Amusement park attraction system show effect system

Abstract

An amusement park attraction system includes an actuator, an enclosure coupled to the actuator and defining an interior space, a display coupled to the enclosure and positioned within the interior space and configured to output images, and a guest area outside the interior space of the enclosure, The actuator is configured to move the enclosure to cause movement of the display relative to the guest area for the entertainment of one or more guests in the guest area.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 326,116, filed March 31, 2022, and entitled "SHOW EFFECT SYSTEM FOR AMUSEMENT PARK ATTRACTION SYSTEM," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. [Background technology]

[0002] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art that may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure. This discussion is believed to be helpful in providing the reader with background to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. As such, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art.

[0003] In amusement parks and other entertainment venues, special effects may be used to help immerse guests in the ride or attraction experience. The immersive environment may include physical props and sets, robotic or mechanical elements, and / or display surfaces presenting media. The immersive environment may also include sound effects, smoke effects, and / or kinetic effects. With the increasing sophistication and complexity of modern ride attractions and corresponding rising expectations among theme park or amusement park patrons, improved and more creative attractions are desirable, including ride attractions with more complex, immersive, and / or realistic special effects. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Below, we present an overview of some embodiments disclosed herein. It should be understood that these aspects are merely intended to provide the reader with a summary of some of these embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In fact, the present disclosure may include various aspects that may not be presented below.

[0005] In one embodiment, an amusement park attraction system includes an actuator, an enclosure coupled to the actuator defining an interior space, a display coupled to the enclosure and positioned within the interior space and configured to output images, and a guest area outside the interior space of the enclosure, The actuator is configured to move the enclosure to cause movement of the display relative to the guest area for the entertainment of one or more guests in the guest area.

[0006] In one embodiment, a show effects system for an amusement park attraction system includes an enclosure defining an interior space, a light emitter coupled to the enclosure and configured to output light within the interior space of the enclosure, an animated figure coupled to the enclosure and configured to move within the interior space, and an actuator coupled to the enclosure, the actuator configured to move the enclosure to cause collective movement of the light emitter and the animated figure.

[0007] In one embodiment, an amusement park attraction system includes an actuator, a support coupled to the actuator defining a space, a display configured to engage the support and output an image within the space of the support, an animated figure configured to engage the support and move within the space of the support, and a control system communicatively coupled to the actuator, the display, and the animated figure, the control system configured to operate the actuator to move the support to cause corresponding movement of the display and the animated figure, operate the display to adjust the image output by the display, and operate the animated figure to move the animated figure within the space.

[0008] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will be better understood when read in conjunction with the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, in which like elements are designated with like reference characters throughout. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an attraction system including a show effects system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of an attraction system including a show effects system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of an attraction system including a show effects system and a ride vehicle in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of an attraction system including a show effects system and an spectator area, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of an embodiment of a show effects system for an amusement park attraction system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of an embodiment of a show effects system for an amusement park attraction system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a show effects system for an amusement park attraction system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of an embodiment of a show effects system for an amusement park attraction system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 1 is a flowchart of an embodiment of a method or process for operating a show effects system of an amusement park attraction system according to an aspect of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] One or more specific embodiments are described below. In order to describe these embodiments concisely, not all of the features of the implementations are described herein. It is to be understood that in the development of any such implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's particular objectives, such as adhering to system-related and business-related constraints that may vary from implementation to implementation. Moreover, it is to be understood that such a development effort may be complex and time-consuming, but would be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication and manufacture for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0011] When introducing elements of various embodiments of the disclosure, the articles "a," "an," and "the" are intended to mean that there are one, two, or more of the elements. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. It should also be understood that references to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" of the disclosure are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also contain the recited features.

[0012] The present disclosure relates to an attraction system for an amusement park or theme park. The amusement park may include various features such as rides (e.g., roller coasters), theatrical shows, performers, and / or show set props. The attraction system for the amusement park may include a show effects system configured to facilitate entertaining guests through the features. For example, the show effects system may present various visual and / or audio effects to guests within the attraction system.

