System and method for tracking user or object and providing relevant data or features corresponding thereto

Abstract

A system and method for sensing or tracking a user at a geographic location or destination, and collecting data for enhancing the user's experience based on such a user and / or the tracking of such a user, providing increased operational functionality of a venue or facility associated with the destination, and providing a user's user experience based on such a user and / or the tracking of such a user. And / or managing or influencing behaviors associated with the user or employee at the geographic location or destination. The system may be accessible via a software application executing on a mobile device and / or a persistent hardware kiosk and / or via a web interface. Traceable hardware is carried and / or worn by or otherwise associated with the user such that movement and activity of the user at the geographic location or destination can be tracked.

Description

[0001] Divisional application

[0002] This application is a divisional application of an invention application with an application date of March 28, 2019, application number 201980036268.1, and title “System and method for tracking users or objects and providing corresponding relevant data or features”.

[0003] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0004] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 759,946, filed on November 12, 2018, entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRACKING USERS OR OBJECTS AND PROV1DING ASSOCIATED DATA OR FEATURES CORRESPONDING THERETO,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 680,567, filed on June 4, 2018, entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRACKING USERS OR OBJECTS AND PROV1DING ASSOCIATED DATA OR FEATURES CORRESPONDING THERETO,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 649,508, filed on March 28, 2018, entitled “TRACKING OR MONITORING SYSTEM FOR ENTERTAINMENT ATTRACTIONS OR ENTERTAINMENT FACILITIES,” which is hereby incorporated by reference into this application in its entirety. Technical Field

[0005] The present invention relates to a system or method for tracking users and / or objects at a geographic location or other area and providing related features or information. More specifically, the present invention relates to a system or method for tracking users and / or objects (e.g., patrons) at a location (e.g., an amusement park or water park) and providing information and / or related features to those users and / or objects for increasing user satisfaction or other aspects at the geographic location and / or providing improved operating performance and / or efficiency. Background Art

[0006] Amusement parks, water parks, integrated theme parks (e.g., with hotels, resorts, etc.) and / or other places for customers to enjoy the Royal Dragon Bay ("entertainment venues") are popular destinations, where customers gather in a certain geographical location that includes a large number of entertainment or related activities (e.g., performances, rides or facilities, dining options, lockers, hotel rooms, rentals, etc.) for customers to participate. Entertainment venues provide such entertainment activities to their customers without having specific data about the activities performed by specific users at a particular time in an amusement park or water park. In addition, the operator of the entertainment venue does not have specific data, which is related to customer demographics and how certain demographics can interact with one or more of the provided entertainment activities on a real-time basis. One or more of the crowd control, payment methods, maintenance of equipment and / or facilities, efficiency of staff activities and / or customer activities, customer convenience, and / or customer service issues of conventional entertainment venue operations may be significant issues that can affect customer enjoyment and / or finances.

[0007] Ideally, an improvement system for a casino would be configured to provide owners, operators, and / or managers with specific and / or particular data about and / or associated with or related to each patron or group of patrons that participate in the casino. The data would ideally enable improvements in customer service and / or patron experience, operational performance and / or efficiency improvements for one or more of the recreational activities or other available equipment (with which patrons may participate), demographic information and patron activity information improvements (to help guide future decisions regarding the casino and / or surrounding geographic area), etc. The improvement system or method may track patrons' location and / or participation in the casino, or other objects or structures associated with the casino. Summary of the invention

[0008] The present invention relates to devices and / or features for tracking users and / or objects within a specific destination, location, or area (such as an entertainment venue) and providing an enhanced user experience and / or operational performance / efficiency. A system for tracking users at a destination may include trackable hardware, a short-range receiver, a long-range receiver, and a processor, the trackable hardware being configured to transmit short-range and long-range signals for detection of the trackable hardware, the short-range receiver being configured to receive short-range transmissions from the trackable hardware, the long-range receiver being configured to receive long-range transmissions from the trackable hardware, and the processor being used to determine the location of the trackable hardware based on information received from the short-range receiver and / or the long-range receiver, including accurately checking or determining performance. Data associated with the tracking of the trackable hardware may be used to control the operation of one or more facilities, communicate with users, or otherwise assist in controlling goods or services.

[0009] A method for providing enhanced user experience features for an amusement park may include providing a software application configured to execute on a user's portable device; wherein the software application may be configured to: establish a link with a user's trackable wristband (or other trackable object, such as an arcade, watch, key chain, necklace, etc.); allow the user to view information associated with the amusement park; allow the user to select a theme used at at least one facility in the amusement park; allow the user to select the type of music used at at least one facility in the amusement park; allow the user to create a user profile; allow the user to earn and view medals based on the user's activities at the amusement park; allow the user to view a history of the user's activities at the amusement park; allow the user to view the wait time for at least one facility in the amusement park, which is updated in real time based on tracking data associated with each user entering the amusement park; allow the user to earn currency based on the user's activities at the amusement park; allow the user to spend the earned currency on products or services at the amusement park; allow the user to make reservations for at least one facility in the amusement park; allow tracking and / or communication with other users, such as family / friends; and / or allow the ordering of photos or other media, products and / or services.

[0010] A method may include providing a kiosk fixed to a location in an amusement park, the kiosk configured to execute a software application that may be configured to establish a link with a user's trackable wristband; allow the user to view information associated with the amusement park; allow the user to select a theme to be used at at least one facility in the amusement park; allow the user to select the type of music to be used at at least one facility in the amusement park; allow the user to create a user profile; allow the user to earn and view medals based on the user's activities in the amusement park; allow the user to view a history of the user's activities in the amusement park; allow the user to view the wait time for at least one facility in the amusement park, which wait time is updated in real time based on tracking data associated with each user entering the amusement park; allow the user to earn currency based on the user's activities in the amusement park; allow the user to spend the earned currency on products or services in the amusement park; and allow the user to make reservations for at least one facility in the amusement park.

[0011] In one embodiment, a device associated with a user for tracking may include a cabin having a chamber. The chamber of the cabin may include a printed circuit board, a first transmitter, a second transmitter, and a battery; the printed circuit board having a first side and a second side, the first transmitter configured to transmit unique identification data corresponding to the cabin to a maximum distance of less than 3 ft, the first transmitter connected to the first side of the printed circuit board; the second transmitter configured to transmit unique identification data corresponding to the cabin to a distance greater than the maximum distance of the first transmitter, the second transmitter connected to the second side of the printed circuit board, and the battery for providing power to the first transmitter or the second transmitter.

[0012] In one embodiment, a structure for user interaction may include a body, a sensor, a display, and a processor; the body having a cavity therein; the sensor connected to the body and configured to sense a unique identifier associated with a user; the display connected to the body; the processor connected to the sensor and the display. The processor may be configured to receive information from a server based on the unique identifier sensed by the sensor, cause the display to display the information, receive input from the user, and transmit information to the server based on the input received from the display.

[0013] In one embodiment, a system for tracking a user at a destination may include a trackable device, a kiosk, a second sensor, a processor, and a server; the trackable device is configured to be associated with the user; the kiosk has a first sensor and a display, the first sensor is configured to sense the trackable device when the trackable device is within 2ft of the first sensor, and the display is configured to display information based on the sensing of the trackable device; the second sensor is configured to sense the trackable device; the processor is configured to determine the location of the trackable device based on the sensing of the trackable device by the second sensor; the server communicates with the processor and is configured to store data based on the location of the trackable device determined by the processor.

[0014] In one embodiment, a system for tracking a user at a destination may include a trackable device, a first sensor, a second sensor, a server, and a processor; the trackable device is configured to be associated with the user; the first sensor is configured to sense the trackable device; the second sensor is configured to sense the trackable device; the server communicates with the processor and is configured to store data based on sensing of the trackable device by the first sensor and the second sensor; the processor is configured to assign one or more points to the user based on sensing of the trackable device by the first sensor or the second sensor.

[0015] In one embodiment, a system for tracking multiple users at a destination may include multiple trackable devices, a sensor, a server, and a processor; the multiple trackable devices are configured to be associated with multiple users; the sensor is configured to sense the multiple trackable devices; the server communicates with the processor and is configured to store data based on the sensing of the multiple trackable devices by the sensor; the processor is configured to provide notifications based on the sensing of the multiple trackable devices by the sensor. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a system for tracking a user and / or an object at a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0017] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a system for tracking a user and / or an object using a local network interacting with a non-local network is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0018] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a system for tracking users and / or objects using multiple processing servers is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 4A schematic diagram of a system for tracking a user and / or an object using a sensor station and a tracking node is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 5 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a flow chart for data management between a global server and a local server when a user having a system configured to track user and / or object data enters a location;

[0021] Figure 6 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a flow chart for data management between a global server and a local server when a user having a system configured to track user and / or object data leaves a location;

[0022] Figure 7 According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a flow chart for storing user data of a system configured to track user and / or object data is shown;

[0023] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a kiosk for use with a system configured to track user and / or object data is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Fig. 9 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a timing diagram for improving the functionality of a system configured to track multiple users and / or objects;

[0025] Fig. 10A An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a perspective view of a plurality of wristbands configured to be sensed or tracked by a system;

[0026] Fig. 10B Shows the composition Fig. 10A An exploded view of the components of multiple wristbands;

[0027] Fig. 10C A perspective view of components constituting a plurality of wristbands configured to be sensed or tracked by a system is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Fig. 10D An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a perspective view of an alternative object configured to be sensed or tracked by the system;

[0029] Fig.11A A perspective view of a cabin configured to be tracked by a system is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Fig. 11B Shows Fig.11A An exploded perspective view of the cabin;

[0031] Fig. 11C Shows Fig.11A A sectional side view of the cabin;

[0032] Fig. 12A An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a cabin having electrical components and configured to be tracked by a system;

[0033] Fig. 12B Shows Fig. 12A An exploded view of a top perspective view of a cabin;

[0034] Fig. 12C Shows from Fig. 12A An exploded view of the cabin bottom perspective view;

[0035] Fig.13 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a layout of electrical components constituting a compartment shaped as a square configured to be tracked by the system;

[0036] Fig.14 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows an electrical component assembly comprising a compartment shaped as a hexagon configured to be tracked by a system;

[0037] Fig.15 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a cabin configured to provide entertainment or enjoyment to a patron who is not traceable by the system;

[0038] Fig.16A A plurality of views of a kiosk for sensing a user and allowing the user's interaction therewith are shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Fig. 16B Shows Fig.16A Exploded front and back views of the kiosk;

[0040] Fig. 16C Shows Shows Fig.16A multiple views of the interior components of the kiosk;

[0041] Fig.17 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a user interface screen of a customer-centric homepage to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features;

[0042] Fig.18An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a user interface screen of a customer-centric wristband linking page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects at a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features;

[0043] Fig.19 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a user interface screen of a customer-centric profile page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features;

[0044] Fig. 20 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a user interface screen of a customer-centric day activity page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features;

[0045] Fig.21 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a user interface screen of a customer-centric music selection page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features;

[0046] Fig. 22 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a user interface screen of a customer-centric theme selection page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features;

[0047] Fig.23 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a user interface screen of a patron-centric park information page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects at a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features;

[0048] Fig.24 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a user interface screen of a customer-centric benefits page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or subjects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features;

[0049] Fig.25 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a user interface screen of a customer-centric reservation page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features;

[0050] Fig.26A handheld user interface screen showing a contextual user input menu to be used with a system for tracking a user and / or object at a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Fig. 27 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a kiosk user interface screen with a customer-centric splash screen to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects at a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features;

[0052] Fig.28 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a kiosk user interface screen of a customer-centric homepage to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects at a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features;

[0053] Fig.29 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a kiosk user interface screen for a customer-centric day event page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features;

[0054] Fig.30 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a kiosk user interface screen with a customer-centric music category selection page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features;

[0055] Fig.31 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a kiosk user interface screen of a customer-centric music playlist page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features;

[0056] Fig.32 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a kiosk user interface screen of a customer-centric reservation page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features;

[0057] Fig.33 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a kiosk user interface screen for a customer-centric friends or family page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features;

[0058] Fig.34An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a kiosk user interface screen of a customer-centric benefits page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or subjects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features;

[0059] Fig.35 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a user interface screen of an operator-centric scheduling data page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects at a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features;

[0060] Fig.36 A perspective view of various devices that interact with a tracking device is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0061] Fig.37 A plurality of views of a sensing device configured to sense one or more users are shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and

[0062] Fig.38 An exemplary embodiment according to the present invention shows a sensing or marking device for user engagement and / or interaction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] The following description illustrates the principles of the present invention by way of example and not by way of limitation. This specification enables one skilled in the art to understand and use the invention, and describes embodiments, modifications, variations, alternative forms and uses of the invention, including the best mode currently believed to be for carrying out the invention. The accompanying drawings are diagrammatic and schematic representations of exemplary embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit the invention or to be necessarily drawn to scale.

[0064] Although embodiments of the present invention may be described and illustrated herein and generally discussed with respect to an amusement park or water park scenario, it should be understood that all embodiments of the present invention are not so limited, but are additionally applicable to any of a variety of possible destinations, locations, or areas that may benefit from the tracking and / or collection of data related to users and / or objects at those destinations, locations, or areas, such as nightclubs, casinos, zoos, hotels, resorts, schools, rallies, exhibitions, concerts, stadiums, or other activities (e.g., first responders, transportation systems, etc.) where user tracking and / or data collection would be required. In addition, although embodiments may be described and illustrated herein with respect to specific hardware and / or software features, it should be understood that these embodiments are also applicable to hardware and software other than those explicitly discussed, including more, fewer, and / or alternative features, processes, and / or operations than those explicitly illustrated in the exemplary figures and associated description.

[0065] By way of overview or introduction, it will be expected that users of a destination (such as an amusement park or water park) are tracked by a system corresponding to or associated with the destination, the system being configured to determine the location and / or various activities performed by each user or group of users at the destination. In addition to merely tracking and collecting data about such tracking, the collected data related to users and / or objects can also be used to enhance the user experience at or outside of the destination. For example, as discussed in more detail herein, a particular user can customize their experience at the destination according to their specific tastes, etc., can receive benefits or rewards for engaging in specific behaviors (behaviors encouraged by the system), and can interact with other users via the system, etc. The benefits or rewards can be received by the user at the location, or can be associated with other locations (e.g., jointly owned venues, etc.) and / or companies (which have agreed or signed up to be part of the benefits or rewards program of the system) (e.g., a user can receive benefits or rewards, such as gift cards or points, from a restaurant as a reward or benefit of the system, even if such restaurant is not at the destination, whereby the user can be installed and / or not otherwise associated with the system).

[0066] In certain embodiments, with or without the use of benefits or prizes, users may be encouraged and / or allowed to participate in competitive (or collaborative) statistical activities. For example, whether across multiple entertainment venues (e.g., multiple water parks throughout the United States or the world) or included in a single entertainment venue (e.g., a single water park location), users may compete and / or see statistics about other users, such as seeing data and / or information about users who have ridden the most rides, users who have traveled the most vertical hills, users who have achieved the fastest speed on a given ride, users who have achieved the highest score on a given ride, etc.

[0067] Users (e.g., each user at a destination, a group of users, etc.) may wear or otherwise have hardware associated with them that is capable of tracking as one or more users move within the destination. Hardware (e.g., a wristband or other wearable or other device with a tracking module or component) may be provided to the user as the user enters the destination and returned by the user as the user leaves the destination. In some embodiments, the user may purchase (e.g., pre-order or be given) the hardware and be allowed to keep all or some of the hardware even after leaving the destination. Sensors configured to detect and / or track the hardware may have different ranges (e.g., a sensor may have a short range, such as a maximum corresponding to a few inches, while other sensors may have a long range, such as corresponding to approximately 90ft), and may be placed at multiple locations at the destination to sense and track the movement of users and / or objects.

[0068] A user may interact with the system (e.g., set or modify a user profile or preferences, make purchases using the system or modify reservations, etc.) through a software application and / or through software and / or through interaction with a kiosk or other hardware; the software application runs on a mobile device, such as a smartphone; the software runs on one or more components of a tracking device; the kiosk or other hardware is fixed or located at specific locations throughout the destination. For example, if a user does not have a mobile device or does not wish to carry a mobile device with them during their visit to the destination, the user may be sensed or detected by the kiosk upon arriving in a specific vicinity of the kiosk or some component of the kiosk, and may interact with their account and / or settings (corresponding to their tracking hardware) via the kiosk. In some embodiments, a user may not wish to create a user account, but may still be able to interact with the system via a kiosk (e.g., the kiosk software may operate based on the scanning of tracking hardware, such as a wristband, and may not require the user to create a user account or profile to perform certain functions).

[0069] For example, in one embodiment, a user may visit a destination and may receive trackable hardware (such as a wristband) without downloading any additional software for a mobile device and / or logging into an account. Such a user may receive a temporary or customer ID that is associated with the trackable hardware and stored in an entity database, memory, or server at the destination. To the extent that the user subsequently creates an account, some or all of the data stored in the local database, memory, or server may then be transferred to a global database, memory, or server associated with the user account (e.g., a server accessible through hardware outside the destination, such as a server remotely accessible via the Internet). If the user has created an account rather than just receiving a temporary or customer ID, then the account data for the user account that exists in the global database, memory, or server, including the user account information, may be transferred to the local database, memory, or server for the time that the user is at the destination associated with the local database, memory, or server and associated with the trackable hardware. In this way, whether or not the user has an account, the kiosk may be used by the user to perform all or a subset of features or functions, such as customized music, themes, etc., as disclosed in more detail below.

