System and method for adjusting operation of an attraction system

Abstract

An attraction system for guest entertainment includes a millimeter wave (mmWave) sensor configured to transmit a signal within the attraction system and receive a reflection of the signal and a control system communicatively coupled to the mmWave sensor. The mmWave sensor is configured to transmit data to the control system based on the reflection of the signal and the control system is configured to perform operations including determining a target operation of the attraction system based on the data received from the mmWave sensor and operating the attraction system based on the target operation.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and interest in U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 067,700, filed August 19, 2020, entitled “System and Method for Adjusting the Operation of a Sightseeing System,” which is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference for all purposes. Background Technology

[0003] This section aims to introduce the reader to various technical aspects that may relate to the various aspects of this disclosure. This discussion is considered helpful in providing the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of this disclosure. Therefore, it should be noted that these statements should be read in this context, rather than as an admission of prior art.

[0004] Amusement parks typically comprise a variety of attractions that offer unique experiences to customers. For example, an amusement park can include a variety of rides and shows. As technology has continuously improved, such attractions have become more sophisticated and complex. There has been a corresponding increase in expectations regarding the quality of entertainment at these attractions. Therefore, there is a need for improved and more creative attractions. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The following section sets forth a summary of some embodiments disclosed herein. It should be noted that these aspects are merely presented to provide the reader with a brief overview of these embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. In fact, this disclosure may include a wide variety of aspects that may not be set forth below.

[0006] In one embodiment, an attraction system for customer entertainment includes a millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor configured to transmit signals within the attraction system and receive reflections of those signals, and a control system communicatively coupled to the mmWave sensor. The mmWave sensor is configured to transmit data to the control system based on signal reflections, and the control system is configured to perform operations including determining a target operation of the attraction system based on data received from the mmWave sensor and operating the attraction system based on the target operation.

[0007] In one embodiment, a tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium includes executable instructions that, when executed by a processing circuitry system, cause the processing circuitry system to operate in relation to a scenic spot system. The operation includes: receiving data from a millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor, wherein the data indicates parameters associated with the scenic spot system; determining a target operation for the scenic spot system based on the data received from the mmWave sensor; and operating the scenic spot system based on the target operation.

[0008] In one embodiment, an attraction system for customer entertainment includes: a first millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor configured to transmit a first signal within the attraction system and receive reflections of the first signal; a second mmWave sensor configured to transmit a second signal within the attraction system and receive reflections of the second signal; and a control system communicatively coupled to both the first and second mmWave sensors. The first mmWave sensor is configured to transmit first data to the control system based on reflections of the first signal, the second mmWave sensor is configured to transmit second data based on reflections of the second signal, and the control system is configured to perform operations including determining a target operation of the attraction system based on the first data, the second data, or both, and operating the attraction system based on the target operation. Attached Figure Description

[0009] 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:

[0010] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a scenic spot system having an adjustment control system configured to operate the scenic spot system based on data transmitted by a millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor, according to aspects of this disclosure;

[0011] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a scenic spot system having an adjustment control system configured to operate the scenic spot system based on data transmitted by mmWave sensors, according to aspects of this disclosure;

[0012] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a scenic spot system having a scenic spot control system configured to adjust the operation of the scenic spot system using edge computing, according to aspects of this disclosure; and

[0013] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method or process for operating a scenic spot system based on data transmitted by an mmWave sensor, according to aspects of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0014] 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 from implementation to implementation, such as compliance with system-related constraints and business-related constraints. Furthermore, it should be noted that such development work may be complex and time-consuming, but for those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure, such development work will be nothing more than a routine task of design, fabrication, and manufacturing.

[0015] This disclosure relates to an attraction system, such as an attraction system for an amusement park. The attraction system may include a control system configured to detect certain parameters associated with the attraction system and operate the attraction system based on such parameters. As an example, the control system may adjust operations to provide a more unique or personalized experience for customers of the amusement park. For example, the attraction system may use sensors configured to monitor data indicating customer reactions, customer physical profiles, customer accessories, etc. The control system may receive data from the sensors and may adjust certain aspects of the entertainment operation based on the data, such as by changing the visual effects, audio effects, and / or other features presented to the customer. Furthermore, the control system may associate certain operations and / or operation settings of the attraction system with specific customers for later use. For example, the control system may store user profiles that associate specific operations of the attraction system with stored data associated with customers, and when it is determined that detected data matches stored data associated with a user profile (e.g., to indicate that a customer has been detected in the attraction system), the control system may refer to the user profile to operate the attraction system according to the corresponding operation associated with the user profile.