[0013] As an example, the show effects of the show effect system may include displays, animated figures, fog effects, and the like. Operating such show effects may allow guests to perceive a particular atmosphere, such as a realistic and / or immersive environment emulated to entertain the guests. In existing attraction systems, the features of the show effect system may be located at a particular location. Thus, guests may be positioned to view the features at the particular location during operation of the attraction system. However, the movement of the features may be restricted from the particular location. As a result, for example, guests at different locations within the attraction system may not be able to experience the features of the show effect system. As another example, the movement of the features together may be restricted, such as to maintain a desired positional relationship between the features. Thus, in existing attraction systems, the entertainment provided by the show effect system may be limited.

[0014] In practice, it may be desirable to move various features of the show effect system together within an attraction system to further entertain guests. Accordingly, an embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a show effect system including a support and an actuation system configured to move the support. A plurality of show effect components of the show effect system may be coupled to, disposed within, or otherwise housed in the support such that movement of the support via the actuation system may cause the show effect components to move together as a unit or as a group. In other words, movement of the support may cause corresponding movement of the show effect components. Furthermore, the show effect components may be configured to move during movement of the support. For example, the show effect provided by the show effect components may complement or supplement the movement of the show effect components caused by the movement of the support. As an example, the props of the show effect components may be actuated to react to or interact with the movement of the support and / or to other components. As another example, the show effect components may be actuated to more realistically represent the collective movement of the show effect components, such as the show effect components moving without the use of the support and actuation system. In this manner, the movement of the show effect components and the movement of the show effect components via the support and actuation system may enhance the experience perceived by the guest.

[0015] The support can move to entertain guests located outside of a space (e.g., an interior space) defined by the support. For example, the support can move relative to a ride vehicle, a seating area, and / or a queue in which the guest can be located. As an example, the actuation system can move the support to place the show effect component in a different location, etc., of the attraction system in a manner that allows guests of the attraction system to more easily experience (e.g., see, hear) the show effect provided by the show effect component, so that different guests can experience the show effect. The actuation system can also move in conjunction with the movement of the monitored guest (e.g., the movement of the ride vehicle housing the guest or the monitored guest himself). Because the support can be separated from the guest area, service or other operations can be performed on the show effect component without modifying the guest area. For example, the show effect component can be modified, removed, added, etc., without modifying the manner in which the guest is located within the guest area (e.g., to accommodate modification of the show effect system). Thus, the show effect system can be more easily modified, updated, adjusted, etc., to provide a desired show effect.

[0016] With this in mind, FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an attraction system 50. The attraction system 50 can be configured to entertain one or more guests in a guest area 52 of the attraction system 50. In some embodiments, the guest area 52 can include a ride vehicle. For example, during operation of the attraction system 50, the guest area 52 can move (e.g., along a track, about a base) to provide a sense of movement (e.g., gravity, inertial forces, attitude adjustments) and / or transport guests to different locations of the attraction system 50. In further or alternative embodiments, the guest area 52 can include spectator or audience areas, such as seating arrangements, queues, aisles, or other locations where guests of the attraction system 50 may be located.

[0017] The attraction system 50 may also include a show effects system 54 configured to entertain guests in the guest area 52. For example, the show effects system 54 may include various show effects components 56, such as displays, animated figures, audio output devices (e.g., speakers), lighting, smoke effect devices, and fog effect devices. Operation of the show effects components 56 may entertain guests, such as by providing an immersive or realistic environment within the attraction system 50.

[0018] The show effect components 56 may also move as a unit, as a group, or in conjunction with one another through or within the attraction system 50. For example, the show effect components 56 may be coupled to, disposed within, or otherwise associated with a support 58 (e.g., a frame, an enclosure) of the show effect system 54. The support 58 may move through or within the attraction system 50, and movement of the support 58 may cause movement of the show effect components 56. To this end, the show effect system 54 may include an actuation system or actuator 60 coupled to the support 58. Movement of the actuation system 60 may cause movement of the support 58. For example, the actuation system 60 may include a robotic arm, a winch and pulley or cable system, a parallel manipulator, or any other suitable component configured to move the support 58 (e.g., with one to six degrees of freedom). Movement of the support 58 via the actuation system 60 may cause collective movement of the show effect components 56. Thus, a threshold or desired relative positional relationship between the show effect components 56 can be maintained during movement of the support 58 via the actuation system 60 .

