Special lighting effects system

Abstract

A special effects system includes: a retroreflection target; an object including one or more light sources disposed at an end of the object, wherein the end of the object is spatially oriented to face the retroreflection target such that light from the one or more light sources is emitted onto the retroreflection target; and a controller communicatively coupled to one or more sensors and one or more light sources, wherein the controller includes a processor configured to adjust the light from the light sources in part based on one or more signals output by the one or more sensors, wherein the signals indicate the position of the object or the condition of the one or more light sources.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefits to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 988,221, filed March 11, 2020, entitled “SPECIAL LIGHT EFFECT SYSTEM,” which is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference for all purposes. Background Technology

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to the field of special effects used in interactive environments, such as gaming environments or amusement parks. More specifically, embodiments of this disclosure relate to a system for producing unintended light effects for customer-controlled devices or handheld devices, such as props or toys.

[0004] In recent years, immersive environments in amusement parks have become more common, generating special effects, props, and media that enhance the customer experience and support specific narratives within the environment. In some immersive environments, it is enjoyable for customers to have their own devices (such as props or toys) that allow them to interact with the environment in various ways. In one example, a customer might expect to use a handheld device to interact with the immersive environment in a manner similar to a favorite movie or game character, generating specific effects that simulate those from the film or game. However, simulating the types of special effects that might be possible in movies and games in the real world is challenging, especially with handheld devices that are relatively small, lightweight, and used in unpredictable and dynamic immersive environments. For example, while lighting effects can be integrated into handheld devices, highly visible special lighting effects that simulate supernatural or unusual lighting can consume a significant amount of power to generate. Therefore, it is now recognized that it is desirable to generate such special lighting effects while using less power. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The following outlines certain embodiments that are proportionate to the scope of the original claimed subject matter. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure, but are merely intended to provide a brief overview of some of the disclosed embodiments. In fact, this disclosure may cover a wide variety of forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.

[0006] According to one embodiment, the system includes: a movable platform having a retroreflective target; a position sensor configured to output a signal indicating the position or gaze of a customer; an object including a light source, wherein the object is positioned within the customer's line of sight; and a controller communicatively coupled to the movable platform and the position sensor. The controller includes a processor configured to: identify the customer's gaze direction at least partially based on the signal; determine, at least partially based on a second signal indicating the customer's position or gaze direction, that a change in the customer's gaze direction has occurred; and, in response to determining that the gaze direction has changed, perform an action to adjust the position of the movable platform.

[0007] According to one embodiment, the system includes: an object in the environment, which includes at least a surface or end oriented toward a retroreflective target; one or more sensors configured to output one or more signals indicating the position of the surface or end of the object; and a controller communicatively coupled to one or more light sources of a projector, wherein the controller includes a processor configured to receive one or more signals output by the one or more sensors and configured to control the projector to project light from the one or more light sources onto the surface or end of the object. Attached Figure Description

[0008] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the invention will become more readily 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:

[0009] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of providing enhanced light effects according to current technology;

[0010] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative embodiment for providing enhanced light effects according to the present technology;

[0011] Figures 3A-3B The illustration shows a perspective view of a special effects component before and during the operation of a light source, based on current technology, where the light source is aligned with a retroreflecting target to produce a halo effect.

[0012] Figures 4A-4B The illustration is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a special effects component before and during the operation of a light source, according to the current technology, wherein the light source is aligned toward a retroreflecting target to produce a halo effect;

[0013] Figures 5A-5B The illustration is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a special effects component before and during the operation of a light source, based on current technology, wherein the light source is set in a prop;

[0014] Figures 6A-6B The illustration is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a special effects component before and during the operation of a light source, based on current technology.

[0015] Figures 7A-7B The illustration is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a special effects component before and during the operation of a light source, according to current technology, wherein the light source is disguised within a set object; and

[0016] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a controller according to the prior art, including properties for adjusting and enhancing light effects. Detailed Implementation

[0017] One or more specific embodiments will be described below. For the purpose of providing a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of the actual implementation are 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 will be nothing more than routine tasks of design, fabrication, and manufacturing.

