System and method for in-vehicle animated imagery in ride environment

Abstract

An amusement spot includes a ride (10) or performance action device, and an animated image (14) configured to move along a surface (34) of the ride (10) or performance action device (26). The animated image (14) includes at least three contact points configured to engage with the surface (34), where the at least three contact points include a first contact point and a second contact point configured to alternately engage and disengage with the surface (34), and a third contact point configured to maintain contact with the surface (34). The amusement attraction comprises a securing system (32) configured to maintain the animated image (14) coupled via the at least three contact points as the animated image (14) moves along the surface (34). The amusement attraction includes a controller (118, 124) configured to provide a control signal to the securing system (32) to facilitate control of engagement of the animated image (14) along the surface (34).

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of the technology that may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure, which are described hereinafter. It is believed that this discussion will help to provide background information to the reader to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light and not as an admission of prior art.

[0002] Since the early twentieth century, the popularity of amusement parks (or theme parks) has grown significantly. Amusement parks contain a variety of rides and shows to provide a unique experience to each customer. With the increasing sophistication and complexity of modern attractions, and the corresponding increase in expectations among amusement park and / or theme park customers, there is a need for improved and more creative attractions to keep attracting customers and to provide a unique experience to customers. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Certain embodiments are outlined hereinafter that are commensurate in scope with the initially claimed subject matter. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, but rather, these embodiments are only intended to provide a brief overview of certain disclosed embodiments. Indeed, the present disclosure may cover a wide variety of forms that may be similar or different from the embodiments set forth hereinafter.

[0004] In one embodiment, an amusement attraction includes a ride vehicle or show action device, and an animated figure configured to move along a surface of the ride vehicle or show action device, wherein the animated figure includes at least three contact points configured to engage the surface, wherein the at least three contact points include a first contact point and a second contact point configured to alternately engage and disengage from the surface, and a third contact point configured to maintain contact with the surface. The amusement attraction further includes a securing system configured to keep the animated figure coupled to the ride vehicle or show action device via the at least three contact points as the animated figure moves along the surface. The amusement attraction further includes a controller configured to provide control signals to the securing system to facilitate control of the engagement of the animated figure with the surface.

[0005] In one embodiment, a ride vehicle includes a surface. The ride vehicle also includes an animated character disposed on the surface and configured to crawl along the surface along a planned path, wherein the animated character includes at least three contact points configured to contact the surface, wherein the at least three contact points include a first contact point and a second contact point configured to alternately couple and decouple with the surface, and a third contact point configured to maintain contact with the surface. The ride vehicle also includes a fixation system configured to keep the animated character coupled to the ride vehicle as the animated character moves along the surface. The ride vehicle further includes a controller configured to provide a control signal to the fixation system to facilitate control of the engagement of the animated character along the surface.

[0006] In one embodiment, a method for controlling an animated character in a ride environment includes: providing a control signal via a first controller on a ride vehicle to selectively activate and deactivate a fixation device disposed on a surface of the ride vehicle, the fixation device keeping an animated character disposed on the ride vehicle coupled to the surface as the animated character crawls along the surface along a planned path, wherein the animated character includes at least three contact points configured to engage and disengage with the surface, wherein the at least three contact points include a first contact point, a second contact point, and a third contact point, the first contact point and the second contact point being configured to alternately couple and decouple with the surface, and the third contact point being configured to maintain contact with the surface. The method further includes: receiving, at a second controller on the animated character, the control signal to coordinate selective activation and deactivation of the fixation device with one or more actuators on the animated character to alternately move the first contact point and the second contact point along the planned path to move the animated character along the surface. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

[0008] Figure 1 is a schematic view of a ride vehicle in a ride environment according to an aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the animated character is depicted as moving (e.g., crawling) along a surface of the ride vehicle;

[0009] Figure 2 is a schematic view of a ride vehicle in a ride environment according to an aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the animated character is depicted as moving (e.g., crawling) along a surface of a piece of performing action equipment;

[0010] Figure 3 is a schematic view of a portion of a fixation system along a surface capable of enabling movement and coupling of an animated character along the surface according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0011] Figure 4 Schematic diagram of an animated character that is another part of a fixed system according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the appendage tip (e.g., hand or foot) of an animated character that interacts with a surface according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the central body part of an animated character that interacts with a surface according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 7 Schematic diagram of a system (e.g., using magnets) for controlling the movement of an animated character on the surface of a vehicle being ridden;

[0015] Figure 8 Schematic diagram of a system (e.g., using a vacuum pump) for controlling the movement of an animated character on the surface of a vehicle being ridden;

[0016] Figure 9 Schematic diagram of the appendage tip (e.g., hand or foot) of an animated character that interacts with a surface (e.g., via a suction effect) according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 10 Flowchart of a method for controlling the movement of an animated character on a surface according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 11 Schematic diagram of the path of contact points along a surface (e.g., where each contact point moves along a separate path on a planned path);

[0019] Figure 12 Schematic diagram of the path of contact points along a surface (e.g., where each contact point moves along the same path on a planned path);

[0020] Figure 13 Schematic diagram of the path of contact points along a surface (e.g., where each contact point moves along an unplanned separate path);

[0021] Figure 14 Schematic diagram of an animated character moving along a surface (and being externally coupled thereto) with at least one permanent point-to-point connection for contact points; and

[0022] Figure 15 Schematic diagram of an animated character moving along a surface (and being externally coupled thereto) with at least one permanent point-to-point connection for contact points. Detailed Description

[0023] The present disclosure generally relates to animated figures, such as robotic assemblies that are manipulated for entertainment purposes to produce movements that mimic the movements of characters (e.g., animals, future robots, humans).

[0024] One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below. In an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of an actual implementation may be described in the specification. It should be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it should be appreciated that such development work might be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine task of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill in the art who have benefited from the present disclosure.

[0025] When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present disclosure, the articles "a," "an," and "the" are intended to mean that there is one or more of the elements. The terms "comprising" and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. Additionally, it should be understood that references to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" of the present disclosure are not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features.

