Techniques for displaying images in a visual effects system

Abstract

A visual effects system includes a first display, a second display, and a graphics generation system. The graphics generation system is configured to provide graphic data to the first and second displays to define a combined image. The graphics generation system includes a processing system and a memory encoded with instructions configured to be executed by the processing system to cause the first and second displays to: display a first image on the first display based on the graphic data and user position, user gaze orientation, or both; and display a second image on the second display based on the graphic data and user position, user gaze orientation, or both.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications This application claims priority and benefit to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 616965, filed January 2, 2024, entitled “TECHNIQUES FOR DISPLAYING IMAGESIN A VISUAL EFFECTS SYSTEM”, which is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference. Background Technology

[0002] Venues such as amusement parks may include a variety of attractions and themed areas. Some attractions and themed areas may include displays (e.g., monitors, digital screens, volumetric displays, and / or other displays) to provide images for visualization by customers within the attraction and / or to facilitate navigation through the themed area. As modern ride attractions and modern themed areas become increasingly sophisticated and complex, it is now recognized that it is desirable to provide improved systems to create such visual effects.

[0003] This section aims to introduce the reader to various aspects of the technology that may be associated with this technology, which are described and / or claimed below. This discussion is intended to help provide the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of this disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light and not as an admission of prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The following outlines certain embodiments that are proportionate to the scope of the original claimed subject matter. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter, but rather are intended only to provide a brief overview of the possible forms of this subject matter. In fact, this subject matter may encompass many forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.

[0005] In one embodiment, a visual effects system includes a first display, a second display, and a graphics generation system. The graphics generation system is configured to provide graphic data to the first and second displays to define a combined image. The graphics generation system includes a processing system and a memory encoded with instructions configured to be executed by the processing system to cause the first and second displays to: display a first image on the first display based on the graphic data and user position, user gaze orientation, or both; and display a second image on the second display based on the graphic data and user position, user gaze orientation, or both.

[0006] In one embodiment, a method for operating a visual effects system includes: displaying a first image on a first display via a processing system based on graphic data; and adjusting the first image on the first display via the processing system based on a viewer's position, viewer's gaze orientation, or both. The method further includes: displaying a second image on a second display via the processing system based on graphic data; and adjusting the display of the second image on the second display via the processing system based on a viewer's position, viewer's gaze orientation, or both, such that the first image and the second image are coordinated to define a combined image representing a virtual object.

[0007] In one embodiment, a visual effects system includes a first display, a second display, and a graphics generation system. The graphics generation system is configured to provide graphics data to the first and second displays. The graphics generation system includes a processing system and a memory encoded with instructions configured to be executed by the processing system to cause the first and second displays to: display a first image on the first display based on the graphics data; and be actuated based on the graphics data and one or more viewer positions, one or more viewer gaze orientations, or both, to adjust the first image on the first display. The instructions are also configured to be executed by the processing system to cause the first and second displays to be actuated based on the graphics data and one or more viewer positions, one or more viewer gaze orientations, or both, to adjust a second image on the second display such that the first and second images define a combined image. Attached Figure Description

[0008] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of this disclosure will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same characters throughout the drawings denote the same parts, wherein: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an environment including a visual effects system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2 The illustration schematically depicts an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 The visual effects system displays the images; and Figure 3 According to an embodiment of this disclosure, as described above Figure 1 The visual effects system consists of schematic side views of a combination of images that are visualized by the customer. Detailed Implementation

[0009] This disclosure generally relates to a visual effects system that provides visual effects via multiple displays.

[0010] One or more specific embodiments of this disclosure will be described below. In an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of the actual implementation are described in the specification. It should be understood that, as in any engineering or design project, the development of any such actual implementation requires numerous implementation-specific decisions 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. Furthermore, it should be understood that such development work may be complex and time-consuming, but will be nothing more than routine tasks of design, fabrication, and manufacturing for those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure.

[0011] When describing elements of various embodiments of this disclosure, the articles “a” and “described” are intended to mean the presence of one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising” and “including” are intended to be inclusive and mean that additional elements may be present in addition to those listed. Furthermore, it should be understood that references to “an embodiment” or “an embodiment” in this disclosure are not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments incorporating the described features.

