Special light effects system

Abstract

To provide a special effects system.SOLUTION: A special effects light system 10 includes a retroreflective target 12, an object comprising one or more light sources disposed on an end of the object, where the end of the object is spatially oriented to face the retroreflective target 12 such that light from the one or more light sources is emitted onto the retroreflective target 12, and a controller communicatively coupled to one or more sensors and the one or more light sources, where the controller comprises a processor configured to adjust the light from the light source on the basis of output of one or more signals by the one or more sensors, where the signals are indicative of a position of the object, or a condition of the one or more light sources, and where the controller adjusts the light of the light sources using a portion of the signals.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 988,221, entitled "SPECIAL LIGHT EFFECT SYSTEM," filed March 11, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of special effects for use in interactive environments such as gaming environments or amusement parks. More specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to systems used to create unexpected light effects for guest-controlled or handheld devices, such as props or toys. [Background technology]

[0003] In recent years, it has become more common for amusement parks to create immersive environments that include props, media, and special effects that enhance the guest experience and support the environment's particular narrative. In certain immersive environments, it is fun for guests to have their own unique devices, e.g., props or toys, that interact with the environment in various ways. In one example, guests may wish to use handheld devices to interact with the immersive environment in a manner similar to a character from a favorite movie or game, generating specific effects that simulate those from the movie or game. However, simulating the types of special effects possible in movies and games in the real world can be challenging, especially in the context of handheld devices that are relatively small and lightweight and are used in unpredictable and dynamic immersive environments. For example, while light effects can be integrated into handheld devices, special light effects that are highly visible and simulate supernatural or unusual light effects can consume a large amount of power to generate these effects. Therefore, it is now recognized that it is desirable to create such special light effects while using less power. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Certain embodiments commensurate in scope with the originally claimed subject matter are summarized below. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure; rather, these embodiments are intended only to provide a brief summary of certain disclosed embodiments. Indeed, the disclosure may encompass a variety of forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.

[0005] According to one embodiment, a system includes a movable platform having a retroreflective target, a position sensor configured to output a signal indicative of a guest's position or line of sight, an object including a light source, the object being positioned in the guest's line of sight, and a controller communicatively coupled to the movable platform and the position sensor, the controller including a processor configured to identify a direction of the guest's line of sight based at least in part on the signal, determine that a change in the guest's line of sight has occurred based at least in part on a second signal indicative of the guest's position or the guest's line of sight, and perform an operation to adjust the position of the movable platform in response to determining that the line of sight has changed.

[0006] According to one embodiment, a system includes an object in an environment having at least a surface or edge oriented to face a retroreflective target; one or more sensors configured to output one or more signals indicative of the position of the surface or edge of the object; and a controller communicatively coupled to the one or more sensors and one or more light sources of a projector, the controller comprising a processor configured to receive the one or more signals output by the one or more sensors and to control the projector to project light from the one or more light sources onto the surface or edge of the object. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will be better understood when the following detailed description is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like characters represent like parts throughout.