[0026] Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to systems and methods for controlling the movement of an animated figure in an entertainment environment (e.g., a ride system environment). In particular, the animated figure can be disposed on the surface of a movable entertainment device (e.g., a ride vehicle or a show action device) in a transferable manner and configured to move along a planned path on the surface (e.g., crawl). As a specific example, the animated figure can be positioned on the surface of a ride vehicle. During the operation of the ride vehicle (e.g., when the ride vehicle is traversing a ride path), the animated figure can initially be out of the line of sight of a rider on the ride vehicle and then subsequently move into the rider's line of sight. It should be noted that the term "surface" (as used in the present disclosure) can broadly include a uniform surface (e.g., the hood of a ride vehicle) or separate components (e.g., pads, tiles, blocks, pipes) that form the external visible aspects of a ride vehicle, a show action device, or the like.

[0027] In one embodiment, the animated character includes at least three points (discrete contact points) for contacting a surface, wherein the at least three contact points include a first contact point, a second contact point, and a third contact point. Some of these contact points are movable and permit engagement (e.g., contact) with and disengagement (e.g., removal of contact) from the surface. For example, the first contact point and the second contact point may be configured to alternately couple and decouple with the surface, while the third contact point is configured to maintain continuous contact (e.g., sliding or rolling contact) with the surface. The animated character also includes one or more actuators that move the first contact point and the second contact point alternately along a planned path in response to a control signal from a controller so that the animated character can move.

[0028] According to this embodiment, the contact points are part of or cooperate with a fixation system. The fixation system includes a fixation device that is selectively activated and deactivated in response to a control signal from the controller to keep the animated character coupled to the surface as the animated character moves along the surface. In some embodiments, the surface includes switchable electromagnets or switchable permanent magnets (e.g., rare earth magnets) disposed along a planned path, and the contact points of the animated character include magnets. A switchable electromagnet is an electromagnet in which the electric power to the electromagnet can be reduced or turned off (e.g., via a switch) to control the strength of the electromagnet. A switchable permanent magnet is a magnet coupled to an actuator that moves the magnet into and out of position to facilitate engagement (e.g., change the orientation of the magnetic field). In some embodiments, the contact points of the animated character include switchable electromagnets or switchable permanent magnets, and the surface includes magnets disposed along a planned path. In some embodiments, the contact points of the animated character include switchable electromagnets or switchable permanent magnets, and the surface includes a magnetic material (e.g., ferromagnetic material). In some embodiments, the surface includes holes that selectively provide suction (e.g., via a vacuum pump) to hold the contact points of the animated character. In some embodiments, the contact points selectively provide suction (e.g., via a vacuum pump) to hold the contact points in holes in the surface. The disclosed embodiments enable unique effects and features to be seen by customers in a ride or show environment.

[0029] Figure 1FIG. 0 is a schematic view of a ride vehicle 10 in a ride environment 12 (e.g., at an amusement or theme park ride attraction) having an animated figure 14 that moves (e.g., crawls) on a surface 16 of the ride vehicle 10. As depicted, the ride vehicle 10 is moving through the ride environment 12. The ride vehicle 10 includes a rider or passenger 18 seated within the ride vehicle 10. As depicted, the animated figure 14 is disposed on the surface 16 of the ride vehicle 10. The animated figure 14 can be of any shape or size. The animated figure 14 can include any number of appendages or limbs. In some embodiments, the animated figure 14 may not include any limbs (e.g., a snake or worm-like body). As depicted, the animated figure 14 is a frog. The animated figure 14 is coupled to the surface 16 in a non-permanent manner. In some embodiments, the animated figure 14 is coupled to the surface 16 in a permanent manner. As discussed in more detail below, a system is utilized to control the movement (e.g., crawling) of the animated figure 14 along a path or route on the ride vehicle 10 (e.g., on an outer surface of the ride vehicle 10) as the ride vehicle 10 moves through the ride environment 12. In particular, the system includes a fixation system (or attachment system) that includes fixation devices (or attachment devices) disposed along a planned path of the ride vehicle 10 (e.g., on or within the surface 16) and fixation devices disposed on or within the animated figure 14 (e.g., on or within a central portion of the body such as the abdomen and on or within appendage ends such as hands and / or feet of appendages or limbs). A set of the fixation devices (either on or within the surface 16 of the ride vehicle 10 or on or within the animated figure 14) are actively controlled to alternately couple or decouple a particular contact point between the animated figure 14 and the surface 16, while one or more actuators are actively controlled on or within the animated figure 14 to move a portion of the body of the animated figure 14 or an appendage (e.g., limb) at which the contact point is located, such that the animated figure 14 can move on the surface 16.

[0030] In some embodiments, the securing device includes a switchable electromagnet or a switchable permanent magnet on or within the surface 16 of the ride vehicle 10, and a magnet (e.g., a permanent magnet) at a contact point disposed on or within the animated figure 14. In some embodiments, the securing device includes a magnet (e.g., a permanent magnet) disposed on or within the surface 16 of the ride vehicle 10, and a switchable electromagnet or a switchable permanent magnet at a contact point on or within the animated figure 14. In some embodiments, the animated figure 14 may uniquely include the securing device (e.g., a switchable electromagnet or a switchable permanent magnet), and the surface 16 of the ride vehicle 10 may include a magnetic material (e.g., a ferromagnetic material) that interacts with the securing device. In some embodiments, the securing device may include a hole in the surface 16 of the ride vehicle 10 that is coupled to a vacuum pump that generates a suction effect to selectively suck the contact point of the animated figure 14 onto, into, or over the corresponding hole as the animated figure 14 moves along the surface 16. In some embodiments, the vacuum pump may be coupled to a contact point on or within the animated figure 14 to hold the contact point sucked into, onto, or over the corresponding hole as the animated figure 14 moves along the surface 16.