[0070] In certain embodiments, some features (such as storage of data related to currency, available points, prizes, medals, etc.) may be unavailable to a user after the user leaves a destination unless the user has previously set up a user account or chooses to set up a user account within a certain predetermined time after leaving the destination. Other data (e.g., demographic data, tracking data, analytical values, etc. not related to user customization) may be stored on a global server or cloud, regardless of whether the user has or has not created a user account.

[0071] Figure 1 A schematic diagram 100 of a system for tracking users and / or objects at a geographic location or other destination and configured to provide data and / or related features is shown. The system may include a local network 102 that is connected to a public network 110, such as the Internet. The system may be accessed by one or more users or customers having a device (e.g., a mobile device, such as a smart phone) running a corresponding software application (118, 120) and / or one or more operators having a device running a corresponding software application (116, 114) using the public network 110. The software application (118, 120, 114, 116) may be configured to be executed by a processor of the device and / or may be web software that allows user interaction through a web browser or other software. For example, certain aspects of the system (such as user profiles or other data that has been synchronized or exported from or can be imported into the local network 102) assist in operation by reducing latency or otherwise improving the efficiency of transmitting and / or accessing data.

[0072] The main server 112 can run the global functions of the system, for example, accommodating the main statistical database and / or tracking analytical values ​​or collected user data. The local server and / or controller 108 can run local functions associated with data related to the local network 102. It can be beneficial to have a main server separated from the local server, for example, so that the local server and the local network only need to include and / or operate the data of the individual or system at the destination and / or the data required for the operation of the destination. Once the individual leaves the destination, the data related to the individual can be transmitted to the main server and transmitted out of the local server because the local operation using such data is no longer necessary. One or more processors can be connected and / or related to any one of the main server 112 and / or local server and / or controller 108 to assist in the storage, movement, transmission and / or analysis of data in the main server 112 and / or local server and / or controller 108, and / or to execute software code to perform any one of the features and / or operations described throughout this application.

[0073] Although a single server connected to a public network is shown and a single server connected to a local network is shown, any number and / or combination of servers may be used. For example, the system may be entirely local or entirely global, and / or may operate so that only one or the other of the main server 112 or the local server 108 is present. The system may communicate directly with the respective servers via the respective networks. In addition, although a single server may be provided, the system may be distributed over any combination of local and remote servers. Thus, although a single main server 112 is shown, the system may utilize multiple servers or other computing devices.

[0074] For example, Figure 2 A schematic diagram 200 of a system is shown that employs both a local network and a main or global network interacting with each other. Figure 2 The system and / or local network or host network may include the same or similar features as those discussed throughout this application. Local data 202 is stored as part of a local (e.g., on-site) server 204, which is connected to a master or global server 214 storing master or global data 220 via a local area network 206, a firewall (208, 212), and a virtual private network ("VPN") 210. Users or operators 216 of the system may interact with the master or global server 214 via a public network 218 (such as the Internet). As previously discussed, certain portions of the master data 220 on the master server 214 may be copied and / or moved to the local server 204 and stored as local data 202, depending on, for example, whether a particular user is about to be at a local destination associated with the local server 204.

[0075] Reference again Figure 1 , a local server 108 associated with a particular destination (e.g., a water park or an amusement park) may be configured to handle the receipt and / or manipulation of data about individuals (currently at the particular destination). The local servers 108 may include servers divided into three groups (e.g., Figure 3 The three groups of processes (shown as an example) may be executed on different sub-servers as needed in some embodiments.

[0076] like Figure 3 , an exemplary schematic diagram 300 is shown showing input data 302 (e.g., data received when a user is scanned, sensed, or tracked by a sensor (such as a short-range and / or long-range sensor)) and may be received by a process 304 (e.g., performed by one or more processors) for real-time induction data processing (e.g., to determine the accuracy of the input data 302). A variety of processes may be employed to help determine such accuracy. For example, in embodiments where tracking hardware associated with a user (e.g., a wristband) is configured to send transmissions and / or where such transmissions may be sensed by multiple sensors or receivers of the system at the same time or at similar times (e.g., sensors located at different locations but still capable of picking up the user's transmissions at a particular location), location resolution error control may be employed.

[0077] For example, an embodiment may utilize a sequence number associated with each transmission sent by tracking hardware that is incremented (e.g., on a per transmission basis). Process 304 may compare sequence numbers of input data 302 obtained from different receivers to determine if there are any errors. For example, such errors may be detected by determining if a transmitter is sensed twice by different receivers at the same time (e.g., they share the same sequence number) and determining if a transmitter is sensed once by a first receiver and then again at a later time (e.g., the sequence numbers may be different from each other). The sequence number may be generated in any manner and may include a synchronization timestamp.

[0078] In another example, process 304 may perform debouncing to reduce errors of false detection of transmissions, e.g., due to RF jitter due to structural components at the destination (such as steel beams encountered by the transmission, etc.). In another example, process 304 may perform error resolution based on logical transitions. For example, if a transmission mechanism has a previous trusted location (e.g., already an accurate location for you, through some form of error control and / or because distinct location information for a particular unlocated user has not been detected) and is subsequently sensed to be transitioning to or located at a second location that is illogical based on the trusted location (e.g., too far away and / or where there is no travel path from the first trusted location to the subsequent location, etc.), then the second location may be automatically marked or otherwise indicated as untrustworthy or less trustworthy than the previous trusted location.

[0079] In yet another example, process 304 may perform location resolution error control by attempting to resolve a dotted line location to improve accuracy. For example, if the system has not heard or sensed from the tracking hardware for a predetermined time period, process 304 may perform additional analysis to determine whether the lack of sensing by the hardware indicates an error, or whether such behavior is expected (e.g., if a user enters a location where they expect to hang out or remain for a period of time, then the error is not attributable to the lack of any subsequent data within that time period).

[0080] In yet another example, process 304 can perform location resolution error control by utilizing a directional scanner or reader that is configured to sense trackable hardware in a specific direction or in a narrower field of view (e.g., compared to a wider field of view around the scanner or reader, such as a 360 degree radius.) Such a directional scanner or reader can be beneficial in a water park or amusement park scenario, for example, where a water park or amusement park has two facility entrances that are relatively close to each other and a directional reader located strictly at each entrance can improve the accuracy of determining which entrance a user entered.

[0081] When processed, the input data 302 is moved to a database or other memory 310, such as to include real-time data (e.g., data regarding where the traceable hardware is currently located, data regarding a user or customer ID currently associated with the hardware, etc.), whereupon database management or other processing 306 (e.g., performed by one or more processors) may occur. This may include updated data to help ensure accuracy. An analysis process 308 (e.g., performed by one or more processors) may operate (e.g., in real time) on the tracking or other data 312 (e.g., data regarding the transition of the traceable hardware from one location to another). The analysis process 308 may determine any of a number of possible statistics or operations, including at a population level, whether maintenance is required, whether the equipment is operating within acceptable parameters, and the like. For the analysis process 308 and / or Figure 3 Access to any of the other operations or data shown and / or described may be provided via interface 314 (eg, allowing a system administrator or other user to view and / or otherwise affect or interact with data and / or operations of the system, as desired).

[0082] Reference again Figure 1 , the local network 102 and / or the local server 108 may connect one or more nodes (104, 106), for example, via Ethernet, wireless networks, powerline adapters, MoCA adapters, or other routing paths. One or more nodes (104, 106) may act as a communication bridge between the local server 108 and other destination functions and / or hardware. In various embodiments, a variety of local destination functions and / or hardware may connect these nodes. For example, Figure 1As specifically shown, local destination functions and / or hardware may be connected (e.g., via wireless or wired communications) to one or both of one or more nodes (104, 106) and may include displays (126, 144) (e.g., for showing ride status) (such as monitors for displaying ride wait times and / or point values ​​or other advertising or rider-specific or general information), audio units (128, 146) (such as speakers for playing recorded music or sound files), scanners, sensors or receivers (132, 134, 136, 140, 142) (such as units visible at the entrance or exit of a queue or facility or other location where user location or other statistics may be collected), and / or indicators or confirmation controls (130, 138) (such as lights, buttons, etc. that may control operation or indicate when a user may enter the facility). The sales site 124 may also be configured to interact via the local network 102 and / or a local server, for example, to record users with wristbands or tracking hardware and / or perform other monetary functions. Some examples of monetary functionality may include the purchase and / or rental of a wristband or tracking hardware, payment for access to a location (e.g., an amusement park or water park) or for access to specific facilities, or any other form of payment and / or receipt of points, discount coupons, vouchers, or other means of payment or redemption associated with a location, venue, device, etc. Kiosk 122 may allow a user to interact with the system, as discussed in greater detail herein.

[0083] exist Figure 4 In one embodiment, a schematic diagram 400 of a system for tracking a user and / or object using a plurality of sensor stations (402, 404, 406) (e.g., receivers for sensing or tracking some trackable hardware) may be used to communicate using a personal area network ("PAN") ID (422, 424, 426) to communicate with a plurality of nodes (432, 434, 436) shown. In one embodiment, only one sensor station, PANID, and / or node may be used. Each of the plurality of nodes (432, 434, 436) may be connected, networked, or may be connected to one or more servers. The plurality of nodes (432, 434, 436) may also communicate with a wide area network 480 via a router 470. Such a configuration may allow for accommodating geographic locations or destinations of various sizes by including multiple sensing stations, PANs, and / or nodes as part of the system to accommodate the size of a particular geographic location or destination. For example, a larger water park or amusement park may benefit from a greater number of sensing stations, PANs, and / or nodes than a smaller venue (such as a nightclub) with respect to customer locations and / or statistics or data.

[0084] Figure 5A flowchart 500 of user or other data management between one or more global or local servers is shown. Such data may be configured to be copied and / or moved between servers, for example, when a user enters a specific location or area (such as a location or area configured to track user and / or object data). In one example, user or other data (e.g., preferences, characteristics, statistics, previous locations, other historical information obtained by, from or about a user) may be stored in a global server, but when a user enters a specific location (e.g., the entrance to an amusement park or water park), all or some of the user or other data may be configured to be moved or copied to different (e.g., local) servers. Different servers may be configured to generally include data corresponding to users in a specific location and / or operate on the data. In such a system, different servers may operate more efficiently with such data because the data in different servers are subsets of the total data volume and / or are set with higher speed devices or connections. Such efficiency and / or speed may be more desirable and / or important for data corresponding to users at the location when compared to other global data (which may correspond to users who only visited the location on some historical dates, but were not actively monitored or tracked at a given time) (e.g., the accuracy of location data or operations based on such data may be more time-critical because the users actively participated in and / or were at the location). The system and / or server may include features the same or similar to those discussed throughout this application.

[0085] As previously discussed, it may be desirable to allow a user to participate or engage in one or more features of the system, regardless of whether the user has previously established a user account and / or ever established a user account. Flowchart 500 begins at step 505, for example, when a user enters a particular location (e.g., such as an entrance or other designated area of ​​an amusement park or water park), the user receives and / or has activated tracking hardware (e.g., a wristband with tracking capabilities), or otherwise has or will generally enter an area that will track the user and / or allow the user to engage in features of the system.

[0086] At step 510, user data corresponding to the tracking hardware is set on a local server (e.g., a server local to a particular location or destination (such as a water park)). The user data may include a temporary ID number or other form of identifier, and / or may include additional data, such as age, gender, height or other characteristics, preferences, or other information corresponding to the user. The local server may be a server that is not available to the general public (e.g., not available via a public network (such as the Internet)), and / or is configured to process a subset of the information or data of a master or global server, and / or is configured to have increased communication speeds and / or data operation speeds, for example, as discussed above. In one embodiment, the local server may store and / or manipulate data only for a specific time period (e.g., 24 hours), and / or may be available to those users who have entered or will enter a particular location or destination within that time period. After such a time frame, the local server may copy or move some or all of the user data stored in the local server to the master or global server, and likewise only store and / or manipulate data for users who appear at the particular location or destination during the next subsequent time period at the local server level. In some embodiments, this may allow the local server to operate more quickly and / or more efficiently because it only stores and / or manipulates subsets of data and / or users that may otherwise exist on a master or global server, rather than potentially large amounts of data (most of which need not be used by the system during the timeframe or location of the matter of interest).

[0087] At step 515, the system detects whether a particular user has previously created or registered a system account. If so, then the account may be present on the global (e.g., master) server, and the operation moves to step 520, where all or some data associated with the user account is downloaded, moved, copied, transferred to the local server, or otherwise synchronized between the global server and the local server. Thus, at step 535, subsequent changes or interactions or manipulations of such user data may be performed at the local server level. At some subsequent time, all or some data now at the local server level may be downloaded, moved, copied, transferred, or otherwise synchronized between the local server and the global server.

[0088] If it is determined at step 515 that an account does not exist, then the operation moves to step 525, and a determination is made as to whether the user wishes to create or register an account (e.g., by notifying the user via a message, notification, phone call, etc. that they can create an account on an electronic device (such as a smart phone, tablet, kiosk, etc.), by an employee at the destination informing the user that they can create an account, by displaying to the user at a kiosk that they can create an account, etc.). If the user does not wish to create an account, then the operation continues to step 530, where the user account is created on the global server. In another embodiment, the user account may be created on a local server for subsequent transmission to the global server. Once created, the operation continues to step 520, where some or all such data regarding the user account is synchronized between the master or global server and the local server, as previously discussed. If the user does not wish to create an account, then the operation continues to step 535, where the system continues its operation and feature provision by reading / writing data to the local server (e.g., storing tracking information to the local server, providing other features or functionality as discussed elsewhere in this application by storing or manipulating data of the local server, etc.). In some embodiments, the master or global server may provide periodic (e.g., timed or scheduled) and / or push data from the master or global server to the local server at a subsequent time after the user initially enters the destination (e.g., to accommodate such users who do not create an account after entering the destination but participate in the destination for a period of time and create an account at some subsequent time while still within the destination).

[0089] Figure 6A flow chart 600 of data management between a global server and a local server is shown, when a user leaves a location having a system configured to track user and / or object data. The system and / or server may include features identical or similar to those discussed throughout this application. In step 605, the user is detected to have visited a location or to have left a specific area within a location (e.g., the user has left an amusement park or water park and / or has moved or moved through a specified area of ​​a given location). In step 610, tracking data associated with the user (e.g., data about the place and / or time of a specific location within a location visited by the user, data about the type and time of activities the user participates in, etc.) is downloaded, moved, copied, transmitted, or otherwise synchronized between a local server and a global (e.g., master) server. This information may be downloaded, moved, copied, transmitted, or otherwise synchronized without the user ever having created a user account. For example, tracking data may be user-agnostic, but still desired for storage, because it may generally provide information about a group or individual without requiring such data to be specifically bound to a specific user (whose account has been established). However, certain features of the system may require that a user account be created before data associated with those features is stored on a master or global server (e.g., features involving use or based on specific characteristics and / or preferences of a user, features involving use or based on purchases or other currency or rewards associated with a user).

[0090] For example, as discussed elsewhere in this application, a particular user may have made purchases, currency in the form of storage (e.g., points), accumulated medals, accumulated prizes, obtained fast passes or other coupons, etc. Some of these items may be configured to be available or accessed by the user after the destination user has spent time. In such cases, because such information is user-specific and can be permanent (e.g., available to the user outside the day spent at the water park or other specific location), the user may be required to set up a user account so that the data associated with such items can be appropriately stored and accessed by such user global servers. In step 615, it is determined whether the user has an existing user account. If so, the operation continues to step 620, wherein all or some of the user's local data is downloaded, moved, copied, transmitted, or otherwise synchronized between the local server and the global server. The operation then continues to step 635, wherein the local server data can be deleted, for example, after a specific time, or after a specific amount of time has elapsed (e.g., end of the day, end of the week, overnight, etc.).

[0091] If it is determined at step 615 that the user does not have an account, then the operation continues to step 625, where the user is notified of an impending data loss because the user has not yet established an account. For example, the user may receive a formal message or other communication or notification that its data will be deleted at a specified time or within a specified time period unless the user takes action to establish a user account. At step 630, it is determined whether the user has created a user account within the time period. If so, then the operation continues to step 620 and the user's local data about the user account is synchronized between the local server and the global server. If the user account is not created according to the specified time or time period, then the operation continues to step 635, and the user data on the local server may be deleted. In such a case, the user may lose the use of any accumulated items or benefits (which should be credited during the user's time at the destination) because such items or benefits may not be associated with the user account before the data is deleted from the local server.

[0092] In certain embodiments, other data corresponding to a user (e.g., explicitly tied to that particular user and / or more general in nature not tied to any particular user) may be obtained and / or stored, even in the event that the user chooses not to create a user account. Such data may be collected and used for statistical purposes (e.g., the most crowded areas of the park, the most popular attractions, the most or least popular retail items and / or food items, demographic information, etc.). Thus, this information may be mined and used to improve park operations, shared with third-party vendors, and the like.

