Three-dimensional model that is significant according to context

Abstract

A monitoring system (10) includes a video assembly (24) including at least one camera (26) positioned in a predetermined area and configured to transmit a live video feed of physical locations in the predetermined area. The monitoring system (10) also includes a control system (16) configured to receive the live video feed from the at least one camera (26). The control system (16) includes a memory device (68) and a processor (66) configured to generate a virtual model (62) of the predetermined area based on instructions stored on the memory device (68), wherein the processor (66) is configured to incorporate the live video feed into the virtual model (62) at a virtual location in the virtual model (62) corresponding to a physical location in the predetermined area. The control system (16) also includes a display unit (64) configured to display the virtual model (62).

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 858206, filed June 6, 2019, entitled “Three-Dimensional Model Significant Based on Context,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Background Technology

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to the field of amusement parks. Specifically, embodiments of this disclosure relate to techniques for monitoring amusement parks and generating models that incorporate real-time image data for amusement park attractions.

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

[0005] Since the beginning of the 20th century, amusement parks have become increasingly popular. More and more people are visiting amusement park attractions. Amusement park staff are tasked with monitoring attractions to identify scheduling deviations and ensuring a positive customer experience. Some amusement park monitoring systems incorporate safety cameras to provide video feeds for staff to review. If a situation arises that necessitates a maintenance response, such as a customer accidentally dropping an item onto a ride track, staff are dispatched to resolve the problem and prevent or mitigate the scheduling deviation. However, determining the exact location of a maintenance situation can be complex. With multiple cameras distributed throughout the attractions, the physical location of each individual camera within the attraction is difficult to ascertain from the captured images displayed on the safety monitoring screens. Therefore, it is now recognized that improving amusement park attraction monitoring systems is ideal. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Certain embodiments corresponding in scope to the originally claimed subject matter 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 some of the disclosed embodiments. In fact, this disclosure may include a wide variety of forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.

[0007] According to an embodiment, the monitoring system includes a video component comprising at least one camera positioned within a predetermined area and configured to transmit real-time video feeds of physical locations within the predetermined area. The monitoring system also includes a control system configured to receive the real-time video feeds from the at least one camera. The control system includes a memory device and a processor configured to generate a virtual model of the predetermined area based on instructions stored on the memory device. The processor is configured to incorporate the real-time video feeds into the virtual model at virtual locations in the virtual model corresponding to physical locations within the predetermined area. The control system also includes a display unit configured to display the virtual model.

[0008] According to an embodiment, the monitoring system includes a video component having at least one camera positioned in a predetermined area and configured to capture and output real-time images. The monitoring system also includes a control system configured to receive real-time images from the at least one camera. The control system includes a memory device and a processor configured to generate a virtual model of the predetermined area in a virtual space based on instructions stored on the memory device. The processor is configured to generate at least one virtual video display in the virtual space based on the real-time images. The position of the at least one virtual video display in the virtual space is at least partially based on the position of the at least one camera in the predetermined area. The control system also includes a user interface having a display unit configured to display the virtual space to a user. The user interface also includes an input device configured to provide the processor with at least one user-initiated command to control the camera orientation of the at least one camera.

[0009] According to an embodiment, the monitoring system includes: a video component having at least one camera, said at least one camera being disposed in an amusement park attraction and configured to transmit video feeds of at least a portion of the amusement park attraction; a sensor component configured to detect the position of a vehicle within the amusement park attraction; and a control system configured to receive the detected position of the vehicle and the video feeds from the at least one camera. The control system includes a memory device and a processor, the processor being configured to generate a virtual model of the amusement park attraction and a virtual vehicle disposed in the virtual model based on instructions stored on the memory device. The processor is configured to generate a virtual video display in the virtual model based on the video feeds, wherein the position of at least one virtual video display in the virtual model is at least partially based on the position of the at least one camera within the amusement park attraction. The position of the virtual vehicle in the virtual model is at least partially based on the detected position of the vehicle within the amusement park attraction. The control system may further include a display unit configured to display the virtual model. Attached Figure Description

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

[0011] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a monitoring system used in amusement park attractions;

[0012] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a virtual model of an amusement park attraction;

[0013] Figure 3 It is a perspective view of an embodiment of a virtual model having a virtual display screen configured to rotate relative to the virtual model;

[0014] Figure 4 It is a perspective view of an embodiment of a virtual model that is at least partially reoriented based on user input;

[0015] Figure 5 It is a perspective view of an embodiment of a virtual model having a viewing window configured to display a video feed corresponding to at least one virtual display screen; and

[0016] Figure 6 This is a block diagram of an embodiment of the monitoring system. Detailed Implementation

[0017] One or more specific embodiments of this disclosure will be described below. To provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of the actual implementation may be described in the specification. It should be appreciated that, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, which may vary depending on the implementation, such as compliance with system-related constraints and business-related constraints. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that such development efforts may be complex and time-consuming, but for those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure, such development efforts may simply be routine tasks of design, fabrication, and manufacturing.

[0018] When describing elements of various embodiments of this disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to mean the presence of one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that additional elements may be present in addition to those listed. Furthermore, it should be understood that references to “an embodiment” or “an embodiment” in this disclosure are not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the described features.