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment for providing enhanced light effects in accordance with the present technology; [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative embodiment for providing enhanced light effects in accordance with the present technology; [Figure 3A] 1A-1C are perspective views of a special effects assembly before and during activation of a light source directed at a retroreflective target to create a halo effect in accordance with the present technology. [Figure 3B] 1A-1C are perspective views of a special effects assembly before and during activation of a light source directed at a retroreflective target to create a halo effect in accordance with the present technology. [Figure 4A] 1A-1C are perspective views of an alternative embodiment of a special effects assembly before and during activation of a light source directed at a retroreflective target to create a halo effect in accordance with the present technology. [Figure 4B] 1A-1C are perspective views of an alternative embodiment of a special effects assembly before and during activation of a light source directed at a retroreflective target to create a halo effect in accordance with the present technology. [Figure 5A] 10A-10C are perspective views of an alternative embodiment of a special effects assembly in which the light source is disposed on a prop before and during activation of the light source in accordance with the present technology. [Figure 5B] 10A-10C are perspective views of an alternative embodiment of a special effects assembly in which the light source is disposed on a prop before and during activation of the light source in accordance with the present technology. [Figure 6A] 1A-1C are perspective views of an alternative embodiment of a special effects assembly before and during activation of a light source in accordance with the present technology; [Figure 6B] 1A-1C are perspective views of an alternative embodiment of a special effects assembly before and during activation of a light source in accordance with the present technology; [Figure 7A]10A-10C are perspective views of an alternative embodiment of a special effects assembly in accordance with the present technology, the special effects assembly being hidden by an object in which the light source is set, before and during activation. [Figure 7B] 10A-10C are perspective views of an alternative embodiment of a special effects assembly in accordance with the present technology, the special effects assembly being hidden by an object in which the light source is set, before and during activation. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment including a controller for adjusting characteristics of enhanced light effects in accordance with the present technology. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure are described below. In an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, all features of an actual implementation may not be described herein. It should be understood that, as in any engineering or design project, in the development of any such actual implementation, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's particular goals, including compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from implementation to implementation. Moreover, it should be understood that such a development effort may be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0010] When describing elements of various embodiments of the present disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the element. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. One or more specific embodiments of the present embodiments described herein are described below. In an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of an actual implementation may be described herein. It should be noted that, as in any engineering or design project, in the development of any such actual implementation, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's particular goals, including compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, and that these may vary from implementation to implementation. It should also be noted that such a development effort may be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0011] The presently disclosed embodiments facilitate desirable special light effects that can be used in conjunction with objects, e.g., props or toys, within an immersive environment. In some embodiments, the special light effect can be a glowing wand tip (e.g., a halo effect around the wand tip) that appears to be an enhanced effect relative to the normal emitted light generated by a resident light source. An enhanced special light effect system as provided herein is observed when a user points an object (e.g., a wand) having an active light source (e.g., a light-emitting diode) that emits light toward a retroreflective target. When the object's light source is pointed toward the retroreflective target, a bloom or halo effect is activated around the light source, which can facilitate reflection of light from the retroreflective material. When the emitted light is reflected by the retroreflective target, a bloom or halo effect is created around the object's light source from the light reflected by the retroreflective target. In other words, the object acts in the special light effect system to direct light toward the retroreflective target, and the reflected light becomes particularly visible around the object's light source in an unexpected way that simulates a supernatural effect. An enhanced light effect, i.e., bloom or halo effect, is an enhancement of the light from a light source that a user would observe in the absence of retroreflected light. In some embodiments, the presence of light reflected from the retroreflective material creates a light bloom around the light source of larger diameter and / or enhanced brightness relative to the appearance of an active light source in the absence of retroreflected light. In some embodiments, the enhanced light effect is observed as a haze or halo formed about the light source.

[0012] It will be understood that the light source of a special effect light system can be unidirectional or omnidirectional. If the light source is unidirectional, the halo effect may be visible to a user holding an object within his line of sight, but others outside his line of sight cannot see the halo effect. If the light source is omnidirectional, the reflected light is visible around the periphery of the light source, so that it can be seen from angles that are not directly in the line of sight of the retroreflective target, and the halo effect may also be visible to other nearby observers. The visibility of the bloom or halo effect can be adjusted by changing aspects of the special effect light system (e.g., the distance between the light source and the retroreflective target, the surface of the retroreflective target, etc.). It will be understood that one or more controllers may be used to implement these special light effects.