[0093] Figure 7 A flowchart 700 of user data for a storage system is shown, which is configured to track user and / or object data. The system may include those same or similar features discussed throughout the application. In step 705, the operation begins, such as when the user is in a specific destination, location or area, and the system is configured to track user and / or object movement and / or activity. In step 710, the user's tracking data is obtained at a specific location at the destination. For example, the tracking data may be derived from tracking or sensing the user (for example, by tracking of one or more sensors or receivers by hardware worn or carried by the user, or tracking of users or user groups such as via motion detection, visual recognition, etc.) by means of RFID and / or any of a variety of other possible detection methods discussed throughout the application. In step 715, the accuracy of the tracking data is determined. For example, in a system including multiple sensors or receivers arranged at different locations around a destination or location, a specific user and / or object may be tracked or sensed by multiple sensors or receivers at a given time, even if the user and / or object is only physically located at a specific location. Thus, any of a variety of possible position error resolution methods may be employed, as discussed in greater detail throughout this application.

[0094] At step 720, a confidence level is associated with the tracking data, e.g., based on the determination of the accuracy of the tracking data from step 715. In one embodiment, the confidence level may be a parameter, flag, or other indicator associated with the tracking data that may be updated or modified as the confidence level of the tracking data changes. At step 725, a determination is made as to whether the additional data in the system affects the accuracy of the tracking data and its associated confidence level. If so, then the operation returns to step 715, where the accuracy of the tracking data is reassessed, and the confidence level associated with the tracking data is updated at step 720.

[0095] For example, a user may be sensed by a first receiver at a first location. If this is the first tracking data associated with the user and there is no distinct data in the system indicating that the first tracking data has questionable accuracy, the accuracy of the tracking data may not be checked and the tracking data may receive a high confidence level. However, if the user is also sensed by a second receiver at a second location but the same time period (e.g., a transmission or signal is received or otherwise picked up or sensed by both the first receiver and the second receiver with a timestamp or the same sequence ID), the accuracy of the tracking data may be questionable. Therefore, the accuracy of the tracking data may be determined or re-determined due to conflicting information. In one example, if the strength of the signal received by the second receiver is higher than the signal received by the first receiver, the system may determine that the user is actually closer to the second location associated with the second receiver (due to its higher signal strength), at which time the confidence level associated with the tracking data of the second receiver is updated to be higher than the confidence level associated with the tracking data of the first receiver. Additional or alternative forms of accuracy determination may be used in alternative embodiments. Such accuracy determination and confidence levels between the tracking data of the conflicting group may be performed in a cache, other transitional portion, or database associated with the potentially untrustworthy tracking data of the local server.

[0096] If, at step 725, there is no additional data that affects the accuracy of the particular tracking data, then operations continue to step 730 and the tracking data is stored in the local server (e.g., stored as part of a particular database of data that has been determined to be accurate). For example, once accuracy has been evaluated and / or established, the tracking data may be moved to a more permanent storage location (e.g., a database or other less transient portion) of the local server when compared to a cache, other transient portion, or potentially inaccurate database of data of the local server as discussed above. In one embodiment, the tracking data stored in the more permanent location of the local server may be considered more trustworthy or more accurate when compared to new tracking data received for the purpose of evaluating the accuracy of such newly received tracking data.

[0097] Operation then continues to step 735 where it is determined whether the user's location has changed (e.g., by the user being sensed or tracked in a new location), whereupon such tracking data is again established at step 710 and the process begins again. If the user's location has not changed (e.g., no new location for the user has been sensed), then the lack of any movement is stored in the local server at step 730. In another embodiment, if it is determined that the user's location has not changed, then the system may not store any new data regarding the user's tracking in the local server until such a new location has been sensed.

[0098] Figure 8 A schematic diagram 800 of a kiosk for use with a system is shown, the system being configured to track user and / or object data. The system and / or kiosk may include features identical or similar to those discussed throughout this application. As previously discussed, certain features of the system may be configured to allow a user to view and / or manipulate information without setting a user account and / or without using a personal electronic device, such as a smart phone. A kiosk or other permanent or semi-permanent hardware may be arranged around a destination to allow a user to participate in the features of the system, regardless of whether its associated tracking hardware (e.g., a wristband) has been linked to a user account. A user may position himself or some of the trackable hardware associated with the user near a receiver 825 of the kiosk (e.g., a short range, such as several inches), the receiver 825 senses the trackable hardware and uses a processor 805 to start software instructions. In one embodiment, the processor 805 may be connected to a memory (or the memory may be embedded or embedded on-chip in the processor 805) for executing software instructions, such as the software features discussed throughout this application.

[0099] The processor 800 may have a command console or server input 810 that allows the operation of the destination to send explicit instructions to the processor 800 of the kiosk (e.g., update firmware, update software, request status, etc.). The kiosk may also be connected (e.g., via wireless and / or through a wired connection) to a server 830, such as a local server and / or a master or global server associated with the destination as discussed throughout. Such a connection to the server 830 may allow synchronization of data, lookup of data, and / or other communication of data between the server and the kiosk, for example, when a user enters the vicinity of the kiosk to be sensed by the kiosk and begin use, data on the local server and / or the master or global server may be used for display and / or interaction through the kiosk.

[0100] The processor 805 may also communicate with a display 815 (e.g., a touch screen display) (associated with the kiosk), for example, to display information and / or receive input or data and / or provide capabilities for operation, manipulation, or other features by a user interacting with the kiosk. The processor 805 may communicate with an audio device 820 (e.g., one or more speakers), which may, for example, play music, sound effects, and / or other auditory responses and / or tones in response to user input (e.g., by way of a touch screen), and / or simultaneously display information or features to the user.

[0101] Fig. 9 A timing diagram 900 is shown for improving the functionality of a system for tracking multiple users and / or objects. As previously discussed, due to the transmission signals of multiple transmitters (e.g., wristbands), which may be close to each other at a given time, there may be possible interference between transmissions, which may cause errors in the accuracy and / or proper detection and / or differentiation of transmissions. To help prevent such transmission interference, jitter may be introduced during the transmission process. For example, if a transmission is programmed to occur at time X, then a jitter window 905 allows such transmission to actually occur before or after some predetermined time range Y, thereby "jittering" or staggering (e.g., in effect assisting in alteration and / or randomization) the actual transmission time 920 from time X to time X+ / -Y. After the transmission, the predetermined time 910 elapses, and the transmission time (+ / - jitter window 915) occurs again, resulting in a second actual transmission 925. The predetermined time between transmissions can be measured from time X (i.e., when the transmission is programmed to occur without jitter). Alternatively, transmission interference can be further reduced by instead starting the predetermined time 910 from when the transmission actually occurs (i.e., X+ / -Y) due to the jitter window. Thus, additional differentiation and / or randomization of transmission timing can be introduced into the system, which can be beneficial for reducing transmission interference.

[0102] Fig. 10A A perspective view 1000 of multiple wristbands (1005, 1010, 1015) is shown, and the multiple wristbands (1005, 1010, 1015) are configured to be sensed or tracked by the system. One or more of the multiple wristbands (1005, 1010, 1015) and / or the system may include features as discussed or shown throughout the application. For example, trackable hardware (e.g., one or more of the multiple wristbands (1005, 1010, 1015)) can be associated with a user (e.g., worn by the user) so that the user's movements and / or activities can be sensed / tracked as the user participates in activities at a particular destination.

[0103] One or more of the plurality of wristbands (1005, 1010, 1015) may be configured to be fastened around or otherwise engaged with a body part (e.g., a wrist) of a user, for example, by receiving one or more protrusions connected to or integrally formed with the first band 1023 in one or more openings 1022 associated with the second band 1021. The one or more protrusions 1020 and / or the one or more openings 1022 may be any of a variety of possible sizes, shapes, or configurations / orientations, such as Fig. 10A Alternative embodiments may utilize alternative sizes, shapes, or configurations / orientations, or alternative fastening or engagement mechanisms (e.g., hooks / pins, adhesives, ribbons / loops, buttons, buckles, or other fasteners). Although Fig. 10A Each of the illustrated plurality of wristbands (1005, 1010, 1015) is intended to allow a user to easily remove the wristband after applying the wristband to the user's wrist, but in an alternative embodiment, the wristband may be configured to be permanently secured around the user's wrist such that it is not easily removable without destroying all or part of the wristband (e.g., having to rip, tear, or cut it when the user is done with the wristband) and cannot be easily worn by the user or another user after such removal. In other words, the wristband is destructively removable.

[0104] Although multiple wristbands (1005, 1010, 1015) are Fig. 10A , but alternative embodiments may include devices that are configured to be sensed or tracked by the system and are associated with the user rather than being fastened or engaged around the user's wrist (e.g., an ankle band, necklace, pendant, card, adhesive label, or any of a variety of other possibilities). For example, in one embodiment, the device configured to be sensed or tracked by the system may be configured to engage the user's shoelaces. The multiple wristbands (1005, 1010, 1015) may be made of a variety of possible materials. In certain embodiments, water-resistant and / or waterproof materials may be desirable, such as plastic, rubber, paraffin or other water-resistant coatings, etc., for example for use in locations where water is prevalent (e.g., water parks).

[0105] Fig. 10B An exploded view 1050 of the components that make up Fig. 10AThe present invention provides a plurality of wristbands (1005, 1010, 1015) of the present invention. The first wristband 1005 includes a portion or base 1060 (e.g., a center portion) having a particular shape (e.g., a hexagon), and the portion or base 1060 is configured to receive a compartment or module 1061 (e.g., one or more sensing / communication components for tracking purposes). The module 1061 has a top member 1062 and a bottom member 1064, which, when coupled together, include a chamber therebetween, for example, to include various electronic devices or other components to assist the first wristband 1005 in sensing or tracking through the system, as discussed in more detail throughout. For example, in various embodiments, the compartment or module 1061 may be configured to transmit only, receive only, or both transmit and receive. The compartment or module 1061 may be capable of only transmission (e.g., may be capable of transmission in one or more frequency bands, such as a short-range transmission band and / or a longer-range transmission band), which is received or sensed at sensors or receivers disposed at various locations incorporated into the system. In one embodiment, the compartment or module 1061 may be configured to both transmit and receive, or only receive. The compartment or module 1061 may be sealed (e.g., hermetically sealed) so that water and / or other elements (e.g., dust) are not allowed to enter the interior chamber of the compartment or module 1061 and potentially interfere with the operation of the components therein. The portion 1060 of the first wristband 1005 may be generally disposed in the center of the wristband 1005 and on one side of the wristband 1005 (e.g., protruding outwardly from one side of the band for securing around the user's wrist while being flush or generally flush on the opposite side). In an alternative embodiment, the portion 1060 may be alternatively positioned, sized, and / or shaped.

[0106] Similarly, the second wristband 1010 includes a portion 1070 (e.g., at the center) having a particular shape (e.g., square), which is configured to receive a compartment or module 1071. The compartment or module 1071 has a top member 1072 and a bottom member 1074, which, when coupled together, include a chamber therebetween, for example, to include various electronic devices or other components to assist the second wristband 1010 in sensing or tracking through the system, as discussed in more detail throughout. The compartment or module 1071 can be sealed (e.g., hermetically sealed) so that water and / or other elements (e.g., dust) are not allowed to enter the internal chamber of the module and potentially interfere with the operation of the components therein. The portion 1070 can be generally disposed in the center of the wristband 1010 or on one side of the wristband 1010. In an alternative embodiment, the portion 1070 can be alternatively positioned, sized, and / or shaped.

[0107] Similarly, the third wristband 1015 includes a portion 1080 having a specific shape that is configured to receive a compartment or module. Although the hexagonal shape is explicitly shown in Fig. 10B , but other possible shapes (e.g., circular, triangular, pentagonal, rectangular, square, diamond, heart-shaped, etc.) may be used. As previously discussed or similar, the module may be formed of multiple components (e.g., a top component and a bottom component configured to fit together), and / or may be formed of a single molded component (e.g., water-tight or otherwise air-tight) having a chamber included therein for placement of electronics or other components. Portion 1080 may be generally disposed in the center of wristband 1015 or on one side of wristband 1015. Portion 1080 may be alternatively positioned, sized, and / or shaped. The third wristband 1015 includes an additional engagement element 1090 for receiving a portion (e.g., one of the multiple bands of wristband 1015 passing through it and engaging therewith). Such engagement element 1090 may allow for additional, more customizable, and / or stronger fixation for users having various body shapes and sizes.

[0108] Fig. 10C Similarly, multiple wristbands 1085 with sensing or tracking features are shown. Multiple wristbands 1085 may include features that are the same or similar to those discussed throughout this application. A first band 1081 (e.g., shorter in size and / or length, such as for a child's wrist) and a second band 1082 (e.g., longer in size and / or length, such as for an adult's wrist) are configured to connect or engage a base 1083. The base 1083 can be configured to removably connect or engage the first or second band (1081, 1082), such as by sliding on a portion of the first or second band (1081, 1082), and / or can be configured to engage or more securely connect the first or second band (1081, 1082) along the length of the first or second band (once in a desired position) (e.g., via a clamp, a pin, etc.).

[0109] The cabin or module 1084 (e.g., including electronics or other elements to assist in tracking or sensing features or capabilities of multiple wristbands 1085) may be engaged with the base (e.g., at least a portion of the cabin or module 1084 may be mounted within the base 1083 and / or may be held in place or engaged with the base 1083). The cabin or module 1084 and / or the base 1083 may include a QR code, or other means of scanning the cabin or module 1084 during setup or linking it to a particular user. In some embodiments, the cabin or module 1084 may be configured to be removable from the base 1083. In other embodiments, the cabin or module 1084 may not be configured to be removable from the base 1083 (e.g., may be permanently fixed to the base 1083, such as via an adhesive or other connection that makes disconnection from the base inconvenient and / or impossible (potentially causing damage to the base 1083 and / or the cabin or module 1084)). Thus, in various embodiments, the base 1083, the compartment or module 1084 (or both) may be configured to be removed from and / or reattached to a band (1081, 1082). In certain embodiments, the base 1083 and / or the compartment or module 1084 may be configured to be used with a variety of bands and / or be interchangeable, thereby allowing a user to collect a variety of bands (e.g., bands of different materials, themes, colors, designs, etc.), but maintain a single base 1083 and / or compartment or module 1084 that can be interchangeably used on a variety of bands as needed. In yet another embodiment, the base 1083 and / or the compartment 1084 may be configured to be interchangeably used on a variety of possible items (e.g., necklaces, shoelaces, cell phone holders, pendants, etc.), such that a user only needs to acquire one tracking device, but can use it in conjunction with a variety of wearable or non-wearable items as needed.

[0110] although FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C A wristband with tracking capabilities is specifically shown, but any of a variety of other possible devices 1090 may be configured to be tracked by the system, such as Fig. 10D For example, a necklace 1092 for wearing around a user's neck may include a trackable device (e.g., a compartment or module) that is connected to FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B In another example, a card 1094 carried by a user (e.g., in a user's wallet, in a pendant, in a cell phone case, etc.) may include a trackable device (e.g., a compartment or module) that is connected to the user's mobile phone. FIG. 10A to FIG. 10CThose discussed are the same or similar. In yet another example, the mobile device can execute software and / or can cooperate with external devices (e.g., via one or more of its hardware ports) to provide tracking capabilities by transmitting and / or receiving signals that are configured to be received and / or sent by sensors located around the location, as discussed throughout this application. Any of a variety of possible ways of wearing and / or carrying a trackable device can be used in alternative embodiments, and the trackable device is configured to be sensed and / or tracked by the system according to the features discussed throughout this application.

[0111] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C Various views of a module 1100 configured to be tracked by the system are shown. The module 1100 and / or the system may include features as discussed elsewhere in this specification and / or the drawings. For example, Fig.11A As shown, module 1100 may be configured to be worn by a user (e.g., as part of a wristband having bands or straps (1110, 1115) that extend outwardly from opposite sides or ends of module 1100). In various embodiments, the module may be integrally formed with one or both of the bands or straps (1110, 1115), or may be connected to one or both of the bands or straps (1110, 1115). In another embodiment, module 1100 may not be connected to or adjacent to any bands or straps (e.g., may be configured to be worn on or associated with a user, rather than by being strapped to a wrist, ankle, or other body part of the user). Module 1100 may be tracked by the system as a way for the system to understand the location or visit of a user as the user moves through a particular geographic location.

[0112] like Fig. 11B and Fig. 11CAs shown, module 1100 can be made of a rigid outer shell having a top member 1102 and a bottom member 1104 (or other orientations / combinations of two or more separate members), the top member 1102 and the bottom member 1104 being configured to fit together (e.g., connected, sealed, or bonded together) such that a chamber 1108 is disposed between the top member 1102 and the bottom member 1104. In an alternative embodiment, the module can be formed from a single material without the need for connection of separate parts, and / or can be formed from more than two members. One or more electronic devices or other components can be disposed on the device, for example, on a printed circuit board ("PCB") 1106 or other substrate or material mounted within the chamber 1108. In another embodiment, one or more electronic devices or other components can be connected to the top member 1102 and / or the bottom member 1104. A battery 1105 can also be included within the chamber 1108 for providing power to one or more of the members (e.g., on the PCB). Module 1100 can be square in shape with a dimension length 1120. In one embodiment, the dimension length 1120 may be equal to or less than 40 mm, such as between 20 mm and 40 mm. In another embodiment, the module 1100 may be any of a variety of possible shapes, with different sizes (e.g., rectangular, circular, oval, diamond, hexagonal, octagonal, pentagonal, triangular and / or other complex shapes, such as shapes in the form of objects (such as trademarks), or shapes of other objects). The module 1100 may have a cross-sectional dimension equal to or less than 60 mm, such as between 20 mm and 60 mm. Such dimensions may allow for convenient wearing by the user while also satisfactorily including the desired components within the module 1100.