[0031] In the illustrated embodiment, the animated figure 14 includes at least three contact points with the surface 16. Two of the contact points are configured to alternately couple and decouple with the surface 16, while another contact point is configured to maintain continuous contact (e.g., sliding or rolling contact) with the surface 16. In other embodiments, a different number of contact points may be employed. In some embodiments, the animated figure 14 and / or the surface 16 may include one or more proximity sensors (e.g., magnetic proximity sensors, capacitive proximity sensors, ultrasonic proximity sensors, etc.). The proximity sensors may provide position information regarding the animated figure and / or the surface 16 to coordinate the movement of the animated figure 14.

[0032] As Figure 1 depicted, initially during the ride, the animated figure 14 is disposed along the surface 16 such that it is out of the line of sight of the passenger 18 (e.g., as indicated by the first position 20). Ultimately during the ride, the animated figure 14 moves (e.g., crawls) along a planned path along the surface 16 to appear in the line of sight of the passenger 18 (e.g., as indicated by the second position 22) to provide a unique visual effect to the passenger 18. In some embodiments, the animated figure 14 may not initially be on the ride vehicle 10 but may attach to the ride vehicle 10 during the ride.

[0033] Figure 2 is a schematic view of the ride vehicle 10 within the ride environment 12, where the animated figure 14 is moving (e.g., crawling) on the surface 24 of a piece of show action equipment 26. Figure 1 The embodiment shown in Figure 2Both of the embodiments shown utilize a similar system (described in more detail below). As Figure 2 depicted in, the ride vehicle 10 is moving through a ride environment 12 (e.g., of a ride attraction in an amusement park or theme park). Figure 2 The animated figure 14 shown in moves along the surface 24 of the piece of show action equipment 26 (e.g., crawls), rather than along the surface 16 of the ride vehicle 10 (e.g., crawls) as Figure 1 depicted in. In some embodiments, the animated figure 14 maneuvers along the surface 24 of the piece of show action equipment 26 as part of a show (rather than a ride). In some embodiments, the animated figure 14 is attached to the surface 24 in a non-permanent manner. In some embodiments, the animated figure 14 is attached to the surface 24 in a permanent manner. As Figure 2 depicted in, initially during the ride, the animated figure 14 is positioned along the surface 24 out of the line of sight of the passenger 18 (e.g., as indicated by the first position 28). Ultimately during the ride, the animated figure 14 moves (e.g., crawls) along a planned path along the surface 24 to appear within the line of sight of the passenger 18 (e.g., as indicated by the second position 30), to provide a unique visual effect to the passenger 18.

[0034] Figure 3 is a schematic view of a portion of a fixed system 32 along a surface 34 that is capable of effecting the attachment and movement (e.g., crawling) of an animated figure (e.g., Figure 1 and Figure 2 the animated figure 14 in) along the surface 34. The surface 34 can be the surface of a ride vehicle (e.g., Figure 1 the surface 16 in), the surface of a piece of show action equipment (e.g., Figure 2 the surface 24 in), or the like. The fixed system 32 includes fixtures 36 disposed on or within the surface 34 along a planned path 38. As depicted, the planned path 38 is a straight line. In some embodiments, the planned path 38 is a curve, or the planned path 38 includes one or more portions that are straight lines and one or more portions that are curves.

[0035] The fixing system 32 includes a first set 40 of fixtures 36 disposed along a first path 42 in the planned path 38, a second set 44 of fixtures 36 disposed along a second path 46 in the planned path 38, and a third set 48 of fixtures 36 disposed along a third path 50 in the planned path 38. The fixtures 36 in the respective sets 40, 44, 48 are spaced apart along their respective paths 42, 46, 50. The paths 42, 46, and 50 generally extend parallel to each other with respect to the planned path 38 (e.g., but not necessarily exactly parallel in a strict mathematical sense along the entire planned path 38). The path 46 is disposed between the paths 42 and 50. In one embodiment, the planned path 38 may include a different number of paths (e.g., 4, 5, 6, or another number of paths) associated with the fixtures 36 than the number of paths depicted in Figure 3 e.g., 4, 5, 6, or another number of paths).

[0036] The first set 40 of fixtures 36 is configured to interact with a first contact point of the animated figure (e.g., at the end of an appendage, such as a hand or foot on one side). The third set 48 of fixtures 36 is configured to interact with a second contact point of the animated figure different from the first contact point (e.g., another appendage end, such as a hand or foot on the opposite side). The second set 44 of fixtures 36 is configured to interact with a third contact point of the animated figure (e.g., in a central part or abdomen of the body located between the first and second contact points). In certain embodiments, the first set 40 of fixtures 36 is configured to interact with a first set of contact points of the animated figure (e.g., front and rear appendage ends, such as a hand or foot on one side). In certain embodiments, the third set 48 of fixtures 36 is configured to interact with a second set of contact points (e.g., appendage ends, such as front and rear hands or feet on the opposite side). In one embodiment, the animated figure may include more than 3 contact points (e.g., 4, 5, 6, or another number of contact points). In one embodiment, some of the contact points may move along the same path. In one embodiment, each point may move along its own separate path.