[0019] The support 58 can be separated from the guest area 52 and therefore can move relative to the guest area 52. This allows the support 58 and / or the show effects components 56 to be modified without affecting the guest area 52 (e.g., accommodation of guests). The guest area 52 can also be modified without affecting the support 58 and / or the show effects components 56 (e.g., positioning of the show effects components 56 within the support 58). Thus, the attraction system 50 can be more easily modified, such as to update or adjust the manner in which show effects are provided to entertain guests. Similarly, other operations (e.g., service operations, inspection operations, pause operations) related to the show effects system 54 can be performed without affecting the operation of the guest area 52, and vice versa, facilitating the performance of such operations by performing operations of the guest area 52 without affecting other operations related to the show effects system 54.

[0020] The attraction system 50 (e.g., the show effects system 54) may include a control system 62 (e.g., an automation controller, a programmable controller, an electronic controller). The control system 62 may include a memory 64 and a processing circuit 66. The memory 64 may include volatile memory, such as a random access memory (RAM), and / or non-volatile memory, such as a read-only memory (ROM), an optical drive, a hard disk drive, a solid-state drive, or any other non-transitory computer-readable medium that contains instructions. The processing circuit 66 may be configured to execute such instructions. For example, the processing circuit 66 may include one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), one or more general purpose processors, or any combination thereof.

[0021] The control system 62 can be communicatively coupled to the show effects components 56 and configured to operate the show effects components 56. For example, the control system 62 can be configured to operate the show effects components 56 to provide show effects that can be experienced by guests in the guest area 52. The control system 62 can also be communicatively coupled to the actuation system 60 and configured to operate the actuation system 60 to move the supports 58. In one embodiment, the control system 62 can operate the actuation system 60 to move the supports 58 relative to the guest area 52 to position the show effects components 56 in a configuration that allows guests to experience show effects provided by the show effects components 56. As an example, the control system 62 can determine a movement or positioning (e.g., a movement of a ride vehicle) of the guest area 52 relative to the show effects system 54, etc. (e.g., relative to the supports 58, relative to the show effects components 56). The control system 62 can be configured to operate the actuation system 60 based on the movement or positioning of the guest area 52 to, for example, move the support 58 and / or the show effect components 56 toward or adjacent to the guest area 52 (e.g., in front of the guest's viewing location in the guest area 52). Thus, the control system 62 can improve the guest experience of the show effects provided by the show effect components 56. In fact, the show effect components 56 can continue to operate while the actuation system 60 is moving the support 58. In this manner, guests can be entertained by both the operation of the show effect components 56 and the collective movement of the show effect components 56 through or within the attraction system 50.

[0022] The control system 62 may operate the show effects component 56 and / or the actuation system 60 based on parameters of the attraction system 50, such as the operating time (e.g., of a ride cycle of the attraction system 50), the positioning of the guest area 52 (e.g., movement of a vehicle relative to the show effects component 56 and / or the support 58), the positioning of the support 58 within the attraction system 50, and user (e.g., guest) interaction with the show effects component 56. To this end, the attraction system 50 may include a sensor 68 (e.g., representing one or more sensors) communicatively coupled to the control system 62 and configured to transmit data indicative of the parameter to the control system 62, and the control system 62 may be configured to operate the show effects component 56 based on the data received from the sensor 68. Additionally or alternatively, the control system 62 may be configured to operate the show effects component 56 and / or the actuation system 60 based on received user input.

[0023] In some embodiments, the control system 62 can be configured to coordinate the operation of the show effects components 56 with one another. For example, the control system 62 can operate the show effects components 56 to provide various show effects, such as visual and / or audio effects, that complement or complement each other to entertain guests. Additionally or alternatively, the control system 62 can also be configured to coordinate the operation of the show effects components 56 with the movement of the support 58. That is, the control system 62 can be configured to operate the show effects components 56 to provide show effects that complement the collective movement of the show effects components 56 through or within the attraction system 50. Thus, the operation of the show effects components 56 and the movement of the show effects components 56 via the support 58 can cooperate to entertain guests in the guest area 52.

[0024] 2 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of an attraction system 50 including a show effects system 54. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuation system 60 includes a robotic arm or motion device 100 that may include multiple segments configured to move (e.g., rotate, pivot, translate) relative to one another to move a support 58. For example, one segment of the robotic arm 100 may be coupled to a base 102 and another segment of the robotic arm 100 may be coupled to the support 58, such that the segments may move relative to one another to move the support 58 relative to the base 102. As an example, the robotic arm 100 may be configured to translate the support 58 along a first axis 104 (e.g., a horizontal axis), a second axis 106 (e.g., a longitudinal axis), a third axis 108 (e.g., a vertical axis), and / or any other suitable axis. As another example, the robotic arm 100 may be configured to rotate the support 58 about the first axis 104, the second axis 106, the third axis 108, and / or any other suitable axis. It should be noted that axes 104, 106, and 108 are intended to represent axes of support 58, but are shown offset from support 58 for purposes of illustration. Base 102 may also move through or within attraction system 50. In further or alternative embodiments, robotic arm 100 may include any other suitable system or device configured to move support 58 about axes 104, 106, 108, etc. through or within attraction system 50.