[0019] Theme park or amusement park personnel are tasked with monitoring attractions, customers, and other parts of the theme park and amusement park. Some amusement parks incorporate monitoring systems to provide multiple live feeds to display units for personnel to observe. For example, multiple live feeds captured from various locations within an attraction can be arranged in a grid and displayed on a screen for personnel. When viewing the live feeds, personnel can rely on organization methods, naming conventions, memory, or other suitable methods to correlate the live feeds from the grid with their corresponding physical location within the attraction. However, these methods can be complex to use and may require personnel to have a high degree of familiarity with the physical layout of each attraction. Moreover, these methods can become increasingly complex for amusement park attractions with numerous live feeds. Additionally, these methods may not accurately convey the actual physical location of moving cameras (e.g., cameras attached to vehicles, drones, performance elements, etc.) or cameras with a limited field of view (e.g., rotating cameras). For example, if a camera is mounted on a vehicle, its physical location will move along the ride track, potentially requiring amusement park staff to guess the camera's current position based on landmarks from live feeds. Furthermore, as some amusement parks incorporate multiple cameras and / or mobile cameras as part of their monitoring systems, the methods for associating live feeds from the grid with their corresponding physical locations can become increasingly complex for staff, leading to slower responses to detected incidents, increased training requirements for amusement park employees, and a greater risk of staff error.

[0020] This paper presents a monitoring system that generates virtual models of amusement park attractions for park attendees to view on monitors. Live feeds (e.g., real-time video feeds) from cameras within the amusement park attractions are displayed in the virtual model at locations corresponding to the actual physical locations of the cameras within the attraction, allowing park attendees to view the live feeds at their geographical locations within the virtual model incorporated into the attraction. As provided herein, the virtual model is a blend of a rendered or schematic model of the amusement park attraction and the live feeds, which are incorporated into the model at locations corresponding to or schematically depicting the real-world field of view of each camera. In this way, park attendees will be able to see the physical location of the live feeds when viewing them in the virtual model. Moreover, park attendees will be able to accurately determine the physical location of moving cameras because the live feeds for moving cameras will be located and moved within the virtual model based on the actual location and movement of the moving cameras within the attraction.

[0021] Figure 1This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a monitoring system 10 for an amusement park attraction 12 in an amusement park. The monitoring system 10 provides live feeds (e.g., real-time video feeds or live images) that can be viewed by amusement park personnel 19 designated to monitor the amusement park attraction 12. Specifically, the monitoring system 10 is configured to display the live feeds to the amusement park personnel 19 via a virtual video display in a virtual model of the amusement park attraction. In some embodiments, the amusement park personnel 19 may monitor additional amusement park attractions, other parts of the amusement park, or the entire amusement park. In some embodiments, the amusement park personnel 19 may monitor the live feeds for safety or maintenance purposes. For example, at least one real-time video feed of the live feed may show an authorized personnel-only area 18 of the amusement park. The amusement park personnel 19 may observe the live video feeds to determine whether a customer 20 has entered the authorized personnel-only area 18, which may be considered an attraction disruption. In some embodiments, the amusement park personnel 19 may monitor the live video feeds to determine the attraction status of the amusement park attraction 12 (e.g., scheduling, clear tracks, vehicle operation status, prop operation status). For example, amusement park staff 19 may be able to determine that performance element 22 (e.g., electronic animal figures) is not moving as expected without having to conduct a physical inspection.

[0022] The monitoring system 10 includes a video component. The video component may include a camera 26, which is positioned in a predetermined area around the amusement park attraction 12 and configured to capture real-time video or images. For example, the camera may be positioned at the entrance 28 to the amusement park attraction 12, along a route 30 leading to the loading area 32 of the amusement park attraction, within the loading area 32 of the amusement park attraction 12, at various locations along the ride track 34 of the amusement park attraction, on the performance elements 22 of the amusement park attraction 12, in the authorized personnel-only area 18 of the amusement park attraction 12, at the unloading area 36 of the amusement park attraction, at the exit of the amusement park attraction 12, or in other areas of the amusement park attraction 12. Furthermore, the camera 26 may be positioned in other areas of the amusement park. For example, the camera 26 may be positioned at the entrance / exit of the amusement park, along pathways between amusement park attractions, or in other areas of the amusement park.

[0023] In some embodiments, the amusement park attraction 12 may include a moving camera 38. In some embodiments, the moving camera 38 is mounted on a vehicle 40 of the amusement park attraction 12 such that as the vehicle 40 moves along a ride track 34, the moving camera 38 travels along the ride track 34. The moving camera 38 may be configured to transmit a real-time video feed of the passenger portion 42 of the vehicle 40. In another embodiment, the moving camera 38 may be configured to transmit a real-time video feed of the amusement park attraction 12 as the vehicle 40 travels along the ride track 34 of the amusement park attraction 12. In yet another embodiment, the moving camera 38 may be configured to hinge based on input from amusement park personnel 19. For example, the moving camera 38 may be configured to rotate from left to right, from top to bottom, etc., in response to input from amusement park personnel 19.

[0024] In some embodiments, a mobile camera 38 may be mounted on an aerial drone 44. The aerial drone 44 may be configured to follow a predetermined flight path 46 above or above the amusement park attraction 12. In some embodiments, amusement park personnel 19 may directly control the aerial drone 44 to observe desired areas of the amusement park attraction 12. For example, amusement park personnel 19 may wish to observe unmonitored portions 48 of the amusement park that are not visible to camera 26. Amusement park personnel 19 may direct one of the aerial drones 44 to the unmonitored portions 48 of the amusement park to capture a real-time video feed of the unmonitored portions 48 of the amusement park attraction 12.