[0016] Specifically, attraction systems can employ millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensors (e.g., mmWave radar) to collect data. As used herein, mmWave sensors continuously transmit signals with a wavelength of millimeters (mm). These signals can be reflected from objects back to the mmWave sensor. The mmWave sensor then determines the characteristics of each signal returned to and received by the mmWave sensor, such as amplitude, return time, etc. Based on the characteristics of the returned signals, the mmWave sensor can determine parameters of the objects, such as the object's position within the attraction system, the object's texture, the object's size, the object's speed, etc., and the mmWave sensor can transmit this data, including the parameters, to the control system. The control system can then adjust the operation of the attraction system based on the parameters indicated by the data. The signals transmitted by the mmWave sensor can penetrate certain materials based on their wavelength and / or frequency. For this reason, mmWave sensors can be embedded or hidden within objects (such as props in the attraction system) and can be invisible to customers, thereby enhancing the immersive experience offered to customers. In one embodiment, the attraction system may implement an mmWave sensor configured to emit signals with specific wavelengths and / or frequencies, enabling the signals to have a specific penetration depth and allowing the mmWave sensor to detect parameters of specific objects (e.g., exposed objects, hidden objects). As an example, the mmWave sensor may emit signals that can penetrate clothing materials (e.g., fabric) to detect a customer's skin texture, additional accessories worn by the customer (e.g., bracelets), etc. As another example, the mmWave sensor may emit signals that do not penetrate clothing materials to detect specific clothing worn by the customer. In practice, multiple mmWave sensors, each configured to transmit corresponding signals with different wavelengths and / or frequencies, can be used to detect parameters of multiple different objects to facilitate adjustments to the operation of the attraction system via a control system.

[0017] Considering the preceding text, Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an attraction system 50, which may be part of an amusement park. For example, the attraction system 50 may include roller coasters, interactive games, theatrical performances, another suitable type of attraction system, or any combination thereof. The attraction system 50 may include an attraction control system 52 (e.g., an electronic controller) configured to control the operation of certain features of the attraction system 50. For this purpose, the attraction control system 52 may include a memory 54 and a processing circuitry system 56, such as a microprocessor. The memory 54 may include one or more of the following: volatile memory (such as random access memory (RAM)) and / or non-volatile memory (such as read-only memory (ROM), optical disc drives, hard disk drives, solid-state drives) or any other tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium including executable instructions for operating the attraction system 50. The processing circuitry system 56 may include one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or any combination thereof configured to execute instructions stored in the memory 54.

[0018] For example, the attraction control system 52 can control the operation of various entertainment effects 58 of the attraction system 50. Entertainment effects 58 may include visual effects presented to the customer 62, such as lighting, projection, images, etc. Entertainment effects 58 may additionally or alternatively include audio effects 64 presented to the customer 62, such as sound. Entertainment effects 58 may also include the operation of certain props 66. As an example, the attraction control system 52 can control the movement of certain electromechanical figures (e.g., robots), the positioning of certain objects, etc. As another example, props 66 may include interactive features that the customer 62 can interact with. For example, props 66 may include microphones or audio sensors, and the attraction control system 52 can adjust the functionality of the microphones or audio sensors based on data (e.g., data associated with the customer 62's voice), such as by changing the volume of audio playback. In this way, the attraction control system 52 can adjust the interactive experience of the customer 62.

[0019] The attraction control system 52 can further control the sending of certain notifications 68. For example, in an embodiment, the attraction system 50 can send notification 68 to customer 62 (e.g., to customer 62's mobile device) to provide supplementary information associated with the attraction system 50, such as providing a narration consistent with the operation of the attraction system 50. Notification 68 can provide customer 62 with methods for interacting with and / or guiding customer 62 through the attraction system 50. Alternatively or additionally, the attraction control system 52 can send such notification 68 to different entities, such as operators, staff, and / or technicians of the attraction system 50. By way of example, notification 68 can prompt someone to manually adjust one of the entertainment effects 58 to change the performance (e.g., to notify performers of a new script) or otherwise alter the operation of the attraction system 50. In any case, the attraction control system 52 may adjust its operation to alter the entertainment offered to customer 62, such as by changing the theme or story, the target level of excitement or other emotions evoked or induced in customer 62, and / or by another aspect of the attraction control system 52, in order to provide customer 62 with a more unique, personalized, or interactive experience.

[0020] Although this disclosure primarily discusses an attraction control system 52 that operates to control the visual effects 60, audio effects 64, props 66, and notifications 68 associated with attraction system 50, additional or alternative attraction control systems 52 may be configured to control another feature of attraction system 50. For example, attraction system 50 may include a vehicle, and attraction control system 52 may adjust the travel path of the vehicle (e.g., along a track) based on detected parameters. In practice, attraction system 50 may adjust any suitable feature of attraction system 50 to provide the desired experience to customer 62.

[0021] The attraction control system 52 can be communicatively coupled to one or more mmWave sensors 70 and can operate based on data received from the mmWave sensors 70(one or more). Each mmWave sensor 70 can both transmit and detect signals. Therefore, each mmWave sensor 70 represents at least one transmitter and at least one detector. Although Figure 1 The nmWave sensor 70 illustrated in the figure includes an integrated transmitter and detector, but in some embodiments, the transmitter and detector may be separate.

[0022] The illustrated embodiment includes a first mmWave sensor 70A and a second mmWave sensor 70B, each of which can transmit corresponding signals with different wavelengths and / or frequencies to penetrate different materials and provide readings of various parameters (e.g., associated with customer 62). For example, the first mmWave sensor 70A can be configured to transmit a first signal 71A that does not penetrate certain materials (e.g., having a frequency between 60 and 90 GHz). By way of example, the first signal 71A may not penetrate certain objects associated with customer 62, such as clothing 72 worn by customer 62, headwear 74 worn by customer 62, facial accessories (e.g., glasses) 76 associated with customer 62, items 78 owned (e.g., held) by customer 62, etc. In other words, the first signal 71A can be reflected from such objects back to the first mmWave sensor 70A for detection by the first mmWave sensor 70A. Furthermore, the second mmWave sensor 70B can be configured to transmit a second signal 71B (e.g., having a frequency between 90 GHz and 300 GHz), which penetrates objects through which the first signal 71A cannot. As an example, the second signal 71B can penetrate clothing 72 and can be reflected from the body of customer 62 (such as from skin, temporary tattoos, stickers, markings, or any other feature on or including the skin of customer 62). The second signal 71B can also, alternatively, be reflected from a hidden object 80 (e.g., located within clothing 72 of customer 62, such as in a pocket of customer 62).