[0013] Additionally, while the disclosed embodiments are discussed in the context of wands, toys, or handheld objects, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments can be used with other types of objects. Such objects can include wearable objects such as clothing, jewelry, bracelets, headgear, eyeglasses, etc. Additionally, the objects can be props or scenery items within an immersive environment. The immersive environment can be an environment such as an amusement park, an entertainment complex, a retail facility, etc.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment for providing enhanced light effects in an environment 8 in accordance with the present technology. As shown, an enhanced special light effects system 10 is used to create enhanced light effects by spatially orienting a light source 14, which is located on the end of an object or toy 16 (e.g., a wand) held by a user 18, so that it is pointed toward a retroreflective target 12. The retroreflective target 12 shown is in the form of a planar retroreflective surface forming a portion of a wall 20, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, although it will be appreciated that the retroreflective target 12 can encompass an entire wall or area of ​​an attraction and can be planar or non-planar. As can be appreciated, the retroreflective target 12 can reflect light rays 17 emitted from the light source 14 toward the wand 16. The reflection of light rays 17 from the retroreflective target 12 to the user's eyes produces a halo or bloom effect that appears to emanate directly from the light source 14, creating an enhanced viewing experience for the user 18. Indeed, the halo effect is observed when the wand 16 is positioned by the user 18 to point the light source 14 towards the retroreflective target 12. It can thus be seen that the light effect is spatially selective; that is, if the light source 14 of the wand 16 is not pointed towards the retroreflective target 12, the halo effect does not occur. Furthermore, to increase the visibility of the halo, other light sources present in the immersive environment can be switched off or deactivated in conjunction with the halo effect.

[0015] It will be appreciated that the distance 22 between the user's desired position while viewing the halo effect and the retroreflective target 12 may be considered in the design of an immersive environment, such as a theme park or amusement park attraction. For example, a particular attraction may include one or more retroreflective targets 12 to facilitate the creation or viewing of special light effects for the user 18 upon entering the particular amusement park attraction. That is, the user may carry the wand 16 throughout the amusement park and not experience any noticeable special light effects until the user 18 enters an area of ​​the amusement park designed to create special light effects. In one non-limiting example, the entrance to a particular attraction (e.g., a ride) may have one or more retroreflective targets 12 positioned (e.g., embedded) on the entrance (e.g., door or gate). Thus, when a user 18 is waiting in line to enter a particular attraction, the user 18 can point their wand 16 at an entrance (e.g., a door or gate) having a retroreflective target 12, causing a halo effect to be generated, indicating to the user that they are in the correct location and / or have completed the final step to enter the particular attraction. In this embodiment, an active halo effect can be used to position the user at a location related to the distance 22 between the retroreflective target 12 and the user 18. Once in that location, additional effects can be activated. In another non-limiting example, a special light effect system can be designed to include one or more actuatable objects. In this example, the user 18 can point their wand 16 at an actuatable object designed to include the retroreflective target 12. For example, the retroreflective target 12 can be exposed when a dragon opens its mouth (e.g., an actuatable object). When the user points their wand 16 to direct a light beam at the retroreflective target 12 in the dragon's mouth, the light beam is reflected by the retroreflective target 12 toward the wand 16. Thus, the user 18 experiences an enhanced light effect (e.g., a halo effect) around the light source 14 in conjunction with activation of the actuatable effect, creating the illusion that the halo effect is caused by the actuatable effect.

[0016] It will be appreciated that the light source 14 of the wand 16 can be unidirectional, multidirectional, or omnidirectional. When the light source 14 is unidirectional, the halo effect is visible when the wand 16 is pointed directly at the retroreflective target 12. In other words, the halo effect is generally only visible to a user 18 whose line of sight is directly aligned with the retroreflective target 12 and who receives reflected light from the retroreflective target 12. In fact, other observers whose line of sight is outside of the retroreflective target cannot see the halo effect. However, in instances where the light source 14 is multidirectional or omnidirectional, the halo effect can be seen regardless of the angle at which the wand 16 is held and / or pointed, as long as the retroreflective material of the retroreflective target 12 is within the user / observer's line of sight. For example, the retroreflective target 12 can be implemented as a relatively large surface that can be within the line of sight of multiple observers.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram further illustrating an embodiment for providing enhanced light effects in accordance with the present technology. As shown, a guest 18 holding a wand 16 can see a halo effect in his line of sight 32A as light from the light source 14 is reflected from the retroreflective target 12. An observer 30 whose line of sight 32B does not include the retroreflective target 12 but instead extends to the non-retroreflective portion 36 of the surface 38 sees no halo effect at all. Instead, the observer 30 only sees the active light source 14 without the halo effect, e.g., no enhanced light effect. In the illustrated embodiment, the retroreflective target 12 is positioned on a movable platform 40, such as a gantry, that can move along the surface 38 to reposition the retroreflective target 12. Thus, the retroreflective target 12 can be repositioned to remain parallel to the line of sight 32A of the user 18 even as the line of sight direction changes. The line of sight of the user 18 and / or observer 30 can be tracked via a camera 42 or other eye-tracking device.