[0113] FIG. 12A to FIG. 12C A module 1200 is shown that includes electrical components and is configured to be tracked by the system. The module 1200 and / or the system may include features as discussed elsewhere in this application. Fig. 12A As shown, module 1200 may include an internal chamber that houses a PCB 1206 having electrical components and / or traces disposed thereon and a battery 1205 for powering one or more of the electrical components on PCB 1206 .

[0114] Fig. 12B Shows Fig. 12A1206. Module 1206 may be comprised of a top component 1202 and a bottom component 1204 (or other orientations / combinations of two or more separate components) configured to fit together and include a PCB therebetween. Battery 1205 may be coupled to PCB 1206 (e.g., coupled to a bottom surface of PCB 1206 adjacent to bottom component 1204), while other components may be coupled to PCB 1206 on a side opposite battery 1205 (e.g., coupled to a top surface of PCB 1206 adjacent to top component 1202). To conserve battery power, one or more components may be disposed on PCB 1206 or coupled to PCB 1206 with a switch such that all or some of the electronic components requiring power are turned off or their power consumption has been reduced upon determining that the module has not been moved for a predetermined period of time. In one embodiment, such determination may be assisted by an accelerometer (such as a 3-axis accelerometer). Once movement is detected again, some or all of the electronic components may begin receiving additional power from battery 1205 again.

[0115] In one embodiment, the battery 1205 may be a standard battery (e.g., a conventional battery used in a wristwatch or other consumer electronic device, such as a CR2032 battery) that is not capable of being recharged (e.g., the battery 1205 may be consumable, and / or may be configured to provide power for a set period of time, such as approximately 3 years of operation). For example, the module 1200 may be sealed (e.g., to prevent water and / or dust from entering the interior of the module 1200) so that when the battery 1205 runs out of power, the module should be discarded and a new module with a new battery may be provided or obtained by the user for later use. In an alternative embodiment, other types of batteries may be used, such as rechargeable batteries, and / or may allow for mobile solar-based recharging and / or charging. With respect to rechargeable batteries, an electrical port may be provided that allows a power cable to be connected to or passed through the module 1200 to recharge the battery 1205. With respect to rechargeable batteries, recharging of the battery 1205 may be achieved via wireless charging, so that no electrical port is required. In other embodiments, the battery 1205 may be replaceable. For example, in embodiments where the presence of water or other environmental factors is a lower concern, the module 1200 may be non-permanently sealed (e.g., the module 1200 may be configured to be opened without causing damage or destruction to the module 1200), and / or the battery 1205 may be located outside the module 1205, thereby allowing replacement of the battery by opening the module 1200 and replacing the battery 1205 located within the module 1200 or by replacing a battery that is alternatively located outside the module. The battery 1205 may also be located within a sealable chamber, such as using a gasket or other sealing interface between access components.

[0116] PCB 1206 may include and / or interact with an antenna or transmitter (e.g., an ultra-high video or microwave frequency antenna) configured to transmit over a longer range, such as a 2.4 GHz frequency. In one embodiment, the long range antenna may utilize the Bluetooth low power protocol so that a paired antenna with a reader is not required. The long range antenna may require battery power, or may be an antenna that does not require battery power. PCB 1206 may also include and / or interact with a second antenna or transmitter (e.g., a radio frequency antenna) configured to transmit over a short range, such as a 13.56 MHz frequency. In certain embodiments, the short range antenna may not include a metal backing. A non-metal backing antenna may allow for better operation when in a module that also includes a long range antenna. The short range antenna may be a metal backing tag.

[0117] In one exemplary embodiment where the antennas are powered by batteries, battery power can be saved by extending the beacon interval for transmissions via one or more of the antennas (e.g., by utilizing a beacon interval for transmissions by a long range antenna only once every 2 seconds or longer). In such cases, with shorter beacon intervals, the antennas can utilize less power because they are generally transmitting less than they would otherwise. Although the extension of the transmission beacon intervals can introduce additional errors into the tracking of the user, error reduction techniques (such as those discussed previously) can be used to detect, mitigate, and / or correct such errors.

[0118] In yet another embodiment, rather than including a module having an active (e.g., requiring battery power) antenna or transmitter (e.g., long range) that transmits signals periodically at a set beacon interval (e.g., 2 second intervals) and a passive (e.g., not requiring battery power) antenna or transmitter (e.g., short range), a system utilizing one or more semi-active antennas or transmitters that do not transmit periodically at set intervals, but instead transmit in response to a stimulus signal, may be employed. For example, an external transmission device (e.g., located external to the module, such as an antenna or transmitter with a range of approximately 30 ft) may be located at a desired location at a destination and transmit a signal that is received by a passive antenna (e.g., a short range antenna or module's tag), which then transmits or communicates a small signal to the module's active long range transmitter, thereby directing or stimulating the module's active long range transmitter to transmit. In this manner, the long range transmitter need not consume as much power as would otherwise be required to support transmissions at periodic intervals, but rather only consumes power in response to transmissions in response to a stimulus signal. The power consumption or usage of the external transmission device may be of lesser concern since it is not within a module or associated with the user's mobile tracking device and may be powered by wires or cables or other power sources associated with the destination or venue (e.g., a water park or amusement park) itself. In an alternative embodiment, a tunable antenna may be used.

[0119] To help improve proper operation of all or some of the antennas or transmitters of module 1200, predetermined distances and / or orientations of antennas within module 1200 may be established. Fig.13 As shown, the square-shaped module 1300 may have a first side 1305 (e.g., a top side or region adjacent to the top side of a printed circuit board within the module's chamber) and a second side 1310 opposite the first side 1305 (e.g., a bottom side or region adjacent to the bottom side of a printed circuit board within the module's chamber). The module 1300 may have a first antenna or transmitter positioned, disposed, located on, and / or oriented at the first side 1305 and a second antenna or transmitter positioned, disposed, located on, and / or oriented at the second side 1310. Similarly, in another example, as Fig.14As shown, the hexagonal shaped module 1400 may have a first side 1405 (e.g., a top side) and a second side 1410 (e.g., a bottom side) opposite the first side 1405. The module 1400 may have a first antenna positioned, disposed, located on, and / or oriented at the first side 1405 and a second antenna positioned, disposed, located on, and / or oriented at the second side 1410. Such distance and / or placement of other materials (e.g., printed circuit boards) between the antennas may assist in maintaining a specific or desired distance or spacing between the antennas or transmitters. In an alternative embodiment, the first and second antennas or transmitters may each be disposed on the first side (1305, 1405) or the second side (1310, 1410) of the module (1300, 1400), respectively. Epoxy or other materials may additionally or alternatively be disposed within the module (1300, 1400) to assist in maintaining a desired distance. In one embodiment, the desired distance or spacing between antennas or transmitters of a module may be 2.5 mm or greater. Any of a variety of possible epoxies or other materials may be used, such as silicone, potting compounds, rubber, etc.

[0120] While the previous exemplary embodiments have focused on wristbands that include trackable hardware, in alternative embodiments, any of a variety of possible devices may include a trackable device (such as a towel) to help prevent a user from taking the towel and not returning it, for example, in a hotel or resort scenario. Portable asset tracking (e.g., equipment on emergency vehicles, such as fire trucks, ambulances, police cars, etc.) that moves around lower-control areas (compared to conventional asset tracking in warehouses, etc.) may also utilize the tracking techniques described throughout this application for objects. In alternative embodiments, non-trackable hardware may be desirable.

[0121] Fig.15 Various views and configurations of non-trackable modules (1500, 1550) are shown, which are configured to provide entertainment or enjoyment to the user without being tracked by the system. For example, as previously discussed, the wristband may be configured to receive a module that includes one or more components to assist in sensing and / or tracking of the module. The cost of such modules that are capable of being tracked or sensed by the system (e.g., due to the electronic components used) may make it desirable for such modules to be reused by multiple users who visit a particular destination, such as an amusement park or water park. To help prevent users from taking such trackable modules with them when leaving a destination and / or to provide or sell souvenirs or other mementos to users, modules that do not include tracking or sensing components may be available.

[0122] For example, the non-traceable module 1500 may be provided in a hexagonal shape and / or may include a brand and / or personalization element 1505 that indicates a particular destination visited by a user (e.g., the name of an amusement park or water park, a user's name, alias, initials, a user-selected graphic, a brand, etc.). A power element, such as a light (e.g., a light emitting diode) or a speaker, may additionally or alternatively be part of the non-traceable module 1500. In one embodiment and as shown, a first set of lights 1510 may be disposed along an outer ring of the module 1500 and a second set of lights 1520 may be disposed along an inner ring of the module 1500. The lights may be programmable to flash or illuminate according to a particular sequence (e.g., chase lights and / or fade through different colors). The non-traceable module 1500 may be configured (e.g., sized and / or shaped) to replace a traceable module (e.g., in a wristband as shown in the top view 1530 and / or bottom view 1535). The non-traceable module 1500 can be any of a variety of shapes, the same or similar to those previously discussed, such as a hexagonal shape or as specifically shown by the non-traceable module 1550 having a square shape. Exemplary component features of the non-traceable module can also be incorporated into the tracking hardware or other modules described herein, including, for example, speakers, lights, displays, logos, personalization elements, and combinations thereof.

[0123] Fig.16A Multiple views of a kiosk 1600 for sensing a user and / or a device and / or hardware associated with the user and allowing the user to interact therewith are shown. The sensing of the kiosk 1600 and / or the user or the device or hardware associated with the user may include features identical or similar to those discussed throughout this application. The user may interact with the system via a mobile phone or other electronic device running a software application thereon, and / or may interact with the system using a software interface via one or more kiosks 1600. For example, the kiosk 1600 (or multiple kiosks) may be located at or around a destination or geographic location (e.g., an amusement park or water park) and may be configured to allow the user to identify. After identification, the user may then interact with the kiosk, such as by interacting with the software via a touch screen for modifying multiple aspects of the user's account, communicating with family / friends, and / or participating in a variety of other activities or features provided by the software executed by the kiosk 1600, as discussed throughout. For clarity of illustration, kiosk 1600 is shown from a front perspective 1601, a front view 1602, a side view 1603, and a rear perspective 1604. Fig.16A The kiosk is shown as having specific components, specific dimensions, and / or a specific shape, but in an alternative embodiment, the kiosk can be shaped, dimensioned, and / or configured in any of a variety of possible ways.

[0124] In an exemplary embodiment, the kiosk 1600 includes a sensor 1610 for sensing, identifying or determining a user in a predetermined vicinity of the kiosk 1600. The sensor 1610 may be configured for short-range sensing of a user via sensing of a module or chamber including electronic components (e.g., antennas, RFID tags, transmitters, etc.), such as those previously discussed. When a user wearing or carrying (e.g., via a wristband) a chamber or module (or otherwise) brings the module or chamber or any senseable component or electronic device within a specific distance of the sensor 1610, the kiosk 1600 may identify the user via such sensing. For example, a wristband worn by a user may include a module including a short-range (e.g., several inches, 13.56 MHz frequency) tag, antenna, or transmitter therein. When the short-range tag or antenna is within a predetermined distance (e.g., 2 inches to 5 inches) from the sensor 1610 of the kiosk 1600, the short-range tag, antenna, or transmitter may be sensed by the sensor 1610 of the kiosk 1600. At a given destination, kiosks with different capabilities may be located throughout (e.g., some kiosks may allow any or all of user interaction, user tracking, etc., while other kiosks have different capabilities, such as tracking only or interaction only, etc.).

[0125] In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor 1610 may generate a radio frequency field that may excite a tuned circuit within a module or compartment created between a short range antenna and one or more capacitors. Such excitation of the circuit may cause a short range tag or antenna to transmit information (e.g., a data packet stored on an integrated circuit coupled to the antenna), where the short range tag or antenna is not electrically coupled to a battery associated with the wristband or module. Upon sensing the short range tag or antenna, the system may utilize the received signal or data packet to identify information associated with or for a particular user and display the information on a display 1605 of the kiosk 1600. In an alternative embodiment, a long range sensor may be included in the kiosk 1600 in place of or in addition to a short range sensor.

[0126] Display 1605 can be a touch screen display, which allows user interaction via a touch display so that the user can provide input, as discussed in more detail throughout this application. Alternatively, display 1605 can be a screen that cannot accept user input via touch, and additional user interface elements (e.g., buttons, dials, switches, trackballs, etc.) can be provided on or near kiosk 1600 for the user to make a selection, confirm and / or otherwise navigate a software application or interact with it, which is executed and / or displayed on display 1605 by kiosk 1600. As shown, kiosk 1600 can be configured to be installed on the ground and be about 2ft to 5ft high to allow the user to easily view the kiosk and / or interact with it. In an alternative embodiment, the configuration of the kiosk is distinguished or the user is scanned and / or other ways of receiving user interaction therewith are received. For example, in one embodiment, the display screen can be installed on or connected to an object in a building or other structure or place. The display screen may include a processing device or apparatus integrated therewith for running the appropriate software code, and / or may be configured to communicate with a remotely located processing device or apparatus.

[0127] Fig. 16B Shows Fig.16A Exploded front and rear views of kiosk 1600. Kiosk 1600 may be supported by a front panel or body 1625 and a rear panel or body 1620 configured to couple together and form a chamber or space therebetween. In one embodiment, a unitary body may be formed with a chamber therein, or a body with a chamber therein may be formed from any number of connected panel or body components. The front panel or body 1625 and / or the rear panel or body 1620 may be made of any of a variety of possible materials, including plastic, metal, fiberglass, etc. In certain embodiments, the coupling or mating of the front panel 1625 and the rear panel 1620 may be sealed to prevent water and / or dust from entering the chamber therebetween (e.g., to protect electrical components or other equipment or devices included in the chamber).

[0128] The base 1635 is connected to a stand (e.g., vertical) 1630 that connects the display 1605 and a box or housing 1632 for housing electrical components associated with the display 1605 or other aspects of the kiosk 1600. For example, one or more of a processor, memory, antenna, power supply, etc. may be included in the box or housing 1632 so that when a sensor 1610 (see, e.g., Fig.16A After the kiosk 1600 senses a user, the kiosk 1600 and / or a connected system (e.g., a system that communicates with one or more of the kiosk's electrical components via wired or wireless communications) can identify the specific user and / or specific hardware or components and display appropriate information on the display 1605, as discussed in more detail throughout. Fig. 16C Several cross-sectional views are shown, showing Fig.16A 1600 and illustrates an internal layout of the features discussed above of the kiosk 1600 and shows how one exemplary embodiment of a kiosk (having the previously identified components or devices) may be constructed or configured.

[0129] As previously discussed, a system for a destination (e.g., a water park or amusement park) may allow tracking of users or groups of users and / or other user customization or user interaction experiences. Such user customization or user interaction experiences of the system may be engaged in by the user via a software application that executes on a computing device, such as a handheld or other mobile device (e.g., a smartphone, tablet, laptop, etc.). The system may have features that are the same or similar to those disclosed throughout this application.

[0130] Fig.17 A user interface ("UI") screen 1700 of a customer-centric homepage to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects at a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features is shown. UI screen 1700 may be a "home" screen (e.g., may be an initial screen or a screen containing a summary of a variety of possible features available to the software, and may include links or UI elements that allow a user to navigate to such a variety of possible features). As shown, UI screen 1700 may include a first portion (such as a main portion 1702), a second portion (such as an advertisement and / or information banner portion 1703), and a third portion (such as a bottom shortcut portion 1704), as discussed in more detail herein. Bottom shortcut portion 1704 may include a plurality of UI elements (e.g., text, graphics, etc.) that may be selected (e.g., touched) by a user to change the information or UI elements available in main portion 1702 of UI screen 1700 or to navigate the user to a different UI screen with alternative UI elements. Home UI element 1705 may take the user to a screen having all or some of the UI elements displayed in main portion 1702 of UI screen 1700. For example, UI elements corresponding to commonly used features for a particular user (and / or other users generally) may be displayed to allow the user to quickly access such features from a single screen of the software application.

[0131] A social (e.g., friends and / or family) shortcut UI element 1715 may be included as shown in the bottom shortcut portion 1704 of the UI screen 1700. The social shortcut UI element 1715 may include various features related to social functions (e.g., messaging, sharing of a user's activities or statistics, etc.) and / or family management or linked accounts and related preferences, for example, as discussed in more detail throughout this application, such as Fig.28 and / or Fig.33In some embodiments, social UI elements may additionally or alternatively be included in the main portion 1702 of the UI screen 1700 .

[0132] The current day activities UI element 1710 may take the user to a screen displaying UI elements related to activities and / or customizations that the user may participate in that are relevant to the current day while the user is at the destination. For example, Fig. 20 A handheld user interface screen 2000 is shown to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects at a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features. The system may include the same or similar features as those discussed throughout this application. The UI screen 2000 for the day's activities page may include a first portion, such as a main portion 2002 having a plurality of UI elements. A second portion (such as an advertisement and / or information banner portion 2003) and a third portion (such as a bottom portion 2004) may also be provided, with Fig.17 The discussion is the same or similar. Fig. 20 A plurality of UI elements are shown and discussed below, more, fewer, or different UI elements are possible in alternative embodiments.Alternative embodiments may utilize any number of fewer or greater numbers of portions and / or alternative arrangements or orientations.