[0023] In any case, the mmWave sensor 70 can detect various parameters associated with the customer 62 based on the reflection of the corresponding signal 71, and the mmWave sensor 70 can transmit data indicating the parameters to the attraction control system 52. In practice, the attraction system 50 can include any suitable number of mmWave sensors 70, such as a single mmWave sensor 70 or multiple mmWave sensors 70. For example, the attraction system 50 can use a matrix, cascade, or array of mmWave sensors 70 to provide multiple readings of objects at various depths and / or multiple readings of objects at the same depth to facilitate improved accuracy of the determined parameters. That is, the matrix of mmWave sensors 70 is configured to detect multiple layers by cascading the transmitted signals. The matrix of mmWave sensors 70 can thus provide the attraction control system 52 with data associated with said layers, and the attraction control system 52 can operate the attraction system 50 based on the data received from the matrix of mmWave sensors 70.

[0024] In an embodiment, the attraction control system 52 can identify specific clothing 72 and / or accessories associated with customer 62 based on data transmitted by mmWave sensor 70 (e.g., from first mmWave sensor 70A). As used herein, clothing 72 and / or accessories associated with customer 62 can be collectively referred to as costumes 73. The attraction control system 52 can therefore operate the attraction system 50 to provide entertainment for customer 62 based on the costumes 73 associated with customer 62. As an example, the attraction system 50 may include a collection of various costumes 73 that customer 62 can choose from, and the attraction control system 52 may be pre-programmed to operate the attraction system 50 based on the identification of any costume 73. That is, the attraction control system 52 can identify a specific costume 73 selected by customer 62 based on data received from mmWave sensor 70, and the attraction control system 52 can operate based on the identified costume 73 to provide a particularly themed narrative. For example, in response to identifying headwear 74 as a crew hat, the attraction control system 52 can control entertainment effect 58 to provide a nautical narrative. Additionally, in response to identifying face accessory 76 as including sunglasses, the attraction control system 52 can control the entertainment effect 58 to provide a tropical narrative. Furthermore, in response to identifying item 78 as a sword, the attraction control system 52 can control the entertainment effect 58 to provide a combat-related narrative. In fact, the attraction control system 52 can control the entertainment effect 58 to operate the attraction system 50 based on any of the various garments 73 (e.g., tops, trousers, shorts, dresses, scarves, masks, eye masks, headwear). In this way, the attraction control system 52 can provide an experience based on choices made by the customer 62, thereby offering a more customized experience for the customer 62.

[0025] The attraction control system 52 may additionally or alternatively provide or be able to implement other aspects of the attraction system 50 based on the identified clothing 73. By way of example, the facial accessory 76 may include a media viewer, such as 3D glasses and / or augmented reality headsets that can be optionally selected or worn by the customer 62. Thus, the attraction control system 52 may receive data instructing the media viewer and for providing media corresponding to the media viewer. As an example, the attraction control system 52 may provide 3D images (e.g., an offset image of the appearance of depth, generally provided when viewed through 3D glasses) and / or augmented reality elements based on the facial accessory 76 worn by the customer 62. For example, in response to determining that the customer 62 is wearing 3D glasses rather than an augmented reality device, the attraction control system 52 may present an image that can be viewed in 3D via the 3D glasses. In response to determining that the customer 62 is wearing an augmented reality device rather than 3D glasses, the attraction control system 52 may present augmented reality elements (e.g., by sending signals to the augmented reality device) rather than 3D images. Furthermore, in response to determining that the customer 62 is not wearing 3D glasses or an augmented reality device, the attraction control system 52 may present a 2D image. Therefore, the attraction control system 52 can present certain entertainment effects 58 based on the type of clothing 73 associated with customer 62. Furthermore, the theming of facial accessories 76 can be detected and used to guide content delivery. For example, a spatial theming set of 3D glasses can be detected, and the attraction control system can provide 3D images associated with the spatial themes.

[0026] In an additional or alternative embodiment, the attraction control system 52 may operate the attraction system 50 based on data provided by the second mmWave sensor 70B. In an example, the data associated with the second mmWave sensor 70B may indicate the location and / or orientation of the customer 62 within the attraction system 50. In practice, the attraction control system 52 may operate using data received from a single mmWave sensor 70, accumulated data received from a matrix of mmWave sensors, and / or data received from another sensor (e.g., a position sensor) to present the entertainment effect 58 in a manner that guides the customer 62 toward their location within the attraction system 50 (e.g., by initiating positioning to approach features of the customer 62). In another example, the data may indicate the customer 62's physical profile (such as the height of the customer 62), textures associated with the customer 62 (e.g., textures on or including features of the customer's skin), the geometry of the customer 62, the customer's vocal cord vibrations (e.g., voice level, pitch), the customer 62's gait or movement, another suitable parameter associated with the customer, or any combination thereof, and the attraction control system 52 may operate the entertainment effect 58 based on the physical profile. In another example, the data may include biometric data such as respiratory rate, heart rate, perspiration, or other suitable data. In fact, data transmitted by the mmWave sensor 70 can indicate cardiac activity (e.g., to indicate a heartbeat), vascular activity, lung activity, and / or the movement of another bodily feature. In this way, the data can indicate the movement of a customer 62's features, and the attraction control system 52 can use such data to derive relevant biometric data. The attraction control system 52 can adjust the operation of the attraction system 50 based on the biometric data to elicit a desired response from the customer 62. For example, the attraction control system 52 can adjust the intensity and / or excitement of the experience provided by the attraction system 50 based on the biometric data.