[0012] Attractions and areas within an amusement park (e.g., themed areas) may include displays (e.g., monitors, digital screens, volumetric displays, and / or other displays) to provide images for visualization by customers within the attraction and / or to facilitate navigation through the area, which may include one or more attractions and / or themed areas. Therefore, it is now recognized that providing improved systems to create visual effects for such purposes is desirable.

[0013] This disclosure relates to a visual effects system that provides visual effects (e.g., image effects). The visual effects system may utilize multiple displays (e.g., transparent and / or translucent displays) to provide a variety of visual effects. For example, a layered visual effects system may include a first display, a second display, and a third display positioned in a specific orientation (e.g., parallel to each other). The first, second, and / or third displays may receive graphics data (e.g., image data) from a graphics generation system (e.g., a game engine, a simulation engine). Furthermore, the first, second, and / or third displays may each display an image simultaneously or at separate times based on the graphics data. The images on the first, second, and / or third displays may be displayed in such a way that, when the displays are viewed in alignment, the illusion of a smooth transition or movement of virtual objects shown in the images from one display to another is created, such that the displays are substantially layered along the path of observation (e.g., a viewer is observing one or more displays via another display). It should be noted that the use of mathematical terms in describing this embodiment should not be interpreted in a strict mathematical context. For example, the reference to displays positioned parallel to each other should not be interpreted as being precisely parallel in a mathematical sense. Instead, the term should be interpreted as substantially parallel within tolerances, which should be understood in the art to achieve a desired relationship and / or effect. For example, displays are positioned in a parallel manner so that they are viewable as layers.

[0014] A graphics generation system can provide graphics data to enable the rendering of images on a first, second, and / or third display. In practice, the graphics data may include data related to the shape, orientation, color, intensity, lighting, and / or transparency (e.g., brightness) of an image. Thus, the graphics generation system can facilitate a smooth transition of images from one display to another to create visual effects for customers in an amusement park. A smooth transition of an image from one display to another corresponds to transitioning the image through a space that separates the displays by creating the illusion that the presented image resides at least partially in the space separating the displays.

[0015] As an example, a customer may be positioned in front of a first display, a second display, and / or a third display, wherein the first display is furthest from the customer, the third display is closest to the customer, and the second display is positioned between the first and third displays. An image may be displayed on the first display at a first size (e.g., a smaller size) and a first level of transparency (e.g., opaque, 0% transparent). For example, the image may include an image of a virtual object. This makes the image appear to reside in the same location as the first display. To make the virtual object appear as if it is moving towards the customer, a graphics generation system may transmit graphics data that causes the image to adjust by increasing the transparency of the virtual object in the image to a second level of transparency (e.g., 60%). Simultaneously, the graphics data may be transmitted to the second display, causing the second display to display the virtual object at a second size (e.g., a larger size) and a third level of transparency (e.g., partially transparent, 40%). By sharing image data and adjusting transparency between screens according to this embodiment, it is possible to make the image appear as if it is at least partially residing between the displays. Ultimately, the image can be fully transitioned to a specific display (e.g., with 100% opacity) and appear to reside at the location of the relevant display. In this way, the display of a virtual object can undergo a continuous transformation from a first display to a second display and / or similarly to a third display to convey the movement of the virtual object toward or away from the customer.

[0016] In one embodiment, the first, second, and / or third displays may include one or more sensors. The one or more sensors can provide sensor data associated with the customer's position and / or gaze orientation relative to the first, second, and / or third displays. Based on this data, the graphics generation system may instruct actuators coupled to each of the first, second, and / or third displays to be actuated based on the customer's position and / or gaze orientation. That is, the first, second, and / or third displays may each be rotated or shifted uniformly or differently relative to the customer. In one embodiment, the graphics generation system may adjust the graphics data and thus adjust the display of images on the first, second, and / or third displays based on the customer's position and / or gaze orientation. Making such adjustments can facilitate providing a visual effect calibrated for viewing by the customer in a preferred orientation. For example, it may be important to align within a threshold offset to ensure sufficient overlap between images displayed on different screens, thereby creating for the customer the illusion of dimension existing in the gap between the displays.