[0025] In some embodiments, the monitoring system 10 includes a sensor assembly. The sensor assembly can be configured to detect trackable objects within the amusement park. The sensor assembly can be configured to track customer devices (e.g., active wearable devices), ride-on vehicles 40, or performance elements 22 within the amusement park attraction 12. For example, the sensor assembly can detect the position of ride-on vehicles 40 within the amusement park attraction 12. The sensor assembly can include sensors 52 positioned along the ride track 34 of the amusement park attraction 12. Sensors 52 can include infrared sensors, magnetic sensors, electrical sensors, position sensors, optical sensors, pressure sensors, or any other suitable sensors for detecting ride-on vehicles 40.

[0026] In some embodiments, the live feed includes a real-time audio feed. In such embodiments, the monitoring system 10 includes an audio component. The audio component may include audio input devices 60 (e.g., microphones) located throughout the amusement park attraction 12. Each audio input device 60 may be positioned near one of the cameras 26. In some embodiments, the audio input device 60 may be integrated into the camera 26. Each audio input device 60 may record live audio at its respective location, and a real-time audio feed is transmitted to the control system 16 for the amusement park attraction 12 based on the recorded live audio. The monitoring system 10 may be configured to generate an audio output feed for a virtual model based on the real-time audio feed from each of the audio input devices 60 in the amusement park attraction 12. In one example, sound sources in the virtual model allow for a user interface where sound is spatialized.

[0027] In some embodiments, the user interface 17 of the monitoring system 10 includes a display unit 64 (e.g., a monitor, screen, etc. of a personal computing device) and an audio output device 65 (e.g., a speaker, headphones, etc.). A virtual model 62, including a real-time video feed of amusement park attractions, can be displayed on the display unit 64 for amusement park personnel 19 to monitor amusement park attractions 12. Additionally, the audio output device 65 can be configured to output an audio output feed for amusement park personnel 19. The audio output feed may include a real-time audio feed corresponding to a first audio input device 60 positioned close to camera 26, which provides the most prominent real-time video feed displayed on the display unit 64.

[0028] In some embodiments, the monitoring system 10 for amusement park attractions can generate spatial audio for the virtual model 62. Spatial audio can be generated using the position of the audio input device 60 and its corresponding real-time audio feed. Spatial audio includes position-based audio. That is, when amusement park personnel 19 move a virtual camera (i.e., a camera positioned in the virtual model 62 and configured to provide an image displayed on the display unit 64), the audio output feed changes based on the position of the user camera (e.g., the virtual camera) in the virtual model. The audio output feed can change based on the position of the virtual camera relative to the real-time video feed. The audio output feed can be given direction and volume based on the distance and rotation of the virtual camera relative to the real-time audio feed. For example, sound from a first real-time audio feed positioned to the left of the virtual camera can be output by the left speaker 71 of the audio output device 65, while sound from a second real-time audio feed positioned to the right of the virtual camera can be output by the right speaker 73 of the audio output device 65. Furthermore, the volume of sound output from an audio output feed that is positioned close to the virtual camera may generally be louder than the sound from another real-time audio feed positioned further away from the virtual camera. Therefore, the volume of sound can be based on the proximity of the real-time audio feed to the virtual camera. Providing spatial audio to amusement park personnel 19 can help them monitor the locations of amusement park attractions 12 that are not displayed in the real-time video feed observable via display unit 64.

[0029] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a virtual model 62 of an amusement park attraction, displayed on display unit 64 and according to the disclosed technology. The virtual model 62 is shown on display unit 64 from the perspective of a virtual camera 63 that can be controlled by amusement park personnel 19 via a control system. The control system can be configured to generate the virtual model 62 of the amusement park attraction based on instructions stored in a memory device of the control system. The virtual model 62 can depict... Figure 1 One or more areas of attraction 12, including entrance 28 to the amusement park attraction, route 30 leading to the loading area of ​​the amusement park attraction, loading area 32 of the amusement park attraction, ride track 34, ride vehicle 40, performance element 22, authorized personnel-only area 18 of the amusement park attraction, unloading area 36 of the amusement park attraction, exit of the amusement park attraction and / or any other part of the amusement park attraction.

[0030] In some embodiments, virtual model 62 may be a three-dimensional representation of an amusement park attraction located in virtual space 70. This three-dimensional representation may be a virtual replica of the amusement park attraction. In one embodiment, the three-dimensional representation may be rendered to the scale of the actual amusement park attraction, such that the geospatial relationships between parts of the amusement park attraction are represented in virtual model 62.

[0031] In some embodiments, the virtual model 62 may omit details at various levels of the amusement park attraction to simplify it. That is, the virtual model 62 may be a schematic version of the attraction showing only certain elements. In one embodiment, the virtual model 62 shows the walls, ride tracks, and schematically rendered vehicles of the attraction. The virtual model 62 may be rendered at least partially as a computer-generated line drawing. In another embodiment, the virtual model 62 is a two-dimensional representation of the amusement park attraction. For example, the virtual model 62 may be a top view of the amusement park attraction. In some embodiments, the two-dimensional representation may be an illustrative representation of the amusement park attraction. For example, the amusement park attraction may be multi-level, such that the top view will overlap with portions of the amusement park attraction. The illustrative representation may hide, move, or resize portions of the amusement park attraction, allowing the desired portions of the amusement park attraction to be viewed in the virtual model 62. Each of the representations (e.g., two-dimensional and three-dimensional) can provide unique benefits to the monitoring system. For example, a three-dimensional representation may provide a more accurate virtual model 62 to amusement park personnel, and a two-dimensional representation may provide a single illustrative diagram for easy viewing. In some embodiments, the monitoring system can be configured to display both a three-dimensional and a two-dimensional representation of the virtual model 62 to amusement park personnel.