[0025] The illustrated support 58 has a cubic shape. For example, the support 58 can include a first wall or panel 110 (e.g., a back wall or panel) configured to couple (e.g., be fixed, mounted, attached) to, such as, one of the segments of the robot arm 100. The support 58 can also include a second wall or panel 112 (e.g., an outer wall or panel) and a third wall or panel 114 (e.g., an outer wall or panel) oriented transversely to, extending from, or coupled to the first wall 110. The third wall or panel 114 can be located opposite the second wall 112. The support 58 can include a fourth wall or panel 116 (e.g., a top wall or panel) oriented transversely to, extending from, or coupled to the first wall 110, the second wall 112, and the third wall 114. The support 58 may further include a fifth wall or panel 118 (e.g., a bottom wall or panel) oriented transversely to, extending from, or coupled to the first, second, and third walls 110, 112, and 114, and positioned opposite the fourth wall 116. As such, the illustrated support 58 may be an enclosure that defines a space 120 (e.g., an interior space) via the walls 110, 112, 114, 116, 118. Other embodiments may include different shapes that define the enclosure.

[0026] Show effects components 56 may be disposed within the space 120. By way of example, the show effects components 56 may include a display 122 that may be coupled directly or indirectly (e.g., via a bracket) to the first wall 110, or in further or alternative embodiments, to any (e.g., including a plurality) of the walls 110, 112, 114, 116, 118. The display 122 may be configured to present images, such as one or more digital or virtual elements (e.g., pictures, videos), that may provide visual effects. For example, the display 122 may provide a background, scenery, and / or setting, such as a view of the ocean floor with various fish to represent an underwater environment. The show effects components 56 may also include an animated figure 124, such as a robot, that may be configured to couple or engage with any of the walls 110, 112, 114, 116, 118 and move within the space 120. For example, the fifth wall 118 can be an underwater ground represented by the display 122, and the animated figure 124 can be coupled to the fifth wall 118 to represent a sea creature (e.g., an octopus) moving about on the ground. The show effects component 56 can further include static or stationary props 126 that can aid in the representation of an underwater environment despite not substantially moving (e.g., relative to the display 122) within the space 120. For example, the static props 126 can include underwater plants coupled to the fifth wall 118. The static props 126 can facilitate lighting effects employed to generate changing shadows that create the illusion of movement or volume (e.g., the representation of water flow within the space 120). Thus, the show effects component 56 can include digital elements and real-world elements that enhance the show effects provided by the show effects system 54.

[0027] The show effects components 56 may further include other devices, such as audio output devices 128 (e.g., speakers), light emitters 130 (e.g., light emitting diodes, compact fluorescent lamps, incandescent bulbs, sodium vapor lamps), and / or fluid output devices 132 (e.g., fog machine blowers). The audio output devices 128 may be configured to output sounds, such as ocean-related noises. The light emitters 130 may be configured to output light effects, such as to create the appearance of sunlight or changing shadows (e.g., cast by the static props 126). The fluid output devices 132 may be configured to output fluids (e.g., water, liquid nitrogen, carbon dioxide, glycol, fog) to create certain visual effects, such as mist, smoke, haze, and / or fog effects. Other types of show effects components 56, such as pulley systems, fans, vehicles, and flame output devices, may also be implemented (e.g., coupled to supports 58) within the space 120 to provide corresponding show effects during operation of the show effects system 54.

[0028] In one embodiment, users 134, such as performers, guests, operators, and / or technicians, may be located within the space 120. By way of example, the support 58 may include partitions 136 that may form compartments or volumes 138 that may accommodate the users 134. The users 134 may provide additional entertainment in conjunction with (e.g., by interacting with) the operation of the show effects components 56. Additionally or alternatively, the users 134 may also perform service operations (e.g., inspection, maintenance) with respect to the show effects components 56, or other suitable operations with respect to the show effects components 56.