[0037] As the animated character moves (e.g., crawls) along the planned path 38, the first and second contact points of the animated character are selectively coupled or decoupled from the corresponding sets 40, 48 of fixtures 36. For example, when the first contact point of the animated character is coupled to the fixture 52 in the first set 40 of fixtures 36, the second contact point of the animated character is decoupled from the fixture 54 in the second set 48 of fixtures 36, moves towards the fixture 56 in the second set 48 of fixtures 36 (e.g., due to an actuator moving a limb having the second contact point), and couples to the fixture 56. Subsequently, when the second contact point of the animated character is coupled to the fixture 56 in the second set 48 of fixtures 36, the first contact point of the animated character is decoupled from the fixture 52 in the first set 40 of fixtures 36, moves towards the fixture 58 in the first set 40 of fixtures 36 (e.g., due to an actuator moving an appendage or limb having the first contact point), and attaches to the fixture 58 in the first set 40 of fixtures 36. This coupled and decoupled movement of the first and second contact points of the animated character is indicated by the lines 60 between adjacent fixtures 36 in the corresponding sets 40, 48 of fixtures 36. As the first and second contact points of the animated character move along the respective paths 42, 50, the third contact point moves between adjacent fixtures 36 in the second set 44 of fixtures via continuous contact (e.g., sliding or rolling contact) (as indicated by the line 62 extending from one fixture 36 to an adjacent fixture 36). Sliding or rolling may occur once the foot or hand (of the front or rear limb) of the animated character is flush along its respective path 42, 46. For example, once the first and second contact points are at the respective fixtures 58, 56, the third contact point can slide from the fixture 64 to the fixture 66 in the second set 44 of fixtures 36. This sequence of movements enables the animated character to move (e.g., crawl) along the planned path 38 (e.g., in the direction 68). During the movement, at least two contact points of the animated character maintain contact with the surface 34 (e.g., the first or second contact point, in combination with the third contact point). At certain points, three contact points of the animated character maintain contact with the surface 34 (e.g., when the third contact point is sliding between fixtures 36).

[0038] In some embodiments, the fixture 36 on or in the surface 34 is a switchable electromagnet or a switchable permanent magnet, which is actively turned on and off to couple or decouple with a contact point on or in the animated figure (which has a permanent magnet). In some embodiments, the fixture 36 on or in the surface 34 is a permanent magnet, which interacts with a switchable electromagnet or a switchable permanent magnet on or in the contact point in the animated figure, and the switchable electromagnet or the switchable permanent magnet is actively turned on and off to couple or decouple with the contact point. When the actuator moves one of the fixtures 36 and the contact point together such that the associated magnetic force pulls them into a contact state, the engagement between one of the fixtures 36 and the contact point can occur.

[0039] In some embodiments, the position of the fixture 36 may include a magnetic material (e.g., ferromagnetic material). The magnetic material may interact with a fixture on or in the animated figure (e.g., a switchable electromagnet or a switchable permanent magnet).

[0040] In some embodiments, the fixture 36 is a hole on or in the surface 34. In some embodiments, the hole is coupled to a vacuum pump, which generates a suction effect to selectively suck the contact point of the animated figure onto, into, or covering the corresponding hole when the animated figure moves along the surface 34. In some embodiments, the vacuum pump may be coupled to the contact point in the animated figure to keep the contact point sucked onto, into, or covering the corresponding hole when the animated figure 14 moves along the surface 16. When the actuator moves one of the fixtures 36 and the contact point together such that the suction pulls them into a contact state, the engagement between one of the fixtures 36 and the contact point can occur.

[0041] In some embodiments, the surface 34 may include one or more proximity sensors (e.g., magnetic proximity sensors, capacitive proximity sensors, ultrasonic proximity sensors, etc.). The proximity sensors may provide position information about the animated figure and / or the surface 16 to coordinate the movement of the animated figure.

[0042] Figure 4 is a schematic view (e.g., top view) of the animated figure 14, which is another part of the fixing system 32. As depicted, the animated figure 14 is a frog. As pointed out above, the characteristics of the animated figure 14 (including the number of ends such as limbs, and the number of contact points) may vary. As depicted, the animated figure 14 includes a central body part 70 (e.g., abdomen, belly or torso), and the central body part 70 is coupled to appendages (e.g., limbs) 72, 74, 76, 78 that respectively have appendage ends (e.g., feet or hands) 80, 82, 84, 86. Each appendage 72, 74, 76, 78 may be coupled to a corresponding actuator (seeFigure 7 ) are associated to move the appendages 72, 74, 76, 78 along a planned path (e.g., the planned path 38 in Figure 3 ) on a surface (e.g., the surface 34 in Figure 3 ) in the direction 87. The fixation system 32 includes fixation devices 88 disposed at the appendage ends 80, 82, 84, 86. In particular, the fixation devices 90, 92, 94, 96 are respectively disposed on or in the appendage ends 80, 82, 84, 86. The appendage end 80 and the fixation device 90 form a first contact point 98, and the first contact point 98 is configured to interact with a first set of fixation devices (e.g., the fixation devices 36 of the group 40 along the path 42 in Figure 3 ) on a planned path (e.g., the planned path 38 in Figure 3 ) on a surface (e.g., the surface 34 in Figure 3 ). The appendage end 82 and the fixation device 92 form a second contact point 100, and the second contact point 100 is configured to interact with a second set of fixation devices (e.g., the fixation devices 36 of the group 48 along the path 50 in Figure 3 ) on a planned path (e.g., the planned path 38 in Figure 3 ) on a surface (e.g., the surface 34 in Figure 3 ). The central body portion 70 includes a fixation device 88 (e.g., the fixation device 102) that forms a third contact point 104 (e.g., a continuously sliding or rolling contact point), and the third contact point 104 is configured to interact with a third set of fixation devices (e.g., the fixation devices 36 of the group 44 along the path 46 in Figure 3 ) on a planned path (e.g., the planned path 38 in Figure 3 ) on a surface (e.g., the surface 34 in Figure 3 ). The appendage end 84 and the fixation device 94 form a fourth contact point 106, and the fourth contact point 106 is configured to interact with a first set of fixation devices (e.g., the fixation devices 36 of the group 40 along the path 42 in Figure 3 ) on a planned path (e.g., the planned path 38 in Figure 3 ) on a surface (e.g., the surface 34 in Figure 3 ). The appendage end 86 and the fixation device 94 form a fifth contact point 108, and the fifth contact point 108 is configured to interact with a second set of fixation devices (e.g., the fixation devices 36 of the group 48 along the path 50 in Figure 3 ) on a planned path (e.g., the planned path 38 in Figure 3 ) on a surface (e.g., the surface 34 in Figure 3 ). Thus, the first and fourth contact points 98, 106 move along the same path of the fixation devices, while the second and fourth contact points 100, 108 move along the same path of the fixation devices.