[0018] Various characteristics of the special effects light system may be further understood with reference to FIGS. 3A-8. FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate perspective views of a special effects assembly 50 (e.g., a wand) implemented as a handheld object and during operation (e.g., activation) of a light source 14 (e.g., a light-emitting diode). As depicted, the special light effects assembly 50 is positioned to face or face the retroreflective target 12. The special light effects assembly 50 includes a wand 16 and a light source 14 disposed on or within the wand 16. The light source 14 is generally housed on or within a body portion 52 of the special light effects assembly 50. The body portion 52 is coupled to a cap assembly 54, which includes a cap 56 and a lens mount 58. The lens mount 58 holds a lens 60 through which light rays 62 from the light source 14 pass and disperses the light rays 62 as they are emitted through the lens 60, as shown in FIG. 3A. The placement of the light source 14 relative to the wand 16 or other housing can be selected to emit light beam 62 in a selected range, making the light more narrow or broadly directional, depending on the desired application of the system 10.

[0019] While it is understood that the light source 14 illustrated herein is a light emitting diode, it is understood that the light source 14 may be any suitable light source for creating a lighting effect, such as a fiber optic cable or a pyrotechnic or chemical means, among others. It will further be understood that in certain embodiments, the user 18 need not utilize any other power source for the light source 14 (e.g., a light emitting diode) within the wand 16 to experience the halo effect. The light source 14 may be powered via a battery, wireless power transmission (e.g., UHF), etc.

[0020] The intensity of the halo effect within the line of sight of the user 18 depends on, among other factors, the size and placement of the retroreflective target 12, the size and intensity of the light source 14, the distance between the light source 14 and the retroreflective target 12, and the surface (e.g., surface texture, etc.) of the retroreflective target 12. In one non-limiting example, the reflectivity of the light source 14 can be manipulated by modifying the surface texture of the retroreflective target 12. As can be appreciated, the retroreflective sheeting or target 12 can utilize reflective targets such as retroreflective glass beads, microprisms, or encapsulated lenses embedded in a fabric or plastic substrate to achieve its reflective properties. In this manner, the reflected light can be further diffused by placing additional reflective targets to increase the reflective surface between the retroreflective glass beads, microprisms, or encapsulated lenses by scattering or reflecting the light in multiple directions.

[0021] In another non-limiting example, the intensity of the halo effect can be adjusted based on the distance 70 between the special effects assembly 50 and the retroreflective target 12, as shown in Figure 3B. Indeed, Figure 3B illustrates that the smaller the distance 70 between the light source 14 and the retroreflective target 12, the brighter the halo effect. As the distance 70 between the light source 14 and the retroreflective target 12 increases, the halo effect will be smaller and weaker because the reflected light will be scattered over a greater distance.