[0032] Furthermore, the control system is configured to generate at least one virtual image or video display 72 incorporated into the virtual model 62 or virtual space 70. As explained above, cameras and / or moving cameras can be configured to transmit real-time video feeds. The control system can be configured to receive real-time video feeds and generate corresponding virtual video displays 72 in the virtual model 62 or virtual space 70. As provided herein, a virtual video display can refer to the display of real-time video feeds incorporated into the virtual model 62. That is, a virtual video display can display the captured camera feeds. The virtual video display 72 can be positioned at a virtual location in the virtual model 62 or virtual space 70, at least in part, based on the corresponding actual physical location of at least one camera within the amusement park attraction. The virtual location can be based on a scale of the relationships within the virtual model 62 or on the relative positions of landmarks within the virtual model 62. For example, if the attraction has cameras positioned approximately equidistantly around a track (e.g., around a circular track at approximately 60-degree intervals), the virtual display 72 can be distributed around the rendered virtual track in a similar manner. Furthermore, if the attraction has one or more props and cameras positioned adjacent to such props, the props can be rendered using line drawings or simplified prop images, and the virtual video display 72 from the adjacent cameras can be positioned based on the field of view captured around the props, for example, in front of the props or adjacent to the props.

[0033] In one example Figure 1Individual cameras can be positioned close to the loading area of ​​amusement park attractions. Therefore, the corresponding first virtual video display 72 can be positioned at a virtual location rendered or displayed within a portion of the virtual model 62, as shown in the diagram, close to the virtual loading area 76. Furthermore, the virtual video display 72 can be located within the model at the position of the camera itself or at a position corresponding to the field of view captured by the camera.

[0034] In some embodiments, the virtual video display 72 includes a two-dimensional virtual display positioned within a three-dimensional virtual model or space. The orientation of the two-dimensional virtual display (e.g., a first virtual video display 74) may be at least partially based on the orientation of at least one camera within the amusement park attraction. For example, in Figure 1 In the virtual model 62, at least one camera is oriented such that it points towards the loading area of ​​the amusement park attraction. In the virtual model 62, the two-dimensional virtual display can be oriented toward the virtual loading area 76 of the amusement park attraction, such that the two-dimensional virtual display is positioned in the virtual model 62 or virtual space 70 and oriented to correspond to the viewpoint of at least one camera.

[0035] In some embodiments, the control system is configured to adjust the position and angle of the cameras visible to the display unit 64 in the virtual space 70 based on input from amusement park personnel to view each of the virtual video displays 72. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the second virtual video display 78 is not visible to the amusement park operator. However, the amusement park operator can adjust the camera position and angle to view the virtual model 62 or virtual space 70 from the opposite side, making the second virtual video display 78 visible to the amusement park operator. In another embodiment, the control system is configured to maintain the camera position and angle of the virtual space 70, but rotate, pan, etc., the virtual model 62 to view each of the virtual video displays 72.

[0036] In some embodiments, Figure 1 At least one camera is configured to capture and output a panoramic real-time video feed. The control system can be configured to generate a three-dimensional virtual video display configured to show the panoramic real-time video feed in a virtual model 62. The three-dimensional virtual video display can show a first portion of the panoramic real-time video feed when viewing the virtual model 62 from the position and angle of a first camera in virtual space 70, and the three-dimensional virtual video display can show a second portion of the panoramic real-time video feed when viewing the virtual model 62 from the position and angle of a second camera.

[0037] As explained above, in some embodiments, the monitoring system includes sensor components configured to detect trackable objects (e.g., customer devices, vehicles, performance elements) in the amusement park and output detection signals to a control system for the amusement park or amusement park attraction. The control system may be configured to receive the detection signals and, based on the detection signals, move portions of the virtual model 62. For example, the sensor components may detect the position of a vehicle and output a detection signal to the control system. The control system may reposition / update the position of the corresponding virtual vehicle 80 in the virtual model 62 based on the detection signals, such that the corresponding virtual vehicle 80 is positioned in the virtual model 62 or virtual space 70 to represent the actual position of the vehicle in the actual amusement park attraction. In one embodiment, the virtual vehicle 80 moves along a track in a manner corresponding to the movement of an actual vehicle along a physical track. When an actual vehicle enters the field of view of a camera and is visible in a virtual video display 72 in the virtual model 62, the virtual vehicle 80 may be temporarily not displayed in the portion of the virtual model corresponding to the virtual video display 72. When the actual vehicle moves out of the field of view, the virtual vehicle 80 can be displayed again.

[0038] An operator viewing the virtual model 62 on display unit 64 will see rendered vehicles 80, or virtual vehicles 80, moving along the ride tracks over time, allowing the operator to instantly discern the location of each virtual vehicle 80 within the virtual space 70. This view is more easily translated into the location of each actual vehicle in the anticipated real-world attraction, allowing the operator to more easily monitor the attraction without switching between multiple camera feeds displayed disconnected from the attraction space. Furthermore, since some elements of the virtual model 62 (tracks, walls, loading areas) remain unchanged between different ride cycles, the computational power of this model may be relatively lower than that of a model where each element is rendered from scratch for each ride cycle. However, while some parts of the model may remain relatively static, moving elements of the virtual model (such as virtual vehicles) can be rendered schematically to reduce computational complexity. Moreover, the incorporation of real-time video feeds enhances the information available in the model while maintaining the advantage of relatively lower computational power compared to rendering attraction elements from scratch for each ride cycle.