[0043] In some embodiments, the fixture 88 on or in the animated character 14 is a permanent magnet configured to interact with the fixture 35 of the surface 34 (e.g., a switchable electromagnet or a switchable permanent magnet in the surface 34), and the fixture 35 is actively turned on and off to couple or decouple with the contact points 98, 100, 104, 106, 108 in the animated character 14. In some embodiments, the fixture 88 on or in the animated character 14 is a switchable electromagnet or a switchable permanent magnet that is actively turned on and off to couple or decouple the contact points 98, 100, 104, 106, 108 of the animated character with a permanent magnet (e.g., the fixture 36) in the surface 34.

[0044] In some embodiments, the animated character 14 may include one or more proximity sensors (e.g., magnetic proximity sensors, capacitive proximity sensors, ultrasonic proximity sensors, etc.). The proximity sensors can provide position information about the animated character 14 and / or the surface to coordinate the movement of the animated character 14.

[0045] Figure 5 FIG. is a schematic diagram of the interaction between the end 110 of an appendage (e.g., a hand or a foot) of the animated character 14 and the surface 34. The surface 34 can be the surface of a ride vehicle (e.g., Figure 1 the surface 16 therein) or the surface of a performance action device (e.g., Figure 2 the surface 24 therein). The appendage end 110 includes a fixture 88. The fixture 88 and the appendage end 110 form a contact point 112 (e.g., contact points 98, 100, 106, or 108) on the animated character 14 that is connected to the surface 34 through an interface. The surface 34 includes a set of fixtures 36 (e.g., Figure 3 the set 40 or the set 48 therein) arranged along the planned path 38. The set of fixtures 36 can be arranged along one of the paths (e.g., Figure 3 the path 42 or the path 50 therein) in the planned path 38. When the fixture 88 is not actively coupled to a specific fixture 36, the actuator of the end (e.g., the limb) to which the appendage end 110 (e.g., a hand or a foot) is coupled moves the appendage end 110 from one fixture 36 to an adjacent fixture 36.

[0046] In some embodiments, the fixture 88 on or in the appendage end 110 is a permanent magnet configured to interact with a switchable electromagnet or a switchable permanent magnet (e.g., fixture 36) on or in the surface 34, and these switchable electromagnets or switchable permanent magnets are actively turned on and off to couple or decouple with the contact point 112 (e.g., fixture 88) in the animated character 14. In some embodiments, the fixture 88 on or in the animated character 14 is a switchable electromagnet or a switchable permanent magnet, and this switchable electromagnet or switchable permanent magnet is actively turned on and off to couple or decouple the contact point 112 of the animated character 14 with a permanent magnet (e.g., fixture 36) on or in the surface 34.

[0047] Figure 6 FIG. is a schematic diagram of the interaction between the central body portion 70 of the animated character 14 and the surface 34. The surface 34 can be the surface of a riding vehicle (e.g., Figure 1 the surface 16 in ) or the surface of a performance action device (e.g., Figure 2 the surface 24 in ). The central body portion 70 includes a fixture 88. The fixture 88 and the central body portion form a contact point 104 on the animated character 14 that is connected to the surface 34 through an interface. The surface 34 includes a set of fixtures 36 (e.g., Figure 3 the set 44 in ) arranged along the planned path 38. This set of fixtures 36 can be arranged along one of the paths in the planned path 38 (e.g., Figure 3 the path 46 in ). When the actuator is moving the limb of the animated character, due to the switchable electromagnet or the switchable permanent magnet being in an activated state, the contact point 104 (e.g., fixture 88) remains coupled (e.g., in a suction position) to a specific fixture 36. When the contact point of the limb reaches a fixed position (e.g., when the front limb is flush along the planned path 38), as the switchable electromagnet or the switchable permanent magnet is deactivated, the contact point 104 (e.g., fixture 88) can slide from a specific fixture 36 to an adjacent fixture 36. When reaching the adjacent fixture 36, the suction position is restored between the contact point 104 and the surface 34.

[0048] In some embodiments, the fixture 88 in the central body portion 70 is a permanent magnet configured to interact with a switchable electromagnet or a switchable permanent magnet (e.g., fixture 36) in the surface 34, the switchable electromagnet or switchable permanent magnet being actively turned on and off to couple or decouple with the contact point 104 (e.g., fixture 88) in the animated character 14. In some embodiments, the fixture 88 in the animated character 14 is a switchable electromagnet or a switchable permanent magnet that is actively turned on and off to couple or decouple the contact point 104 of the animated character 14 with a permanent magnet (e.g., fixture 36) in the surface 34. In some embodiments, the animated characters 14 can interact directly on a matrix of spaced-apart fixtures 36 (i.e., without the surface therebetween).

[0049] Figure 7 FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a system 114 (e.g., using magnets) for controlling the movement (e.g., crawling) of the animated character 14 on or in the surface of the ride vehicle 10. The system 114 includes the ride vehicle 10 and the animated character 14. The ride vehicle 10 includes a ride vehicle control system 116. The ride vehicle (RV) control system 116 controls the operation of the ride vehicle 10. The ride vehicle control system 116 is coupled to a first animated character controller 118 located on or in the ride vehicle 10. The ride vehicle control system 116 provides control signals to the first animated character controller 118 to coordinate the operation of the animated character 14 with the ride vehicle 10. The first animated character controller 118 is coupled to a magnet position driver 120. The magnet position driver 120 is coupled to fixtures 36 disposed on or in the surface of the ride vehicle 10. The fixtures 36 are switchable electromagnets or switchable permanent magnets that can be activated or deactivated (responsive to control signals provided from the animated character controller 118 to the magnet position driver 120) to effect selective coupling or decoupling between the fixture 36 (located on or in the surface of the ride vehicle 10) and the fixture 88 (a contact point located on or in the animated character 14) to keep the animated character 14 coupled to the ride vehicle as it moves along a planned path (e.g., crawls).