[0017] Considering the preceding text, Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of an environment 10 including a visual effects system 12 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The environment may be associated with an amusement park and may include any suitable area being explored by amusement park customers, such as attractions or themed areas. Environment 10 may include a customer area 14 in which one or more customers 16 (e.g., one or more viewers) may be located. As an example, customer area 14 may include paths (e.g., walkways, queues, lines) that customers 16 can navigate through. As another example, customer area 14 may include spaces (e.g., seating areas) in which customers 16 may be located to watch a performance. As a further example, customer area 14 may include vehicles that can move throughout environment 10 and transport customers 16.

[0018] Furthermore, environment 10 may include a visual effects system 12, which may provide entertainment to customers 16 located in customer areas and / or environment 10. For example, visual effects system 12 may create visual effects that can be viewed by customer 16. Visual effects system 12 may include a first display 18, a second display 20, a third display 22, and / or a graphics generation system 24 (e.g., a control system, controller). It should be noted that although visual effects system 12 is described as including first display 18, second display 20, and / or third display 22, any suitable multiple displays may be used in visual effects system 12.

[0019] The graphics generation system 24 may be communicatively coupled (e.g., via a wireless or wired communication path) to a first display 18, a second display 20, and a third display 22. The graphics generation system 24 may include one or more processors 26 (referred to herein as processors or processing systems for convenience) and memory 28. Processor 26 may be any type of computer processor or microprocessor capable of executing computer-executable code. Processor 26 may also include multiple processors, processing circuitry, or processing systems capable of performing the operations described herein. Memory 28 may include volatile memory (such as random access memory (RAM)) and / or non-volatile memory (ROM).

[0020] Memory 28 can store a variety of information and can be used for a variety of purposes. For example, memory 28 can store processor-executable instructions, such as instructions for controlling components of the first display 18, the second display 20, and the third display 22. Memory 28 may also include flash memory or any suitable optical, magnetic, or solid-state storage medium or a combination thereof. Memory 28 can store data, instructions (e.g., software or firmware for controlling the display of images on the first display 18, the second display 20, and the third display 22), and any other suitable information.

[0021] The graphics generation system 24 may include generating graphics data (e.g., image data) and transmitting it to any one or more suitable components of the first display 18, the second display 20, and the third display 22. The graphics data may include image data associated with shape, orientation, color, intensity, lighting, and / or transparency (e.g., opacity, brightness). In one embodiment, the image data may also be associated with virtual objects displayed in the image. For example, the graphics generation system 24 may include a dedicated game engine or computing device that dynamically generates instructions executable by the processor 26 to cause the first display 18, the second display 20, and the third display 22 to display and adjust the display of an image across each of the displays. The graphics generation system 24 may include a rendering engine that facilitates the rendering of two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) graphics.

[0022] Furthermore, the graphics generation system 24 may include a physics engine capable of designing and simulating realistic activities, movements, and reactions. For example, the physics engine can provide data related to the velocity, acceleration, flow, transparency, projectile motion, etc., of virtual objects shown in the image. In this way, the physics engine can provide a visual simulation of real-life action instances. Additionally, the physics engine enables the graphics generation system 24 to determine the location and shape of virtual objects within space and to display the virtual objects on the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22 based on the determined location and shape. The physics engine of the graphics generation system 24 facilitates the modeling of the real-world environment and the coordination of the appropriate presentation of virtual objects within that environment. For example, based on the modeling established by the physics engine, determining where an image should be positioned in the real-world environment (as partially defined by the displays), the image's head can be displayed on the second display 20, while the image's feet can be displayed on the first display 18.

[0023] In one embodiment, a user can input a 3D model and use the tools of the graphics generation system 24 to arrange objects (e.g., virtual objects), define lighting conditions, and configure other elements within the virtual environment or scene to manipulate graphical data and images displayed to the customer 16. For example, the user can input the size of virtual objects, levels of transparency (e.g., levels of brightness), and the speed at which images transition and adjust at each display. Furthermore, input can be provided to calibrate the virtual environment to a real-world environment. For example, a virtual volume (through which a character is to be depicted moving) can be associated with a corridor defined by a series of aligned transparent and / or semi-transparent displays (which will be used to present the character to the customer).

