attraction including an entertainment figure system for adjusting the position of an entertainment figure according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 2 is an example of a manner in which an entertainment character may move according to aspects of the present disclosure. Figure 1 A partial perspective view of an embodiment of an entertainment image system;

[0013] Figure 3 According to aspects of the present disclosure Figure 1 A schematic diagram of various components of the entertainment image system;

[0014] Figure 4 According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the attachment of an entertainment image can be controlled by a configuration Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of an entertainment image system; and

[0015] Figure 5 is a process flow diagram of a method of controlling movement of an entertainment character according to aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] One or more specific embodiments will be described below. In order to provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of the actual implementation are described in the specification. It should be appreciated 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 goals that may vary from implementation to implementation, such as compliance with system-related constraints and business-related constraints. In addition, it should be appreciated that such development efforts may be complex and time consuming, but for ordinary technicians who benefit from this disclosure, such development efforts will be nothing more than a routine task of design, fabrication, and manufacturing.

[0017] Embodiments of the present disclosure include systems for controlling entertainment figures. Entertainment figures can be implemented at amusement parks to enhance the experience of customers. In general, entertainment figures may cause emotions in customers, such as excitement, panic, humor, etc. For example, in an amusement park's ride (wherein a customer can be positioned on a ride on a ride), an entertainment figure may appear (e.g., be transported) near a ride at a certain point during the ride (such as, appearing at a certain area of ​​the track of the ride or and / or at a certain time in the trip). Additionally or alternatively, during a performance at an amusement park, an entertainment figure may appear near a location where a customer is seated at a certain time in the performance. In addition to being transported to and from different locations, some parts of the entertainment figure (e.g., appendages) may also move relative to other parts of the entertainment figure. As can be appreciated, the movement of the entertainment figure may increase the experience provided by the entertainment figure. In other words, the combination of the appearance and movement of the entertainment figure may further enhance the experience of the customer.

[0018] Actuators can provide both transportation and movement of entertainment figures. As used herein, transportation refers to transporting (e.g., translating) the entire entertainment figure to different locations, and movement refers to arranging a certain portion of the entertainment figure to different locations relative to the remainder of the entertainment figure. In some systems, actuators may be limited in providing a certain degree of movement to the entertainment figure. In other words, some parts of the entertainment figure may have a limited range of motion. In other systems, the entertainment figure may be limited to a specific configuration (e.g., size, weight, shape) that is suitable for the specific system (e.g., actuator specifications) provided. Thus, implementing certain entertainment figures may increase operating costs and / or cause limited movement.

[0019] Therefore, it is currently recognized that a mobile system that can provide a certain degree of flexibility for entertainment figures of different configurations is beneficial in terms of enhancing the experience of customers. Specifically, the system can use a cable that couples a portion of the entertainment figure to a bogie. The cable can be extended and / or retracted via the bogie to move a portion of the entertainment figure. In addition, the bogie can be implemented on a track and can be translated on the track to move the portion and / or transport the entire entertainment figure. Each entertainment figure can be coupled to a plurality of cables, wherein each cable can couple different portions of the entertainment figure to a corresponding bogie. The bogie and the cable are positioned in a specific manner to enhance the transportation and / or movement of the entertainment figure to entertain customers accordingly. It should be understood that, as used herein, entertainment figures include any type of image that can be positioned at an amusement park or other location to entertain customers, including animated images (e.g., images or puppets animated by electromechanical devices), people, robots, rides, etc., and embodiments of the system described herein can be implemented as different types of entertainment figures.

[0020] Now turning to the attached figure, Figure 1 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a show system 100 that can be used to adapt (e.g., move, animate) an entertainment character 102 at an amusement park. For example, the show system 100 can be used at an attraction in an amusement park, where patrons can experience the show system 100. The entertainment character system 104 can be considered to be positioned in a show area 105 of the show system 100. Generally, the show area 105 can include elements of the show system 100, such as animated characters, performers, show effects, etc. In a non-limiting embodiment, the show area 105 can be adjacent to and / or overlap with a patron area 106, where patrons can be positioned, such as seated at the patron area 106 and view the entertainment character 102. As such, the entertainment character system 104 can be configured to be transported from the show area 105 to the patron area 106, and / or the entertainment character can be positioned in both the show area 105 and the patron area 106 simultaneously.