[0018] When describing the elements of various embodiments of this disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” 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. One or more specific embodiments of the present embodiments described herein will be described below. To provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of the actual implementation may be described in this specification. It should be noted 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, which may vary depending on the implementation, such as compliance with system-related constraints and business-related constraints. Furthermore, it should be noted 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 will be nothing more than routine tasks of design, fabrication, and manufacturing.

[0019] The disclosed embodiments facilitate desired special lighting effects that can be used with objects (e.g., props or toys) in immersive environments. In these embodiments, a special lighting effect may be a glowing tip of a rod (e.g., a halo effect around the tip of a rod) that appears as an enhancement of the normal emitted light generated by a resident light source. When a user points an object (e.g., a rod) at a retroreflecting target with an active light source (e.g., a light-emitting diode) emitting light, the enhanced special lighting effect system described herein is observed. An aura or halo effect generated around the light source can be initiated when the object's light source is oriented toward the retroreflecting target to facilitate light reflection from the retroreflecting material. A bloom or halo effect around the object's light source is generated based on the light reflected from the retroreflecting target when the emitted light is reflected back. In other words, in a special lighting effect system, the object acts to direct light toward the retroreflecting target, and the reflected light is particularly visible around the object's light source in an unexpected way that simulates a supernatural effect. The enhanced lighting effect (i.e., the aura or halo effect) is an enhancement of the light from the light source that the user would observe in the absence of retroreflected light. In this embodiment, compared to the appearance of an active light source in the absence of retroreflected light, there exists a light bloom around the light source that is larger in diameter and / or has enhanced brightness, caused by light reflected from the retroreflective material. In this embodiment, the enhanced light effect is observed as a haze or aura formed around the light source.

[0020] It can be appreciated that the light source of a special effects lighting system can be unidirectional or omnidirectional. When the light source is unidirectional, the halo effect can be seen by the user holding the object within their line of sight, but others outside their line of sight will not see the halo effect. When the light source is omnidirectional, the halo effect can be seen by other nearby observers because, since reflected light is visible around the periphery of the light source, it can be observed from angles other than directly within the line of sight of the reflecting target. The visibility of the halo or aperture effect can be adjusted through different aspects of the special effects lighting system (e.g., the distance between the light source and the reflecting target, the surface of the reflecting target, etc.). It can be appreciated that one or more controllers can be used to achieve these special lighting effects.

[0021] Furthermore, it should be appreciated that although the embodiments of this disclosure are discussed in the context of sticks, toys, or handheld objects, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments can be used with other types of objects. Such objects may include wearable objects, such as clothing, jewelry, bracelets, headwear, and glasses. Additionally, objects may be props or scenic items within an immersive environment. An immersive environment may be the environment of an amusement park, entertainment complex, retail facility, etc.

[0022] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of providing enhanced lighting effects in environment 8 according to current technology. As shown, the enhanced special lighting effects system 10 is used to produce enhanced lighting effects by spatially oriented a light source 14 on the end of an object or toy 16 (e.g., a stick) held by user 18 such that the light source 14 is aligned with a retroreflective target 12. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the retroreflective target 12 is in the form of a planar retroreflective surface forming part of wall 20; however, it will be appreciated that the retroreflective target 12 may also encompass an entire wall or area of ​​the viewpoint and may be planar or non-planar. As will be appreciated, the retroreflective target 12 can reflect light 17 emitted from the light source 14 back toward the stick 16. The reflection of light 17 from the retroreflective target 12 to the user's eye produces a halo effect or aperture effect that appears to be emitted directly from the light source 14, thereby creating an enhanced viewing experience for user 18. In fact, the halo effect is observed when the stick 16 is positioned by user 18 to point the light source 14 in the direction of the retroreflective target 12. It can be recognized that, in this way, the lighting effect is spatially selective. That is, if the light source 14 of rod 16 is not pointed at the retroreflecting target 12, the halo effect will not be produced. Moreover, other light sources present in the immersive environment can be turned off or made inactive to enhance the visibility of the halo effect in conjunction with it.