[0024] As described herein, an image may include an image of a virtual object (or multiple virtual objects). The graphics generation system 24 can help facilitate the visualization of a smooth transition of virtual objects in an image from the first display 18 to the second display 20 and / or to the third display 22, and vice versa. In fact, the graphics data provided by the graphics generation system 24 may include data relating to the shape, transparency (e.g., brightness), orientation (e.g., position), color, and / or lighting of the virtual objects at each of the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22. The graphics data can enable the display and adjustment of the image based on the graphics data associated with the visual representation of the virtual objects on the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22. Additional details regarding the display of images via the graphics generation system will be provided below. Figures 2-3 And the description.

[0025] The first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22 may include any suitable display (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, a micro-LED display, a transparent LCD display, or a transparent OLED display) that receives image data and displays the image data (e.g., projects, transmits) as an image. Any display that is not the last display should include at least some level of transparency, allowing images from one or more displays behind it to be seen through it. However, even the last display can be transparent / semi-transparent. For example, the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22 may include a transparent OLED display, which may include pixels that each (e.g., separately) emit light such that the pixels are see-through when no content is displayed. In this way, the customer 16 can see through all or at least a portion of the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22. In one embodiment, the first display 18, the second display 20, and the third display 22 may represent a first scrim, a second scrim, and a third scrim, respectively. The first, second, and / or third screens can be used to implement image display technologies similar to the first display 18, the second display 20, and the third display 22. Similarly, any number of screens can be used. Furthermore, the screens can be combined with other types of displays.

[0026] The first display 18 may include one or more sensors 30, imagers 32, and / or actuators 34. The second display 20 may also include one or more sensors 36, imagers 38, and / or actuators 40. Furthermore, the third display 22 may include one or more sensors 42, imagers 44, and / or actuators 46. It should be noted that in one embodiment, the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22 may include only sensors 30, 36, and 42. Sensors 30, 36, and 42 may be configured to detect the position (e.g., orientation, viewer position), presence, or movement of customers 16 in the customer area 14, wherein customer 16 represents one or more customers. Sensors 30, 36, and 42 may also be configured to detect gaze orientation (e.g., viewer gaze orientation), which is associated with the direction or angle in which the customer's head and / or eyes are oriented or focused. Gazing orientation may be associated with the visual focus of each of the customers 16. Sensors 30, 36, and 42 may include any suitable optical, mechanical, electromechanical, electromagnetic, auditory, pressure, and / or temperature sensor of any kind. For example, sensors 30, 36, and 42 may include orientation sensors (e.g., proximity sensors, radio frequency identification (RFID) readers, optical sensors), image sensors (e.g., cameras), or any other suitable type of sensor capable of detecting the position and / or gaze orientation of customer 16 in customer area 14.

[0027] In one embodiment, sensors 30, 36, and 42 may be communicatively coupled to the graphics generation system 24 to provide sensor signals (e.g., sensor data) indicating the orientation of customer 16. Processor 26 may identify or determine the position of customer 16 based on the sensor signals. Processor 26 may then generate instructions for instructing movement of the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22 based on the sensor signals. In another embodiment, processor 26 may generate instructions for adjusting the display of images on the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22 based on the position of customer 16. For example, instead of adjusting the physical displays, the images presented on the displays may be tilted to provide the desired visual result from the perspective of customer 16. It should be understood that any combination of sensors, technologies, etc., may be used to detect the orientation and / or relative distance between each of the customers 16 and each of the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22. Additionally, it should be noted that processor 26 may generate instructions based on a single customer 16 or any number of customers 16. For example, this embodiment can be optimized substantially based on data for a single customer or based on a combination of data from a group of customers (e.g., based on the average height and orientation of the group members).

[0028] In one embodiment, the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22 may include imagers 32, 38, and 44 to provide an image on a surface (e.g., a gauze screen). For example, imagers 32, 38, and 44 may include projectors that project images onto the first display 18, the second display 20, or the third display 22, respectively. Imagers 32, 38, and 44 may receive graphic data from the graphics generation system 24 and project and adjust the images based on the graphic data for visualization by the customer 16.

[0029] In one embodiment, the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22 may include actuators 34, 40, and 46. Each of the actuators 34, 40, and 46 may be coupled to the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22, respectively, to enable movement. The actuators 34, 40, and 46 may include any suitable type of actuator for providing motion, including but not limited to electric actuators, pneumatic actuators, mechanical actuators, linear actuators, rotary actuators, or any combination thereof. Based on instructions from the graphics generation system 24, the actuators 34, 40, and 46 may each adjust the movement of the first display 18, the second display 20, and the third display 22. As described herein, the graphics generation system 24 may receive sensor signals indicating the position of the customer 16 and may generate instructions and provide instructions to the actuators 34, 40, and 46 to move the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22 based on the position of the customer 16.