[0021] Certain features of the entertaining figure system 104 can adjust the position of the entertaining figure 102. For example, the entertaining figure system 104 can include a first track 108 and a second track 110. A first bogie 112 can be disposed on the first track 108, and a second bogie 114 can be disposed on the second track 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the first bogie 112 and the second bogies 112, 114 are each configured to translate along the respective first track 108 and second track 110. In one embodiment, the entertaining figure 102 can include a first attachment point 116, a second attachment point 118, and a third attachment point 120. Each attachment point 116, 118, 120 of the entertaining figure 102 can be coupled to at least one of the bogies 112, 114. Specifically, each attachment point 116, 118, 120 of the entertaining figure 102 can be coupled to a first winch 122 of the first bogie 112 and / or a second winch 124 of the second bogie 114 via a cable. As an example, a first cable 126 may couple the first attachment point 116 to the first capstan 122, a second cable 128 may couple the second attachment point 118 to the second capstan 124, a third cable 130 may couple the third attachment point 120 to the first capstan 122, and a fourth cable 132 may couple the third attachment point 120 to the second capstan 124. In this manner, the respective positions of the attachment points 116, 118, 120 may be adjusted as the first bogie 112 and / or the second bogie 114 translate along the respective first and second tracks 108, 110. In one embodiment, the first track 108 and / or the second track 110 may extend adjacent to or within the customer area 106. In this manner, at least a portion of the entertainment figure 102 may be extended into the patron area 106 , such as when the first and / or second 114 trucks translate along the respective first and second tracks 108 , 110 near or within the patron area 106 .

[0022] In addition, the respective positions of the attachment points 116, 118, 120 can be adjusted via the first winch 122 and the second winch 124. In particular, the winches 122, 124 can extend and / or retract the respective cables 126, 128, 130, 132 to adjust the respective extension lengths of the cables 126, 128, 130, 132 (i.e., the lengths of the cables extending from the respective winches). As should be understood, as each winch 122, 124 retracts the respective cables 126, 128, 130, 132, the cables 126, 128, 130, 132 can be wound and spooled within the respective winches 122, 124. As each winch 122, 124 extends the respective cables 126, 128, 130, 132, the cables 126, 128, 130, 132 can be deployed from the respective winches 122, 124. Adjusting the respective extended lengths of the cables 126, 128, 130, 132 can adjust the positions of the respective attachment points 116, 118, 120 relative to each other. For example, adjusting the extended length of the first cable 126 can adjust the position of the first attachment point 116 relative to the second attachment point 118 and the third attachment point 120. In some embodiments, the attachment points 116, 118, 120 can also be coupled to each other. In this way, movement of one of the attachment points 116, 118, 120 can cause another attachment point 116, 118, 120 to move. As should be understood, movement of the attachment points 116, 118, 120 can additionally or alternatively adjust the position of the entertainment figure 102. In other words, movement of one of the attachment points 116, 118, 120 can adjust the orientation of the entertainment figure 102, the position of the entertainment figure 102 relative to the tracks 108, 110, or both.

[0023] The adjustment of the entertainment figure 102 can generally enhance the experience of the customer in the performance system 100. In one example, the adjustment of the attachment points 116, 118, 120 can enhance the control of the entertainment figure 102 to move into multiple possible orientations, alignments and / or arrangements. Specifically, the extension length of each cable 126, 128, 130, 132 and / or the position of each truck 112, 114 along the track can be controlled to enable each of the attachment points 116, 118, 120 to be positioned at a target position. Thus, a substantially accurate positioning of the entertainment figure 102 can be achieved. In addition, the adjustment of the attachment points 116, 118, 120 can cause the entertainment figure 102 to move in a realistic manner as viewed by the customer. That is, the extension and / or retraction of the corresponding cables 126, 128, 130, 132 can cause the attachment points 116, 118, 120 to move in a smooth and natural manner as viewed by the customer. In another example, translating the first truck 112 and / or the second truck 114 along the first track 108 and / or the second track 110 can transport the entertainer 102 into or near the customer area 106 to enhance the customer's experience. In one embodiment, the entertainer 102 can interact with the customer area 106. That is, the entertainer 102 can move and / or be transported to engage with the customer area 106, including, for example, contacting or nearly contacting a portion of the customer area 106.

[0024] In one embodiment, the show system 100 may include a controller 134 communicatively coupled to the entertainment figure system 104, and the controller 134 may be implemented to control the movement of the entertainment figure 102 and / or the adjustment of the entertainment figure 102. By way of example, the controller 134 may be communicatively coupled to the first bogie 112 and / or the second bogie 114, and implemented to control the movement of the first bogie 112 and / or the second bogie 114 along the first track 108 and / or the second track 110. The controller 134 may additionally or alternatively be communicatively coupled to the first capstan 122 and / or the second capstan 124, and implemented to control the first capstan 122 and / or the second capstan 124 to extend and / or retract the corresponding cables 126, 128, 130, 132. The controller 134 may include a memory 136 and a processor 138. The memory 136 may be a mass storage device, a flash memory device, a removable memory, or any other non-transitory computer readable medium that includes instructions for controlling the entertainment image 102. The memory 136 may also include volatile memory (such as random access memory (RAM)) and / or non-volatile memory (such as hard disk memory, flash memory), and / or other suitable memory formats. The processor 138 may execute instructions stored in the memory 136, such as instructions for adjusting the first bogie 112, the second bogie 114, the first capstan 122, and / or the second capstan 124. In additional or alternative embodiments, the controller 134 may be implemented to control other features of the entertainment image system 104. For example, the controller 134 may control certain show effects, including audio (e.g., music) and visual (e.g., video, pyrotechnics) effects, which may further enhance the customer's experience. In other embodiments, the controller 134 may be implemented to control the customer area 106, which may include adjusting the customer area 106 or the seats within the customer area 106 and / or moving the customer area 106 or the seats within the customer area 106. Figure 1 While show system 100 is illustrated as including one controller 134 , there may be any number of controllers 134 implemented in show system 100 .