[0023] It can be appreciated that in the design of immersive environments (e.g., theme park attractions or amusement park attractions), the distance 22 between the user's desired position when viewing a halo effect and the reflective target 12 can be considered. For example, some attractions may include one or more reflective targets 12 to facilitate the generation or viewing of special lighting effects for user 18 upon entering a particular amusement park attraction. That is, a user can carry a stick 16 throughout the amusement park and only experience the noticeable special lighting effect until user 18 enters an area of ​​the amusement park designed to generate the special lighting effect. In a non-limiting example, the entrance to a particular attraction (e.g., a ride) may have one or more reflective targets 12 positioned on (e.g., embedded in) the entrance (e.g., a door or gate). Thus, when user 18 is queuing to enter a particular attraction, user 18 can achieve a halo effect when he points his stick 16 at the entrance (e.g., a door or gate) with the reflective target 12, where the resulting halo effect indicates to the user that he is in the correct position and / or has completed the final steps to enter the particular attraction. In this way, an active halo effect can be used to position a user at a location associated with a distance 22 between the reflective target 12 and the user 18. Once at that location, additional effects can be activated. In another non-limiting example, the special lighting system can be designed to include one or more operable objects. In this example, the user 18 can point his stick 16 at an operable object designed to include the reflective target 12. For example, the reflective target 12 can be exposed when a dragon opens its mouth (e.g., an operable object). When the user is able to point the stick 16 to direct light toward the reflective target 12 in the dragon's mouth, the light is reflected toward the stick 16 by the reflective target 12. Thus, the user 18 experiences an enhanced lighting effect (e.g., a halo effect) around the light source 14 in conjunction with the activation of the operable effect, creating the illusion that the halo effect is caused by the operable effect.

[0024] It can be appreciated that the light source 14 of the rod 16 can be unidirectional, multidirectional, or omnidirectional. In the case where the light source 14 is unidirectional, the halo effect is seen when the rod 16 is directly pointed at the retroreflecting target 12. In other words, the halo effect is generally only seen by the user 18, whose line of sight is directly in line with the retroreflecting target 12 and who receives reflected light from the retroreflecting target 12. In fact, other observers whose line of sight is outside the retroreflecting target's line of sight will not see the halo effect. However, in instances where the light source 14 is multidirectional or omnidirectional, the halo effect can be seen as long as the retroreflecting material of the retroreflecting target 12 is present in the user / observer's line of sight, regardless of the angle at which the rod 16 is held and / or pointed. For example, the retroreflecting target 12 can be implemented as a relatively large surface that is visible in the lines of sight of multiple observers.

[0025] Figure 2This is a further illustration of a schematic diagram of an embodiment for providing enhanced lighting effects according to current technology. As shown, the customer 18 holding the stick 16 sees a halo effect in their line of sight 32A because the light from the light source 14 is reflected from the retroreflective target 12. An observer 30, whose line of sight 32B does not include the retroreflective target 12 but extends to the non-reflective portion 36 of the surface 38, does not see any halo effect. Alternatively, the observer 30 simply sees the activated light source 14 without a halo effect, e.g., an unenhanced lighting effect. In the illustrated embodiment, the retroreflective target 12 is positioned on a movable platform 40 (such as a stand), which is movable along the surface 38 to reposition the retroreflective target 12. Thus, even if the gaze direction changes, the retroreflective target 12 can be repositioned to remain collinear with the user 18's line of sight 32A. The gaze direction of the user 18 and / or the observer 30 can be tracked via a camera 42 or other gaze tracker.

[0026] You can refer to this. Figures 3A-8 To further understand the various properties of special effects lighting systems. Figures 3A-3B The illustration is a perspective view of a special effects component 50 (e.g., a bar) implemented as a handheld object and shown during operation (e.g., activation) of a light source 14 (e.g., a light-emitting diode). As depicted, the special light effects component 50 is positioned facing or oriented toward a retroreflecting target 12. The special light effects component 50 includes a bar 16 and a light source 14 disposed on or within the bar 16. The light source 14 is generally housed on or within a cylindrical portion 52 of the special light effects component 50. The cylindrical portion 52 is coupled to a cap assembly 54, which includes a cap 56 and a lens mount 58. Figure 3A As shown, lens mount 58 holds lens 60 through which light 62 from light source 14 passes, and lens 60 disperses light 62 as it is emitted. The arrangement of light source 14 relative to rod 16 or other housings can be selected to emit light 60 within a selected range, such that the directionality of the light is narrower or wider depending on the desired use in system 10.