[0030] Figure 2 The illustration schematically depicts an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 The visual effects system 12 displays the image. As described herein, the visual effects system 12 may include a first display 18, a second display 20, and / or a third display 22. The graphics generation system 24 may transmit graphics data to the first display 18 to cause the display of a first image 60 on the first display 18. As an example, the first image 60 may include an image of a virtual object (such as a ghost). The first image 60 may initially be displayed on the first display 18 only at a first size and the maximum level of opacity (e.g., 100% opaque).

[0031] In operation, as illustrated, in the first configuration 58 (at the first moment), the graphics generation system 24 can adjust the display of the first image 60 on the first display 18 by adjusting (e.g., modifying) a first level of transparency of the first image 60. For example, the first image 60 may be a smaller size, and the first level of transparency may be adjusted to seventy percent (e.g., 70%). Furthermore, the graphics generation system 24 may instruct the display of a second image 62 on the second display 20. The virtual object (e.g., a ghost) depicted in the second image 62 may be a second size (e.g., a larger size than the first size) and at a second level of transparency. As an example, the second level of transparency may be thirty percent (e.g., 30%). Thus, by adjusting the display of the first image 60 and causing the display of the second image 62, the virtual object within the first image 60 may appear to be moving toward the customer 16. Furthermore, this combination of presentation and transparency adjustment on the first display 18 and the second display 20 creates a perception in the customer 16 viewing the displays 18 and 20 of a virtual object residing between the displays 18 and 20. That is, partial images from each of the displays 18 and 20 create the illusion that virtual objects (e.g., ghosts) physically exist and consume the space between the displays 18 and 20.

[0032] It should be noted that, in one embodiment, the display and adjustment of the first image 60 and / or the second image 62 can be performed gradually (e.g., progressively, steadily, incrementally) by the graphics generation system 24. For example, if the first image 60 is displayed with no transparency (e.g., 0% transparency), and the second image 62 is displayed with maximum transparency (e.g., 100% transparency), the level of transparency can be gradually decreased or increased. In fact, when the first image 60 is adjusted to 10% (e.g., 10%) transparency, the second image 62 can be adjusted to 90% (e.g., 90%) transparency. Furthermore, when the first image 60 is adjusted to 20% (e.g., 20%) transparency, the second image 62 can be adjusted to 80% (e.g., 80%) transparency. Gradual adjustments can be employed by the visual effects system 12 to enable visualization of a smooth transition of images from display to display. Along with these adjustments in transparency, the image itself can be altered to correspond to the movement of portions (e.g., layers) of virtual objects (e.g., ghosts). For example, in a scene where a ghost is walking toward customer 16, the first part of the ghost shown (which will be 0% transparent on the second display 20) may be the ghost's face, as it will precede the ghost's trailing body.

[0033] Alternatively or concurrently, the overlap between the first image 60 and the second image 62 between the first display 18 and the second display 20 can be adjusted by the graphics generation system 24 based on a desired transition speed. For example, a user can input a first transition speed for the images between each of the displays. Thus, the first image 60 and the second image 62 can be adjusted on the first display 18 and / or the second display 20 within a first time period. The user can then update the input or add additional input to adjust the desired transition speed to a second transition speed (e.g., faster than the first transition speed) for image display. Thus, the first image 60 and the second image 62 can be adjusted on the first display 18 and / or the second display 20 within a second time period (e.g., shorter or faster than the first time period). In one embodiment, the transition speed can be automatically determined by the graphics generation system 24.

[0034] Return to reference Figure 2 In the second configuration 64 (at the second time), the first image 60 may no longer be visible on the first display 18. For example, the first image 60 may be 100% transparent, or the first display 18 may have stopped (e.g., terminated) the display of the first image 60 based on instructions from the graphics generation system 24. The second image 62 may be displayed at a third level of transparency (such as at zero percent transparency). In effect, the second image 62 may appear to be at maximum opacity. Thus, the second image 62 may only appear visible to the customer 16 on the second display 20.