[0025] It should be appreciated that in one embodiment, Figure 1 , the customer area 106 may not be separate from the entertainment image system 104. In other words, the customer may be part of the entertainment image system 104 (e.g., the customer may be seated within the entertainment image 102). Thus, the adjustment and / or movement of the entertainment image 102 may also similarly adjust and / or move the customer. For example, a portion of the entertainment image 102 may move in a vertical direction to move the customer in a vertical direction, which may impart force to the customer to enhance the customer's experience.

[0026] Figure 2 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an entertainment figure system 104 including an entertainment figure 102. As an example, the illustrated embodiment of the entertainment figure 102 is a winged horse. The illustrated entertainment figure system 104 includes a first track 200, a second track 202, and a third track 204. The first track 200 may include a first bogie 206 that is configured to translate along the first track 200. The second track 202 supports a second bogie 208 and a third bogie 210, and the second bogie 208 and / or the third bogie 210 may each be configured to translate along the second track 202. The third track 204 supports a fourth bogie 212 that is configured to translate along the third track 204. Although the rails 200, 202, 204 and the trucks 206, 208, 210, 212 are each illustrated as having a generally rectangular shape, it should be appreciated that the rails 200, 202, 204 and the trucks 206, 208, 210, 212 may be any other suitable shape, such as a cylindrical shape. Furthermore, the trucks 206, 208, 210, 212 may be coupled to the rails 200, 202, 204 in any suitable manner.

[0027] like Figure 2 , a first cable 214 may extend from the first bogie 206 to a first attachment point 216 of the entertainment figure 102, which may correspond to a head 218 of the entertainment figure 102. A second cable 220 may extend from the second bogie 208 to a second attachment point 222 (e.g., on a first wing 224), and a third cable 226 may extend from the second bogie 208 to a third attachment point 228 of the entertainment figure 102 (e.g., on a second wing 230). A fourth cable 232 may extend from the third bogie 210 to the first attachment point 216. A fifth cable 234 may extend from the fourth bogie 212 to a fourth attachment point 236 of the entertainment figure 102, which may be a tail 238, for example. Each of the bogies 206 , 208 , 210 , 212 may include a respective capstan (not shown) to adjust the extension length of the respective cable 214 , 220 , 226 , 232 , 234 .

[0028] It should be appreciated that other embodiments of the entertainment figure system 104 may include different numbers and / or locations of tracks 200, 202, 204, different numbers and / or locations of bogies 206, 208, 210, 212 that are enabled to translate on each of the tracks 200, 202, 204, different numbers and / or locations of attachment points 216, 222, 228, 236 associated with the entertainment figure 102, and / or different numbers and / or locations of cables 214, 220, 226, 232, 234 extending from each of the bogies 206, 208, 210, 212 to the respective attachment points 216, 222, 228, 236. For example, at least one of the cables 214, 220, 226, 232, 234 may be attached to a plurality of the attachment points 216, 222, 228, 236 to enhance control of the entertainment figure 102.

[0029] exist Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the positioning of the first attachment point 216 can be controlled by extending and / or retracting the first cable 214 and / or the fourth cable 232, for example, to move the head 218 left and right or to rotate the head 218. The positioning of the second attachment point 222 can be controlled by extending and / or retracting the second cable 220, for example, to lower and raise the first wing 224. The positioning of the third attachment point 228 can be controlled by extending and / or retracting the third cable 226, for example, to lower and raise the second wing 230. The positioning of the fourth attachment point 236 can be controlled by extending and / or retracting the fifth cable 234, for example, to move the tail 238.

[0030] Each of the bogies 206, 208, 210, 212 may also be controlled to transport the entertainment figure 102. Specifically, the bogies 206, 208, 210, 212 may each be configured to translate on the respective tracks 200, 202, 204 to adjust the position of at least a portion of the entertainment figure 102. The bogies 206, 208, 210, 212 may each be controlled to translate at a particular speed and / or direction independently of each other. Thus, even though both the second bogie 208 and the third bogie 210 may each be enabled to translate along the second track 202, the second bogie 208 may translate in a different direction and / or at a different speed than the third bogie 210.