[0027] Furthermore, the attraction control system 52 can operate the attraction system 50 based on data indicating the hidden object 80. For example, the attraction control system 52 can adjust the narrative presented by the attraction system 50 based on the hidden object 80 (e.g., by controlling the entertainment effect 58). In another implementation, the attraction control system 52 can send a notification 68 to the staff of the attraction system 50 based on the hidden object 80. For example, the hidden object 80 may include an accessory improperly placed inside the clothing 72 of a customer 62 (e.g., used to indicate an attempted theft by the customer 62) and / or an unauthorized tool, and the attraction control system 52 can therefore send a notification 68 to inform staff (e.g., security personnel) to confront the customer 62.

[0028] The attraction control system 52 can additionally or alternatively operate the attraction system 50 based on user input. For this purpose, the attraction control system 52 may include a user interface 81, which may include a touchscreen, buttons, switches, touchpads, dial pads, another suitable feature, or any combination thereof. A user (e.g., customer 62, operator) can interact with the user interface 81 to control the operation of the attraction system 50. By way of example, customer 62 can utilize the user interface 81 to transmit user input indicating desired operational settings and / or experiences (e.g., excitement levels) to be provided by the attraction system 50. The attraction control system 52 can therefore operate the attraction system 50 based on user input received via the user interface 81.

[0029] In one embodiment, some of the mmWave sensors 70 may be embedded or concealed within an encapsulation prop 82, which may be, for example, one of the props 66. In this way, the attraction control system 52 can move the encapsulation prop 82 to adjust the positioning of the mmWave sensors 70 within the attraction system 50 (e.g., to facilitate the capture of data associated with the customer 62). Furthermore, the encapsulation prop 82 can conceal the mmWave sensors 70 from view by the customer 62, thereby creating a more immersive environment for the customer 62 within the attraction system 50. For this purpose, the encapsulation prop 82 may be made of a material such as plastic, concrete, and / or any suitable non-attenuating material, allowing each of the signals 71 to penetrate through the encapsulation prop 82 to reflect off objects within the attraction system 50 without distorting the characteristics of the signals 71. Additionally, the portion of the encapsulation prop 82 that shields or covers the mmWave sensors 70 may have a limited thickness, such as less than 1 cm or 0.4 inches, to allow the signals 71 to penetrate through the encapsulation prop 82.

[0030] In an embodiment, the attraction control system 52 may include a database 84 (e.g., cloud-based storage, physical storage) and / or be communicatively coupled to the database 84. The database 84 may store certain information that can be retrieved by the attraction control system 52 to facilitate the operation of the attraction system 50. As an example, the database 84 may store subroutines 86 or certain operating parameters or settings that allow the attraction control system 52 to operate the attraction system 50 (e.g., visual effects 60 to be presented, audio effects 64 to be presented, movement control of props 66, notifications 68 to be sent). Each of the subroutines 86 may be associated with a specific parameter that can be identified by the attraction control system 52. Thus, in response to the identified parameter (e.g., based on data transmitted by the mmWave sensor 70), the attraction control system 52 can select an associated subroutine from the stored subroutines 86 to operate the attraction system 50. For example, the attraction control system 52 may operate the attraction system 50 based on a first subroutine in response to identifying a headdress 74 as a first headdress, and the attraction control system 52 may operate a second subroutine in response to identifying a headdress 74 as a second headdress. The attraction control system 52 can also operate the attraction system 50 based on a third subroutine in response to the recognition that customer 62 also owns a specific item 78. Alternatively, customer 62 can use the user interface 81 to directly indicate the desired set of subroutines 86 to be implemented by the attraction control system 52. In any case, the attraction control system 52 can operate the attraction system 50 based on combinations of subroutines 86, thereby operating the attraction system 50 in different ways to provide a variety of experiences for customer 62.

[0031] In an additional or alternative embodiment, database 84 may store a user profile 88 associated with customer 62. User profile 88 may be associated with certain operations (such as a specific set of subroutines 86) to be implemented by attraction control system 52 (e.g., based on previous experiences of customer 62 within attraction system 50). User profile 88 may further be associated with certain parameters detected by mmWave sensor 70 and indicating a specific customer 62. For example, during a first operation of attraction system 50, attraction control system 52 may receive data from mmWave sensor 70 and / or user input from user interface 81 to cause attraction control system 52 to operate attraction system 50 according to a first set of subroutines, and attraction control system 52 may also store the user profile 88 associated with customer 62 within database 84, the user profile 88 including data received from mmWave sensor 70 (e.g., a physical profile indicating customer 62) and a first set of subroutines 86 associated with customer 62.