[0133] The music UI element 2005 may be configured to display the currently selected music category or playlist, and may be selectable to enable the user to select the type of music category or playlist to be played. For example, the music or audio may be played by the software-enabled device itself (e.g., a smart phone). In another example, the music or audio may be played by facilities at the destination or venue. In yet another example, the music or audio may be played on advertising screens, kiosks, or other electronic devices located throughout the destination or venue, with the music or audio being played on the device itself. Fig.17 In some embodiments, the user can unlock (e.g., purchase and / or earn points, as discussed in greater detail throughout this application) additional music songs, albums, features, etc. Similarly, theme UI element 2010 can display the currently selected theme and be selectable to enable the user to select a desired theme or scheme as shown (e.g., via a software application, on a specific facility at the destination, on an advertising screen or kiosk across the destination, etc.), with Fig.17 The features are the same or similar to those discussed throughout. The destination information UI element 2015 can display the currently selected destination (e.g., water park or amusement park) and can be selected to enable the user to view additional information corresponding to the destination, similar to Fig.17 The features discussed are the same or similar.

[0134] The UI screen 2000 of the day's activity page also includes a medal or statistics UI element 2020, which can display one or more statistics or data about the user (e.g., the most recently obtained "medals", as discussed in more detail below). After selecting the medal or statistics UI element 2020, the user can view various statistics and / or medals that have been determined in the system and / or earned by the user. For example, the system may have set a "medal" that the user can earn (or partially earn) by riding or participating in a specific facility for a predetermined number of times. For example, a medal can be earned by riding five scheduled facilities in an amusement park. As the user is tracked as having ridden the scheduled facilities, the user earns medals or progresses toward medals. Once all five scheduled facilities (and / or other criteria are established, such as a specific day, week, etc.) have been completed, the user can earn medals.

[0135] Upon successful completion of the requirements for such a badge, a badge may be awarded to the user (in the form of a colored graphic, or other indication that the user has successfully completed the requirements to earn the badge). Multiple badges may be available for a user to earn. Prior to earning a badge, such a badge may be grayed out and / or indicate to the user the progress that has been made so far toward earning the badge. In another embodiment, the badge requirements may be hidden from the user until the badge is successfully earned, at which point the badge becomes visible to the user. Thus, badges may encourage participation in a variety of facilities or venues, and may be used by operators of destinations to help influence user behavior (through the establishment of certain badges that encourage users to participate in specific areas or specific facilities).

[0136] The UI screen 2000 of the day's activity page may also include an activity UI element 2025, which may display recent activities that the user has tracked as they participated (e.g., a particular facility, making a particular purchase, visiting a particular venue, etc.). Selecting the activity UI element 2025 may provide the user with a list of all activities (or a subset of all activities) that the user has previously participated in. In some embodiments, other statistics or data related to these activities may be collected and / or displayed to the user, such as the maximum speed the user reached at a particular facility, the total time spent at a particular venue, the vertical foothills traversed, the amount of G-forces obtained, the number of steps walked, etc. Such activity history and / or related statistics may be shared by the user and / or by utilizing a third-party application (such as via messaging, email, social media, etc.), for example, to friends and family (linking their accounts within the software application).

[0137] The UI screen 2000 of the day's activity page may also include a waiting time UI element 2030, which may display one or more statistics or data related to the waiting time of one or more facilities at the destination. For example, the system may determine the facilities within the user's predetermined vicinity and display the shortest waiting time between these facilities. In another example, the system may display the shortest waiting time for all facilities at the destination. In yet another example, the system may determine and display the shortest waiting time corresponding to a group of facilities; the user has previously established the group of facilities and / or its attributes (e.g., height, weight, etc.) and / or preferences (e.g., water rides, roller coasters, etc.) to match specific facility characteristics. After selecting the waiting time UI element 2030, the user may provide a list (e.g., classification) of all facilities and / or places at the destination or some subgroups of all facilities and / or places, and their corresponding current (or estimated later) waiting time. In some embodiments, the waiting time UI element 2030 may include the start time of a performance, event, reservations for food or rides or facility visits, and the like. Waiting times can be dynamically updated (e.g., in real time) from tracking of users traversing a destination based on a variety of data available to the system, enabling users to explicitly see the precise waiting times for one or more specific facilities. As discussed in more detail throughout this application, such data regarding waiting times can also be used by the system for group management by dynamically (e.g., in real time) adjusting the level of benefits or points that will be awarded to users if they choose to ride at a specific facility within a given time frame.

[0138] Return to reference Fig.17 , a user profile UI element 1730 may be provided in the main portion 1702 of the UI screen 1700. A system that interfaces with or interacts with a software application having a UI screen 1700 having a user profile UI element 1730 may be configured to allow a user to establish and / or modify a variety of profile personalization data, for example, as discussed in more detail below. The user profile UI element 1730 may display information about a real name, alias, or other profile characteristics (e.g., a profile image, age, gender, etc.) associated with a particular user who is currently logged into the software application (or otherwise associated with a user, such as information for a child with an account set up by a parent). For example, upon selecting the user profile UI element 1730, another screen or pop-up window may be displayed that allows the user to view and / or edit information associated with their profile (including modifying their alias, age, height, gender, preferences, etc.).

[0139] For example, in Fig.19In one embodiment shown, after selecting the user profile UI element 1730, a UI screen 1900 of a customer-centric profile page 1900 to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features may be displayed. The customer-centric profile page UI screen 1900 may include a first portion (such as a main portion 1902), a second portion (such as an advertisement and / or information banner portion 1903), and a third portion (such as a bottom shortcut portion 1904), the same or similar to that discussed with respect to UI screen 1700.

[0140] The user may be able to edit an alias or avatar associated with their profile via selection of interface element 1935, edit a gender associated with their profile via selection of interface element 1940, edit a specific age and / or age range associated with their profile via selection of interface element 1960, edit or establish links to social media accounts to be associated with their profile via selection of interface element 1945, edit a postal code or other geographic indicator (e.g., home address, zip code, home town, home state, home country, etc.) associated with their profile via selection of interface element 1955, and / or edit a password (e.g., a personal identification number or "PIN") for additional security associated with their profile via selection of interface element 1950. In some embodiments, certain aspects or characteristics associated with a user may be automatically programmed (e.g., other systems for data auto-population may be connected), and / or additional hardware may be utilized to assist the user in populating profile characteristics (e.g., a camera may be used to take a photo of a customer or user to associate the customer or user with a wristband, and such photo may be used to programmatically determine age, gender, height, weight, etc.). Software-based learning and / or acceptable error limits may be used in conjunction with programmatically determined user characteristics (such as height or weight). In some embodiments, a photograph acquired by a camera may be automatically selected from a series of frames acquired by the camera to determine the best frame for the above-described association and / or determination of characteristics. In other embodiments, additional equipment (e.g., a load cell or scale for weight, a laser for height, etc.) may be used to determine one or more specific user characteristics for input as part of the user profile.

[0141] The user may be able to associate other user profiles with their own profiles and can switch between such profiles to set information, establish restrictions or otherwise have access to another user profile. In one example, the user may be able to set alarms, warnings, etc. for one or more related user profiles, and / or may establish parameters or other settings (e.g., a parent may set not to allow child 1 to leave area 1, and not to allow child 2 to leave area 1 or area 2). Such functionality may be beneficial for parents or guardians whose children do not have mobile devices and / or when parents or guardians or other adults with authority for minors wish to set specific parameters or other profile data for such children or other minors or dependents. Such parameters or profile data may be the child's age, gender, authorization to go to a specific facility, authorization to visit a specific area of ​​a destination, etc. In this way, a child or user (who is otherwise untrustworthy, whose parents or guardians wish to control, or who do not wish to interact with the system itself) may have its user profile information set or modified by the linked user. Links and switches between user accounts may be established via the selection of interface element 1930.

[0142] Reference again Fig.17 , a link wristband UI element 1740 may be provided in the main portion 1702 of the UI screen 1700. A system engaging or interacting with a software application having the UI screen 1700 and the link wristband UI element 1740 may be configured to allow a user to link or associate a wristband (or other trackable component or group of components, such as the modules disclosed throughout this application) with a user's profile (or with a profile of another user managed by the user), for example, as discussed in more detail below.

[0143] The link wristband UI element 1740 may be a graphic and / or text that changes depending on whether the user has successfully linked a module (e.g., included within a wristband) for use during a set time period (e.g., a day or a set of consecutive days). Prior to arriving at a destination and / or prior to receiving a tracking module / wristband, the user may set up an account on their mobile device, e.g., to set user preferences, profile information, etc. After receiving the tracking module / wristband, the user may link it to their user account and / or phone by selecting the link wristband UI element 1740 and following the displayed instructions (e.g., placing a QR code associated with the tracking module / wristband in front of a camera of a device running a software application; entering a set of characters / numbers associated with the tracking module / wristband; reading a code or set of characters / numbers associated with the tracking module / wristband into a microphone of a device running a software application by utilizing Bluetooth or other forms of wired or wireless communication; etc.). By successfully linking a tracking module / wristband to a user account within an established timeframe, activity tracked or otherwise determined by the system in response to tracking that module / wristband will then be associated with the specific user account to which it is linked. In the event that a module and / or wristband is returned to the operator at the destination after use by a user, such module and / or wristband may then be unlinked from the user account and may be used to link to a different user account at a later time.

[0144] For example, in Fig.18 In one embodiment shown, after selecting the user profile UI element 1740, a UI screen 1800 of a customer-centric link wristband page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features may be displayed. Instructions 1810 may be displayed to the user (e.g., via a text description and / or via a graphical animation) to inform the user how to appropriately link a module or wristband, as previously discussed. Interface element 1805 may be provided for allowing the user to manually enter and / or scan a barcode, QR code, or other means of automatically associating a particular module or wristband with a user account.

[0145] Reference again Fig.17, a destination information UI element 1745 may be provided in the main portion 1702 of the UI screen 1700. A system incorporating or interacting with a software application having the UI screen 1700 and the destination information UI element 1745 may be configured to display a variety of information to a user corresponding to a particular destination visited by the user or potentially visited by the user at a later date, for example, as discussed in more detail below. The destination information UI element 1745 may display a name and / or graphic associated with a particular destination (e.g., a water park or amusement park) and may be selectable by the user to display additional information associated with the destination (e.g., hours of operation, address, phone number, parking instructions, entrance fees or cost information, etc.).

[0146] For example, in Fig.23 In one illustrated embodiment, upon selection of the user profile UI element 1745, a UI screen 2300 of a patron-centric park information page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects at a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features may be displayed. The UI screen 2300 of the patron-centric park information page may include a first portion (such as a main portion 2302), a second portion (such as an advertisement and / or information banner portion 2303), and a third portion (such as a bottom shortcut portion 2304) that are the same or similar to those discussed with respect to UI screen 1700. The user may select a particular type of desired information by interacting with informational interface elements 2310 (e.g., hours, retail, food / menu, etc.), and the corresponding information or data (e.g., park and / or one or more facility hours may be displayed if the user selects the "hours" information type) may be displayed in the main portion 2302 of the UI screen 2300. For example, as shown in FIG. Fig.23 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, if "Hours" is selected via informational interface element 2310, corresponding hour information 2315 for various rides, events, features, facilities, shows, restaurants, etc. may be displayed for a particular day or date.

[0147] Reference again Fig.17, a music preference UI element 1750 may also be provided as part of UI screen 1700. A system that interfaces with or interacts with a software application having UI screen 1700 and music preference UI element 1750 may be configured to allow a user to establish or modify desired music (or other sound or audio theme preferences). The preferences may be used in any of a variety of ways to enhance the user experience, including setting the music / sounds played by the software application for the user's preferences, setting the music / sounds played at one or more facilities or venues at a destination (e.g., rides or entertainment activities located at a water park or amusement park), or otherwise setting the music / sounds played based on the user being within a sensed vicinity of a particular location at the destination (e.g., a desired music or audio theme is played as the user navigates within the vicinity of a sign, lounges at a cabana or pool chair, visits an information kiosk), for example, as discussed in more detail below.

[0148] The music preference UI element 1750 may display the currently selected music preference (e.g., "pop" type music as shown) for the currently displayed user profile. Upon selection of the music preference UI element 1750, additional music selections and / or customization options may be displayed for user interaction. For example, in the example Fig.21 In one embodiment shown, after selecting the music preference UI element 1750, a customer-centric music selection page UI screen 2100 to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features may be displayed. The customer-centric music selection page UI screen 2100 may include a first portion (such as a main portion 2102), a second portion (such as an advertisement and / or information banner portion 2103), and a third portion (such as a bottom shortcut portion 2104), the same or similar to that discussed for UI screen 1700.

[0149] As shown, the UI screen 2100 of the music selection page may include multiple interface elements 2115, which correspond to different music genres or categories available for the user's selection. After the selection of a specific genre or category, one or more indicators (e.g., visual indicators, such as border highlighting or check marks) (2105, 2110) may display the selected genre or category or may be associated with it to indicate the current selection to the user. In some embodiments, other music selection screens may be used, such as screens that display additional playlists, songs, or other selection options (after the user has selected a specific music genre or category, it has been selected by interacting with one of the multiple interface elements 2115). For example, for the "rap" category, the user may be allowed to further select a desired type or subcategory of rap music or a desired playlist, such as "90s rap", "hot hits", "female rappers", etc. In some embodiments, users may be allowed to select independent songs and / or create their own playlists (e.g., selecting specific songs and / or the order of such songs) (either utilizing songs available to the system and / or by uploading their own songs or selecting a playlist associated with one of the user's own music accounts created on the system or through interaction with a third-party music service or subscription).

[0150] Return to reference Fig.17 , a theme preference UI element 1755 is also shown. A system that interfaces with or interacts with a software application having UI screen 1700 and theme preference UI element 1755 may be configured to allow a user to establish or modify a desired theme (or other audio-visual preference). The preferences may be used in any of a variety of ways to enhance the user experience, including setting an audio-visual theme used by a software application for the user's preferences, setting an audio-visual theme used for one or more facilities or venues at a destination (e.g., lighting, audio effects, visuals displayed on monitors associated with the facilities or venues, etc.) (e.g., rides or entertainment activities located at a water park or amusement park), or otherwise setting an audio-visual theme that is played based on a user being within a sensed proximity of a particular location at the destination (e.g., displaying visuals and / or audio effects as a user navigates within proximity of a sign or monitor, lounges at a cabana or pool chair, etc.), for example, as discussed in more detail below.

[0151] Theme preference UI element 1755 may display the currently selected theme preference for the currently displayed user profile (e.g., Fig.17 Default). After selection of theme preference UI element 1755, additional theme selection and / or customization options may be displayed for user interaction. Fig. 22In one embodiment shown, after selecting the topic preference UI element 1755, a UI screen 2200 of a customer-centric topic selection page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features may be displayed. The UI screen 2200 of the customer-centric topic selection page may include a first portion (such as a main portion 2202), a second portion (such as an advertisement and / or information banner portion 2203), and a third portion (such as a bottom shortcut portion 2204), the same or similar to that discussed with respect to UI screen 1700.

[0152] As shown, the UI screen 2200 of the theme selection page may include multiple interface elements 2215, which correspond to different themes or categories that can be used for the selection of the user. After the selection of a specific theme or category, one or more indicators (e.g., visual indicators, such as border highlighting or check marks) (2205, 2210) can display the selected theme or category or can be associated with it to indicate the current selection to the user. In certain embodiments, other theme selection screens can be used, such as displaying additional selection options (after the user has interacted with one of multiple interface elements 2215 to select a specific theme or category 2215 (e.g., for the "holiday" theme category, the user can be allowed to further select the desired type or subcategory of the desired holiday theme, such as "birthday", "Christmas", etc.)). Some themes may require the user to unlock them for use, for example, by the payment of money and / or by other forms of currency or points that the user has obtained, as discussed in more detail throughout the application. In an alternative embodiment, a variety of possible customizations and / or preferences relate to themes, appearances, feelings, etc., such as replacement or selection of music, color, image, font, etc.

[0153] Reference again Fig.17 , the benefits / points UI element 1760 is shown as being disposed in the main portion 1702 of the UI screen 1700. The benefits / points quick UI element 1720 is also shown as being disposed in the bottom quick portion 1704 of the UI screen 1700. A system that interfaces with or interacts with a software application having the UI screen 1700 and the benefits / points UI element 1760 and / or the benefits / points quick UI element 1720 may be configured to display information corresponding to the points or other currency or rewards that the user has accumulated to the user, for example, as discussed in more detail below. The benefits / points UI element 1760 may display the total amount or value of benefits / points to the user and may be selected by the user to display additional information associated with those benefits / points.

[0154] Points or benefits may take any of a variety of different forms. In one embodiment, the system may establish a point system or currency to the user that allows the user to trade and / or pay for various goods or services using the accumulated points or currency. For example, the user may purchase food, souvenirs, front of the line or other access to a facility / venue (e.g., booking a show, a restaurant, a special line or queue that bypasses some or all of the traditional lines or queues of a facility, etc.), additional services associated with a destination, additional services or features associated with a software application, or any of a variety of other rewards or benefits to the user paid for with the user's accumulated points. In another example, the user may use points for facility control, such as using points to control the amount of time that a user is allowed to perform a specific activity associated with a ride or facility (e.g., the amount of time a user can operate a water cannon, the amount of time that water flows away from the power of the water cannon, the amount of time a user is allowed to board a ride, such as a surfing facility), thereby allowing the user to use the facility for a greater amount of time than the default amount of time available to the user if the user has accumulated a specific amount of points, medals, or other benefits or currency.