[0029] The various show effect components 56 can work together to provide a realistic representation of an environment, such as an underwater environment. A side 141 of the support 58 (e.g., opposite where the first wall 110 is located) can be exposed to allow the guest to observe the show effect components 56 within the space 120. Additionally, the actuation system 60 can be configured to move the support 58 to cause the movement of the show effect components 56 as a unit. For example, the actuation system 60 can move the support 58 to cause a collective movement of the show effect components 56 that cooperate with each other, e.g., as a stage set, to maintain the relative positions of the show effect components 56 (e.g., within a threshold distance). Thus, rather than moving each of the show effect components 56 individually and independently relative to the guest (e.g., to position the show effect components 56 in a desired position relative to the guest area), the show effect components 56 can be moved simultaneously via the support 58. Thus, the complexity associated with moving the show effect components 56 together can be reduced.

[0030] In one embodiment, a control system 62 configured to operate the show effects system 54 can include a primary controller 140. The primary controller 140 can be communicatively coupled to multiple secondary controllers configured to operate individual components or sets of components (e.g., show effects components 56) of the show effects system 54. For example, a first secondary controller 142 can be communicatively coupled to the actuation system 60 and configured to operate the actuation system 60, such as to control the movement and positioning of the support 58 (e.g., relative to the guest area). A second secondary controller 144 can be communicatively coupled to the display 122 and configured to operate the display 122, such as to adjust the image output by the display 122. A third secondary controller 146 can be communicatively coupled to the animated figure 124 and configured to operate the animated figure 124, such as to control the movement and positioning of the animated figure 124 within the space 120 of the support 58. The fourth secondary controller 148 may be communicatively coupled to the audio output device 128 and configured to operate the audio output device 128 to control the sound effects provided by the audio output device 128. The fifth secondary controller 150 may be communicatively coupled to the light emitters 130 and configured to operate the light emitters 130 to control the illumination (e.g., light direction, light intensity, light hue) provided by the light emitters 130. The sixth second controller 152 may be communicatively coupled to the fluid output device 132 and configured to operate the fluid output device 132 to, such as, control the flow rate, direction, and / or velocity of the fluid provided (e.g., sprayed) by the fluid output device 132.

[0031] Each of the primary controller 140 and secondary controllers 142 , 144 , 146 , 148 , 150 , 152 may include a respective memory 64 and processing circuitry 66 to enable operation of the controllers 140 , 142 , 144 , 146 , 148 , 150 , 152 to control the show effects system 54 . That is, the first controller 140 may include a first memory 64A and a first processing circuit 66A, the first secondary controller 142 may include a second memory 64B and a second processing circuit 66B, the second secondary controller 144 may include a third memory 64C and a third processing circuit 66C, the third secondary controller 146 may include a fourth memory 64D and a fourth processing circuit 66D, the fourth secondary controller 148 may include a fifth memory 64E and a fifth processing circuit 66E, the fifth secondary controller 150 may include a sixth memory 64F and a sixth processing circuit 66F, and the sixth secondary controller 152 may include a seventh memory 64G and a seventh processing circuit 66G. Each of the secondary controllers 142, 144, 146, 148, 150, 152 may be configured to operate independently of one another. Thus, even if one of the secondary controllers 142, 144, 146, 148, 150, 152 is inoperative (e.g., if a communicative coupling between one of the secondary controllers 142, 144, 146, 148, 150, 152 and the corresponding component of the show effects system 54 is impaired), the remainder of the secondary controllers 142, 144, 146, 148, 150, 152 can remain operational. Thus, portions of the show effects system 54 can continue to operate to provide show effects to entertain guests.