[0039] In some embodiments, the sensor components can detect a customer device corresponding to a customer and output a customer detection signal to the control system. The customer detection signal may include the detected position of the customer device relative to an amusement park attraction. The control system is configured to receive the customer detection signal position of the customer device and generate a customer avatar 82 in virtual model 62 or virtual space 70. The position of the customer avatar 82 in virtual model 62 may be at least partially based on the detected position of the customer device in the amusement park attraction, such that the customer avatar 82 is positioned in virtual model 62 to represent the position of the customer corresponding to the detected customer device in the actual amusement park attraction. In some embodiments, the form of the customer avatar 82 may be based on instructions stored on a memory device. In some embodiments, the form of the customer avatar 82 may be based on customer identification information associated with the customer device. For example, customer information may indicate that the customer is an adult. Thus, the control system may generate an adult-sized avatar. In other embodiments, the customer avatar 82 may be configured to represent the shape (e.g., a circle, a square, etc.) of the customer corresponding to the detected customer device. Furthermore, as customers move around physical attractions, the position of avatar 82 and / or vehicle 80 in virtual model 62 can be updated based on updated location information.

[0040] As explained above, display unit 64 is configured to display virtual model 62. Display unit 64 may be a computer monitor, television, computer screen, mobile device screen (e.g., cellular phone screen, tablet screen, etc.) or another suitable display unit 64. However, in some embodiments, virtual space 70 is a virtual reality environment. Amusement park attendees can use virtual reality headsets to view virtual model 62 within the virtual reality environment. Attendees can move within the virtual reality environment and view virtual video display 72 positioned within it. Furthermore, attendees can move within the virtual reality environment with six degrees of freedom. In another embodiment, virtual space is an augmented reality environment. Attendees can use augmented reality headsets to view virtual models within the augmented reality environment.

[0041] In some embodiments, amusement park operators can view previously recorded feeds via a virtual video display 72. The operator can rewind, fast-forward, slow down, or pause previously recorded video feeds for a specific virtual video display 72, allowing park personnel to review previous footage from a specific camera location. For example, an amusement park operator may monitor multiple virtual video displays 72 and may not see the incident through a particular display. Reviewing previously recorded feeds at a specific camera location via a virtual video display allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the incident.

[0042] Figure 3This is a perspective view of an embodiment of virtual model 62, which has a virtual video display 72 configured to rotate relative to virtual model 62. Park attendees may wish to view a particular virtual video display (e.g., a first virtual video display 74, etc.) from the current display unit 64 camera orientation (e.g., the position and angle relative to virtual model 62 or virtual space 70 that can be viewed on display unit 64). However, the first virtual video display 74 may not be viewable from the current display unit 64 camera orientation. In some embodiments, the virtual video display 72 (e.g., the first virtual video display 74) may be configured to rotate relative to virtual model 62 in virtual space 70, at least in part, based on input from an input device. For example, park attendees may manually input into the input device to cause the first virtual video display 74 to rotate approximately ninety degrees, making the first virtual video display 74 viewable from the current display unit 64 camera orientation. In some embodiments, the virtual video display 72 may be configured to rotate any number of degrees.

[0043] In another embodiment, the virtual video displays 72 can be configured to automatically rotate so that they align with the camera orientation of the current display unit 64, each of which is viewable from the camera orientation of the current display unit 64 on the display unit 64. The virtual video displays 72 can be configured to automatically update their respective orientations based on changes in the camera orientation of the current display unit 64. Because automatically rotating the virtual video displays 72 allows amusement park personnel to view all virtual video displays 72 simultaneously, it reduces blind spots in the monitoring system for amusement park personnel.

[0044] In some embodiments, the virtual model 62 includes an orientation indicator 84 positioned close to the virtual video display 72. The orientation indicator 84 may be configured to indicate the actual orientation of the camera providing real-time video feed to the virtual video display 72, allowing amusement park personnel to determine the actual orientation of the camera corresponding to the rotating virtual video display 72.

[0045] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a virtual model 62 that is at least partially reoriented based on user input. In the illustrated embodiment, the virtual model 62 is a three-dimensional virtual model, and multiple two-dimensional virtual video displays 72 are positioned relative to the three-dimensional virtual model 62 in virtual space 70 based on the actual position of the camera 26 within the amusement park attractions. The virtual model 62 can be viewed by amusement park personnel via display unit 64. The monitoring system includes a user interface, and the user interface includes display unit 64. Furthermore, the user interface may include at least one input device. The input device may include a keyboard, mouse, joystick, touchpad, or any other suitable input device.

[0046] Park attendants can use at least one input device to reorient the view of the virtual model 62 on display unit 64 (e.g., change the camera orientation of display unit 64). Park attendants can input at least one user-initiated command into at least one input device to reorient the view of the virtual model 62. In some embodiments, the input device may be configured to additionally control the camera position of display unit 64 in virtual space 70. In some embodiments, at least one user-initiated command is configured to control the camera orientation of display unit 64 with six degrees of freedom. That is, at least one user-initiated command is configured to control the forward / backward, up / down, left / right, roll, pitch, and yaw movements of the camera orientation of display unit 64.

[0047] For example, such as Figure 2 As shown, the camera orientation of the first display unit 64 can be such that the camera of the display unit 64 is positioned on a first side of the virtual model 62 and is positioned upwards in the air above the virtual model 62 of the amusement park attraction. The first current display unit camera can be oriented downwards towards the virtual model 62 of the amusement park attraction. In the second display unit 64 camera orientation, as described in this embodiment, the second camera is positioned on a second side of the amusement park attraction and is positioned downwards near the ground surface of the virtual model 62 of the amusement park attraction. Moreover, the second display unit 64 camera is oriented towards the opposite side of the virtual model 62 and towards the first virtual video display 74.