[0032] During the second operation of the attraction system 50, the attraction control system 52 can receive additional data from the mmWave sensor 70 and compare the additional data with data associated with the user profile 88 stored in the database 84. In response to determining that the additional data received from the mmWave sensor 70 matches the data associated with the user profile 88, such as if the customer 62 appears satisfied with the experience provided by the first operation of the attraction system 50, the attraction control system 52 can automatically operate the attraction system 50 according to a first set of subroutines 86 associated with the user profile 88. As an example, the attraction control system 52 can prompt the customer 62 to indicate whether the operation of the attraction system 50 according to the first set of subroutines 86 is again desired, and the customer 62 can confirm that the attraction control system 52 will operate the attraction system according to the first set of subroutines 86 during the second operation of the attraction system 50. Alternatively, the attraction control system 52 can operate the attraction system 50 according to a second set of subroutines 86 to provide different experiences to the customer 62, such as based on user input indicating that the customer 62 expects different experiences from the attraction system 50 during the second operation of the attraction system 50. Accordingly, whenever customer 62 passes through attraction system 50, attraction control system 52 can provide a more personalized experience.

[0033] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an attraction system 50, in which a first customer 62A and a second customer 62B are present. The attraction system 50 also includes an mmWave sensor 70, which can transmit signals reflected from the customers 62, enabling the attraction control system 52 to determine various parameters associated with the customers 62. The mmWave sensor 70 can also transmit data indicating such parameters to the attraction control system 52 so that the attraction control system 52 operates the attraction system 50 based on the parameters. As an example, the data transmitted by the mmWave sensor 70 can indicate the presence of two customers 62, and the attraction control system 52 can therefore operate the entertainment effect 58 accordingly to present a narrative for both customers 62 rather than for a single customer 62 or for more than two customers 62. For example, the attraction control system 52 can select a subroutine from a database 84 based on the determination that two customers 62 are present in the attraction system 50. The attraction control system 52 can coordinate with the mmWave sensor 70 to identify the skeletal structure of the customers 62 to facilitate not only the detection of multiple customers but also their physical movement within the attraction system 50. By focusing the mmWave sensor 70 on the body structure, interference from clothing (e.g., a long jacket or dress) can be limited, allowing computing functions to be focused more efficiently on body movement. This can enhance the gameplay or other interactive aspects of the attraction system 50.

[0034] Alternatively, the attraction control system 52 can operate the attraction system 50 based on corresponding parameters (e.g., physical profiles) uniquely associated with a customer 62. For example, during a first operation of the attraction system 50 where a first customer 62A is in the attraction system 50, the mmWave sensor 70 can detect a first set of parameters associated with the first customer 62A, and the attraction control system 52 can operate the attraction system 50 according to a first subroutine (e.g., based on the first set of parameters, based on user input). The attraction control system 52 can also store a first user profile 88 that associates the first operation setting with the first set of parameters associated with the first customer 62A. During a second operation of the attraction system 50 where a second customer 62B is in the attraction system 50, the mmWave sensor 70 can detect a second set of parameters associated with the second customer 62B, and the attraction control system 52 can operate the attraction system 50 according to a second subroutine (e.g., based on the second set of parameters, based on user input). The attraction control system 52 can also store a second user profile 88 that associates the second operation setting with the first set of parameters associated with the second customer 62B. During the third operation of both the first customer 62A and the second customer 62B in the attraction system 50, the mmWave sensor 70 can detect both a first set of parameters and a second set of parameters, and the attraction control system 52 can therefore determine whether the first customer 62A and the second customer 62B are in the attraction system 50 based on the association between the first set of parameters and the first user profile 88 and the association between the second set of parameters and the second user profile 88, respectively. The attraction control system 52 can therefore operate the attraction system 50 according to both a first subroutine associated with the first user profile 88 and a second subroutine associated with the second user profile 88, respectively.

[0035] In another embodiment, the attraction control system 52 can determine the attire 73 (e.g., regular or themed clothing and / or accessories) associated with each of the customers 62. In the illustrated attraction system 50, a first customer 62A is associated with a first headdress 74A (e.g., currently wearing the first headdress 74A), and a second customer 62B is associated with a second headdress 74B (e.g., currently wearing the second headdress 74B). Each headdress 74 can be associated with a corresponding subroutine. For example, the first headdress 74 can be associated with a nautical narrative, and the second headdress 74B can be associated with an aviation narrative. Thus, based on the determination that a customer 62 is wearing the first headdress 74A and the second headdress 74B respectively, the attraction control system 52 can operate each of the associated subroutines, such as both the nautical and aviation narratives. Alternatively or additionally, the attraction control system 52 can operate a single subroutine associated with the combination of the first headdress 74A and the second headdress 74B instead of operating two separate subroutines. In any case, the attraction control system 52 can operate the attraction system 50 based on corresponding parameters associated with multiple customers 62. For example, instead of headwear 74, any of various other garments 73 (e.g., blindfolds, toy swords) or physical attributes (e.g., facial features) can be detected and utilized to guide the attraction control system 52 in providing a specific narrative. In practice, by using a matrix of mmWave sensors 70 or controlling one or more of the mmWave sensors 70 to operate across a range of signal types, the attraction control system 52 can obtain and use data layers to provide entertainment (e.g., narrative alteration). For example, the attraction control system 52 can detect and utilize multiple layers of garments 73 and / or combinations of multiple layers of garments 73 (e.g., a coat, a shirt under the coat, and a necklace under the shirt) to make more granular decisions about the effect to be provided. As a specific example, a particular jacket with a specific combination of jewelry pieces can be associated with different effects than the same jacket with different jewelry pieces.