[0035] It should be noted that, although Figure 2 The description pertains to the display on the first display 18 and the second display 20, but a third display can also be used to facilitate the visualization of smooth transitions by displaying images. For example, the second image 62 can be displayed at a fourth level of transparency, while an additional image (e.g., a portion of a ghost) is displayed on the third display 22 at the desired level of transparency. In this way, the virtual object can appear to be transitioning from one display to another, thus providing a more realistic illusion that the virtual object is moving toward or away from the customer 16. It should also be noted that the graphics generation system 24 adjusts the images presented on each display based on the physical model of the virtual object and its position in the modeled space, such that, for example, after the leading portion of the virtual object (e.g., the ghost's head) has been determined to have reached a position associated with another display (e.g., the second or third display), the trailing portion of the virtual object (e.g., the ghost's tail) can be presented separately on the display (e.g., the first display).

[0036] As described herein, in one embodiment, sensors 30, 36, and 42 can detect the position and / or gaze orientation of customer 16 within customer area 14. For example, the position and / or gaze orientation of customer 16 can be defined by x-coordinates (e.g., horizontal orientation), y-coordinates (e.g., vertical orientation), and / or z-coordinates (e.g., depth orientation) in a three-dimensional space provided by sensors 30, 36, and 42. The graphics generation system 24 can determine the desired orientation for displaying the first image 60 and the second image 62 based on the x-coordinates, y-coordinates, and / or z-coordinates of customer 16.

[0037] Furthermore, as described herein, the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22 may be actuated (e.g., shifted, rotated) based on the position and / or gaze orientation of the customer 16 to adjust the display of the first image 60 and the second image 62. For example, if the first customer 16 is at a first height and the second customer 16 is at a second height, the graphics generation system 24 may determine a desired orientation to actuate each display between the first and second heights (e.g., at the center of the first and second heights) to adjust for different viewing angles and improve the viewing of the images by the customer 16. In practice, the graphics generation system 24 may determine the average of different viewing angles based on the user's position and / or gaze orientation to improve the visual adaptation of each of the customers 16.

[0038] As another example, if customer 16 moves in a first direction, then the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22 may also move in the first direction (e.g., be actuated in the first direction). Alternatively, if customer moves in a second direction, then the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22 may also move in the second direction. The first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22 may be actuated separately (e.g., individually) in any suitable direction. Alternatively, the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22 may be actuated together in a uniform manner in any suitable direction.

[0039] The first image 60 and the second image 62 can also be adjusted based on the position and / or gaze orientation of the customer 16. For example, the graphics generation system 24 can adjust and provide graphics data to enable adjustments to the depth, level of transparency, speed, and / or orientation of the first image 60 and / or the second image 62 based on the position and / or gaze orientation of the customer 16. For example, if the customer 16 is visually focused on the second display 20 instead of the first display 18, the graphics generation system 24 can increase the speed of adjustment while increasing the level of transparency of the first image 60 (e.g., making the first image 60 more transparent) and decreasing the level of transparency of the second image 62 (e.g., making the second image 62 less transparent). It should be noted that the graphics generation system 24 can dynamically (e.g., consistently, continuously) adjust the display of the first image 60 and / or the second image based on movement, changes in gaze orientation, or the presence of fewer or more customers detected by one or more sensors 30, 36, 42.

[0040] In one embodiment, the graphics generation system 24 may generate additional visual effects (e.g., secondary effects, visual interruptions) to distract the customer 16 when an adjustment is taking place. The graphics generation system 24 may determine misalignment between the customer 16 and the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22. For example, the graphics generation system 24 may determine misalignment based on sensor signals from one or more sensors 30, 36, 42. The graphics generation system 24 may then generate secondary effects based on the misalignment. Secondary effects may include fireworks, flashes, fog, brightness adjustments, etc.

[0041] Therefore, if customer 16 is not perfectly aligned with the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22 (e.g., offset to the right, offset to the left, off-center) or is not directly in front of the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22, the graphics generation system 24 may generate additional visual effects to divert (e.g., diminish) the customer's attention. In this way, customer 16 may not be able to identify that an adjustment to the first image 60 and / or the second image 62 is taking place via changes in the graphic data or actuation of the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22.