[0022] 4A-4B, an alternative embodiment of the special effects assembly 50 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the light source 14 is located externally from the wand 16. If the light source 14 is located externally and separate from the body portion 52, the special effects assembly 50 utilizes a reflector 80 or a luminescent film or coating to achieve the desired halo effect. In another embodiment, a phosphorescent or fluorescent coating can be used to achieve the desired halo effect. In the illustrated embodiment, the special effects assembly 50 includes a cap 56 coupled to a reflector mount 78. A reflector 80 can be disposed on the reflector mount 78. The reflector mount 78 can be in the form of a mirror ball, a faceted mirror ball, or any other suitable reflector. However, it should be understood that other arrangements are contemplated.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 4A , light source 14 is positioned to emit light onto reflector 80, as indicated by arrow 82. The light is then reflected by reflector 80 toward retroreflective target 12, as illustrated by arrow 84. It will be appreciated that light source 14 may be positioned such that light is directed toward reflector 80, here located at cane tip 86 (or other surface or end of cane 16, including reflector 80 directed toward retroreflective target 12), but not directly toward the eyes of user 18. FIG. 4B depicts light being reflected toward reflector 80, as illustrated by arrow 88. As the light is reflected toward reflector 80, a halo effect is again observed by user 18. Light source 14 may be a laser light source, such as a laser projector, that tracks the location of one or more cane tips 86 within the environment. Tracking may be achieved by a camera (e.g., camera 42, FIG. 2 ) capturing images of environment 8 and any cane tips 86 located within the environment. This facilitates directing external light from the light source 14 onto one or more target wand tips 86, allowing only one wand 16 or only a portion of the wands 16 present to be illuminated to create a halo effect. Additionally, the external light source 14 can project different colored light onto individual wand tips 86 to achieve different colored halo effects. In one example, the illumination can be based on other guest tracking information captured by sensors in the environment, such as voice recognition or sound location to indicate that a particular guest 18 has spoken the correct passphrase, or can also be based on the guest's location or the guest's interaction with the environment. In another example, the illumination can be based on guest or wand identification (e.g., camera-based identifying features matched to a wand and / or guest profile).

[0024] While the discussion of this disclosure to this point has focused on light source 14 being reflected onto a wand-like implement, it will be appreciated that light source 14 may be disposed on any other suitable object or location, as will be further discussed with reference to Figures 5A-7B.

[0025] 5A-5B are perspective views of an alternative embodiment of a light source (e.g., a light-emitting diode) active special effects assembly in which the light source 14 is recessed or hidden within an object (e.g., a prop). In the illustrated embodiment, the object hiding the light source represents a stage prop 90. The stage prop can be any type of prop for which a glowing effect is desired (e.g., a diamond, a rainbow, a pot of gold, a door, a gate to heaven, etc.). To facilitate the desired halo effect, the stage prop can include a cutout or receptacle 92 for receiving the lens 60. The receptacle can vary in size depending on how large the desired halo effect should be. By utilizing a larger receptacle, more than one lens 60 can be used to achieve a larger halo effect for a large object, such as a stage prop. The example in FIG. 5A shows a prop with a lens 60 covering a middle portion 94 of the prop 90 and a corresponding receptacle 92. When the light source 14 is reflected, the halo effect caused by the reflection of light from the retroreflective target 12 creates a halo effect around the middle portion 94 where the lens 60 directs the light, as shown by arrow 96 in Figure 5A. In contrast, the example of Figure 5B illustrates a prop 90 with a lens 60 and corresponding container 92 that covers a majority 98 of the prop 90. Here, when the light source 14 is reflected, the halo effect caused by the reflection of light from the retroreflective target 12 creates a halo effect around the majority 98, as shown by arrow 100 in Figure 5B.

[0026] It will be appreciated that in certain embodiments, retroreflective targets, such as the retroreflective targets 12 provided herein, can include a diffraction grating. A diffraction grating can help control the pattern in which light is reflected by splitting and dispersing the light rays into additional beams as they reflect off the retroreflective target 12, creating a halo effect. A diffraction grating can include a repeating pattern embedded within the diffraction grating itself. A diffraction grating can be created by depositing one or more coatings (e.g., metal coatings) on the retroreflective target to form ridges on the retroreflective target 12. Thus, when light reflects off the grooves, it is reflected at different angles, creating different shapes.

[0027] 6A-6B are perspective views of an alternative embodiment of a special effects assembly with light sources (e.g., light-emitting diodes) activated. In the illustrated embodiment, a stage prop 90 includes at least one light source 14. Between the light source 14 and the lens 60, translucent pieces 89 of one or more different colors of suitable material (e.g., tape, paper, plastic film, etc.) are positioned along a portion 91 of the prop 90. When light is emitted through the lens 60, it passes through the translucent pieces 89 of one or more different colors of material. When the light source 14 reflects off the retroreflective target 12, the reflected light creates a halo effect around the lens 60. Depending on where along the lens 60 the light is reflected, different colored halo effects may be created. Indeed, as shown in FIG. 6B, the halo effect shown near a first translucent piece 89A (e.g., blue) may be different from the halo effect shown near a second translucent piece 89B (e.g., red). Depending on the angle of the guest's gaze, different colored halo effects may be observed.