[0155] Points may be purchased by (or for) a user in an established currency (e.g., a government-issued currency, such as U.S. dollars, through the software or by visiting another kiosk, terminal, or employee associated with a destination to exchange currency for points for payment), through a transaction with another form of currency established by a third party (e.g., a third-party financial provider, such as a credit card company, bank, or other entity), and / or by participating in an activity or by performing certain behaviors or actions that have been established to be worth a specific number of points. Likewise, points earned by a user at a park or location may be converted into a currency or goods / services established by a third party. For example, third-party companies (such as airlines, hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues such as amusement parks, retail stores such as grocery stores, physical stores and / or online stores, gas stations, etc.) may participate in the system to allow users to make purchases or obtain other benefits through payment or transaction of points earned by users at the destination of such third-party locations, and vice versa.

[0156] The value of points that can be obtained by users can be dynamically allocated (e.g., in real time) based on other data available to the system to help encourage specific user behavior. For example, a destination such as a water park or an amusement park may have a large number of people queuing for facility 1 and a smaller number of people queuing for facility 2. The number of people waiting in each queue can be known to the system via the tracking of the user, as disclosed throughout this specification and the accompanying drawings. To encourage users to ride facility 2 instead of facility 1 (e.g., to disperse people at the destination, increase user entertainment, etc.), the number of points can be dynamically adjusted or established (e.g., providing additional points to users of ride facility 2 compared to the points provided for ride facility 1), so that users will be encouraged to ride facility 2 to accumulate these points. If the queue for facility 2 begins to increase, so that another facility will be more desirable for increasing user participation, then the points can be dynamically adjusted or established again, so that users will be encouraged to move toward and / or ride other facilities. In certain embodiments, such dynamic and / or real-time adjustments may increase the useful life of particular facilities, such as older and / or less popular facilities, and / or provide secondary benefits to park owners and / or such as by increasing revenue, providing dynamic and / or real-time crowd control, increasing customer satisfaction (e.g., by reducing wait times), etc.

[0157] In this way, user participation at various locations, venues, facilities, etc. throughout a destination can be dynamically adjusted to influence crowd control or otherwise encourage user behavior as desired. Similarly, if a particular store at a destination has seen low traffic, it may be desirable to increase the number of points awarded to users for sharing access to that store. Additionally, if a destination has an excess of a particular item, food, etc., the number of points for users who purchase that particular item, food, etc. may be increased to encourage such purchases.

[0158] For example, in Fig.24In one embodiment shown, after selecting the user profile UI element 1760, a UI screen 2400 of a customer-centric benefits page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features may be displayed. The UI screen 2400 of the customer benefits page may include a first portion (such as a main portion 2402), a second portion (such as an advertisement and / or information banner portion 2403), and a third portion (such as a bottom shortcut portion 2404), which are the same or similar to those discussed for UI screen 1700. The current account of the points UI element 2405 indicates the current account of the points that the user has accumulated. The accumulation history of such points (e.g., how, when, and in what account such points were accumulated for a particular activity) may be shown in one or more UI elements 2410. Thus, the user can easily see how the current point value shown in the UI element 2405 was obtained (e.g., by riding a particular ride at a particular time, by purchasing an item at a particular time, etc.).

[0159] Reference again Fig.17 , the reservation UI element 1735 is shown as being disposed in the main portion 1702 of the UI screen 1700. The reservation shortcut UI element 1725 is also shown as being disposed in the bottom shortcut portion 1704 of the UI screen 1700. A system that engages or interacts with a software application having the UI screen 1700 and the reservation UI element 1735 and / or the reservation shortcut UI element 1725 may be configured to display information corresponding to a reservation (e.g., an event, a venue, a restaurant reservation, etc.) to the user and / or the number of times that a reservation has been made to allow the user to quickly access (e.g., the front of a queue, a separate queue or sequence, etc.) one or more rides or facilities, for example, as discussed in more detail below. The reservation UI element 1735 may display a specific ride or facility that has been reserved by the user or for the user to make an appointment for the next time. In some embodiments, the reserved restaurant, event, venue, facility, or other activity may be displayed additionally or alternatively by the reservation UI element 1735.

[0160] Reservations may be available to the user with a variety of possible options. For example, by performing a variety of activities (e.g., downloading a software application and / or registering an account, purchasing a ticket to a destination, etc.), the user may have a predetermined number of potential reservations available. In some embodiments, the user may be allowed to purchase a reservation time slot using a government-issued currency (e.g., U.S. dollars). In other embodiments, the user may purchase a reservation time slot in a destination-specific currency and / or a currency associated with a software application or system (such as previously described, for example, for UI element 1760 and / or Fig.24In some embodiments, users may be rewarded with the ability to make reservations, priority and / or fixed reservations by completing one or more tasks set by the system (dynamic and / or real-time goals to be completed, which are determined by the system based on the tracking of users and / or objects).

[0161] In such Fig.25 In one embodiment shown, upon selecting the appointment UI element 1735, a customer-centric appointment page UI screen 2500 may be displayed to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features. The customer-centric appointment page UI screen 2500 may include a first portion (such as a main portion 2502), a second portion (such as an advertisement and / or information banner portion 2503), and a third portion (such as a bottom shortcut portion 2504) that are the same or similar to those discussed with respect to UI screen 1700. A list of currently set appointments that have been established by or for a user, along with their corresponding data, is displayed in the main portion 2502 of the appointment page 2500.

[0162] For example, as shown, for the time range 1 time slot, a first reservation for the facility entitled "Ride 1" on date 1 has been established. Therefore, the user will be able to go to the facility entitled "Ride 1" during this time slot (or in some embodiments, during some time range of + and / or - this time slot), and the user is allowed to access the facility and / or is given some special access (e.g., front of the line access, separate queue access, only for those users with reservations and / or other status). Also as shown, for the time range 2 time slot, a second reservation for the facility entitled "Ride 2" on date 2 (e.g., later than the time of the first reservation) has been established. Therefore, the user will be able to go to the facility entitled "Ride 2" during this time slot (or in some embodiments, during some time range of + and / or - this time slot), and the user is allowed to access the facility and / or is given some special access (e.g., front of the line access, separate queue access, only for those users with reservations and / or other status). In various embodiments, time range 1 and / or time range 2 can be a specific time or time range. As previously discussed, users may be able to modify (e.g., add, delete, change) reservations for different facilities and / or as needed, such as by redeeming points, paying with currency, trading reservation times, or by utilizing or requesting available open reservation time slots.

[0163] In one embodiment, the number of available reservations for a particular ride may be based on data tracked by the system (e.g., the number of schedules for a particular ride or venue within a particular time range, the capacity of users entering a ride during a particular time period, etc.). Thus, reservation availability may be dynamically adjusted or established (e.g., in real time) based on the latest date and / or changing dispatch rates (e.g., for a particular day or time range).

[0164] Fig.26 A UI screen 2600 of a textual user input menu to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects at a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features that may be provided or present on any of a variety of possible UI screens (such as those previously discussed) to provide quick access to a particular UI screen and / or other features of a software application. The textual user input menu 2600 may have its links or UI elements modified depending on the UI screen that was displayed just before the user opened the input menu 2600. For example, if the implicit UI screen is one related to information corresponding to a particular destination (e.g., an amusement park or water park, etc.), then upon user interaction (e.g., pressing, holding, clicking, etc.) on the textual user input menu 2600 while on the destination information UI screen or otherwise involving the textual user input menu 2600 (e.g., long pressing or pressing with a particular amount of force on the display screen, etc.), the following links are shown as part of the textual user input menu 2600 due to the implicit text of the park information (hours 2605, food & beverage 2610, lockers 2615, services 2620, lodges 2625, retail stores 2630, maps 2635, etc.). Thus, clicking on these links will bring up the corresponding additional data and / or user interface elements or screens. In one embodiment, the user can close the textual user input menu 2600 by clicking, pressing, releasing, or otherwise modifying its manipulation of the elements 2640 of the user input menu 2600.

[0165] In certain embodiments, in addition to a software application configured to run on a mobile device (such as a smart phone, which is associated with a user or customer at a destination), a kiosk or other hardware that can be accessed by the user to similarly interact with the system can also be provided. Any of the functions or features previously discussed for the software application configured to run on the user's mobile device can be similarly available on the software application configured to run on the kiosk or other hardware at the destination. For example, such a kiosk or other hardware accessed by the user can be beneficial to such users: they find it inconvenient to carry a mobile electronic device with them at the destination, are too young to have their own mobile electronic device, or for a variety of other reasons.

[0166] Fig. 27 Kiosk UI screen 2700 of a customer-centric launch screen to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects at a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features is shown. Because a kiosk can be accessed by multiple users, such a launch screen or other blank, initial or instruction screen may be provided when the kiosk's software application is not currently associated with or linked to a particular user. In such cases, as shown, the launch screen UI screen 2700 may instruct a potential user to "scan" or otherwise identify himself or herself to the kiosk (e.g., by holding his or her wristband or other trackable element to a necessary scanner, for example, as discussed). After appropriate scanning, once the software application running on the kiosk has been associated with a particular user, a home page or other user-specific information may be displayed, as discussed throughout this application. Once utilization of the kiosk is complete, the user may be prompted to log out so that the kiosk can be associated with subsequent new customers and / or the kiosk may automatically log out the user after a predetermined period of time (e.g., after non-use) or upon some other determinable event (e.g., upon tracking that the user moves a certain distance away from the kiosk, etc.), at which point the kiosk may again display UI screen 2700 corresponding to the startup screen to indicate that it is ready to accept new user logins.

[0167] Fig.28 A kiosk UI screen 2800 of a customer-centric home page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features is shown. The home page UI screen 2800 may display a user logged in or otherwise identified by the kiosk or system, such as for example, Fig. 27 As discussed previously, UI screen 2800 includes a variety of UI elements that perform the same or similar functions or features as previously discussed, such as Fig.17 and / or Figures 18 to 26 As discussed. UI screen 2800 may include an advertising and / or information banner section 2830 that displays coupons, advertisements, information, etc. (e.g., pre-established or dynamically changing) to the user. Based on data collected or known about each user (e.g., age, gender, tracking information such as facilities visited, zip code, etc.), the specific advertisements or information in section or banner 2830 may be modified for a specific each user (e.g., advertisements may be targeted). In an alternative embodiment, the advertisements may not be based on logging in any specific user.

[0168] The event of the day (e.g., "Learn about my day") UI element 2805 may be interacted with by the user (e.g., by touching the event of the day UI element 2805 on the kiosk's touch screen). The event of the day UI element 2805 may be associated with a text description 1 and / or an image to indicate to the user the types of features available by selecting the event of the day UI element 2805 (e.g., personalization of the user experience, such as through music selection, themes, viewing of user statistics or preferences or characteristics, etc.). Fig.29 2900 is a kiosk UI screen for a customer-centric day event page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features. The day event page 2900 includes a variety of UI elements for the same or similar features or functionalities as those previously discussed, such as Fig.17 and / or Fig. 20 For example, the music customization UI element 2905 may allow the user to select music, the same or similar to that previously disclosed, such as for Fig.17 and / or Fig. 20 and / or Fig.21 In one embodiment, after interacting with the music customization UI element 2905, another page (or pages) or pop-up message (or pop-up messages) may be displayed to the user, such as a list of various selectable music categories. Fig.30 The music category page 3000 and / or the music playlist page 3100 including various music playlists (e.g., after selecting a music category on the page 3000) are the same or similar to those previously disclosed, such as Fig.17 , Fig. 20 , and / or Fig.21 .

[0169] Fig.29 Some of the UI elements shown may include features or operations that are the same or similar to those discussed previously. User statistics UI element 2910 may allow a user to view their medals or other statistics or metrics, such as Fig. 20 The user activity UI element 2915 can allow the user to view their activities, for example, Fig. 20 Destination (e.g., park) information UI element 2920 may allow a user to view destination specific information, such as Fig.17 and / or Fig. 20 and / or Fig.23 The waiting time UI element 2925 may allow a user to view the waiting, sequence, or queue time of a facility or other location, for example, with Fig. 20 The theme customization UI element 2930 may allow the user to select a theme, for example, Fig.17 and / or Fig. 20 and / or Fig. 22 Similar to the previous disclosure of .

[0170] Return to reference Fig.28 , reservation UI element 2810 may be interacted with by the user (e.g., by touching UI element 2810 on a touch screen of the kiosk). Reservation UI element 2810 may be associated with a text description 2 and / or an image to indicate to the user the type of features available by selecting reservation UI element 2810 (e.g., viewing and / or setting or selecting a specific restaurant, facility, or ride reservation, front-of-line access or points, etc.). Fig.32 A kiosk UI screen 3200 of a customer-centric reservation page is shown to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features. The reservation activity page UI screen 3200 includes a variety of UI elements for providing the same or similar features or functionalities as those previously discussed, such as Fig.17 and / or Fig.25 In one embodiment, the current reservation UI element 3205 may be selected by the user to view reservations that the user has established (e.g., reservations for restaurants, events, venues, facilities, or activities at a specific time or time range). The available credits UI element 3215 may be selected by the user to view a currency account (e.g., real currency, such as government-issued currency, or virtual currency or currency established by the destination or software, such as credits, points, exchange tickets, etc.), which may be used by the user to make reservations. For example, a user visiting a water park may be allowed to make a specific number of reservations that can be used for fast or front-of-line access to various facilities at the water park. If desired, the user may be allowed to purchase additional fast or front-of-line access to various facilities, by paying for such access, redeeming rewards (e.g., points or benefits as disclosed throughout this application), etc. The waiting time UI element 3210 may be selected by the user to view the waiting, sequence, or queue times for various events, facilities, venues, etc. at the destination. Such information may be useful for users who decide how to set or schedule their reservations or potential reservations. The displayed wait time may be the current wait time and / or may be an estimated wait time (e.g., a future wait time) based on analysis of data within the system (e.g., data regarding the number and / or tracking of users traversing a destination during the day or time of year).

[0171] Reference again Fig.28, family or friends UI element 2815 may be interacted with by the user (e.g., by touching the UI element on a touch screen of the kiosk). Family or friends UI element 2815 may be associated with a text description 3 and / or an image to indicate to the user the types of features available by selecting family or friends UI element 2815 (e.g., linking together tracking devices of other users, establishing links to social media accounts and / or other forms of messaging or sharing of the user's location or activity, etc.). Fig.33 A kiosk UI screen 3300 for a customer-centric friends or family page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features is shown. The family or friends page UI screen 3300 includes a variety of UI elements for providing the same or similar features or functionality as those previously discussed, such as for Fig.17 and / or Fig.18 . For example, link / non-link UI element 3305 may be selected by the user to establish a link or association between multiple different wristbands or other traceable modules, cabins or hardware. For example, in one embodiment, a family may include two adult parents or guardians and two children. Although each of the four family members may have its own traceable element (e.g., wristband) configured to track or sense its movement and / or activity everywhere at the destination, it is desirable for the four traceable elements to be associated or linked to each other to support various family or friend features. Therefore, a user of the family (e.g., one of the two parents or guardians) may interact with link / non-link UI element 3305 to manually enter an ID associated with other family members, scan information associated with other family members or their hardware (e.g., QR code), etc. to establish a link. Once linked, various features or functionality may be available to all or some users of the linked family.

[0172] In one embodiment, the linked members may be able to send messages to each other (e.g., text, voice, tactile feedback, etc.). Fig.33 In some of the illustrated embodiments, a map UI element 3310 may be interactive with all (or some smaller subset) of the linked members of a family or friend group to view the location of one or more of the linked members. This information may be conveyed by a graphical map indicating the last known location and / or activity of a particular user, the particular user's links to other users and / or a textual description of the last known location and / or activity, etc. Fig.33Also include blacklist UI element 3315, blacklist UI element 3315 can interact with all (or some smaller subgroups) linked members of family or friend group to limit certain members from participating in certain facilities. For example, if parents decide that they do not want one or more of their children to play or participate in one or more specific facilities and / or go to a specific place or area of ​​the destination, then the parent can set the permission restrictions (e.g., blacklist) of those specific facilities, places, areas, etc. for each of the individual link members or the link member group separately. In some embodiments, each user may have a parameter associated with them, which indicates whether they are children or adults, thereby only allowing adults in the group to edit permissions or otherwise modify multiple aspects of the experience of another link user (e.g., change music settings, purchase with currency, etc.). In other embodiments, each user may have a modifiable parameter associated with them, which indicates whether the other party should be allowed to edit permissions or otherwise modify multiple aspects of its experience (e.g., change music settings, purchase with currency, etc.).

[0173] In one embodiment, for example, an exemplary competition that can be run between game stations (e.g., kiosks or other hardware, such as hardware located in or near a queue of a facility) can include a user's reaction time. For example, a display can appear on a display of a kiosk and can instruct the user to perform tasks, such as organizing properties, sizes, making personal selections, selecting the next entry of a pattern, or repeating a provided pattern, etc. The system can track the time of the respondents' inputs so that the user who completes the task first receives a large number of points or can control some other features that communicate with the system. In an exemplary embodiment, the participation of the riders in the queue with the ride can also affect the response or available features in the ride. For example, a rider who wins the game in the team queue can receive double points during the actual ride, can unlock additional features that can be used for the ride, and combinations thereof.

[0174] Exemplary embodiments may also be used to encourage users or engage in behavior, as explained herein. For example, a user may utilize linear kiosks and / or game stations and input / output devices. The kiosks may be used as information displays, such as providing the user with an approximate wait time from a given point. A user may use kiosks and / or game stations incorporated into a linear structure, such as to define railings and / or queue locations.