[0050] The animated character controller 118 is also coupled to a transceiver 122 (e.g., a radio frequency (RF) transceiver) for communicating with the animated character 14. The animated character controller 118 can provide control signals to the animated character 14 to control the movement of the animated character 14 (coordinated with the selective activation and deactivation of the fixtures 36 on or in the surface of the ride vehicle 10).

[0051] The animated character 14 includes an animated character controller 124, and the controller 124 is configured to control the actuation of an appendage 126 (e.g., a limb) on the animated character 14 (e.g., to move a contact point associated with the appendage 126). The animated character 14 includes a transceiver 128 (e.g., an RF transceiver), and the transceiver 128 is coupled to the animated character controller 124 to enable communication with the animated character controller 118 to coordinate the movement of the appendage 126 with the selective activation and deactivation of the fixture 36. In one embodiment, the animated character controllers 118, 124 may be communicatively coupled via a wired connection (e.g., as indicated by the dashed line 129).

[0052] The animated character controller 124 is coupled to an actuator 130 (e.g., a driver), and the actuator 130 causes movement of the appendage 126 (e.g., a limb) in response to a control signal from the animated character controller 124. The contact point of each appendage 126 (e.g., the appendage tip (e.g., a hand or a foot)) includes a fixture (e.g., a permanent magnet) configured to interact with the fixture 36 on or within the surface of the ride vehicle 10.

[0053] In certain embodiments, the ride vehicle 10 may include one or more proximity sensors 132 (e.g., a magnetic proximity sensor, a capacitive proximity sensor, an ultrasonic proximity sensor, etc.) disposed near the fixture 36. In certain embodiments, the animated character 14 may also include one or more proximity sensors 134. The proximity sensors 132, 134 may provide position information about the animated character 14 and / or the surface to coordinate the movement of the animated character 14.

[0054] In certain embodiments, the configuration of the system 114 may vary. For example, the fixture 36 on or within the ride vehicle 10 may be a permanent magnet, and the fixture 88 on or within the animated character 14 may be a switchable electromagnet or a switchable permanent magnet. In this embodiment, the magnet position driver 120 is located on or within the animated character 14 and is coupled to the fixture 88.

[0055] In certain embodiments, the animated character controller 118, the fixture 36, and / or the magnet position device 120 are located on or within a piece of show action equipment. In this embodiment, the animated character controller 118 may communicate with the ride vehicle control system 116 (when the show action equipment is part of a ride facility) or with the control system for the show (when the show action equipment is part of a show).

[0056] The vehicle control system 116 includes a memory 136 and a processor 138. The first avatar controller 118 also includes a memory 140 and a processor 142. The second avatar controller 124 also includes a memory 144 and a processor 146. In some embodiments, the processors 138, 142, 146 may include one or more general-purpose processors, one or more application-specific integrated circuits, one or more field-programmable gate arrays, or the like. Additionally, the memories 136, 140, 144 may be any tangible non-transitory computer-readable medium that can store instructions executable by the corresponding processors 138, 142, 146 and / or data that can be processed by the processors 138, 142, 146. In other words, the memories 136, 140, 144 may include volatile memory (such as random access memory) or non-volatile memory (such as hard disk drives, read-only memories, optical discs, flash memory, and the like).

[0057] Figure 8 FIG. is a schematic diagram of a system 148 (e.g., using a vacuum pump) for controlling the movement (e.g., crawling) of an avatar 14 on the surface of a vehicle 10. The system 148 is similar to Figure 7 the system 114 in, but with minor differences. The fixture 36 is a hole in the surface of the vehicle 10. The vehicle 10 includes a vacuum pump 150 (e.g., via a pipe) coupled to the fixture 36 to generate a suction effect to fix (e.g., suck) the contact points (e.g., the ends of the appendages (e.g., hands or feet)) of the appendages 126 (e.g., limbs) in the fixture 36. The valve 152 is coupled to the corresponding pipe coupled to the fixture 36. The avatar controller 118 provides a control signal to the valve to selectively generate a suction effect in the fixture 36 to cause selective coupling or decoupling between the fixture 36 and the contact points on the avatar 14 to keep the avatar 14 coupled to the vehicle as it moves (e.g., crawls) along a planned path. In certain embodiments, the vehicle 10 may include an additional vacuum pump as a safety feature to couple the avatar 14 to the vehicle 10 in the event that the vacuum pump 150 fails.

[0058] In certain embodiments, the configuration of the system 148 may vary. For example, the vacuum pump 150 and the valve 152 may be located on or within the avatar 14. The vacuum pump 150 may generate a suction effect at the contact points (e.g., the ends of the appendages (e.g., hands or feet)) of the appendages 126 (e.g., limbs) to selectively suck them onto or into the fixture 36 on the surface of the vehicle 10.

[0059] In some embodiments, the animatronic controller 118, the fixture 36, the vacuum pump, and / or the valve 152 are located on or within a piece of show action equipment. In this embodiment, the animatronic controller 118 may communicate with the ride vehicle control system 116 (when the show action equipment is part of a ride facility) or with a control system for the show (when the show action equipment is part of a show).

[0060] Figure 9 is a schematic illustration of an interaction (e.g., via a suction effect) between an appendage tip 110 (e.g., a hand or a foot) of the animatronic 14 and a surface 34. The surface 34 may be a surface of a ride vehicle (e.g., Figure 1 the surface 16 in Figure 2 ) or a surface of a piece of show action equipment (e.g., Figure 3 the surface 24 in Figure 3 ). The surface 34 includes a set of fixtures 36 (e.g.,

[0061] Figure 10 the set 40 or the set 48 in Figure 7 and 8 ) disposed along a planned path 38. The set of fixtures 36 may be disposed along one of the paths in the planned path 38 (e.g.,

[0062] the path 42 or the path 50 in Figure 3 ). In some embodiments, the fixture 36 is coupled to a vacuum pump to selectively create a suction effect in the fixture 36. In some embodiments, a contact point 112 on the appendage tip 110 (e.g., a hand or a foot) is coupled to the vacuum pump to selectively create a suction effect at the contact point 112. The suction effect couples the contact point 112 to the fixture 36 to couple the appendage tip 110 to the surface 34. When the contact point 112 is not actively coupled to a particular fixture 36, an actuator of the appendage to which the appendage tip 110 is coupled moves the appendage tip 110 from one fixture 36 to an adjacent fixture 36.