[0027] Although the light source 14 illustrated herein is understood to be a light-emitting diode (LED), it is understood that the light source 14 can be any suitable light source used to produce the illumination effect, such as fiber optic cables, pyrotechnic devices, or chemical devices. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that in some embodiments, the user 18 does not need to utilize any other power source in conjunction with the light source 14 (e.g., an LED) in the rod 16 to experience the halo effect. The light source 14 can be powered via a battery, wireless power transmission (e.g., UHF), etc.

[0028] The intensity of the halo effect within the user 18's line of sight depends on the size and placement of the retroreflective target 12, the size and intensity of the light source 14, the distance between the light source 14 and the retroreflective target 12, and the surface of the retroreflective target 12 (e.g., surface texture), as well as other factors. In a non-limiting example, the reflection of the light source 14 can be manipulated by altering the surface texture of the retroreflective target 12. As will be appreciated, the retroreflective sheet or target 12 can utilize reflective targets (such as retroreflective glass beads, microprisms, or encapsulated lenses sealed to a fabric or plastic substrate) to achieve its reflective properties. Accordingly, the reflected light can be further diffused by setting additional reflective targets to increase the reflective surface between the retroreflective glass beads, microprisms, or encapsulated lenses by scattering or reflecting light in multiple directions.

[0029] In another non-restrictive example, such as Figure 3B As shown, the intensity of the halo effect can be adjusted based on the distance 70 between the special effects component 50 and the retroreflecting target 12. In fact, Figure 3B The illustration shows that the smaller the distance 70 between the light source 14 and the retroreflected target 12, the brighter the halo effect. When the distance 70 between the light source 14 and the retroreflected target 12 increases, the halo effect will be smaller and less intense because the reflected light will have a greater diffusion distance.

[0030] Now go to Figures 4A-4B The illustration shows an alternative embodiment of the special effects component 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the light source 14 is located outside the rod 16. When the light source 14 is positioned separate from and outside the barrel 52, the special effects component 50 utilizes a reflector 80 or an emitting film or coating to achieve the desired halo effect. In another embodiment, a phosphor coating or phosphorite coating may be used to achieve the desired halo effect. In the illustrated embodiment, the special effects component 50 includes a cap 56 coupled to a reflector mount 78. The reflector 80 may be disposed on the reflector mount 78. The reflector mount 78 may be in the form of a mirror sphere, a faceted mirror sphere, or any other suitable reflector. However, it should be understood that other arrangements are contemplated.

[0031] like Figure 4A As shown, the light source 14 is positioned to emit light onto the reflector 80, as illustrated by arrow 82. The light is then reflected by the reflector 80 toward the retroreflecting target 12, as illustrated by arrow 84. It can be appreciated that the light source 14 can be positioned such that the light is aimed at the reflector 80, but not directly at the eye of the user 18, where the reflector 80 is located at the end 86 of the rod (or at other surfaces or ends of the rod 16 that include the reflector 80 oriented toward the retroreflecting target 12). Figure 4BThe light is depicted reflecting back towards reflector 80, as illustrated by arrow 88. As the light reflects towards reflector 80, the halo effect is observed again by user 18. Light source 14 can be a laser source, such as a laser projector, that tracks the position of one or more rod ends 86 within the environment. This tracking can be performed by a camera (e.g., camera 42) capturing the environment 8 and any rod ends 86 located within that environment. Figure 2 This is achieved by directing external light from light source 14 onto one or more bar ends 86 of the target, allowing only one bar 16 or a subset of bars 16 to be illuminated and display a halo effect. Furthermore, external light source 14 can project different colors of light onto individual bar ends 86 to achieve halo effects of different colors. In one example, this illumination may be based on other customer tracking information captured by environmental sensors (such as voice recognition or voice location used to indicate that a particular customer 18 has spoken the correct password), or on customer location or customer interaction with the environment. In another example, the illumination may be based on customer or bar identification (e.g., camera-based identification features matching the bar and / or customer profile).