[0031] It should be appreciated that any combination of adjustments of the trucks 206, 208, 210, 212 and / or cables 214, 220, 226, 232, 234 may be implemented to transport and / or move the entertaining figure 102. As an example, retracting the first cable 214, the second cable 220, the third cable 226, and the fourth cable 232 while extending the fifth cable 234 may generally move the entertaining figure 102 in a first direction 240 (e.g., vertically upward). Also, extending the first cable 214, the second cable 220, the third cable 226, and the fourth cable 232 while retracting the fifth cable 234 may generally move the entertaining figure 102 in a second direction 242 (e.g., vertically downward) that is opposite to the first direction 240. Thus, the cables 214, 220, 226, 232, 234 may be extended and / or retracted to respectively raise and lower the entertainment figure 102. In one embodiment, the cables 214, 220, 226, 232, 234 may be extended and / or retracted at a fixed rate to respectively raise and lower the entertainment figure 102 at a desired speed, such as to lower the entertainment figure 102 at a speed faster than the speed of gravity.

[0032] In additional or alternative embodiments, the bogies 206, 208, 210, 212 and / or cables 214, 220, 226, 232, 234 may be adjusted to rotate the entertaining figure 102. By way of example, the first bogie 206 may translate along the first track 200 in the third direction 244 while the second bogie 208 and the third bogie 210 may translate along the second track 202 in the fourth direction 246 to rotate the entertaining figure 102 in the first rotational direction 248. In additional examples, the first cable 214, the fourth cable 232, and the fifth cable 234 may be retracted while the second cable 220 and the third cable 226 are extended to rotate the entertaining figure 102 in the second rotational direction 250. It should also be appreciated that any combination of translation of the bogies 206 , 208 , 210 , 212 and extension and / or retraction of the cables 214 , 220 , 226 , 232 , 234 may be implemented to rotate the entertainment figure 102 .

[0033] It should be appreciated that the combination of tracks 200, 202, 204, bogies 206, 208, 210, 212, and cables 214, 220, 226, 232, 234 may enable a greater degree of control over the entertainment figure 102 than certain existing systems (such as robotic arm systems). For example, a target position and / or velocity of each bogie 206, 208, 210, 212 along the corresponding track 200, 202, 204 and a target position and / or velocity of each cable 214, 220, 226, 232, 234 may control the position and / or velocity of the corresponding attachment point 216, 222, 228, 236 to arrange the entertainment figure 102 as desired. Furthermore, the combination of the tracks 200, 202, 204, the bogies 206, 208, 210, 212, and the cables 214, 220, 226, 232, 234 may enable accurate repeatability in arranging the entertainment figures 102. That is, the tracks 200, 202, 204 may guide the bogies 206, 208, 210, 212 to translate along a specific path, wherein the position of each bogie 206, 208, 210, 212 may be determined and set at a specific position of the corresponding track 200, 202, 204.

[0034] Additionally, in certain embodiments, the trucks 206, 208, 210, 212 may rotate about the respective tracks 200, 202, 204 to enhance adjustment of the entertainment figure 102. The rotation of the trucks 206, 208, 210, 212 may further allow for adjustment of the attachment points 216, 222, 228, 236 by adjusting the angle at which each of their cables 214, 220, 226, 232, 234 acts upon the attachment points 216, 222, 228, 236. For example, rotation of the bogies 206, 208, 210, 212 may adjust the cables 214, 220, 226, 232, 234 to move the attachment points 216, 222, 228, 236 in a manner that would otherwise be unattainable simply by stretching and / or adjusting the cables 214, 220, 226, 232, 234.

[0035] In other embodiments, the position of at least one of the tracks 200, 202, 204 can be adjusted. In other words, the tracks 200, 202, 204 can be moved relative to each other to allow the associated trucks 206, 208, 210, 212 to translate in different directions. For example, the first track 200 can be rotated in the second rotational direction 250. In this way, the first truck 206 can translate along the first track 200 in the third direction 244 at an angle of inclination. The movement of the tracks 200, 202, 204 can enable a greater amount of control by enabling the trucks 206, 208, 210, 212 to translate in additional directions to adjust the entertainment figure 102.

[0036] As will be appreciated, the entertainment figure 102 may include joints to allow articulation of different portions of the entertainment figure 102. To this end, the joints allow the attachment points 216, 222, 228, 236 to move independently of one another. In other words, the joints allow different portions of the entertainment figure 102 to separate from one another and move relative to one another, which may produce more realistic movement of the entertainment figure 102.

[0037] Adjustment of the bogies 206, 208, 210, 212, cables 214, 220, 226, 232, 234, and / or tracks 200, 202, 204 may be controlled via a controller, such as controller 134. In some embodiments, multiple controllers may be used, such as a first controller to adjust the bogies 206, 208, 210, 212, a second controller to adjust the cables 214, 220, 226, 232, 234, and a third controller to adjust the tracks 200, 202, 204.