[0032] In one embodiment, the primary controller 140 can be configured to communicate with and control the operation of the secondary controllers 142, 144, 146, 148, 150, 152 to synchronize and coordinate the operation of the show effects components 56 and / or the actuation system 60. For example, the primary controller 140 can be configured to operate the show effects components 56 and the actuation system 60 to provide show effects that effectively emulate a realistic and immersive environment. As an example, the primary controller 140 can receive data from the sensors 68 and communicate with and control the operation of the secondary controllers 142, 144, 146, 148, 150, 152 based on the data. Additionally or alternatively, the secondary controllers 142, 144, 146, 148, 150, 152 may be communicatively coupled to one another via a mesh network or the like, and may be configured to, for example, communicate directly with one another to coordinate the operation of the show effects components 56 and / or the actuation system 60. Indeed, in further or alternative embodiments, the secondary controllers 142, 144, 146, 148, 150, 152 may be configured to operate the show effects system 54 without communicating with the primary controller 140. For example, each of the secondary controllers 142, 144, 146, 148, 150, 152 may be configured to receive data from the sensor 68 or another sensor 68 and act based on the data that each receives. The primary controller 140 may operate the show effects system 54 to provide an observer within the guest area 52 with visual access to the space 120, taking into account the positioning of the guest area 52 (e.g., based on the sensor data).For example, the sensors 68 may include motion sensors, position sensors (e.g., barcode readers that detect location based on designated barcode placement along a route), shape detectors (e.g., facial or body recognition sensors), or gaze detectors (e.g., eye position detection cameras), etc. that provide data about guests within the guest area 52 or about the guest area 52 itself (e.g., orientation or position of a ride vehicle). The primary controller 140 (or another controller) may employ this data to control the actuation system 60 to position the show effects system 54 in a manner that facilitates observation of the space 120 by guests within the guest area 52.

[0033] The operation of the show effects component 56 and / or the actuation system 60 may be synchronized with the operation of the rest of the attraction system 50. For example, the operation of the show effects component 56 and / or the actuation system 60 may enable show effects to be provided to entertain guests in the guest area. In some embodiments, the show effects component 56 and / or the actuation system 60 may be coordinated to operate in a predetermined manner to cause the show effects system 54 to provide a predetermined show effect during a particular operational time period of the attraction system 50 (e.g., in response to determining that a guest is located near the show effects system 54 during a particular timestamp of the ride cycle). Additionally or alternatively, the show effects component 56 and / or the actuation system 60 may operate based on user input that may indicate a request to provide a particular show effect. Furthermore, the show effects component 56 and / or the actuation system 60 may operate based on user interaction as indicated by data provided via the sensor 68. For example, the user interaction may include contact between a guest and one of the show effects components 56, a movement of the guest, audio input provided by the guest (e.g., spoken words), and the like. In this manner, control system 62 may operate show effects system 54 to provide a more immersive, realistic, and / or interactive experience for guests, such as a more customized and / or personal experience (e.g., rather than providing pre-programmed or set show effects). In practice, control system 62 may operate show effects system 54 in real time based on parameters indicated by data received from sensors 68 to provide different show effects, such as movement and / or actuation of show effect components 56, for different guests.

[0034] The actuation system 60 can facilitate the positioning and routing of electrical connections 154 (e.g., wires, cables) that can be used to provide power to the show effects components 56 and communicatively couple the show effects components 56 to the secondary controllers 142, 144, 146, 148, 150, 152 to actuate the show effects system 54, etc. As an example, the electrical connections 154 can be coupled to and routed along the robotic arm 100. For example, the robotic arm 100 can include a flexible tubing, sheath, or sleeve 156 that can support and secure the electrical connections 154 to the robotic arm 100 (e.g., maintain contact between the electrical connections 154 and the robotic arm 100). During movement of the robotic arm 100 (e.g., to move the support 58), the tubing 156 can flex to maintain the fixation of the electrical connections 154 to the robotic arm 100. The tubing 156 can also protect the electrical connections 154 from external elements, such as dust and debris. The electrical connection 154 can extend into the space 120 of the support 58 and couple to the show effects component 56. As an example, any of the walls 110, 112, 114, 116, 118 can include an opening through which the electrical connection 154 can be inserted and coupled to the show effects component 56 disposed within the space 120 to enable operation of the show effects component 56.

[0035] FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of the attraction system 50 including the show effects system 54. In the illustrated embodiment, the guest area 52 includes a ride vehicle 180 that can be configured to move along a path or track 182 of the attraction system 50 that resides outside the space 120 of the support 58. A guest 184 can be positioned within the ride vehicle 180, and the show effects system 54 can provide show effects to entertain the guest 184 as the ride vehicle 180 moves along the path 182. As an example, the control system 62 (e.g., the primary controller 140, first secondary controller 142 of FIG. 2) can be configured to operate the actuation system 60 to position the support 58 and enable the guest 184 to experience (e.g., see, hear) the show effects. In one embodiment, the control system 62 (e.g., the primary controller 140 of FIG. 2) can be configured to receive data from the sensor 68, and the data can indicate the position of the ride vehicle 180 (e.g., along the path 182). The control system 62 may be configured to operate the actuation system 60 based on the data to move the supports 58 to a target position, such as relative to the ride vehicle 180. The control system 62 may also be configured to operate the show effects component 56 to provide particular show effects (e.g., particular images output by the displays 122, particular movements of the animated figures 124, particular sound effects provided by the audio output devices 128, particular light effects provided by the light emitters 130, particular fluid effects provided by the fluid output devices 132) based on the data.