[0032] Although this disclosure has focused on the light source 14 reflected in the rod-shaped device, it will be appreciated that the light source 14 can be placed in any other suitable object or arrangement, as referenced. Figures 5A-7B Further discussion is needed.

[0033] Figures 5A-5B The illustration shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a special effects component during the operation of a light source (e.g., a light-emitting diode), wherein the light source 14 is placed in or hidden within an object (e.g., a prop). In the illustrated embodiment, the object concealing the light source represents a stage prop 90. The stage prop can be any type of prop in which the luminous effect is desired (e.g., a diamond, a rainbow, a golden pot, a door, a gate to heaven, etc.). To facilitate the desired halo effect, the stage prop can be equipped with a cutout or container 92 for receiving a lens 60. The container can vary in size depending on how large the desired halo effect should be. By utilizing a larger container, one or more lenses 60 can be used to achieve a larger halo effect for a large object (such as a stage prop). Figure 5A The example illustration shows a prop with a lens 60 and a corresponding container 92 with a central portion 94 covering the prop 90. When the light source 14 is reflected, a halo effect generated by the reflection of light from the retroreflecting target 12 creates a halo effect around the central portion 94 (from which the lens 60 directs the light), as if... Figure 5A Arrow 96 is shown in the image. In contrast, Figure 5BThe example illustration shows a prop with a lens 60 and a corresponding container 92 on a portion 98 of a covering prop 90. Here, when the light source 14 is reflected, a halo effect generated by the reflection of light from the retroreflecting target 12 is produced around the portion 98, as if by... Figure 5B As indicated by arrow 100 in the image.

[0034] It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, the retroreflection target (e.g., retroreflection target 12 as provided herein) may include a diffraction grating. The diffraction grating can help shape the halo effect by controlling the pattern of light reflection when light is reflected from the retroreflection target 12 to produce a halo effect by splitting and dispersing the light into additional beams. The diffraction grating may include a repeating pattern embedded within the grating itself. The grating may be manufactured by depositing one or more coatings (e.g., a metallic coating) onto the retroreflection target to create ridges in the retroreflection target 12. Thus, when light is reflected from the ridges, the light is reflected at different angles to produce different shapes.

[0035] Figures 6A-6B The illustration shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a special effects assembly during the operation of a light source (e.g., a light-emitting diode). In the illustrated embodiment, the stage prop 90 includes at least one light source 14. Between the light source 14 and a lens 60, one or more translucent sheets 89 of suitable materials of different colors (e.g., tape, paper, plastic film, etc.) are disposed along a portion 91 of the prop 90. When light is emitted through the lens 60, the light passes through the one or more translucent sheets 89 of different colored materials. When the light source 14 is reflected from a retroreflection target 12, the reflected light produces a halo effect around the lens 60. Different colored halo effects can be produced depending on where the light is reflected along the lens 60. In practice, as shown... Figure 6B The halo effect shown, which appears near the first translucent sheet 89A (e.g., blue), may differ from the halo effect shown near the second translucent sheet 89B (e.g., red). Different colored halo effects can be observed depending on the customer's viewing angle.

[0036] Figures 7A-7B The illustration is a perspective view of a special effects assembly during the operation of a light source 14 (e.g., a light-emitting diode) according to current technology, where the light source is disguised within a set object (e.g., a shawl 200). For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the light source 14 could be constructed into the actor's shawl 200 using a light source sewn into textiles, electroluminescent fabric, or any other suitable light source. In some instances, the light source 14 may be invisible to the audience when the actor's back is away from the audience. When the light source 14 is reflected from a retroreflective target 12 behind the actor, although the audience may not see the light source 14, they can observe an aura or halo effect while looking at the actor.

[0037] It will be appreciated that the light source 14 can be located on other parts of the actor's costume (e.g., shoes, hat, halo 202, etc.). For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the actor's halo 202 may include a separate light source 14, so that an aura or glow effect can be observed around the actor's halo 202. It will be appreciated that a cluster of light 14 can accumulate in a specific area of ​​the actor's costume (e.g., halo, shawl, etc.) to increase the glow effect around that specific area. For example, the glow effect around the halo can be activated by turning on the light source 14 of the halo 202 when the actor enters the gates of heaven, thereby illuminating the halo when the actor is allowed to enter heaven. In some embodiments, the light sources 14 located in different areas can be controlled independently of each other. For example, the light source 14 on the actor's shawl 200 may have a different power supply than the light source 14 on the halo 202. Thus, the set designer can configure the light source 14 of the halo to be turned on at different times or flash on and off at different intervals compared to the light source 14 of the shawl. You can refer to this. Figure 8 To further understand the control of the light-gathering effect.