[0038] exist Figure 2In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 , the first track 200 and the second track 202 are positioned above the third track 204, however, it should be understood that the first track 200 and the second track 202 may be positioned in any manner relative to each other. As an example, the first track 200 and / or the second track 202 may be coupled to a structure of the entertainment figure system 104 above the entertainment figure 102. For example, the first track 200 and / or the second track 202 may be coupled to a static support feature, such as a column, a frame, a permanent cable, another suitable feature, or any combination thereof. In this manner, the weight of the entertainment figure 102 may be supported by the structure and the tracks 200, 202 in addition to the cables 214, 220, 226, 232 and the bogies 206, 208, 210. In one non-limiting embodiment, the entertainment figure system 104 may support up to 1000 kilograms (kg) of the weight of the entertainment figure 102. Additionally, the third track 204 may be coupled to additional structure (e.g., a static support) of the entertainment figure system 104 below the entertainment figure 102. The additional structure may provide additional support for the entertainment figure 102, such as by providing an anchor that enables the fifth cable 234 to pull the entertainment figure 102 downward at a faster rate than gravity would pull the entertainment figure 102. In additional or alternative embodiments, the tracks 200, 202, 204 may be coupled to a dynamic feature. For example, the third track 204 may be coupled to a base 252 that is configured to rotate in a third rotational direction 254. In this way, as the base 252 rotates, the third track 204 may also rotate, thereby moving the fourth truck 212 and / or adjusting the extension length of the fifth cable 234. Another embodiment of a dynamic feature may translate in a particular direction to move the third track 204.

[0039] Figure 3is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an entertainment figure system 104 illustrating a mechanism of how the attachment points of the entertainment figure 102 can be adjusted. The illustrated embodiment of the entertainment figure system 104 includes a first bogie 300 that is enabled to translate along a first track 302. The first bogie 300 includes a first capstan 304, wherein a first cable 306 can be coupled to a first attachment point 308, a second attachment point 310 of the entertainment figure 102, and the first capstan 304. For example, the first attachment point 308 can include a support 311 (e.g., a ring) through which the first cable 306 can be inserted to attach to the second attachment point 310. In this way, when the first cable 306 is extended and / or retracted via the first capstan 304, the first cable 306 can drive both the first attachment point 308 and the second attachment point 310 to move. The entertainment figure system 104 can also include a second bogie 312 that is enabled to translate along a second track 314. The second bogie 312 includes a second winch 316, wherein a second cable 318 can be coupled to the second winch 316 and a third attachment point 320. The first bogie 300 and the second bogie 312 can each include a motor 322 implemented to facilitate translation of the first bogie 300 and the second bogie 312 along the respective first track 302 and the second track 314.

[0040] Additionally, the first bogie 300 and the second bogie 312 can each be communicatively coupled to a bogie controller 324, which can be a controller that is connected to the bogie controller 324. Figure 1 The controller 134 of the first bogie 300 and the second bogie 312 may be the same or different controller. In some embodiments, the bogie controller 324 may be a programmable logic controller (PLC) configured to control the motor 322 of the first bogie 300 and the second bogie 312 and / or the first winch 304 and the second winch 316. As an example, the first winch 304 and / or the second winch 316 may each include an actuator 326. The bogie controller 324 may be configured to activate the actuator 326 to extend and / or retract the cables 306 and 318. The bogie controller 324 may also operate the motor 322 to adjust the position of the corresponding bogies 300 and 312 along the corresponding tracks 302 and 314.

[0041] In some embodiments, the capstans 304, 316 and / or the motors 322 may each include a sensor 328 implemented to detect a particular parameter. For example, the sensor 328 may detect the position of the respective bogie 300, 312 along the respective track 302, 314 and / or detect the speed at which the respective bogie 300, 312 translates along the respective track 302, 314. The bogie controller 324 may use the detected position and / or speed to operate the motor 322. The sensor 328 may additionally or alternatively determine the extended length of the respective cable 306, 318 extended by the respective capstan 304, 316, the rate at which the respective capstan 304, 316 may extend or retract the respective cable 306, 318, the tension imparted on the respective cable 306, 318, and / or the torque imparted on the respective capstan 304, 316. The bogie controller 324 may use the detected length, rate, tension, and / or torque to operate the actuator 326.

[0042] In general, the positions of the attachment points 308, 310, 320 can be associated with the corresponding positions of the trucks 300, 312 and / or the extension lengths of the cables 306, 318. The positions of each of the attachment points 308, 310, 320 can also be associated with each other. In other words, in certain configurations, adjusting the position of the first attachment point 308 can also adjust the position of the second attachment point 310. For example, since the first cable 306 is coupled to both the first attachment point 308 and the second attachment point 310, adjusting the position and / or extension length of the first cable 306 can adjust the corresponding positions of both the first attachment point 308 and the second attachment point 310. Second, even if the second cable 318 and / or the second truck 312 associated with the third attachment point 320 are not controlled to be adjusted, the position of the third attachment point 320 can also be adjusted according to the adjustment of the first attachment point 308 and the second attachment point 310.