[0028] 7A-7B are perspective views of an active special effects assembly of light sources 14 (e.g., light-emitting diodes) concealed in an object (e.g., a cloak 200) in accordance with the present technology. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, light sources 14 may be incorporated into the actor's cloak 200 using light sources sewn into fabric, electroluminescent fabric, or any other suitable light source. In some embodiments, light sources 14 may be invisible to the audience when the actor's back is facing away from the audience. Although light sources 14 may be invisible to the audience, a bloom or halo effect may be observed by the audience when looking at the actor because light sources 14 are reflected from retroreflective targets 12 behind the actor.

[0029] It will be appreciated that light sources 14 can be located on other parts of the actor's costume (e.g., shoes, hat, halo 202, etc.). For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the actor's halo 202 can include a separate light source 14 such that a bloom or glow effect can be observed around the actor's halo 202. It will be appreciated that a group of light sources 14 can be concentrated in one particular area of ​​the actor's costume (e.g., halo, cape, etc.) to enhance the glow effect around a particular area. For example, the glow effect around the halo can be activated by turning on the light sources 14 in the halo 202 when the actor enters the Gate of Heaven, thereby illuminating the halo as the actor is called to heaven. In some embodiments, light sources 14 located in different areas can be controlled independently of each other. For example, the light sources 14 on the actor's cape 200 can have a different power source than the light sources 14 on the halo 202. A stage designer can then configure the halo's light sources 14 to light up at a different time or flash at a different interval than the cape's light sources 14. The control of the spotlight effect can be further understood with reference to FIG.

[0030] 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment for controlling enhanced light effects in accordance with the present technology. It will be appreciated that various aspects of the special light effects system 10 can be controlled via one or more controllers 302. The one or more controllers 302 can include a display 304 and a memory device 306 for storing instructions executable by a processor 308 to perform the methods and control operations described herein. The processor 308 can include one or more processing units, and the memory can include one or more tangible, non-transitory, machine-readable media. By way of example, such machine-readable media can include RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a processor.

[0031] It will be appreciated that the controller(s) 302 can be used to control various characteristics of the special light effects system 10, including, but not limited to, actuation of object(s), including the retroreflective target(s) 12, the speed or movement of the retroreflective target 12, generation of surface textures on the retroreflective target 12, spraying of liquid droplets to increase diffusion of reflected light, or light sources of different colors, among other aspects. Additionally, the system can receive input from one or more sensors 310, such as guest position sensors, audio sensors, cameras, or light or radio transmitters, which are used to activate the light sources 14 in turn and / or reposition the retroreflective target 12 via movement of the movable platform 40. For example, the controller 302 can wirelessly communicate with an object, such as a wand 16, to activate the light sources 14 based on a particular user 18 achieving a target or being placed at a particular location in the environment. The controller 302 may be in electronic communication (e.g., wired or wireless communication 314) with the target 12, the object 16, the platform 40, the camera 42, or any other sensor comprising a component of the special effects light system 10 via one or more communication lines (e.g., wireless communication line 314). The controller 302 may then regulate or control the target 12, the object 16, the platform 40, the camera 42, or any other sensor comprising a component of the special effects light system 10, as described in further detail below.

[0032] As can be appreciated, the target 12, the object or wand 16, the platform 40, and the camera 42 can each include one or more sensors 310 for detecting one or more operating conditions of the environment. The sensors 310 can each be coupled to a transmitter 312. The transmitter 312 can convert sensor data (e.g., operating condition data) detected by the one or more sensors 310 into a signal and transmit the signal to the controller 302.