[0048] Park attendants can change the size of the virtual video display 72 via a command initiated by at least one user through at least one input device. For example, park attendants can enlarge the virtual video display 72 for easier viewing. In another example, the first virtual video display 74 can obscure the view of the second virtual video display 86 from the current camera orientation of the display unit 64. Instead of changing the camera orientation of the display unit 64 for a better view of the second virtual video display 86, park attendants can scale down the first virtual video display 74 and / or scale up the second virtual video display 86 so that the second virtual video display 86 is visible from the current camera orientation of the display unit 64. In some embodiments, park attendants can individually change the size of each virtual video display 72. In another embodiment, the size of the virtual video display 72 relative to the virtual model 62 is based at least in part on instructions stored on a memory device, input from an input device, a triggering event, or some combination thereof.

[0049] Furthermore, the rendering of the virtual model 62 and the real-time video feed to the corresponding virtual video display 72 can include level-of-detail rendering, such that the complexity of the portions of the real-time video feed and the virtual model 62 decreases progressively based on the distance from the virtual camera 63. For example, portions of the virtual model 62 positioned closer to the virtual camera 63 can have higher complexity than portions positioned further away. Additionally, real-time video feeds positioned further away from the virtual camera can have lower video resolution, and the video resolution of the real-time video feed can increase as you move closer to the virtual camera 63. Moreover, the proximity of the virtual camera 63 to the virtual video display 72 corresponding to the camera (e.g., a real-world camera) can control the video resolution of the real-time video feed output by the real-world camera. For example, when the virtual camera 63 is positioned close to the virtual video display 72 corresponding to the real-world camera, the real-world camera can capture high-resolution video and output that high-resolution video to the control system. However, as the virtual camera 63 moves away from the virtual video display 72 corresponding to the real-world camera, the real-world camera may degrade the quality of the real-time video feed captured and output by the real-world camera. Reducing the video resolution of some real-world cameras can decrease overall network bandwidth. Furthermore, when the virtual video display 72 corresponding to the respective real-world camera is not within the view of the virtual camera 63, the control system can shut down the real-world camera (e.g., stop capturing video, outputting a real-time video feed, or some combination thereof).

[0050] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of virtual space 70, which has a viewing window 90 configured to display a video feed 92 corresponding to at least one virtual video display 72. The monitoring system can be configured to generate the viewing window 90 to allow amusement park personnel to view the selected video feed 92 in a fixed portion of the display unit 64, independent of the virtual model 62. The viewing window 90 can be configured to remain fixed as amusement park personnel change the camera orientation of the display unit 64 to view different angles or portions of the virtual model 62 of the amusement park attraction. The viewing window 90 can be a separate window or portion of a program window 94 displaying the virtual model 62. The viewing window can have a preset pane 96 configured to receive and display the video feed 92 from the selected virtual video display 72. Amusement park personnel can select the virtual video display 72 via an input device. For example, amusement park personnel can select the virtual video display 72 by clicking on it in the virtual space and dragging it toward the preset pane 96. Based on user-initiated commands, the viewing window 90 can display a video feed 92 corresponding to the virtual video display 72 that has been clicked and dragged to the preset pane 96.

[0051] In some embodiments, the monitoring system may provide an option selectable via an input device to hide the viewing window 90. Furthermore, the monitoring system may include a filtering tool 100. The filtering tool 100 may be configured to selectively toggle / hide at least one or a combination of portions of the virtual video display 72, virtual vehicle 80, customer avatar 82, virtual performance element 98, and virtual model 62 of amusement park attractions. The filtering tool 100 may be a tool for amusement park personnel to selectively simplify the virtual model 62. Additionally, the filtering tool 100 may be a tool configured to adjust the opacity of portions of the virtual video display 72, virtual vehicle 80, customer avatar 82, virtual performance element 98, and virtual model 62 of amusement park attractions, or a combination thereof. The filtering tool 100 may be configured to individually adjust the opacity of the virtual video display 72. In some embodiments, the filtering tool 100 may have a conditional option to automatically adjust the opacity of at least one virtual video display 72 under preset conditions. For example, the filtering tool 100 can be configured to reduce the opacity of the first virtual video display 74 when at least a portion of the second virtual video display 78 is located behind the first virtual video display 74 from the perspective of the virtual camera displayed on the display unit, so that the first virtual video display 74 becomes at least partially transparent, and the second virtual video display 78 can be viewed at least partially through the first virtual video display 74.

[0052] In some embodiments, the user interface includes an audio output device 65. The audio output device 65 is configured to output audio captured by audio input devices distributed throughout the amusement park attractions. As explained above, in some embodiments, the audio input devices are positioned near a corresponding camera. The audio input devices may be configured to capture audio near the camera. In some embodiments, the audio output device 65 is configured to output an audio feed captured by the corresponding audio input device when at least one virtual display corresponding to at least one camera is selected by the input device. For example, clicking on a virtual video display via the input device can cause the audio output device to output sound captured by an audio input device positioned near the camera corresponding to the selected virtual video display, allowing amusement park personnel to hear audio around the amusement park attractions via a monitoring system.