[0061] Figure 10 is a flow chart of a method 154 for controlling the movement (e.g., crawling) of an animatronic on a surface (e.g., a surface of a ride vehicle or a piece of show action equipment). The steps of the method 154 may be performed by Figure 7 and 8 the ride vehicle control system 116, the animatronic controller 118, and / or the animatronic controller 124 in

[0062] Method 154 includes: providing a control signal to selectively activate and deactivate a fixture that couples an animated character disposed on a ride vehicle or show action device to the surface of the ride vehicle or show action device as the animated character crawls along a planned path along the surface (block 156). The animated character includes at least three contact points with the surface, where the at least three contact points include a first contact point, a second contact point, and a third contact point, the first contact point and the second contact point being configured to alternately couple and decouple with the surface, and the third contact point being configured to maintain continuous contact (e.g., sliding or rolling contact) with the surface. In some embodiments, the fixture to be activated and deactivated is located on or within the surface and interacts with a fixture on or within the animated character. In some embodiments, the fixture to be activated and deactivated is located on or within the animated character (e.g., at the contact points) and interacts with a fixture on or within the surface. In some embodiments, the fixture to be activated and deactivated is a switchable electromagnet or a switchable permanent magnet, and the activating device with which they interact is a permanent magnet. In some embodiments, the fixture is a hole coupled to a vacuum pump that creates a suction effect in the hole.

[0063] Method 154 further includes: receiving, at the animated character, a control signal to cause one or more actuators on the animated character to alternately move the first contact point and the second contact point along the planned path (coordinated with the selective activation and deactivation of the fixture) to move the animated character along the surface (e.g., crawl) (block 158).

[0064] Figures 11 - 13 Schematic diagrams of different ways in which the contact points 164 of an illustrated animated character can move along a surface 162. The surface 162 can belong to a ride vehicle or a show action device. Although not shown, as noted above, fixtures can be disposed along the path 160 of the contact points 164. As Figure 11 depicted, each contact point 164 moves along a separate path 160 on a planned path 166. As Figure 12 depicted, each contact point 164 is moving along the same path 160. As Figure 13 depicted, each contact point 164 moves along an unplanned separate path 160.

[0065] In one embodiment, when the animated character moves, at least the contact points of the animated character can include a permanent point-to-point connection along the surface. Figure 14 and 15 are schematic diagrams of an animated character 166 having a permanent point-to-point connection with at least one contact point (e.g., a hand coupled to a forearm) moving along a surface 168. The surface 168 can belong to a ride vehicle or an animated character. Certain portions 170 of the animated character 166 (e.g., the fingers of the hand) can be as described above inFigure 3 The portion described in is moved along a path by spaced-apart fixtures (as indicated by arrow 172), while another portion 174 (e.g., a portion of the forearm further from the hand) is moved in a permanent point-to-point connection along surface 162. As Figure 14 depicted in, portion 174 is externally coupled to surface 168. As Figure 15 depicted in, portion 174 is internally coupled. For example, as Figure 15 depicted in, the animated figure 166 extends through a sleeve seal 176 that slides along a slot 178 (which is fully or partially hidden from the rider's view).

[0066] The technology presented and claimed herein relates to and applies to specific examples and substantial objects that demonstrably improve the practical nature of this technical field, and is thus not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Further, if any claim appended to the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as "means for [performing]... [function]" or "step for [performing]... [function]", then it is intended that such elements be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f). However, for any claim that contains elements designated in any other way, it is intended that such elements not be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f).

[0067] Although only certain features of the disclosed subject matter have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and variations will occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and variations as fall within the true spirit of the disclosed subject matter.

Claims

1. An amusement attraction, comprising: A ride vehicle or a show action device; An animated figure configured to move along a surface of the ride vehicle or the show action device, wherein the animated figure includes at least three contact points configured to engage with the surface, and wherein the at least three contact points include: A first contact point and a second contact point configured to alternately engage with and disengage from the surface, and A third contact point configured to maintain contact with the surface; A fixing system configured to keep the animated figure coupled to the ride vehicle or the show action device via the at least three contact points when the animated figure moves along the surface; and A controller configured to provide a control signal to the fixing system to facilitate control of the engagement of the animated figure along the surface.

2. The amusement attraction according to claim 1, wherein, The animated figure is configured to move along a planned path.

3. The amusement attraction according to claim 2, wherein, The animated figure includes one or more actuators, and the controller is configured to provide the control signal to the one or more actuators to move the first contact point and the second contact point alternately along the planned path so that the animated figure can move.

4. The amusement attraction according to claim 2, wherein, The fixing system includes a first plurality of fixing devices disposed on or in the surface along the planned path, wherein the first plurality of fixing devices includes a first set of fixing devices configured to interact with the first contact point, a second set of fixing devices configured to interact with the second contact point, and a third set of fixing devices configured to interact with the third contact point, wherein the first set of fixing devices is disposed along a first path on the planned path, the second set of fixing devices is disposed along a second path on the planned path, and the third set of fixing devices is disposed along a third path on the planned path.

5. The amusement attraction according to claim 4, wherein, The first plurality of fixing devices includes switchable electromagnets or switchable permanent magnets, the fixing system includes a second plurality of fixing devices, the second plurality of fixing devices includes a plurality of magnets, and the first contact point, the second contact point, and the third contact point each include a corresponding magnet among the plurality of magnets, and wherein the controller is configured to provide the control signal to the first plurality of fixing devices to selectively activate and deactivate the switchable electromagnets or switchable permanent magnets to facilitate control of the engagement of the animated figure along the surface.