[0036] It should be noted that the mmWave sensor 70 can be used in combination with another sensor 100 to facilitate the identification of customer 62. For example, sensor 100 may include an audio sensor and / or another visual sensor, such as an infrared sensor, a camera, or a light detection and ranging sensor. In practice, the attraction control system 52 can receive multiple data from different sensors to identify customer 62. That is, the combination of the mmWave sensor 70 and sensor 100 can detect data that is uniquely associated with a corresponding customer 62, enabling the attraction control system 52 to distinguish customers 62 from one another.

[0037] In one embodiment, the attraction control system 52 may operate the attraction system 50 based on an identified customer 62, according to an estimated confidence value (such as based on association with a user profile 88) indicating the degree of accuracy to which the customer 62 has been accurately identified by data received from the mmWave sensor 70 and / or sensor 100. For example, the attraction control system 52 may operate the attraction system 50 according to one or more subroutines associated with the user profile 88 in response to the confidence value being greater than a threshold confidence value. However, the attraction control system may operate the attraction system 50 according to one or more other (e.g., default) subroutines not specifically associated with the user profile 88 in response to the confidence value being less than the threshold confidence value.

[0038] In an embodiment, the attraction control system 52 may use machine learning (e.g., supervised machine learning, unsupervised machine learning) to more accurately identify target operations. As used herein, machine learning refers to algorithms and statistical models that the attraction control system 52 can use to perform specific tasks without explicit instructions, instead relying on patterns and inferences. Specifically, machine learning generates mathematical models based on data (e.g., sample or training data, historical data) to make predictions or decisions without being explicitly programmed to perform the task. In this way, when subsequent operations are performed (e.g., based on identified customer 62, identified biometric data, identified clothing 73), the stored information that associates received data (e.g., from mmWave sensor 70, from sensor 100) with the target operation can be updated to more accurately reflect the target operation of the attraction system 50. That is, the attraction control system 52 may use machine learning to dynamically update information used to determine the target operation of the attraction system 50, such as based on machine learning models. Accordingly, the attraction control system 52 may operate the attraction system 50 more accurately to provide the desired experience to customer 62.

[0039] Figure 3This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the attraction system 50, in which edge computing is used to enable the attraction control system 52 to operate the attraction system 50 based on data transmitted by the mmWave sensors 70. Edge computing includes processing readings at the local location (e.g., based on transmitted and reflected signals) via onboard devices of the mmWave sensors 70, rather than at a central or offloaded point, such as via the attraction control system 52 or via an external server. For example, each of the mmWave sensors 70 may include a corresponding memory 120 and a processing circuitry system 122, such as a corresponding control system including the memory 120 and the processing circuitry system 122. The processing circuitry system 122 of each mmWave sensor 70 may execute instructions stored in the corresponding memory 120 to process the sensed readings 126 in order to directly identify a customer 62, to identify clothing associated with a customer 62, to identify biometric data associated with a customer 62, to identify a target operation of the attraction system 50, or any combination thereof. For this purpose, each mmWave sensor 70 may be preheated or preloaded with certain information that may be useful for processing the sensed readings 126. Alternatively or concurrently, each mmWave sensor 70 may be communicatively coupled to a storage device (e.g., a database 84) and may process the sensed readings 126 with reference to information stored in the storage device. In any case, each mmWave sensor 70 may access the information and use the information to directly process the sensed readings 126.

[0040] After processing the sensed readings 126 to determine information 128 associated with the attraction system 50 (such as the identification of customer 62, clothing (e.g., garments and / or accessories) associated with customer 62, biometric data associated with customer 62, the target operation of the attraction system 50, or any combination thereof), the mmWave sensor 70 can transmit the determined information 128 to the attraction control system 52. In this way, the attraction control system 52 can operate the attraction system 50 based on the determined information 128 received from the mmWave sensor 70 without having to process the sensed readings 126. That is, the attraction control system 52 can directly determine the target operation of the attraction system 50 without performing additional analysis of the sensed readings 126. In this way, edge computing can facilitate a faster response to operating the attraction system 50 based on the sensed readings 126. In practice, edge computing can be used in conjunction with machine learning, for example, to facilitate the rapid and accurate determination of the target operation of the attraction system 50. For example, in addition to accelerating data processing for general computing, thereby increasing the speed of adjusting the operation of the attraction control system 52, edge computing can further improve the speed of machine learning to determine the subsequent target operation of the attraction control system 52 by using dedicated deep learning processing hardware.