[0175] Reference again Fig.28, the benefit or reward UI element 2820 can be interacted with by the user (e.g., by touching the UI element on a touch screen of the kiosk). The benefit or reward UI element 2820 can be associated with a text description 4 and / or an image to indicate to the user the type of features available by selecting the benefit or reward UI element 2820 (e.g., viewing and / or redeeming points or other benefits earned by the user, such as by riding multiple rides, playing games, making specific purchases, etc.). Fig.34 A kiosk UI screen 3400 of a customer-centric benefits or rewards page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects in a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features is shown. The benefits or rewards page UI screen 3400 may include a variety of UI elements for providing the same or similar features or functionality as those previously discussed, such as for Fig.17 and / or Fig.24 For example, the current points UI element 3415 may be selected by the user to view the current number of points the user has accumulated, as shown in FIG. Fig.17 and / or Fig.24 The same or similar to the previous disclosure.

[0176] Benefits menu UI element 3410 can be selected by the user to view the history of how the user has accumulated the current number of points, with Fig.24 The current value of the facility UI element 3405 may be selected by the user to allow the user to view the current point value of various facilities, events, venues, etc., which will be awarded to the user if the user participates within a specific time frame (e.g., entering the queue for a specific ride within the next 20 minutes). In this way, the user can accumulate different amounts of points, depending on the specific facility or venue the user visits.

[0177] In one embodiment, the operator of the system or destination may change (e.g., dynamically or in real time) the number of points awarded to users of a particular facility to help influence or correct user behavior (e.g., encourage users to visit a facility or place that is particularly slow compared to other facilities or places at a given time, such as to assist in managing crowd control throughout the destination). In another embodiment, facility operations may be dynamically adjusted based on data received from the system (e.g., if the system determines that a facility is particularly popular at a given moment, the length of time each user spends at the facility may be shortened, such as a carousel that rotates for only 2 minutes instead of the usual 3 minutes to more quickly schedule users of the facility). In one embodiment, users who link one or more other users (e.g., family or friends, such as in the embodiments discussed throughout this application) may be allowed to obtain, store or otherwise collect points and / or medals or interact with them on a collection, competition and / or collaborative basis. For example, a first user who links a second user may combine points and / or medals to obtain a specific reward or other achievement (awarded to or associated with the first user, the second user, or both).

[0178] Although certain examples throughout this application have been discussed in the context of a water park or amusement park, any of a variety of other destinations or applications may utilize one or more of the features discussed. For example, stores, movie theaters, cruise ships, schools, school buses or other transportation opportunities, etc. may benefit from parental control parameters, whereby parents or other administrators of the system can view locations and / or set restrictions on the geographic locations and / or activities of other family members or friends (e.g., ensuring that children are in designated classrooms at designated times, do not leave school, ride on their designated transportation, etc.). Users may be clients / customers and / or may be staff (e.g., security guards or other employees at a destination) who may be tracked so that their locations may be viewed by operators of the system. In certain embodiments, additional hardware may be utilized that cooperates with one or more of the features described above (e.g., cameras) and may be linked to tracking of staff, for example to ensure that maintenance personnel are in their intended locations and wearing appropriate safety equipment, such as hard hats.

[0179] A variety of other operations and / or other operator features may be provided by a system configured to track the movement and characteristics of a user at a destination, such as a water park or amusement park. A software application (e.g., mobile device-based, web-based, etc.) may be provided for the operator that is different from the software applications available to the user. Such operator-specific software applications may provide different information to the operator and / or staff based on the tracking data. For example, the system may identify a customer or individual (who has a birthday on a given day, is a VIP of the destination, etc.), and when such a user enters an event, identify the staff member (e.g., such a customer or individual may always identify the staff member and / or only if other predetermined criteria or parameters are met, such as the customer has a specific ticket or pass to the venue, is a specific age, etc.). Photos or other visual descriptions or instructions may be additionally provided to the operator and / or staff member so that such a user may be greeted individually, thereby enhancing their user experience. In another example, if a particular user has indicated that their language is French or has indicated another preference (which the system has stored as part of their profile or activities), the system can provide such information to the staff so that such user can be greeted and interacted with in a more special way. The operator can help confirm that the parent has not left the destination (or some part of the destination) but has left the child user, who is linked to the parent in the system.

[0180] In another example of an operational feature that may be used, a ride access feature may be used to help improve efficiency or operational excellence while maintaining the safety of users entering or exiting an accessible facility. Conventionally, lifeguards or other employees at a destination maintain control of users entering and / or exiting a facility at a destination to help ensure that users do not improperly attempt to enter or ride the facility before they exit the facility or are at a certain predetermined safe distance such that new riders are allowed in. While certain technologies, such as light beams or lasers, may be helpful in assisting lifeguard or employee control (by identifying when a light beam or laser has been interrupted), problems may still arise, for example, where a user's ride carrier (e.g., an inflatable tube or ring) interrupts the light beam or laser, but the user has fallen from the ride carrier. In such a case, a subsequent rider may believe it is safe to enter the ride, but in fact a previous rider may still be on the ride.

[0181] The present invention allows for specific tracking of each specific user at the entrance to a facility and at the exit location of the facility, for example, to help increase operational excellence while maintaining the safety of the users. Buttons on the top and bottom of the ride may be activated for lifeguards or staff to press based on such tracking of users (e.g., a "go" button at the entrance to the ride, an "empty" button at the bottom of the ride, etc.). In some embodiments, cameras may be used at the entrance or exit of the ride to potentially limit the number of lifeguards or staff required (e.g., a lifeguard need only be at the entrance or exit of the facility, not both, and / or a lifeguard may not need to be at the ride at all). Thus, riders who improperly enter the ride may be caught by such tracking and suffer some consequences (e.g., having their account flagged, having their trackable hardware disabled, etc.).

[0182] Such user tracking with respect to operational excellence and / or safety may be used in any of a number of possible ways in scenarios outside of an amusement park or water park scenario (such as a surveillance room capability at a nightclub or other venue, security monitoring of industrial equipment (e.g., a particular piece of equipment may not be turned unless all users have been tracked to be outside a particular area), monitoring a ski resort or other venue to ensure that all users have been tracked to exit the venue upon closing, etc.), for example to help ensure that no users remain within a location upon closing; the system may perform a check that every trackable device that has passed through an entrance to a location has also passed through an exit from the location. If there is a discrepancy and / or even in the event that there is no discrepancy between the entrance and exit to assist in ensuring accuracy, additional functionality may be engaged. For example, the last known location of the trackable device may be checked from memory. In another example, if the trackable device is associated with a user account that provides contact information, contact with the user may be attempted via that contact information. In yet another example, if the trackable device is linked to another trackable device, the location of the other trackable device may be checked (e.g., whether those trackable devices left the location, when, etc.). In yet another example, additional functionality of the trackable device may be engaged (eg, global positioning system functionality, etc.) in an effort to pinpoint the trackable device at that location or elsewhere. A corresponding notification of the attempt to locate the trackable device may be provided to the personnel.

[0183] In another example of operation and / or other operator features that may be provided by a system configured to track the movement and characteristics of users at a destination, rider characteristics may be automatically verified by the system before a particular user is allowed to board a facility and / or enter a queue for the facility. In one embodiment, the system may have stored data related to one or more characteristics (e.g., height, weight, age, etc.) of each user at the destination. If a particular facility at a destination requires a user to be at least 4ft tall, then when tracking users entering a queue or entrance area of ​​such a particular facility that do not meet such criteria, the user may be notified that they do not meet such criteria (e.g., via a light that turns red, or some other indication, visual, audible, tactile, or other means of providing an indication to the user). In another embodiment, certain facilities may accommodate multiple users riding on a ride vehicle that has a total weight requirement. Therefore, the system may automatically add up the respective weights of all users (who attempt to participate in a single ride vehicle) to ensure that the total weight requirement is not exceeded. In another embodiment, the system may additionally and / or alternatively arrange users in a particular order and / or positioning (e.g., to distribute the user's weight desirably across the ride vehicle and / or to increase the efficiency of loading the users, etc.). For a given facility or venue, any of a variety of possible standards may be established (e.g., age limits for venues serving alcohol, etc.), which may then be enforced and / or indicated to one or more users or employees when such standards are violated). Facilities may have additional features that are configured to cooperate with the system's signals or data (e.g., flow of water, security bars to prevent entry, etc.).

[0184] In another example of operational and / or other operator features that may be provided by a system configured to track the movement and characteristics of users at a destination, a maintenance schedule, cleaning schedule, replenishment of disposable goods, or other operational schedule may be tracked or executed more efficiently. For example, if a bathroom at a facility is expected to be cleaned after every 100 users, the system may keep a count of how many users have used the bathroom via tracking of such users and a signal (e.g., to an operator); once that number has been exceeded, a cleaner may be dispatched to that area to clean and / or replenish toilet paper, etc. In another embodiment, the system may track the number of users that have attended a given facility, and once a certain threshold number of users is met, indicate (e.g., to an operator) that the facility or some aspect thereof should be maintained. Ride vehicles or other components (having a usable life) may be similarly tracked so that the time when such ride vehicles or other components should be replaced may be determined. In yet another embodiment, vendors or other staff may be notified of areas where customers are queuing and / or areas where customers are waiting or gathering, so that the vendors or staff may offer goods for sale (e.g., food and drink), entertainment (e.g., providing photo opportunities, etc.).

[0185] In another example of operation and / or other operator features that may be provided by a system configured to track the movement and characteristics of a user, the system allows a user to participate in a particular ride and / or control behavior, and / or participate in a ride team and / or control behavior within the team. Exemplary embodiments may be used to enhance the participation of individual users of a park as described herein. The mobile device and / or trackable hardware may be detected by a receiver and / or information kiosk within the park to provide a specific response based on the detection of the user. For example, a user-specific experience for a rider or spectator of a ride may be obtained based on the tracking of such a user. In one embodiment, a ride may be configured to detect the presence of a particular user, and may change or allow different engagement features available to the user and / or other features associated with the ride based on the detection of the user. In an exemplary embodiment, a ride may be configured with a controller that may be activated based on the identification or proximity of a user having a mobile device and / or trackable hardware according to embodiments described herein.

[0186] Exemplary embodiments may allow for a personal attendance experience at a park or designated area. For example, smaller kiosks, detectors, and / or game units may be positioned to rides in teams or queues. These kiosks / game units may allow for games to be played as riders wait for rides. In an exemplary embodiment, according to the embodiments described herein, a kiosk may detect or receive input from a user (the input identifies the user) so that the user may earn points as they wait in line. In an exemplary embodiment, a user may contact or communicate with other users of the same team or queue at different kiosks to create an interactive or multi-player game. In an exemplary embodiment, a user of a first kiosk / game station may affect or provide an effect of another kiosk / game station and / or a receiver or actuator controller (an output device). For example, a user may contact another user via a communication link kiosk. Users may play games, and when a player earns enough points and / or wins a duel, the user may actuate a device at and / or near the kiosk / game station. For example, as players lose or win a competition, the winner may control water sprinklers, lights, music, or other effects that take effect (e.g., at or near the winner, loser, or elsewhere). Thus, the kiosk / game station at the destination and / or devices near or elsewhere therein may include lights, displays, visuals, lasers, speakers, water / fluid sprayers, misters, and combinations thereof.Exemplary embodiments may communicate with a network so that the location of the user may be detected and communicated / stored in accordance with the embodiments described herein.

[0187] In another example of operations and / or other operator features that may be provided by a system configured to track the movement and characteristics of a user, the system influences the behavior of a user within a park or designated area. For example, multiple transmitters and / or receivers may be located throughout a designated area of ​​a destination. The transmitters / receivers may or may not be hidden. In an exemplary embodiment, the locations of the transmitters / receivers are known and / or provided to the user. The system may configure all or a subset of the transmitters / receivers as checkpoints that encourage users to collect. A user may collect a checkpoint by being near and / or touching the checkpoint so that the user's mobile device / trackable hardware recognizes the checkpoint or is recognized by the checkpoint. In an exemplary embodiment, the user may be provided with information to collect certain checkpoints and / or the location of the checkpoints may be provided. The collection of checkpoints may be triggered or provided to a group of users or dispersed users throughout the park, or may encourage selected users to experience or visit certain areas of the park.

[0188] In an exemplary embodiment, multiple receivers / transmitters may be color-coded or otherwise distinguishable or identifiable. Thereafter, different users may be directed to find and collect different checkpoints based on identifying features, such as color. In an exemplary embodiment, users may earn points or receive benefits, as described herein, for obtaining or collecting a specific number of checkpoints and / or making a specific number of checkpoints within a predetermined amount of time. For example, users may be provided with the locations of all blue checkpoints and encouraged to collect all blue checkpoints to obtain a large number of park welfare points or other rewards. The locations of the checkpoints may also encourage activities within the park, such as entering certain locations, stores, equipment, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the system may be configured to provide alerts to users based on other activities within the park, such as to drive selected individuals from a higher utilization portion of the park to a lower utilization portion of the park. Exemplary embodiments may also be used to direct specific users to a desired portion of the park based on one or more user demographics or user characteristics or attributes. Exemplary embodiments also create unique combinations of checkpoints based on the user's personal attributes. Therefore, each user or user group may be provided with a unique combination of checkpoints to drive the dispersion or other movement of users and / or groups within the park.

[0189] In an exemplary embodiment, the system may identify individual users as part of a group, and therefore may provide feedback and / or rewards or other responses based on the attributes of the group and the attributes of one or more individuals or the actions of individuals within the group according to the embodiments described herein. Exemplary embodiments may also be used to track other users within the group so that each group member may have a means to locate other members of the group. Exemplary embodiments may also be used to communicate with other members of the group. For example, a user may configure the system to identify members of the group. Then, the system may be configured to provide other members of the group with an alert when a member of the group enters or leaves a facility. The system may also be configured to provide an alert for a specific time so that the user may set the time for reassembly and the system may notify other users or primary users of the location where other members will be located and assembled. The system may also receive input from a user, such as through an information kiosk. A user may identify the need to communicate with a specific user and / or one or more members of its group. When the indicated person (or member of the group) is detected, the system may be configured to display an output to the indicated person based on the user input.

[0190] The system may track the location of employees or workers to ensure that such employees and workers are performing their duties appropriately (e.g., making security rounds, making maintenance rounds, properly cleaning assigned areas, etc.). Fig.35 A handheld user interface screen 3500 of an operator-centric dispatch data page to be used with a system for tracking users and / or objects at a geographic location and configured to provide data and / or related features is shown. The operating efficiency of various rides or facilities at a destination can be shown by the number and / or color code corresponding to the dispatch rate of each of the facilities. For example, a particular structure (e.g., a tower) 3505 may have four rides or facilities that can be accessed by a user via the structure 3505: a first ride or facility 3510, a second ride or facility 3515, a third ride or facility 3520, and a fourth ride or facility 3525. The number or color or other indicia (corresponding to how effectively they dispatch riders) may be displayed adjacent to each of the four rides or facilities (3510, 3515, 3520, 3525), for example, based on an expected or ideal dispatch rate. If it is determined that one or more of the facilities are particularly slow in dispatching riders, the operator can send someone to check and ensure that there are no problems with the facility and / or the employees responsible for controlling access to the facility.

[0191] In one embodiment, a variety of other facility operating conditions or parameters may be ascertained or otherwise tracked via the system. For example, maintenance of a facility may be planned (e.g., a notification sent by a processor to a staff member and / or operator indicating that maintenance is required). Such maintenance may be planned based on timing (e.g., a facility has been operating for a predetermined amount of time) and / or maintenance may be planned based on tracking of users (e.g., a particular facility has had 1,000 users ride or otherwise interact with the facility). Facility error detection and / or other failures (e.g., mechanical failures) may also be tracked (e.g., pressure sensors, flow sensors, etc.), incorporated into the system and / or have appropriate maintenance planned in response thereto. In various embodiments, any of a variety of facility or venue maintenance, user experience, cash generation opportunities (e.g., providing advertising and / or coupons to users because they are tracked in a particular area and / or have participated in a particular activity), health-related functionality (e.g., tracking users and / or operators and providing them with statistics regarding steps walked, calories burned, etc.), and / or safety functionality (e.g., notifying staff based on user biometric information, such as a heart monitor, notifying staff based on a user's lack of movement when in a particular area such as a swimming pool, etc.) can be provided.

[0192] Fig.36 A perspective view 3600 of various devices is shown that interact with a user's tracking device (e.g., a wristband or other, as discussed throughout), such as those discussed throughout this application, such as in the example of FIG. 1 , for the purpose of sensing or tracking a user and / or allowing the user to interact with software (such as software that includes features based on tracking data of the user and / or other users). Figure 27 to Figure 24 . The sensing or tagging device or station 3631 may be located within a location (e.g., a water park or amusement park) and configured to allow a user to tag (e.g., sense) when within the vicinity of the device or station 3631, such as when the user's tracking device is within 2tf of the device or station 3631. The device or station 3631 may be made of a first housing 3632 and a second housing 3634, which are configured to be connected or engaged to each other and include one or more electronic components therein (e.g., antennas, readers (such as RFID readers), processors, receivers, transmitters, transceivers, memory, etc.). The device or station 3631 also includes a display 3635 (e.g., a touch screen), which allows the user to view information (such as information or data determined based on the user's sensing or tagging) and / or interact with it (e.g., by touching UI elements displayed on the touch screen), the same or similar to the discussion throughout this application. The display 3635 may include a coating or otherwise configured for high visibility in outdoor environments. The device or station 3631 may be a stand-alone device (e.g., similar to FIG. 16A to FIG. 16C ), and / or may be configured to be mounted to other structures (e.g., not supported on a floor or ground). In one embodiment, the device or station 3631 may not allow user input (e.g., may only have a display, but not accept user touching the display as input) and be used for display of user indicia and information on the display, but without other functionality based on user feedback.