[0033] Each of the target 12, object or wand 16, platform 40, and camera 42 may include a power source 303. As an example, various electrical components (e.g., circuitry) located on the wand 16 may be utilized to interpret the operating conditions detected by the wand sensor 310. In one embodiment, the electrical circuitry may be used to control the light source 14. For example, when the switch 305 is switched to the "on" position, power from the power source 303 flows through the circuitry to the light source 14, enabling the light source 14 to be turned on. It will be appreciated that other objects 16, such as props, may be activated within the system 10 in a similar manner (e.g., via the power source 303 and the prop's switch 305).

[0034] In another embodiment, various electrical components (e.g., circuitry) located within the platform 40 are utilized to interpret the operating conditions detected by the platform sensor 310. In response to the sensor output, the platform 40's power source 303 (e.g., a battery) can be activated to operate the platform 40's drive 315. The drive 315 can activate a motor 318 to move the platform 40. In a similar manner, the retroreflective target 12 can be driven along the platform 40 itself. Indeed, the retroreflective target 12 can utilize its own circuitry to interpret the operating conditions output by the retroreflective target sensor 310. In this embodiment, the retroreflective target 12's power source 303 can be used to activate the target 12's drive 315, which can then activate a motor 318 to move the target 12 along the platform 40. It will be appreciated that the camera 42 can be moved within the system 10 in a similar manner (via its own power source 303 and drive 315).

[0035] The controller(s) 302 can be used to control a first group of light sources 14 of the special effects light system 10 to light up at a different time, flash at a different interval, or glow at a different intensity than a second group of light sources 14 of the special effects light system 10. In some embodiments, the controller(s) can be used to activate the light sources 14 in a particular order (e.g., a glow first occurs near the actor's cape, then another glow occurs near the actor's halo, etc.) so that a halo effect is experienced in a particular order.

[0036] The controller(s) can also be used to control the actuation of one or more objects, including retroreflective targets, throughout the amusement park. Various objects throughout the amusement park can house retroreflective targets 12. As described above, entrances to particular attractions (e.g., rides) can have one or more retroreflective targets embedded in the entrance (e.g., door or gate). Thus, when a user 18 is waiting in line to enter a particular attraction, the user 18 can create a halo effect when pointing their wand 16 at an entrance (e.g., door or gate) having a retroreflective target 12, which indicates to the user that they are in the correct position and / or have completed the final step to enter the particular attraction. It will be appreciated that the retroreflective targets 12 can be located on any number of suitable actuatable objects.

[0037] It will be appreciated that one or more controller(s) 302 can be used to control the movement of the retroreflective target 12. In one embodiment, the retroreflective target 12 can be disposed on a gantry 40, which is controlled by the controller 302 to move the retroreflective target 12. The gantry 40 can move in one or more directions, in different patterns (to simulate a moving target), and at different speeds, with the movement correlated to the beat of a song being played. In this manner, the user 18 can experience difficulty when attempting to point his wand 16 at the retroreflective target 12 to achieve a glow or halo effect. In another embodiment, the one or more controller(s) 302 can adjust the position of the retroreflective target 12 disposed on the movable platform 40 based on guest tracking information captured by environmental sensors, such as the location of a sound to indicate that a particular guest 18 is located in a particular area. Additionally, the one or more controllers 302 can adjust the position of the retroreflective target 12 disposed on the movable platform 40 to remain parallel to the line of sight 32A of the user 18 as the line of sight changes. As mentioned above, the line of sight of the user 18 and / or observer 30 can be tracked via one or more cameras 42 or other eye-tracking devices.

[0038] The controller(s) 302 can be used to create a surface texture on the retroreflective target 12 to affect the manner in which light is reflected from the target 12. This can be achieved by spraying a texturing agent on the target 12, by placing additional light-reflecting beads or prisms on the retroreflective target 12, or by any other suitable method for creating the desired light effect. As mentioned above, additional reflective targets can be placed to increase the reflective surface between the retroreflective glass beads, microprisms, or encapsulated lenses, further diffusing the reflected light by scattering or reflecting the light in multiple directions.