[0041] In an embodiment, the attraction control system 52 can compare determined information 128 received from different mmWave sensors 70 to determine the target operation of the attraction system 50. For example, a first sensor 70A can detect and process a first sensed reading 126A to output first determined information 128A to the attraction control system 52. A second sensor 70B can detect and process a second sensed reading 126B to output second determined information 128B to the attraction control system 52. The attraction control system 52 can compare the first determined information 128A with the second determined information 128B to operate the attraction system 50 accordingly. By way of example, in response to determining that the first determined information 128A matches the second determined information 128B (e.g., both mmWave sensors 70 identify the same customer 62), the attraction control system 52 can operate the attraction system 50 according to a first subroutine (e.g., a subroutine associated with customer 62). However, in response to determining that the first determined information 128A (e.g., the first identity of customer 62) does not match the second determined information 128B (e.g., the second identity of customer 62), the attraction control system 52 can operate the attraction system 50 according to a second subroutine (e.g., a default subroutine not associated with customer 62). In fact, edge computing can be used to facilitate the operation of the attraction system 50 by the attraction control system 52 based on any of the techniques described above.

[0042] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of an embodiment of a method or process 140 for operating a scenic spot system based on data received from an mmWave sensor. As an example, method 140 may be implemented by one or more processors, such as processing circuitry 56 of the scenic spot control system 52, processing circuitry 122 of the mmWave sensor 70, or both. It should be noted that certain steps of method 140 may be implemented differently in different embodiments. For example, additional steps may be implemented, and / or certain steps may be removed, modified, and / or implemented in a different order.

[0043] At box 142, data indicating parameters associated with an attraction system (such as a customer associated with the attraction system) is received. In embodiments, this data may include readings acquired by mmWave sensors and other sensors (e.g., facial recognition cameras). In additional or alternative embodiments, this data may include data processed by mmWave sensors. In any case, this data may indicate customer identification, clothing and / or accessories associated with the customer, biometric data associated with the customer, or any combination thereof.

[0044] At box 144, a target operation for the attraction system can be determined based on data. That is, the target operation for the attraction system can be based on parameters associated with the customer in order to provide the desired experience for the customer. For example, the target operation may include a layering of data detected by one or more mmWave sensors (e.g., a matrix of mmWave sensors operating at different wavelengths to detect physical characteristics associated with the customer at different physical layers (e.g., coats, shirts, wristbands) to provide various entertainment effects during the operation of the attraction system. At box 146, after the target operation for the attraction system has been determined, a signal is output based on the determined target operation to adjust the operation of the attraction system toward the target operation.

[0045] In an embodiment, method 140 can be used to adjust the operation of the attraction system to elicit or induce a specific response from a customer. For example, providing a customer with a specific level of excitement may be desired. The level of excitement may be associated with a target range of biometric data values ​​(such as a target range for heart rate and / or respiratory rate) that can be determined based on experimental operation and / or calibration data. Thus, if the biometric data indicates that the attraction system is providing too much excitement (e.g., the biometric data exceeds the target range for heart rate, the biometric data exceeds the target range for respiratory rate), a signal can be output to adjust the operation of the attraction system to reduce the intensity of the experience provided to the customer to avoid over-exciting the customer. However, if the biometric data (e.g., pulse rate detected by an mmWave sensor) indicates that the attraction system is not providing enough excitement (e.g., the biometric data is below the target range for heart rate, the biometric data is below the target range for respiratory rate), a signal can be output to adjust the operation of the attraction system to increase the intensity of the experience provided to the customer. In one embodiment, the level of excitement and therefore the target range of biometric data values ​​may be set based on user input. By way of example, a customer can select the desired level of excitement to be provided by the attraction system. Therefore, the operation of the attraction system can be adjusted to match the experience expected by customers.

[0046] In additional or alternative embodiments, data can be used to identify customers (such as user profiles associated with customers) and operate the attraction system based on these identifications. By way of example, data may include a physical profile uniquely associated with a customer. The customer's identification or user profile may also be associated with target operations of the attraction system (such as previous operations of the attraction system for customer entertainment, preferred operations set by the customer (e.g., via user input), etc.). Therefore, when a customer is identified based on data, signals can be output to adjust the operation of the attraction system based on the target operations associated with the customer.

[0047] In another embodiment, the data may indicate clothing (e.g., garments and / or accessories) associated with a customer, such as clothing and / or accessories selected from a set of possible garments and / or accessories. In practice, each garment may be associated with a target operation of the attraction system, and / or combinations of garments may be associated with a target operation of the attraction system. For example, the experience provided by the attraction system may be aligned with the theme associated with the garment to provide a more immersive experience for the customer. In any case, when garments are identified based on data, signals may be output to adjust the operation of the attraction system based on the target operation associated with a particular garment.

[0048] In any case, it should be noted that data can be used to adjust any appropriate operation of the attraction system to control the entertainment provided to customers within the attraction system. For example, signals can be output to control the operation of entertainment effects, including visual effects, audio effects, props, and / or notifications. The operation of entertainment effects can provide customers with the desired experience.

[0049] While only certain features of embodiments of the present disclosure 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 the present disclosure.

[0050] 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 USC112(f). However, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, such elements are not intended to be interpreted in accordance with 35 USC112(f).

Claims

1. An attraction system for providing entertainment to customers, the attraction system comprising: A millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor, configured as follows: Transmitting signals within the attraction system and receiving reflections of those signals; and The reflection detection garment based on the signal; A control system communicatively coupled to the millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor, wherein the millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor is configured to transmit data to the control system based on the reflection of the signal, wherein the data indicates the garment, and the control system is configured to perform operations including: The target operation of the attraction system is determined based on the data received from the millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor indicating the clothing. and The attraction system is operated based on the stated objective operation.