[0042] Considering the preceding text, Figure 3 According to an embodiment of this disclosure, as described above Figure 1The visual effects system 12 is a schematic side view of a composite image 70 visualized by a customer 16. The composite image 70 includes a combination of a first image 60 and a second image 62, which can be superimposed on each other due to the orientation of the first display 18, the second display 20, and / or the third display 22. That is, when the first image 60 and the second image 62 are presented to the customer 16, from the customer 16's visual perspective, the first image 60 and the second image 62 each appear as the composite image 70 (e.g., a single image). The composite image 70 is defined herein as an image viewed together from different displays in an overlapping manner to create the perception of a single virtual object in three-dimensional space. Figure 3 As schematically illustrated, the combined image 70 appears to the customer 16 (one or more viewers) as if it were positioned between the first display 18 and the second display 20. This illusion is achieved by creating a blended layering effect, which is created by presenting different and overlapping images with varying levels of transparency on the two displays 18, 20.

[0043] When the graphics generation system 24 adjusts each of the first image 60 and / or the second image 62, the depth or distance of the virtual objects displayed in the first image 60 and the second image 62 relative to the viewer may appear to change. As illustrated, based on the levels of transparency of the first image 60 and the second image 62, the combined image 70 including the virtual objects may visually appear to be located at a distance between the first display 18 and the second display.

[0044] For example, the first image 60 can be displayed at a transparency level of fifty percent (e.g., 50%) and the second image 62 can be displayed at a transparency level of fifty percent (e.g., 50%). Thus, as... Figure 3 As illustrated, the visual representation of the composite image 70 (e.g., a virtual object) may appear to customer 16 as situated between the first display 18 and the second display 20. In practice, the visual representation of the composite image 70 may appear as a point (e.g., a position) midway (e.g., at the center) between the first display 18 and the second display 20. While at least a portion of the images displayed on the first display 18 and the second display 20 may be matched, some portions may be different to better achieve the desired effect. For example, based on the position of the virtual object as determined by a physics engine, the rear portion of the virtual object may be displayed separately on the first display 18, while the front portion of the virtual object may be displayed separately on the second display 20, with the middle portion displayed on each display.

[0045] Therefore, the embodiments described herein can enable a visual representation of the combined image 70 to appear to be located at any point between the first display 18 and the second display 20. Furthermore, by adjusting the graphic data, it should be noted that a visual representation of the combined image 70 can appear to be located at any point between the second display 20 and the third display 22. As an example, based on the third image and the second image 62 displayed on the third display 22, a visual representation of the combined image 70 can appear to be located between the second display 20 and the third display 22. In this way, the visual effects system 12 can facilitate a seamless transition from display to display while providing the illusion that a virtual object is moving toward or away from the customer 16. Furthermore, to achieve such results for various viewer orientations (e.g., the customer 16 is standing in different positions and at different heights), this embodiment can adjust the physical positions of the displays 18, 20, 22 and / or adjust the displayed images (e.g., adjust the skew of the presented media) to suit specific individual, group averages, group medians, or the like. Data for customer 16 can be obtained using cameras, facial recognition applications, LiDAR, and the like (e.g., using one or more sensors 30, 36, 42).

[0046] While only certain features of this disclosure have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and alterations will occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it is to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and alterations that fall within the true spirit of this disclosure.

[0047] The techniques presented and claimed herein are referenced and applied to concrete examples and substantial objects that can arguably improve the practical nature of the art, and are therefore not abstract, abstract, or purely theoretical. Furthermore, if any claim appended to this specification contains one or more elements designated as “component for (performing)...(function)” or “step for (performing)...(function)”, such elements are intended to be interpreted in accordance with 35 USC 112(f). However, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, such elements are not intended to be interpreted in accordance with 35 U.SC 112(f).

Claims

1. A visual effects system, comprising: First display; Second display; as well as A graphics generation system configured to provide graphics data to a first display and a second display to define a combined image, wherein the graphics generation system includes a processing system and a memory, the memory being encoded with instructions configured to be executed by the processing system to cause the first display and the second display to: A first image is displayed on the first display based on the graphic data and the user's position, the user's gaze orientation, or both. as well as A second image is displayed on the second display based on the graphic data and the user's position, the user's gaze orientation, or both.