[0036] For example, the control system 62 may coordinate the show effects provided by the different show effect components 56 based on the data (e.g., via communication between the controllers 140, 142, 144, 146, 148, 150, 152 of FIG. 2 ) to entertain the guest 184 in a particular manner appropriate to the positioning of the guest 184 via the ride vehicle 180. As an example, the control system 62 may operate the show effect components 56 to represent elements of the underwater environment as reacting to the ride vehicle 180 and the guest 184 passing by them to provide a realistic appearance of the ride vehicle 180 moving through the underwater environment. In practice, the operation of the control system 62 to operate the show effect components 56 may be based on parameters related to the guest 184, including the behavior of the guest 184 within the ride vehicle 180 (e.g., changes in gaze, words spoken) detected by the sensors 68, to provide a more immersive experience for the guest 184.

[0037] Although the ride vehicle 180 is shown configured to move along a path 182, in further or alternative embodiments, the ride vehicle 180 may be configured to move within the attraction system 50 in any other suitable manner. For example, the ride vehicle 180 may be coupled to an actuator (e.g., another robotic arm or motion device) configured to cause movement, such as rotational movement (e.g., relative to another base) and / or translational movement, of the ride vehicle 180. In any case, the show effects system 54 may be configured to move the support 58 to entertain guests 184 within the ride vehicle 180 via show effects, in addition to the entertainment provided by the movement of the ride vehicle 180.

[0038] 4 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of the attraction system 50 including the show effects system 54 and the guest area 52, which may include a spectator area 200 outside the space 120 of the support 58. The guests 184 may be located and seated or standing within the spectator area 200. By way of example, the spectator area 200 may include a passageway (e.g., a queue) through which the guests 184 may move, spectator seats in which the guests 184 may be positioned to view a show (e.g., provided by the show effects system 54), and an entrance or exit of the attraction system 50. In some embodiments, the spectator area 200 may remain stationary during operation of the attraction system 50. In further or alternative embodiments, the spectator area 200 may be configured to move, e.g., rotate, so that the guests 184 may view different parts of the attraction system 50. The guests may also move within the spectator area 200 to view different parts of the attraction system 50.

[0039] The control system 62 can be configured to operate the show effects system 54 to entertain the guests 184 in the spectator area 200. For example, the control system 62 can be configured to operate the actuation system 60 to move the supports 58 to enable the guests 184 to experience the show effects components 56. In some embodiments, the control system 62 can be configured to determine parameters associated with the guests 184 (e.g., via data received from the sensors 68), such as positioning, occupancy, observation viewpoint, user interaction, or other behavior, and to operate the actuation system 60 to move the supports 58 based on the parameters. Additionally or alternatively, the control system 62 can be configured to operate the show effects components 56 to provide specific show effects based on parameters associated with the guests 184 to provide a further interactive experience for the guests 184.

[0040] 5 is a schematic side view of an embodiment of a show effects system 54. Some components of the show effects system 54 are not shown for purposes of visualization, such as the second wall 112 and certain show effects components 56. The robotic arm 100 may be coupled to a first side 220 (e.g., an exterior surface) of the first wall 110, and the display 122 may be coupled to a second side 222 (e.g., an interior surface) of the first wall 110 opposite the first side 220.

[0041] Stiffeners 224 (e.g., braces, backings, stiffeners) may also be used to prevent deformation of the display 122 and maintain the shape (e.g., planar shape) of the display 122. As an example, the stiffeners 224 may engage or be attached to the display 122, or may be coupled to the first wall 110 to secure the display 122 to the first wall 110. The stiffeners 224 may prevent the display 122 from deforming or distorting (e.g., bending, flexing, twisting) due to movement of the support 58. For example, the stiffeners 224 may prevent force transmission from the first wall 110 onto the display 122 during operation of the actuation system 60 in which the robotic arm 100 exerts a force on the first wall 110 to cause movement of the support 58, thereby preventing deformation of the display 122 caused by the force acting on the display 122. Thus, the stiffener 224 may maintain the structural integrity of the display 122 and / or extend the useful life of the display 122 .