[0043] although Figure 3 While the first winch 304 and the second winch 316 are illustrated as being disposed on the respective first bogie 300 and the second bogie 312, it should be appreciated that the first winch 304 and the second winch 316 may additionally or alternatively be disposed on the entertainment figure 102 (e.g., the attachment points 308, 310, 320). In this manner, the respective cables 306, 318 may be extended and / or retracted from the entertainment figure 102. Additionally, although Figure 3 While each bogie 300, 312 is depicted as including a separate bogie controller 324, the bogies 300, 312 may still be communicatively coupled to the same bogie controller 324. That is, the same bogie controller 324 may adjust the bogies 300, 312 and / or cables 306, 318.

[0044] Figure 4 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of an entertainment image system 104 in another configuration in which a first attachment point 308 and a second attachment point 310 may be controlled by a single bogie 350. In the illustrated embodiment, the bogie 350 may include a first winch 304, a second winch 316, and a third winch 352, wherein each of the winches 304, 316, 352 includes an actuator 326 and a sensor 328, each of which is communicatively coupled to the controller 134. In addition, each winch 304, 316, 352 includes a first cable 354, a second cable 356, and a third cable 358, respectively. The cables 354, 356, 358 are each attached to a main cable 360, wherein the main cable 360 ​​is coupled to the first attachment point 308 and the second attachment point 310.

[0045] The controller 134 can control the actuator 326 of each winch 304, 316, 352 to extend and / or retract the cables 354, 356, 358, respectively, thereby adjusting the main cable 360. As a result, the positions of the attachment points 308, 310 can also be adjusted. For example, the controller 134 can direct the third winch 352 to raise the third cable 358 in the first direction 240 to a greater extent than the amount by which the first winch 304 raised the first cable 354 in the first direction 240, thereby moving the second attachment point 310 relative to the second attachment point 308 in the first direction 240. In another example, the controller 134 can direct the three winches 304, 316, 352 to raise each of the cables 354, 356, 358 in the first direction 240 by the same amount, thereby simultaneously raising the entire main cable 360 ​​and raising the attachment points 308, 310. In general, the illustrated embodiments may enable the controller 134 to precisely control the positions of the attachment points 308 , 310 relative to each other.

[0046] Figure 5 4 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a method 400 for adjusting an entertainer figure 102. The method 400 may be performed by, for example, the controller 134 and / or the truck controller 324. At block 402, a target position of the entertainer figure 102 is received. In one embodiment, the target position of the entertainer figure 102 includes a target position of each attachment point of the entertainer figure 102, such as relative to each other and / or relative to the entertainer figure system 104. However, in additional or alternative embodiments, the target position of the entertainer figure 102 may include a target position of a truck and / or cable associated with the entertainer figure 102.

[0047] At block 404, a current position of the entertaining figure 102 is identified. Specifically, the current position of each attachment point of the entertaining figure 102 (e.g., relative to each other and / or relative to the entertaining figure system 104) may be identified. Additionally or alternatively, the current position of a bogie and / or cable associated with the entertaining figure 102 may be identified. According to such an approach, the identified current position of the entertaining figure 102 may be compared to the received target position of the entertaining figure 102.

[0048] In response to comparing the received target position and the identified current position of entertainer avatar 102, the position of entertainer avatar 102 may be adjusted as shown at block 406. In particular, the current position of entertainer avatar 102 may be adjusted to match or substantially match the target position of entertainer avatar 102.

[0049] To complete the actions associated with frame 406, as indicated at frame 408, the corresponding positions of one or more trucks can be adjusted along the corresponding tracks associated with entertainment figure 102. As previously discussed, each of the trucks can be adjusted independently of each other to adjust entertainment figure 102. Additionally or alternatively, as indicated at frame 410, the corresponding extension lengths of one or more cables can be adjusted. Each cable can be adjusted independently of each other, and thus, different cables can be extended and / or retracted. As previously mentioned, other adjustments can also be implemented, such as rotation of the truck and / or adjustment of the track on which the truck is positioned.

[0050] It should be understood that blocks 408 and 410 may be performed simultaneously. That is, as the bogies are adjusted along the corresponding tracks, the corresponding cables may also be adjusted. However, in additional or alternative embodiments, the adjustment of the bogies and / or cables may not be performed simultaneously. For example, some bogies may be adjusted before some cables are adjusted.

[0051] In one embodiment, the steps of box 408 and box 410 may be performed based on a preprogrammed motion profile. For example, the truck controller 324 may be programmed with a specific motion profile that may generally set the position, velocity, and / or acceleration at which its truck and / or cables are adjusted. Based on the selected motion profile, the controller 134 (e.g., via a ride show supervisor or a preprogrammed show control system) may command the truck controller 324 to perform one or more of the programmed motion profiles.