2. The scenic spot system according to claim 1, wherein, The control system is configured to perform operations including the following: Biometric data associated with the customer are identified based on the data received from the millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor; Compare the biometric data with the range of biometric data values; as well as The attraction system is operated based on the comparison between the biometric data and the range of biometric data values.

3. The scenic spot system according to claim 2, wherein, The biometric data includes the customer's heart rate, the customer's respiratory rate, or both.

4. The scenic spot system according to claim 1, comprising a matrix of millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensors, wherein the matrix of millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensors includes the millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensors, wherein, The matrix of millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensors is configured to detect the garment by detecting different combinations of multiple garment layers via signal cascading to provide the data, wherein the control system is configured to determine one or more target operations based on the different combinations of the multiple garment layers.

5. The scenic spot system according to claim 1, wherein, The control system is configured to perform operations including identifying a user profile associated with a customer based on the data received from the millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor, wherein the user profile includes stored data instructing the target operation of the attraction system.

6. The scenic spot system according to claim 5, wherein, The stored data includes physical profiles associated with the customer.

7. The scenic spot system according to claim 1, wherein, The signal includes frequencies between 60 GHz and 90 GHz.

8. The scenic spot system according to claim 1, comprising a cascade of millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensors, wherein the cascade of millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensors includes the millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensors.

9. A tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising executable instructions, wherein, When executed by the processing circuitry system, the instructions are configured to cause the processing circuitry system to operate on behalf of the attraction system, the operation including: Data is received from a millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor, wherein the data indicates parameters associated with customers within the attraction system; The user profile associated with the customer is identified based on the data received from the millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor, wherein the user profile includes stored data associated with the customer’s previous interactions with the attraction system; The target operation of the attraction system is determined based on stored data associated with the user profile; and The attraction system is operated based on the stated objective operation.

10. The tangible non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 9, wherein, When executed by the processing circuitry system, the instructions are configured to cause the processing circuitry system to perform operations including the following: Receive first data from the millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor at the first moment; Associate the first data with the user profile stored in the database; The scenic spot system is operated according to the subroutines; as well as Associate the subroutine with the user profile.

11. The tangible non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 10, wherein, When executed by the processing circuitry system, the instructions are configured to cause the processing circuitry system to perform operations including the following: Second data is received from the millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor at a second time. Compare the second data with the first data associated with the user profile; It is determined that the second data matches the first data; as well as In response to determining that the second data matches the first data, the attraction system operates according to the subroutine associated with the user profile.

12. The tangible non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 10, wherein, When executed by the processing circuitry system, the instructions are configured to cause the processing circuitry system to perform operations including the following: Receive user input instructing the operation of the attraction system; and The attraction system is operated according to the subroutine based on the user input.

13. The tangible non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 9, wherein, The data indicates the type of media viewer being used by the customer of the attraction system, and the instructions, when executed by the processing circuitry system, are configured to cause the processing circuitry system to perform an operation including providing media corresponding to the type of media viewer.

14. The tangible non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 9, wherein, The data indicates the clothing associated with the customer, and the instructions, when executed by the processing circuitry system, are configured to cause the processing circuitry system to perform operations including operating the attraction system according to a subroutine associated with the clothing in response to receiving the data.

15. The tangible non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 14, wherein, The data indicates a first clothing layer and a second clothing layer, the subroutine is a first subroutine associated with the first clothing layer, and the instructions, when executed by the processing circuitry system, are configured to perform operations including operating the attraction system according to the first subroutine associated with the first clothing layer and according to the second subroutine associated with the second clothing layer in response to receiving the data.

16. The tangible non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 9, wherein, When executed by the processing circuitry system, the instruction is configured to cause the processing circuitry system to perform an operation including sending a notification to a mobile device based on the data, wherein the notification includes a description corresponding to the target operation of the attraction system.

17. An attraction system for providing entertainment to customers, the attraction system comprising: A first millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor is configured to transmit a first signal within the attraction system and receive reflections of the first signal; A second millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor is configured to transmit a second signal within the attraction system and receive reflections of the second signal; and A control system communicatively coupled to a first millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor and communicatively coupled to a second millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor, wherein the first millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor is configured to transmit first data to the control system based on the reflection of the first signal, the second millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor is configured to transmit second data based on the reflection of the second signal, and the control system is configured to perform operations including: The target operation of the attraction system is determined based on the first data, the second data, or both. The attraction system is operated based on the stated objective operation; and The notification is sent to the mobile device based on the first data, the second data, or both.

18. The attraction system of claim 17, comprising a first plurality of millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensors including the first millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor and a second plurality of millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensors including the second millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor, wherein, The corresponding first signal transmitted by each of the first plurality of millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensors includes a first frequency between 60 GHz and 90 GHz, and the corresponding second signal transmitted by each of the second plurality of millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensors includes a second frequency greater than 90 GHz. The control system is configured to operate the first plurality of millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensors, the second plurality of millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensors, or both, to adjust the first frequency, the second frequency, or both based on the target operation.

19. The attraction system of claim 17, comprising a prop, wherein the first millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor, the second millimeter-wave (mmWave) sensor, or both are embedded in the prop.

20. The attraction system according to claim 17, wherein, The control system is configured to perform operations including controlling visual effects, audio effects, props, notifications, or any combination thereof based on the target operation.

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