[0193] The first sensing device or station 3601 may be configured to read, receive and / or otherwise sense or track the movement of a user at a location (e.g., a water park or amusement park) based on tracking hardware worn, carried or otherwise associated by the user. The first sensing device 3601 may be made of a first housing 3602 and a second housing 3604, which are configured to be connected or engaged to each other and include one or more electronic components therein (e.g., antennas, readers, processors, receivers, transmitters, transceivers, memory, etc.). The first sensing device 3601 may be configured to sense users within a shorter range (e.g., 2ft or less) and may be placed in a desired location for "tagging" the user to the device or station 3601 (e.g., at the entrance of a facility, performance or other area). In an alternative embodiment, a longer range sensing or tracking device (an alternative or in addition to a shorter range sensing device) may be combined or connected to the first sensing device or station 3601. For example, the first sensing device or station 3601 may be configured to sense or detect users within a range greater than 2 ft (e.g., 30 ft to 50 ft) in a 360 degree radius around the location of the first sensing device or station 3601.

[0194] The second sensing device 3611 may be similarly made of a first housing 3611 and a second housing 3612 configured to be connected or engaged to each other and include one or more electronic components therein (e.g., antennas, readers, processors, receivers, transmitters, transceivers, memory, etc.). The second sensing device 3611 may be similarly configured to sense users within a longer range (e.g., greater than 2ft), and may include a directional antenna, for example, to provide a narrower detection radius of the user (e.g., a 20-degree to 30-degree radius) via hardware associated with the user. The second sensing device 3611 may be connected to the first sensing device or station 3601. In such embodiments, the electronic components of the first sensing device or station 3601 may interact with the second sensing device 3611 to convert the first sensing device or station 3601 from a 360-degree radius of a detection station to a narrower detection station due to the directional antenna of the second sensing device 3611. One or more antennas associated with the second sensing device 3611 (such as Fig.37) can be used for sensing and / or tracking of specific users and / or groups of users. In one embodiment, the first sensing device or station 3601 can be configured to use the Bluetooth low energy communication protocol. In an alternative embodiment, any of a variety of communication protocols (whether proprietary or not) can be used.

[0195] Fig.37 Multiple views of a sensing device 3700 are shown, which is capable and / or configured to sense one or more users at a large range, such as even when the user is more than 2 feet away from the sensing device 3700. Such capabilities may be desirable when a user (or multiple users) moves and / or is positioned within a location (e.g., a water park, amusement park, or other entertainment venue) and location and / or tracking of such user or users is desired, as discussed throughout this application. The sensing device 3700 may include a housing 3704 having a chamber therein. One or more components (e.g., electronic components) may be at least partially disposed within the chamber of the housing 3704, such as, for example, in Fig.37 The antennas of the sensing device 3700 (described in more detail below) may allow for greater accuracy in user detection because such antennas may be directional and may detect the user around a narrower radius of the sensing device 3700.

[0196] In one embodiment, the housing 3704 may be comprised of multiple parts, such as a first housing 3712, a second housing 3716 (configured to connect to the first housing 3712), and a gasket or other connecting plate or ring 3714 therebetween. Subassemblies including an antenna (e.g., a horn antenna) or other transmitter and / or receiver, a power connection or power board 3760 (e.g., an Ethernet power board), and / or a gateway 3750 (e.g., Bluetooth) or one or more other networking or communication components are located in a chamber formed via the connection of the first and second housings (3712, 3716). In an alternative embodiment, more or fewer components (as subassemblies or as individual items) may be included. In one embodiment, the antenna may be made of aluminum. A cable 3722 (e.g., RJ45) may be connected to the gateway via a port to support communication with a remote device (such as a server or other device configured to track, store and / or monitor users and / or perform other functions based on data obtained via the sensing device 3700). Although Fig.37 The embodiment shows that data and power transmission (eg, from a sensing station such as Fig.36A single cable 3722 is provided for connecting a sensing device or station 3601) to an antenna for powering the gateway 3750, but in an alternative embodiment, a greater number of cables and / or different cable connections may be used to provide power and / or communication of data or signals. In certain embodiments, wireless communication may be used. A cable sleeve or accessory 3740 may be used to assist in attaching and / or securing wiring or routing within the housing 3704. Via rotation or positioning of the cable sleeve or accessory 3740 and / or the first housing 3712 relative to the second housing 3716, the antenna may be rotated to an angle 3730 and / or oriented relative to the second housing 3716 (e.g., 22 degrees from the horizontal) for desired operation. The housing 3704 and / or portions thereof may utilize an egg yolk design to allow the antenna angle to be modified to a desired orientation. A bracket or connection member 3710 may be used for placement and / or orientation of the sensing device 3700 as desired.

[0197] Fig.38 A sensing or marking device 3800 is shown for user engagement and / or interaction. The sensing or marking device may include features identical or similar to those discussed throughout this application. For example, it may be desirable for a user to interact with an account associated with the user, interact with data associated with the user, and / or otherwise interact with software associated with a location (e.g., a water park or amusement park) by allowing the user to sense (e.g., "marking" when in the vicinity of the sensing or marking device 3800). This sensing of the user may be by way of a sensor 3806, which is built into or otherwise (partially or completely) included in or connected to a housing 3804 of the sensing or marking device 3800. Sensing may be configured to occur only when the user is in the vicinity or range of the sensing or marking device 3800 (e.g., a short range, such as equal to or less than 2ft, such as by utilizing a radio frequency identification or RFID tag). This short range may be desirable to assist in avoiding sensing by the sensing or marking device 3800 and / or to allow a user (who is merely walking or passing by but not attempting to interact with the sensing or marking device 3800) to interact with the sensing or marking device. Electronic cables or wiring (3812, 3814) (e.g., power, communications, networking, signal routing, etc.) may engage (e.g., via the back of the housing) one or more electronic components included within the housing 3804 of the sensing or marking device 3800, such as a processor, printed circuit board, antenna, receiver, transmitter, transceiver, reader, memory, etc. The connection plate 3808 may allow the sensing or marking device 3800 to be mounted off the ground or otherwise positioned at a convenient height or orientation for user viewing or interaction, for example, such as relative to a floor or ground support structure, such as FIG. 16A to FIG. 16C Those described. In one embodiment, device 3800 may be approximately 250 mm tall and 100 mm wide.

[0198] Once a user is sensed or tagged to the sensing or tagging device 3800, the display 3810 (e.g., a touch screen or display that does not allow for receiving user touch input) may display information to the user and / or receive input from the user. In this way, the user can view data associated with its tracking module (e.g., locations the user has been to or activities or facilities the user has participated in, thereby viewing points or other rewards the user has earned, etc.) and / or provide input, and the software associated with the sensing or tagging device can use the input for other features (e.g., communication with other users, redemption of points, setting appointments, changing music or themes, etc.), the same or similar to the previously discussed. The sensing or tagging device may include all or a subset of the features and / or software operations discussed throughout this application, for example, with respect to FIG. 16A to FIG. 16C and Figures 27 to 34 and / or Fig.36 In one embodiment, the physical size of the sensing or marking device 3400 may be smaller and / or may have reduced features and / or different features available to the user to view previously used Figures 27 to 34 For example, in one embodiment, the sensing or marking device 3800 can be used to provide alternative customer service related features (e.g., technical support, interaction with company representatives, troubleshooting information, etc.) different from the previously described features.

[0199] In another example, in one embodiment, the sensing or tagging device 3800 may be used at the entrance or other check-in location of a facility, ride, show, event, restaurant, or other access point, thereby allowing a user to tag the sensing or tagging device 3800 and subsequently interact with it to enter or establish another activity (e.g., set or complete a reservation for a particular restaurant where the sensing or tagging device 3800 is located, set specific preferences for a given facility or ride where the sensing or tagging device 3800 is located, purchase a show upgrade, such as preferred seating or added packaged meals, etc.). In this manner, the sensing or tagging device 3800 may be used in conjunction with other sensing devices, such as kiosks, for example, as described herein for FIG. 16A to FIG. 16C as described, thereby performing the same or similar functions or software operations and / or providing alternative features, functions or software operations.

[0200] Although some specific embodiments of the present invention have been shown, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. For example, most functions performed by electronic hardware components can be replicated by software simulation. Therefore, software applications written to implement these same functions can simulate the functionality of hardware components in input and output circuits. The target can be single-threaded or multi-threaded. The present invention should be understood not to be limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but only to the scope of the appended claims.

[0201] Although embodiments of the present invention have been fully described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be noted that various changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications should be understood to be included within the scope of embodiments of the present invention, as defined by the appended claims. Specifically, exemplary components are described herein. Any combination of these components can be used in any combination. For example, any component, feature, step, or part can be merged, separated, further divided, removed, copied, added, or used in any combination, and remain within the scope of the present disclosure. In another example, although specific portions and / or elements of the user interface screen have been illustrated by exemplary embodiments of the present application, in alternative embodiments, more, less, different, and / or different orientations, positioning, sizes, shapes, and / or other functionality can be used for portions and / or elements of the user interface screen (for use on handheld or mobile devices and / or for use on larger devices, such as kiosks). The embodiments are exemplary only, and exemplary combinations of features are provided, but are not limited thereto.

[0202] Additional exemplary features may also be included in addition to or in lieu of other features discussed throughout this application. For example, the rider wearable hardware and / or its associated software may be configured to detect movement or lack of movement of an individual associated with the hardware for use in assisting safety. In one embodiment, if an individual is determined not to have moved (detected by a lack of small movement, or on a larger scale by detecting that the individual is currently in a pool or other body of water but has not moved significantly from that location for a predetermined period of time), then the system may determine that a safety issue should arise by sounding an alarm, alerting an employee or operator, alerting another user associated with the individual's hardware (e.g., a parent), and the like. In one example, a gateway or other sensing device (such as a Bluetooth Low Energy ("BLE") gateway) may be placed at continuous locations or positions in a particular area that tracks the presence of tags and may send one or more notifications (e.g., to a particular employee or system operator) when the tag is not sensed or heard for a particular period of time, thereby alerting them to the lack of sensing.

[0203] In another example, various operator management features can be incorporated into the system using one or more of the features described herein. Such operator management features can include tracking of employees (e.g., the employee currently exists in the tracked location and / or its location or location history), tracking of carrier carriers, tracking of products (e.g., food, souvenirs, etc.), tracking of facilities or ride status (e.g., the last ride or facility inspection or cleaning), etc. Such features can assist in effectively managing staff and / or enabling them to more effectively address the needs generated during operation at the park. In certain embodiments, staff participation and / or incentive mechanisms can be implemented to assist operator management, such as by targeting entire groups and / or individual staff members based on the behavior of these groups or members tracked by the system. For example, software incorporating such features can include a portal that allows operators and / or individual staff members to see progress toward specific goals (e.g., completing sales of a specific amount of a specific item). The portal for individual staff members can limit the amount of access to information displayed outside of a specific incentive program.

[0204] In yet another example, the ride environment or other equipment area may be modified or personalized based on the characteristics or needs of the riders. For example, depending on the characteristics of the riders entering the ride or area (e.g., height, weight, preferences, age, gender, etc.), the specific experience may be changed (e.g., changing the excitement level of the ride, changing the characteristics of the riders to allow individuals with different skill levels (such as the speed or amount of water flowing on a given ride), changing the flow of water (by modifying the pump based on the height and / or weight of the riders), changing the pull on a specific ride, changing the power provided to the motors on a specific ride, changing the theme of the location, etc.). In fact, any of a variety of possible personalized modifications may be made based on the rider or rider group entering a designated area. In one example, the characteristics of a specific ride vehicle (e.g., the color of the ride vehicle) may be determined. Once the specific ride vehicle characteristics are determined at the start-up of the ride, the color of the ride itself may be changed based on the color of the ride vehicle. For personalization purposes, any of a variety of ride vehicle characteristics (themes, etc.) may be used to correspondingly change small aspects of the ride (e.g., sounds, colors, themes, etc.).

[0205] Although the sensing of occupants at various locations and / or facility entrances at a given location has been described using wearable wireless technology (e.g., the wristband described above), any of a variety of possible user identification systems or types may be used in alternative embodiments, such as RFID (e.g., short range or long range), BLE, facial recognition, computer type, biometrics (e.g., fingerprint), iris scan, etc. Different technologies for identification may be used in different locations (e.g., short range or long range readers may be used to initially identify a person, while photos, irises, LIDAR, etc. may be used to more specifically determine where a user is present in a given space). In some embodiments, additional sensing technology (e.g., cameras) may be used to assist in determining whether a particular area is occupied to assist in determining the location of a particular person that is read by a long range sensor. In certain embodiments, a sensor or component (e.g., a light sensor, a heart rate sensor, etc.) may be attached to or incorporated into a portion (e.g., the back) of a user's wearable (e.g., a wristband) that is configured to detect when the wearable has been removed by the user. In such cases, the wearable may automatically disassociate itself from the user.

[0206] In some embodiments, additional sensors (such as those described) can be used to assist when the user does not have the required hardware for detection. For example, a long range reader can be set to track all customers who have visited a specific area, and these customers wear wristbands. If a user enters the area without the required wristband, then an independent sensor (e.g., photo recognition, etc.) can be used to see someone entering without a wristband and alert the appropriate staff member. In some embodiments, the technology described throughout this application (for reading or sensing customers or ride vehicles) can be incorporated into a handheld device, which has or does not have a display screen (e.g., so as to allow staff members to read customers individually as needed, such as to allow customers to make purchases, appointments, or enter specific areas, etc.).

[0207] Hardware or software may also be used to accept a wearable (e.g., a wristband) at a location and also allow information associated with the wearable to be communicated to other systems (e.g., to interface or merge with third-party developers in a format compatible with such third-party systems, such as payment systems). Additionally, data collected as part of the system (e.g., across all parks or locations utilizing the system) may be summarized for certain information and / or utilizing certain parameters for use in generating benchmarks. Algorithms may be created for translating customer demographics and / or behavior into purchasing habits. For example, the system may inform a system operator how or where a customer's money or purchases are maximized based on customers being in a large, centralized location.

[0208] In certain embodiments, the system may also accommodate other wearable technologies associated with individuals visiting a location. For example, smart glasses used by a customer may interact with it to assist in creating a story-driven experience for a particular ride or area. Smart glasses may also be used in other ways by, for example, staff, where a photo of a customer who has entered a particular area may be displayed on a staff member's smart glasses so that the customer may be greeted personally or otherwise have a more personalized or pampering experience for that customer (e.g., staff may be notified regarding one or more customer preferences, such as for food, beverages, rides, features, etc.).

[0209] A variety of interactive maps and / or other games or activities may also be used for customer interaction. For example, a map with the locations of various activities (e.g., rides) may be available (e.g., at the entrance to a particular area or location area). Wait times for various activities may be displayed on the map. Customers may mark these markers to create a personalized map with a path or path (e.g., displayed on a display at the location and / or displayed on the customer's personal mobile device) that the customer may follow to reach the desired activity or activities. Another example of a game that may be played by a customer may include a series of "checkpoints" that are set throughout a location (e.g., an amusement park or water park). These checkpoints may be virtually arranged as multiple gem-like hexagons (e.g., 18" x 18" x 3") and have a station associated with each hexagon (e.g., somewhat hidden or difficult to find by accident). Each station may include a small computer with a monitor, a reader, and a speaker. Patrons may play by attempting to locate each of the "hidden" stations and tagging the reader associated with each station to their wearable device (e.g., a wristband). After tagging, the station's screen may display a prompt to the user, such as "You have found a hidden checkpoint. The number is [x] in [xx]. Keep looking for more!", and the speaker associated with the station may play a quick cheer to let the player know that positive action has just occurred. The checkpoints may be divided in a particular manner (e.g., there may be 10 "green" checkpoints and 10 "orange" checkpoints in the park). After the user finds all (or a particular number) of the checkpoints or checkpoint types, the user may be rewarded (e.g., through park benefits or points discussed previously, medals discussed previously, coupons, or other benefits).

[0210] When used in this application, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. These terms should not be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components. The features disclosed throughout this application (these features are expressed in their specific form or with respect to the mechanism for performing the disclosed function, or the method or process for obtaining the disclosed result) can be appropriately used alone or in any combination to implement the present invention.

Claims

1. A graphical user interface GUI for a user tracking and interaction system, comprising: A first display area is configured to present user-specific information through interactive elements, wherein the user-specific information and / or the interactive elements include: a plurality of quick icons located at a bottom of the first display area, at least one of the plurality of quick icons corresponding to a frequently used feature, a current wait time for a facility, and / or a set of personalized recommendations; a user profile icon accessible from the first display area, the user profile icon configured to allow a user to view and edit the user-specific information, including linking a user wearable module and / or managing a user subscription; Dynamic update module, configured as: Receive real-time data from remote servers; Tracking user activities and preferences based on the real-time data; Customizing the plurality of shortcut icons displayed on the first display area based on the user activities and preferences; as well as The plurality of shortcut icons are updated based on the real-time data, including current wait times for facilities, available incentives, and / or personalized recommendations.

Images