2. The visual effects system of claim 1, comprising one or more sensors configured to detect the user position, the user gaze orientation, or both, and to provide sensor data associated with the user position, the user gaze orientation, or both to the graphics generation system.

3. The visual effects system of claim 2, wherein, The first display includes one or more first actuators, and the second display includes one or more second actuators, and the instructions are configured to be executed by the processing system to cause the first or more first actuators and the second or more second actuators to move the first display, the second display, or both based on the user's location.

4. The visual effects system of claim 1, wherein, The instructions are configured to be executed by the processing system to cause the first display to adjust the first image by modifying a first level of transparency.

5. The visual effects system of claim 4, wherein, The instructions are configured to be executed by the processing system to cause the second display to adjust the second image by modifying a second level of transparency.

6. The visual effects system as described in claim 1, wherein, The graphics generation system includes a physics engine configured to determine the orientation and shape of virtual objects in space and dynamically adjust the first image and the second image based on the virtual objects.

7. The visual effects system as described in claim 1, wherein, The graphics generation system is configured to adjust the graphics data based on user input associated with a 3D model of the virtual environment.

8. The visual effects system as described in claim 1, wherein, The graphics data includes data associated with one or more shapes, transparency, one or more positions, one or more colors, lighting, or any combination thereof of virtual objects defined by the graphics generation system.

9. The visual effects system as described in claim 1, wherein, The first display includes a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, a micro LED display, a transparent OLED display, or a transparent LCD display.

10. The visual effects system of claim 1, wherein, The first display includes a first gauze screen, and the second display includes a second gauze screen.

11. The visual effects system of claim 10, wherein, The first display includes a first projector configured to project the first image onto the first gauze screen, and the second display includes a second projector configured to project the second image onto the second gauze screen.

12. The visual effects system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The instructions are configured to be executed by the processing system to cause the first display to adjust the display of the first image and the second display to adjust the display of the second image based on the transition speed of the virtual object defined by the graphics generation system.

13. The visual effects system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The graphic data is configured to allow for adjustments to one or more depths, one or more levels of transparency, one or more orientations, one or more speeds, or any combination thereof, of the first image, the second image, or both.

14. A method for operating a visual effects system, comprising: A first image is displayed on a first display based on graphic data via a processing system; The first image on the first display is adjusted by the processing system based on the viewer's position, the viewer's gaze orientation, or both. Based on the graphic data, a second image is displayed on a second display via the processing system; as well as The display of the second image on the second display is adjusted by the processing system based on the viewer's position, the viewer's gaze orientation, or both, such that the first image and the second image are coordinated to define a combined image representing a virtual object.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising instructing, via the processing system, to actuate one or more actuators respectively coupled to the first display and the second display, based on the viewer's position, the viewer's gaze orientation, or both, to adjust the first image and the second image to define the combined image for a user at the viewer's position.

16. The method of claim 14, further comprising adjusting, via the processing system, the level, depth, size, speed of transition, or any combination thereof, of the transparency of the virtual object displayed via the combined image, based on the viewer's position, the viewer's gaze orientation, or both.

17. The method of claim 15, comprising displaying a visual interruption on the first display, the second display, or both via the processing system, while adjusting the display of the first image, the second image, or both.

18. The method of claim 14, comprising continuously adjusting the display of the first image, the second image, or both via the processing system based on movement of the viewer's position, changes in the viewer's gaze orientation, changes to the virtual object, or any combination thereof.

19. A visual effects system, comprising: First display; Second display; as well as A graphics generation system configured to provide graphics data to a first display and a second display, wherein the graphics generation system includes a processing system and a memory, the memory being encoded with instructions configured to be executed by the processing system to cause the first display and the second display to: Display a first image on the first display based on the graphic data; Actuation is performed based on the graphic data and one or more viewer positions, one or more viewer gaze orientations, or both, to adjust the first image on the first display; Displaying a second image on the second display based on the graphic data; and Actuation is performed based on the graphic data and the position of one or more viewers, the gaze orientation of one or more viewers, or both, to adjust the second image on the second display such that the first image and the second image define a combined image.

20. The visual effects system of claim 19, wherein, The instructions are configured to be executed by the processing system to actuate the first display and the second display based on an average of the line of sight determined by the positions of the one or more viewers, the gaze orientation of the one or more viewers, or both.

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