[0052] In an additional or alternative embodiment, the current position of the entertainer 102 and the speed at which it is adjusted can be based at least in part on a comparison between the received target position and the identified current position of the entertainer 102. As an example, the speed at which the entertainer 102 is adjusted can be proportional to the determined difference between the received target position and the identified current position. In other words, if the difference between the received target position and the identified current position is determined to be substantially small, the entertainer 102 can be adjusted at a substantially low speed. However, if the difference between the received target position and the identified current position is determined to be greater, the entertainer 102 can be adjusted at a higher speed. In an additional or alternative embodiment, a target speed for adjusting the entertainer 102 can also be received. In other words, in addition to receiving the target position of the entertainer 102, a target speed at which the entertainer 102 will be adjusted (e.g., to adjust a target speed or velocity of an associated bogie and / or associated cable) can also be received. Therefore, the entertainer 102 can be adjusted at the received target speed.

[0053] It should be understood that the specific position of the entertainment image 102 can be reached in more than one configuration of the bogie and / or cable. That is, positioning the bogie at the first position along the track and stretching the cable to the first length can adjust the associated attachment point to the target position. In addition, positioning the bogie at the second position along the track and stretching the cable to the second length can also adjust the associated attachment point to the same target position. However, the adjustment of the bogie and / or cable can be based on the target movement (e.g., the amount of vertical and / or horizontal movement) of the entertainment image 102. For this reason, additionally or alternatively, the entertainment image 102 can be adjusted based on the target movement of the receiving entertainment image 102. For example, the bogie and / or cable can be adjusted accordingly to move the attachment point to the target position via the target movement. Thus, method 400 can allow the entertainment image 102 to be adjusted to the target position, adjusted at the target speed and / or adjusted via the target movement.

[0054] Method 400 can be implemented by a controller (such as, controller 134 and / or truck controller 324). In one embodiment, method 400 can be preprogrammed. In other words, the adjustment of entertainment image 102 can be set at certain times during operation (e.g., at specific times of a show). In this way, the attachment points of entertainment image 102 can be adjusted to different positions based on the time determined by preprogramming. However, in addition or alternatively, the adjustment of entertainment image 102 can be set based on input. In other words, the controller can receive input indicating a target adjustment (such as, a target position, speed and / or movement) of entertainment image 102, such as from a user. Therefore, entertainment image 102 is adjusted based on the received input.

[0055] It should be understood that steps not described in method 400 may be performed. That is, steps may be performed before block 402 and / or after block 408 and / or block 410. Intermediate steps may also be performed between any of blocks 402, 404, 406, 408, 410. It should also be appreciated that the steps of method 400 may be performed in an order different from that described.

[0056] While only certain features of the disclosure have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. It will, therefore, be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the disclosure.

[0057] The technology presented and claimed herein is cited and applied to substantial objects and specific examples of a practical nature that arguably improve the art and are therefore not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Moreover, if any claim appended at the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as "a means for [performing] ... [function]" or "a step for [performing] ... [function]," it is intended that such elements will be interpreted in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f). However, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, it is intended that such elements will not be interpreted in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f).

Claims

1. An entertainment image system, comprising: an entertainment figure, which includes an attachment point; a bogie comprising a bogie controller and at least one sensor, the bogie coupled to a track and to the attachment point of the entertainment figure via a cable, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to detect a position or a velocity of the bogie, and the bogie controller is configured to instruct the bogie to translate along the track based on the detected position or the detected velocity of the bogie; as well as a winch coupled to the cable and configured to adjust the length of the cable extending from the winch and thereby modify the distance between the attachment point of the entertainment figure and the bogie so that the attachment point of the entertainment figure moves relative to at least a portion of the entertainment figure to change the arrangement of the entertainment figure.

2. The entertainment image system according to claim 1, comprising a performance area and a customer area, wherein: The entertainment figure is disposed in the performance area, and wherein the entertainment figure is configured to be positioned in the patron area via translation of the bogie, adjustment of the length of the cable, or both.

3. The entertainment image system according to claim 1, wherein: The bogie is configured to translate along the track, and the winch is configured to maintain the length of the cable as the bogie translates along the track to transport the at least a portion or other portion of the entertainment figure.

4. The entertainment figure system of claim 1, comprising a controller configured to cause the bogie to translate along the track, operate the winch to adjust the length of the cable extended from the winch, or both.

5. The entertainment image system according to claim 4, wherein: The controller is configured to control operation of the winch to adjust the length of the cable extending from the winch, and wherein the controller is configured to maintain a position of the bogie along the track while operating the winch to adjust the length of the cable extending from the winch to move the attachment point relative to the at least a portion of the entertainment figure.

6. The entertainment image system according to claim 1, wherein: The attachment point is a first attachment point, wherein the length is a first length, wherein the distance is a first distance, wherein the entertainment figure system includes a second attachment point, and wherein the winch is configured to adjust a second length of the cable extending from the winch and thereby modify a second distance between the second attachment point and the first attachment point simultaneously with adjusting the first length of the cable extending from the winch.