[0053] Figure 6This is a block diagram of an embodiment of the monitoring system 10. The monitoring system 10 includes a control system 16 and a video component 24. The video component 24 is configured to capture real-time video feed data 110 and transmit the real-time video feed data 110 to the control system 16. The video component 24 includes a camera 26. In some embodiments, the camera 26 is configured to output the captured real-time video feed data 110 directly to a controller of the video component. In another embodiment, the camera 26 is configured to output the captured real-time video feed data 110 directly to the control system 16. The control system 16 may include a communication circuitry 112 configured to receive real-time video feed data 110 or real-time image data from the video component 24 or the camera 26. The communication circuit system 112 may include an antenna, radio transceiver circuitry, and signal processing hardware and / or software (e.g., hardware or software filters, A / D converters, multiplexer amplifiers) or combinations thereof, and may be configured to communicate via wireless communication paths such as infrared (IR) wireless communication, satellite communication, broadcast radio, microwave radio, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, UHF, NFC, etc. In one embodiment, the communication circuit system 112 includes multiple IR transceivers located in an amusement park or amusement park attraction.

[0054] The control system 16 may also include a system controller 114 having a system processor 66 and a memory 68. The system processor 66 may include one or more processing means, and the memory 68 may include one or more tangible, non-transitory, machine-readable media. By way of example, such machine-readable media may include RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or optical disc storage devices, magnetic disk storage devices, or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and accessible by the system processor or by other processor-based devices (e.g., mobile devices). In some embodiments, the memory device 68 is configured to store video segments from the real-time video feed data 110. In some embodiments, the memory 68 is configured to store instructions executable by the system processor 66 to output various control system signals. For example, the system processor may execute instructions to generate a virtual model of a predetermined region based on instructions stored on the memory device 68.

[0055] Furthermore, the system processor 66 is configured to generate a virtual video display in the virtual model based on real-time video feed data 110 received from video component 24 and / or camera 26. The system processor 66 may be configured to output the virtual model and virtual video display to the display unit 64 of the user interface 17 via display signal 118. In some embodiments, the system processor 66 is configured to output display signal 118 to the display unit 64 of the user interface 17 via a wired connection. However, in some embodiments, a wireless device may include the display unit 64. Thus, the system processor 66 may be configured to output display signal 118 to the display unit 64 of the user interface 17 via communication circuitry system 112. As explained above, the display unit 64 may include a computer monitor, television, computer screen, mobile device screen (e.g., cellular phone screen, tablet screen, etc.), or another suitable display unit. The display unit 64 is configured to display the virtual model and virtual video display to amusement park personnel in a virtual space.

[0056] User interface 17 may further include input device 120 configured to provide at least one user-initiated command 108 to system processor 66. The at least one user command 108 may include instructions for controlling portions of monitoring system 10. For example, the at least one user command 108 may control the orientation of the camera of display unit 64 relative to display unit 64 in virtual space. In some embodiments, the at least one user command 108 is configured to actuate at least one of cameras 26 to change the orientation of the camera 26 within an amusement park attraction. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the at least one user command 108 may be configured to control a moving camera. For example, a moving camera may include a camera mounted on a drone or a camera mounted on a vehicle. The at least one user command 108 may be configured to control the flight path of at least one drone to view specific portions of an amusement park attraction.

[0057] In some embodiments, the user interface 17 further includes an audio output device 65. The audio output device 65 may be configured to output an audio feed 122 when at least one virtual display corresponding to at least one camera 26 is selected by the input device 120 based on at least a user command. The audio output device 102 may include a speaker or any other suitable audio device for outputting the audio feed.

[0058] In some embodiments, the monitoring system 10 includes a sensor assembly 50, which may include sensors 52 distributed throughout the amusement park attractions. As explained above, the sensors 52 may be configured to detect the position of a vehicle within the amusement park attractions. The sensors 52 and / or the sensor assembly 50 may be configured to output a detection signal 124 of the vehicle to a communication circuitry 112 of the control system 16 of the amusement park attractions. The control system 16 may be configured to receive the detection signal 124 and, at least in part, position a virtual vehicle within a virtual model based on the detected position of the vehicle within the amusement park attractions. In some embodiments, the sensors 52 are configured to output the detection signal 124 to the sensor assembly 50. The sensors 52 may be configured to output the detection signal 124 via a wired or wireless network.

[0059] In some embodiments, the monitoring system 10 includes an audio component 126. The audio component 126 may include at least one audio input device 128 positioned in proximity to at least one camera 26 at an amusement park attraction. The audio input device 128 and / or the audio component 126 may be configured to transmit audio feed 122 to the communication circuitry 112 of the control system 16.

[0060] While only certain features of this disclosure have been described and illustrated herein, many modifications and alterations will occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it will be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and alterations that fall within the true spirit of this disclosure.

[0061] The techniques proposed and claimed herein are referenced and applied to substantial objects and specific examples of practical nature that can arguably improve the technical field and are therefore not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Furthermore, if any claim appended to this specification contains one or more elements designated as “component for [implementing]…[function]” or “step for [implementing]…[function]”, such elements are intended to be interpreted according to 35 USC 112(f). However, for any claim containing elements designated in any other way, such elements are intended not to be interpreted according to 35 U.SC 112(f).

Claims

1. A monitoring system, comprising: A video component comprising at least one camera positioned in a predetermined area around an amusement park attraction and configured to capture and transmit a real-time video feed of a physical location within the predetermined area; A sensor assembly configured to detect the position of a physically moving object in the predetermined area; as well as A control system configured to receive the real-time video feed from the at least one camera and receive the detected position of the physically moving object from the sensor assembly, wherein the control system includes: Memory devices; A processor configured to generate a virtual model of the predetermined region based on instructions stored on the memory device, wherein the processor is configured to incorporate the real-time video feed into the virtual model at a virtual position in the virtual model corresponding to the physical position in the predetermined region when the physical moving object is in the video feed, and wherein the virtual model includes a representation of a virtual moving object corresponding to the physical moving object when the physical moving object is not in the video feed; and A display unit configured to display the virtual model.