6. The amusement attraction according to claim 4, wherein, The first plurality of fixing devices includes a plurality of magnets, the fixing system includes a second plurality of fixing devices, the second plurality of fixing devices includes a plurality of switchable electromagnets or switchable permanent magnets, and the first contact point, the second contact point, and the third contact point each include a corresponding switchable electromagnet or switchable permanent magnet among the plurality of switchable electromagnets or switchable permanent magnets, and wherein the controller is configured to provide the control signal to the second plurality of fixing devices to selectively activate and deactivate the switchable electromagnets or switchable permanent magnets to facilitate control of the engagement of the animated figure along the surface.

7. The amusement attraction according to claim 4, wherein, The first plurality of fixing devices includes a plurality of holes, and the fixing system includes a vacuum pump configured to selectively provide suction to suck at least the first contact point, the second contact point, or the third contact point onto, into, or over a corresponding one of the plurality of holes, and wherein the controller is configured to provide the control signal to the vacuum pump to facilitate the engagement of the animated image along the surface.

8. The amusement attraction according to claim 7, wherein, The vacuum pump is disposed on the ride vehicle or the show action device, and the vacuum pump is configured to selectively provide suction to the plurality of holes to suck at least the first contact point, the second contact point, or the third contact point into the corresponding one of the plurality of holes.

9. The amusement attraction according to claim 7, wherein, The vacuum pump is disposed on the animated image, and the vacuum pump is configured to selectively provide suction to at least the first contact point, the second contact point, or the third contact point to suck at least the first contact point, the second contact point, or the third contact point onto, into, or over the corresponding one of the plurality of holes.

10. The amusement attraction according to claim 1, wherein, The animated image is configured to crawl along the surface.

11. The amusement attraction according to claim 10, wherein, The animated image is configured to be initially out of the line of sight of a rider on the ride vehicle during a ride on the ride vehicle and then subsequently crawl into the rider's line of sight.

12. A ride vehicle, comprising: A surface; An animated image disposed on the surface and configured to move along a planned path along the surface, wherein the animated image includes at least three contact points configured to contact the surface, wherein the at least three contact points include: A first contact point and a second contact point configured to alternately couple and decouple with the surface, and A third contact point configured to maintain contact with the surface; A fixing system configured to keep the animated image coupled to the ride vehicle as the animated image moves along the surface; and A controller configured to provide a control signal to the fixing system to facilitate control of the engagement of the animated image along the surface.

13. The vehicle according to claim 12, wherein, The animated image is configured to be initially out of the line of sight of a rider on the ride vehicle during a ride on the ride vehicle and then subsequently move into the rider's line of sight.

14. The vehicle according to claim 12, wherein, The animated image includes one or more actuators, and the controller is configured to provide the control signal to the one or more actuators to move the first contact point and the second contact point alternately along the planned path so that the animated image can move.

15. The vehicle according to claim 14, wherein, The fixing system includes a first plurality of fixing devices disposed on or in the surface along the planned path, wherein the first plurality of fixing devices includes a first set of fixing devices configured to interact with the first contact point, a second set of fixing devices configured to interact with the second contact point, and a third set of fixing devices configured to interact with the third contact point, wherein the first set of fixing devices is disposed along a first path on the planned path, the second set of fixing devices is disposed along a second path on the planned path, and the third set of fixing devices is disposed along a third path on the planned path, and wherein the first path, the second path, and the third path extend parallel to each other along the planned path.

16. The vehicle according to claim 15, wherein, The first plurality of fixing devices includes switchable electromagnets or switchable permanent magnets, the fixing system includes a second plurality of fixing devices, the second plurality of fixing devices includes a plurality of magnets, and the first contact point, the second contact point, and the third contact point each include a respective magnet of the plurality of magnets, and wherein the controller is configured to provide the control signal to the first plurality of fixing devices to selectively activate and deactivate the switchable electromagnets or switchable permanent magnets to facilitate control of the engagement of the animated image along the surface.

17. The vehicle according to claim 15, wherein, The first plurality of fixing devices includes a plurality of magnets, the fixing system includes a second plurality of fixing devices, the second plurality of fixing devices includes a plurality of switchable electromagnets or switchable permanent magnets, and the first contact point, the second contact point, and the third contact point each include a respective switchable electromagnet or switchable permanent magnet of the plurality of switchable electromagnets or switchable permanent magnets, and wherein the controller is configured to provide the control signal to the second plurality of fixing devices to selectively activate and deactivate the switchable electromagnets or switchable permanent magnets to facilitate control of the engagement of the animated image along the surface.

18. The vehicle according to claim 15, wherein, The first plurality of fixing devices includes a plurality of holes, the fixing system includes a vacuum pump, the vacuum pump is disposed on or in the ride vehicle, the vacuum pump is configured to selectively provide suction to suck at least the first contact point, the second contact point, or the third contact point onto, into, or over a respective one of the plurality of holes, and wherein the controller is configured to provide the control signal to the vacuum pump to facilitate the engagement of the animated image along the surface.

19. A method for controlling an animated image in a ride environment, the method comprising: A control signal is provided via a first controller on a vehicle to selectively activate and deactivate a fixture disposed on a surface of the vehicle, the fixture keeping an animated character disposed on the vehicle coupled to the surface as the animated character crawls along a planned path along the surface, wherein the animated character includes at least three contact points configured to engage and disengage from the surface, wherein the at least three contact points include a first contact point, a second contact point, and a third contact point, the first contact point and the second contact point being configured to alternately couple and decouple from the surface, and the third contact point being configured to maintain contact with the surface; and A second controller on the animated character receives the control signal to coordinate selective activation and deactivation of the fixture with one or more actuators on the animated character to alternately move the first contact point and the second contact point along the planned path to move the animated character along the surface.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein, The fixture includes a switchable electromagnet or a switchable permanent magnet, and the first contact point, the second contact point, and the third contact point include corresponding magnets configured to interact with the fixture.

Images