[0038] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of controlled enhanced lighting effects according to the present technology. It will be appreciated that various aspects of the special lighting effects system 10 can be controlled via one or more controllers 302. One or more controllers 302 may include a display 304, a storage device 306 for storing instructions executable by a processor 308 to perform the methods and control actions described herein. The processor 308 may include one or more processing devices, and the memory 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 disk storage devices, magnetic disk storage devices, or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and is accessible by a processor.

[0039] It will be appreciated that various properties of the special lighting effects system 10 can be controlled using one or more controllers 302, including but not limited to: actuating one or more objects containing one or more retroreflective targets 12, the speed or movement of the retroreflective targets 12, generating surface textures on the retroreflective targets 12, droplet atomization to increase the diffusion of reflected light, or various colored light sources, and other aspects. Additionally, the system can receive input from one or more sensors 310 (such as customer position sensors, audio sensors, cameras, or optical or radio frequency communicators), which in turn are used to activate the light source 14 and / or reposition the retroreflective targets 12 via movement of the movable platform 40. For example, the controller 302 can wirelessly communicate with an object (e.g., a rod 16) to cause the light source 14 to activate based on a specific user 18 achieving a target or being positioned in a specific location in the environment. The controller 302 can communicate electronically (e.g., wired or wirelessly 314) with the target 12, object 16, platform 40, camera 42, or any other sensor containing the special effects lighting system 10 via one or more communication channels (e.g., wireless communication channel 314). The controller 302 can then adjust or control the target 12, object 16, platform 40, camera 42, or any other sensor containing the special effects lighting system 10, as explained in more detail below.

[0040] As may be appreciated, target 12, object or rod 16, platform 40, and camera 42 may each include one or more sensors 310 for detecting one or more operating conditions of the environment. Sensors 310 may each be coupled to transmitter 312. Transmitter 312 may convert sensor data (e.g., operating condition data) detected by one or more sensors 310 into signals and transmit the signals to controller 302.

[0041] Each of the target 12, object or rod 16, platform 40, and camera 42 may each include a power source 303. The operating conditions detected by the rod sensor 310 are explained by way of example using various electrical components (e.g., circuitry) disposed in the rod 16. In one embodiment, electrical circuitry can be used to control the light source 14. For example, when switch 305 is toggled to the "on" position, power from the power source 303 is allowed to flow through the circuitry and forward to the light source 14 to turn it on. It will be appreciated that other objects 16 (such as props) can be activated within system 10 in a similar manner (e.g., via switch 305 and power source 303 for props).

[0042] In another example, various electrical components (e.g., circuitry) located within platform 40 are used to interpret the operating conditions detected by platform sensor 310. In response to the sensor output, power supply 303 (e.g., a battery) of platform 40 can be activated to operate driver 315 of platform 40. Driver 315 can then activate motor 318 to actuate platform 40. Similarly, retroreflective target 12 can be driven along platform 40 itself. In effect, retroreflective target 12 can utilize its own circuitry to interpret the operating conditions output by retroreflective target sensor 310. In this way, power supply 303 of retroreflective target 12 can be used to operate driver 315 of target 12, which can then activate motor 318 to actuate target 12 along platform 40. It will be appreciated that camera 42 can be moved within system 10 in a similar manner (via its own power supply 303 and driver 315).

[0043] One or more controllers 302 can be used to control the first set of light sources 14 of the special effects lighting system 10 to turn on at different times, flash at different intervals, or emit light at an intensity different from that of the second set of light sources 14 compared to the second set of light sources 14. In some embodiments, one or more controllers can be used to activate the light sources 14 in a specific sequence, so that an aura effect is experienced in a specific order (e.g., first a glow appears near the actor's shawl, and then another glow appears near the actor's aura, etc.).