7. The entertainment image system according to claim 1, wherein: The attachment point is a first attachment point, wherein the cable is a first cable, wherein the length is a first length, wherein the distance is a first distance, wherein the entertainment figure includes a second attachment point, wherein the bogie is coupled to the track and to the second attachment point of the entertainment figure via a second cable, and wherein the entertainment figure system includes a second winch coupled to the second cable and configured to adjust a second length of the second cable extending from the second winch and thereby modify a second distance between the second attachment point and the bogie.

8. The entertainment image system according to claim 1, wherein: The bogie is rotatably coupled to the track.

9. The entertainment image system according to claim 1, wherein: The winch is arranged on the bogie.

10. The entertainment image system according to claim 1, wherein: The entertainment figure includes an additional portion and the attachment point is located at the additional portion, wherein the entertainment figure includes a joint between the additional portion and the at least one portion, and wherein the joint is configured to enable the additional portion to move relative to the at least one portion of the entertainment figure, thereby moving the attachment point relative to the at least one portion of the entertainment figure.

11. An entertainment image system, comprising: an entertainment figure, which includes an attachment point; a bogie comprising a bogie controller and at least one sensor, the bogie coupled to a track and to the attachment point of the entertainment figure via a cable, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to detect a position or a velocity of the bogie, and the bogie controller is configured to instruct the bogie to translate along the track based on the detected position or the detected velocity of the bogie, the bogie comprising a motor; a winch coupled to the cable and configured to adjust the length of the cable extending from the winch and thereby modify the distance between the attachment point of the entertainment figure and the bogie, wherein the winch includes an actuator; and a controller communicatively coupled to the bogie and the winch, wherein the controller is configured to activate the motor of the bogie to translate the bogie along the track and thereby adjust the position of the bogie along the track, and wherein the controller is configured to activate the actuator of the winch to adjust the length of the cable extended from the winch.

12. The entertainment image system according to claim 11, wherein: The controller is configured to receive input from a sensor, from a user, or both, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the position of the bogie, the length of the cable extended from the winch, or both based at least in part on the received input.

13. The entertainment image system according to claim 12, wherein: The received inputs include a target position for the bogie, a target length of the cable extended from the winch, a target position of the attachment point, a target speed at which the bogie translates along the track, a target rate at which the cable is adjusted by the winch, a target movement of the attachment point, time, or any combination thereof.

14. The entertainment image system according to claim 11, wherein: The track is coupled to a base, and wherein the controller is configured to adjust a position of the base to cause the track to move.

15. The entertainment image system of claim 11, comprising a sensor disposed on the winch, wherein: The sensor is configured to detect operating parameters, wherein the operating parameters include the position of the bogie, the length of the cable extended from the winch, the position of the attachment point, the speed at which the bogie translates along the track, the rate at which the cable is adjusted by the winch, the tension imparted on the cable, the torque imparted on the winch, or any combination thereof, and wherein the controller is configured to activate the motor of the bogie to adjust the position of the bogie, activate the actuator of the winch to adjust the length of the cable extended from the winch, or both based on the operating parameters.

16. An entertainment image system, comprising: an entertainment figure including a first attachment point and a second attachment point; a first bogie coupled to a first track via a first cable and to the first attachment point, wherein the first track is positioned between the entertainment figure and the ceiling, wherein the first bogie is configured to translate along the first track; a second bogie coupled to a second track via a second cable and to the second attachment point, wherein the second track is positioned between the entertainment figure and the floor, wherein the second bogie is configured to translate along the second track; a first winch coupled to the first cable and configured to adjust a first length of the first cable extending from the first winch and thereby modify a first distance between the first attachment point of the entertainment figure and the first bogie; and and a second winch coupled to the second cable and configured to adjust a second length of the second cable extending from the second winch and thereby modify a second distance between the second attachment point of the entertainment figure and the second bogie such that a third distance between the first attachment point of the entertainment figure and the second attachment point of the entertainment figure is changed to arrange the first attachment point relative to the second attachment point.

17. The entertainment image system according to claim 16, comprising: a third bogie coupled to the second track via a third cable and to a third attachment point, wherein the third bogie is configured to translate along the second track independently of the second bogie; and A third winch is coupled to the third cable and is configured to adjust a third length of the third cable extending from the third winch and thereby modify a fourth distance between the third attachment point and the third bogie.

18. The entertainment image system according to claim 16, wherein: The entertainment figure includes a third attachment point, wherein the second bogie is coupled to the third attachment point via a third cable, and wherein the entertainment figure system includes a third winch configured to adjust a third length of the third cable and thereby modify a fourth distance between the third attachment point and the second bogie.

19. The entertainment image system according to claim 16, wherein: The first track is coupled to a base, wherein the base is configured to move the first track relative to the second track.

20. The entertainment image system of claim 16, comprising a controller, wherein: The controller is configured to operate the first winch to retract the first cable and operate the second winch to extend the second cable when the first winch retracts the first cable to raise the entertainment figure, and wherein the controller is configured to operate the first winch to extend the first cable and operate the second winch to retract the second cable when the second winch extends the first cable to lower the entertainment figure.

Images