[0039] In another embodiment, the controller(s) can provide a mist or spray of droplets between the light source and the retroreflective target 12 to adjust the diffusion of the reflected light. By providing a mist, the reflected light can be scattered to reduce the amount of light reflected directly back to the light source, thereby reducing the glow effect. Finally, it will be appreciated that the light source(s) 14 can include one or more colored light sources. In some embodiments, the controller(s) can be used to change from one color to another, alternate between colors, or illuminate specific colored light at specific times, in specific sequences, or in response to specific conditions being met. In another embodiment, the controller(s) can achieve the desired Pepper's Ghost effect by allowing the light source 14 and / or the retroreflective target 12 to be positioned outside the view of the guest 18, so that the halo effect is only visible through reflection from glass positioned at an appropriate angle (e.g., 45 degrees).

[0040] While only certain features of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, intended in the appended claims to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the present disclosure.

[0041] The technology shown and claimed herein refers to and applies to specific examples of material object and practical nature that significantly improve the art, and is therefore not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Moreover, where any claim appended at the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as "means for [performing] ... [function]" or "step for [performing] ... [function]," such elements are to be construed pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 112(f). On the other hand, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, such elements are not to be construed pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 112(f). [Explanation of symbols]

[0042] 8 Environment 10 Special Effects Lighting System 12 Retroreflective Targets 14 Light source 16 Cane 17 Rays of light 18 users 20 Wall 22 distance

Claims

1. 1. A special effects light system configured to generate a halo effect, comprising: one or more sensors configured to output one or more signals; A retroreflective target; an object comprising one or more light sources disposed at an end of the object, the end of the object being spatially oriented to face the retroreflective target such that light from the one or more light sources is irradiated onto the retroreflective target; a controller communicatively coupled to the one or more sensors and the one or more light sources, the controller comprising a processor configured to adjust the light from the light sources based in part on output of the one or more signals by the one or more sensors, the output of the one or more signals by the one or more sensors being indicative of a position of the object, a state of the one or more light sources, or a combination thereof; A special effects light system comprising:

2. The special effects light system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more light sources comprise light emitting diodes.

3. The special effects light system of claim 1 , wherein the output of the one or more signals by the one or more sensors indicates an individual position holding the object or an individual line of sight direction holding the object.

4. The special effects light system of claim 1 , wherein the object is a toy, a prop, or a wearable device.

5. The special effects light system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more sensors are located on or within the object.

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

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

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

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

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

11. 1. A special effects light system comprising: a movable platform having a retroreflective target; a position sensor configured to output a signal indicative of a guest's position or line of sight; an object comprising a light source, the object being positioned in the line of sight of the guest; a controller communicatively coupled to the moveable platform and the position sensor, the controller comprising: identifying a gaze direction of the guest based at least in part on the signal; determining that a change in the gaze direction of the guest has occurred based at least in part on a second signal indicative of the guest's location or the guest's gaze direction; performing an action to adjust the position of the movable platform in response to determining that the line of sight direction has changed. a controller comprising a processor configured to: A special effects light system comprising:

12. The special effects light system of claim 11 , wherein the controller is configured to adjust the velocity of the retroreflective target.

13. 12. The special effects light system of claim 11, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the position of the movable platform based on the second signal so that the object and the movable platform are within the line of sight of the guest.

14. The special effects light system of claim 11 , wherein the object is a wand or a wearable device.

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

16. 12. The special effects light system of claim 11, wherein the object is not illuminated when the movable platform is out of the guest's line of sight.

17. 1. A special effects light system configured to generate a halo effect, comprising: an object in the environment including at least a surface or edge oriented to face the retroreflective target; one or more sensors configured to output one or more signals indicative of the position of the surface or edge of the object; a controller communicatively coupled to the one or more sensors and one or more light sources of a projector, the controller comprising a processor configured to receive the one or more signals output by the one or more sensors and to control the projector to project light from one or more light sources onto the surface or edge of the object; A special effects light system comprising:

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

19. 18. The special effects light system of claim 17, wherein the controller is configured to select a color of the projected light based on an identity of the object or a guest holding the object.

20. 18. The special effects light system of claim 17, wherein the object is a wand and the surface or end comprises a reflector.

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