[0044] One or more controllers can also be used to control the actuation of one or more objects containing bounce targets throughout the amusement park. Various objects throughout the amusement park can accommodate bounce targets 12. As discussed above, entrances to specific attractions (e.g., rides) can have one or more bounce targets embedded in the entrance (e.g., a door or gate). Thus, when user 18 is queuing to enter a specific attraction, user 18 can achieve a halo effect when he points his stick 16 at an entrance (e.g., a door or gate) with bounce targets 12, where the resulting halo effect indicates to the user that he is in the correct position and / or has completed the final steps to enter the specific attraction. It will be appreciated that bounce targets 12 can be placed in any number of suitable actuable objects.

[0045] It can be appreciated that one or more controllers 302 can be used to control the movement of the retroreflector 12. In one embodiment, the retroreflector 12 can be positioned on a platform 40, which is controlled by the controllers 302 to move the retroreflector 12. The platform 40 can be moved in one or more directions, in different modes (for simulating a moving target), and at different speeds to make the movement correlated with the beat of a song being played, etc. In this way, the user 18 can experience a challenge when trying to point his stick 16 at the retroreflector 12 to achieve a glowing or halo effect. In another embodiment, one or more controllers 302 can adjust the position of the retroreflector 12 on the movable platform 40 based on customer tracking information captured by sensors in the environment (such as sound location indicating the location of a particular customer 18 in a specific area). Additionally, one or more controllers 302 can adjust the position of the retroreflector 12 on the movable platform 40 to remain collinear with the user 18's line of sight 32A even if the gaze direction changes. As discussed above, the gaze direction of user 18 and / or observer 30 can be tracked via one or more cameras 42 or other gaze trackers.

[0046] One or more controllers 302 can be used to generate surface texture on the retroreflection target 12 in a manner that allows light to be reflected from the target 12. This can be achieved by spraying a texturer onto the target 12, placing additional reflective beads or prisms on the retroreflection target 12, or any other suitable method to produce the desired light effect. As discussed above, the reflected light can be further diffused by placing additional reflective targets to increase the reflective surface between retroreflection beads, microprisms, or encapsulated lenses by scattering or reflecting light in multiple directions.

[0047] In another embodiment, one or more controllers may provide a droplet mist or spray between the light source and the retroreflection target 12 to adjust the diffusion of reflected light. By providing mist, the reflected light is scattered to reduce the amount of light directly reflected to the light source, thereby reducing the luminous effect. Finally, it will be appreciated that one or more light sources 14 may include more than one colored light source. In some embodiments, one or more controllers may be used to change from one color to another, alternate between colors, or illuminate certain colors for a specific amount of time, in a specific sequence, or in response to the fulfillment of specific conditions. In another embodiment, one or more controllers may be combined with a Pepper's Ghost effect that allows the light source 14 and / or the retroreflection target 12 to be outside the field of vision of the customer 18, such that the halo effect is visible only via reflections from glass positioned at a suitable angle (e.g., 45 degrees) to achieve the desired Pepper's Ghost effect.

[0048] While only certain features of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and alterations will occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it is to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and alterations that fall within the true spirit of this disclosure.

[0049] 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 “means for [performing]…[function]” or “steps for [performing]…[function]”, such elements are intended to be interpreted in accordance with 35 USC 112(f). However, for any claim containing elements designated in any other way, such elements are intended not to be interpreted in accordance with 35 USC 112(f).

Claims

1. A special effects lighting system configured to generate a halo effect, the special effects lighting system comprising: One or more sensors configured to output one or more signals; Redirecting the target; An object comprising one or more light sources disposed at an end of the object, wherein the end of the object is spatially oriented toward the retroreflection target, such that light from the one or more light sources is emitted onto the retroreflection target, and wherein the retroreflection target is configured to receive the light from the one or more light sources and is configured to reflect the light received from the one or more light sources back toward the object, such that the reflected light creates an aperture effect or halo effect around the one or more light sources. as well as A controller, communicatively coupled to the one or more sensors and the one or more light sources, wherein the controller includes a processor configured to: Receive the one or more signals output by the one or more sensors; as well as The light emitted from the one or more light sources is adjusted in part based on the one or more signals output by the one or more sensors, wherein the one or more signals output by the one or more sensors indicate the position of the object, the condition of the one or more light sources, or a combination thereof.