2. The monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein, The virtual position corresponds to the field of view of the at least one camera, and wherein the virtual position is configured to be adjusted or moved within the virtual model when the field of view is adjusted by an operator.

3. The monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein, The virtual model includes a three-dimensional virtual model, and the display of the real-time video feed includes a two-dimensional display positioned within the three-dimensional virtual model, such that the real-time video feed is invisible in certain orientations of the virtual model.

4. The monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one camera is configured to capture and output a panoramic real-time video feed, wherein the displayed portion of the panoramic real-time video feed in the virtual model is adjusted based on the orientation of the virtual model.

5. The monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein, The virtual model includes the rendering of virtual attraction tracks, wherein the virtual location is adjacent to the virtual attraction tracks.

6. The monitoring system of claim 1, comprising one or more sensors configured to transmit data indicating the location of one or more moving elements within the predetermined area, and wherein, The control system is configured to update the virtual model based on the position of the one or more moving elements.

7. A monitoring system, comprising: A video component comprising at least one camera positioned in a predetermined area surrounding an amusement park attraction, wherein the at least one camera is configured to capture and output real-time images of physical locations within the predetermined area; Sensor components configured to detect the position of a physically moving object in the predetermined area; and A control system configured to receive the real-time images from the at least one camera and receive the detected position of the physically moving object from the sensor assembly, wherein the control system includes: Memory devices; A processor configured to generate a virtual model of the predetermined region in a virtual space based on instructions stored on the memory device, wherein the processor is configured to incorporate the real-time image into the virtual model at a virtual position in the virtual model corresponding to the physical position in the predetermined region when the physical moving object is in the real-time image, and wherein the virtual model includes a representation of a virtual moving object corresponding to the physical moving object when the physical moving object is not in the real-time image; and User interface, including: A display unit configured to allow the user to display the virtual space; and An input device configured to provide the processor with at least one user-initiated command to control the camera orientation of the at least one camera.

8. The monitoring system according to claim 7, wherein, The commands initiated by the at least one user are configured to control the camera orientation by moving forward and backward, up and down, left and right, rolling, pitching, and yawing.

9. The monitoring system according to claim 7, wherein, The processor is configured to overlay at least one virtual video display onto the virtual space, the at least one virtual video display being configured to rotate relative to the virtual model in the virtual space at least in part based on input from the input device.

10. The monitoring system according to claim 7, wherein, The processor is configured to generate a viewing window, which is configured to display at least one selected virtual video display in a separate portion of the display unit.

11. The monitoring system according to claim 7, wherein, The processor is configured to overlay at least one virtual video display onto the virtual space, the size of the virtual video display relative to the virtual model being at least in part based on instructions stored on the memory device, input from the input device, triggering events, or some combination thereof.

12. The monitoring system according to claim 7, wherein, The processor is configured to overlay at least one virtual video display onto the virtual space, the at least one virtual video display being configured to automatically rotate to align the at least one virtual video display with the camera orientation, such that the virtual video display is viewable on the display unit from multiple camera orientations.

13. The monitoring system of claim 7, further comprising an audio component, the audio component including at least one audio input device positioned close to the at least one camera and configured to transmit real-time audio feeds to the control system.

14. The monitoring system according to claim 13, wherein, The user interface includes an audio output device configured to output a real-time audio output feed when the input device selects the at least one virtual display corresponding to the at least one camera.

15. A monitoring system, comprising: A video component comprising at least one camera located at an amusement park attraction and configured to transmit a real-time video feed of the physical location of the amusement park attraction; A sensor assembly configured to detect the position of a physically moving object in a predetermined area; as well as A control system configured to receive real-time video feeds from the at least one camera and the position of the physically moving object detected from the sensor assembly, wherein the control system includes: Memory devices; A processor configured to generate a virtual model of the amusement park attraction and virtual transportation vehicles set in the virtual model based on instructions stored on the memory device, wherein the processor is configured to incorporate the real-time video feed into the virtual model at a virtual location in the virtual model corresponding to the physical location of the amusement park attraction when the physical moving object is in the video feed, and wherein the virtual model includes a representation of a virtual moving object corresponding to the physical moving object when the physical moving object is not in the video feed; and A display unit configured to display the virtual model.

16. The monitoring system according to claim 15, wherein, The sensor assembly is configured to detect a customer device corresponding to a customer, and the processor is configured to: Receive the location detected by the customer device; An avatar is generated in the virtual model based on instructions stored on the memory device, wherein the position of the avatar in the virtual model is at least partially based on the detected position of the customer device in the amusement park attraction; and The avatar in the virtual model is updated based on the updated location of the customer's device.

17. The monitoring system according to claim 15, wherein, The at least one camera includes a camera mounted on a vehicle within the amusement park attraction, wherein the at least one camera is configured to transmit video feeds of the passenger portion of the vehicle.

18. The monitoring system according to claim 15, wherein, The processor is configured to overlay at least one virtual video display onto a virtual space, the virtual model including a filtering tool configured to selectively switch the display of the at least one virtual video display, the virtual vehicle, an avatar corresponding to a customer, or some combination thereof.

19. The monitoring system according to claim 15, wherein, The processor is configured to overlay at least one virtual video display onto a virtual space, and the control system is configured to update the virtual model so that the virtual vehicle is not displayed within the virtual video display when the location of the vehicle corresponds to the physical location of the amusement park attraction, making the vehicle visible within the virtual video display.

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