2. The special effects lighting system according to claim 1, wherein the one or more light sources include light-emitting diodes.

3. The special effects lighting system of claim 1, wherein the one or more signals output by the one or more sensors indicate the position of the individual holding the object or the gaze direction of the individual holding the object.

4. The special effects lighting system according to claim 1, wherein the object is a toy, prop, or wearable device.

5. The special effects lighting system according to claim 1, wherein the one or more sensors are disposed on or in the object.

6. The special effects lighting system of claim 1, wherein the one or more sensors are positioned in the environment surrounding the object.

7. The special effects lighting system of claim 6, wherein one or more signals indicate the position of the light source within the environment.

8. The special effects light system of claim 1, wherein the one or more sensors are coupled to a retroreflection target or a movable platform.

9. The special effects lighting system of claim 8, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the speed or movement of the retroreflected target or the movable target.

10. The special effects lighting system of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to illuminate the first light source of the one or more light sources independently of the second light source of the one or more light sources, in part based on the signal received by the one or more sensors.

11. A special effects lighting system, comprising: A mobile platform, which includes a return target; A position sensor configured to output a signal indicating the customer's position or line of sight; An object, including a light source, wherein the object is positioned within the customer's line of sight; as well as A controller, communicatively coupled to the movable platform and the position sensor, wherein the controller includes a processor configured to: The customer's gaze direction is identified at least in part based on the signal; The change in the customer's gaze direction is determined, at least in part, based on a second signal indicating the customer's location or the customer's gaze. as well as In response to determining that the gaze direction has changed, an action is performed to adjust the position of the movable platform.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the velocity of the retroreflected target.

13. The system of claim 11, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the position of the movable platform based on the second signal, such that the object and the movable platform are within the customer's line of sight.

14. The system of claim 11, wherein the object is a stick or a wearable object.

15. The system of claim 11, wherein the light source comprises a light-emitting diode.

16. The system of claim 11, wherein the object is not illuminated when the movable platform is out of the customer's line of sight.

17. A special effects lighting system configured to generate a halo effect, comprising: An object in the environment, comprising at least a surface or end oriented toward a retroreflecting target, wherein the surface or end includes a reflector; One or more sensors configured to output one or more signals indicating the position of the surface or end of the object; as well as A controller communicatively coupled to one or more sensors and one or more light sources of a projector, wherein the controller includes a processor configured to receive one or more signals output by the one or more sensors and configured to control the projector to project light from the one or more light sources onto the surface or end of the object, and wherein the retroreflection target is configured to receive the light from the reflector of the object and configured to reflect the light received from the reflector back toward the reflector, such that the reflected light amplifies the projected light to create a special light effect at the location of the reflector.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the one or more light sources are laser light sources, and wherein the projector is a laser projector.

19. The system of claim 17, wherein the controller is configured to select the color of the projected light based on identification information of the object or a customer holding the object.

20. The system of claim 17, wherein the object is a rod, and wherein the surface or end comprises a reflector.

21. A special effects lighting system configured to generate a halo effect, comprising: Redirecting the target; An object in the environment, comprising at least a surface or end oriented toward a retroreflecting target, wherein the surface or end includes a reflector; One or more sensors configured to output one or more signals indicating the position of the surface or end of the object; One or more light sources for a projector, wherein the one or more light sources are laser light sources, and wherein the projector is a laser projector; as well as A controller communicatively coupled to the one or more sensors and the one or more light sources of the projector, wherein the controller includes a processor configured to receive the one or more signals output by the one or more sensors and configured to control the projector to project light from the one or more light sources onto a reflector on the surface or end of the object, and wherein the retroreflection target is configured to receive the light from the reflector of the object and configured to reflect the light received from the reflector back toward the reflector, such that the reflected light amplifies the projected light to create a special light effect at the location of the reflector.

22. The system of claim 21, wherein the controller is configured to select the color of the projected light based on identification information of the object or a customer holding the object.

23. The system of claim 21, wherein the object is a rod.

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