[0042] The show effect component 56 may also include a light emitter 130 that may be disposed within the space 120 and coupled to the fourth wall 116. A protrusion 226 (e.g., a lip, partition, wall, extension, shelf, overhang) may extend from the fourth wall 116 (e.g., along the third axis 108) and overlap (e.g., vertically overlap) the light emitter 130 around the third axis 108. The protrusion 226 may block the view of the light emitter 130 from the guest in the guest area. Thus, the light emitter 130 may not be visible to the guest from the guest area, and the protrusion 226 may cover or hide the light emitter 130. In this way, the guest may perceive the light output by the light emitter 130 in the space 120 as being more naturally and / or mysteriously provided. The show effects system 54 may also include other features, such as shrouds, mirrors, reflectors, glass, beam splitters, etc., to block other show effects components 56 from view and / or to otherwise manipulate the show effects (e.g., lighting) provided by the show effects components 56 to enhance the show effects and entertain guests.

[0043] 6 is a schematic side view of an embodiment of the show effects system 54. In the illustrated embodiment, the display 122 is coupled to the first wall 110 and the robot arm 100 is coupled to the fifth wall 118. Thus, the robot arm 100 and the display 122 may be coupled to different walls of the support 58. In practice, the robot arm 100 and the display 122 may be coupled to any suitable combination of walls, portions or other components of the support 58, such as a common wall or separate walls. For example, in further or alternative embodiments, the robot arm 100 may be coupled to the second wall 112, the third wall 114, and / or the fourth wall 116. In each such embodiment, the actuation system 60 may be configured to move the support 58 via the robot arm 100 to enable the guest to observe the show effects (e.g., in the space 120) provided by the show effects system 54. In particular, the control system 62 may control the robot arm 100 to facilitate the guest's observation based on sensor data indicative of the guest's position (e.g., individually or as a group).

[0044] FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a show effect system 54. The show effect system 54 may include a support 250 having a reduced number of walls or panels compared to the support 58 shown in FIGS. 2-6. For example, the support 250 may include a first wall or panel 252, a second wall or panel 254 (e.g., a top wall) oriented to intersect with the first wall 252 and extending from or coupled to the first wall 252, and a third wall or panel 256 (e.g., a bottom wall) oriented to intersect with the first wall 252 and extending from or coupled to the first wall 252. The second wall 254 may be disposed opposite the third wall 256. However, the support 250 may not include a wall or panel (e.g., an outer wall or panel) coupled to each of the first wall 252, the second wall 254, and the third wall 256. Thus, the support 250 can define and partially enclose a space 258 that can be exposed at a first side 260 of the support 250 (e.g., opposite where the first wall 252 is located), a second side 262 (e.g., first side) of the support 250, and a third side 264 (e.g., second side) opposite the second side 262 of the support 250. In further or alternative embodiments, the support 250 can include a different combination of walls to define and expose the space 258 and allow guests to observe show effects provided by the show effects system 54 (e.g., within the space 258).

[0045] In an embodiment, the robotic arm 100 may be coupled to a first wall 252 (e.g., a first side of the first wall 252), the display 122 may be coupled to the first wall 252 (e.g., a second side opposite the first side of the first wall 252), and the stationary prop 126 may be coupled to a third wall 256. Other show effects components 56 may be coupled to a second wall 254 (e.g., within a space 258). Indeed, the support 250 may house the show effects components 56 in any suitable manner that enables the provision of show effects to guests.

[0046] 8 is a schematic side view of an embodiment of a show effects system 54 that includes a support 280, such as support 58 or support 250. The robotic arm 100 can be coupled to a first side 282 (e.g., a side) of a first wall 284 (e.g., a back wall) of the support 280. The show effects component 56 can be disposed within a space 286 defined by the support 280. The show effects component 56 can be configured to provide show effects that are viewable by guests during operation of the show effects system 54.

[0047] Further, the show effect system 54 may include one or more light emitters 288 coupled to the first side 282 of the first wall 284 or the like. The light emitter(s) 288 may be configured to output light within the first wall 284, and the light may be at least partially visible at the second side 290 (e.g., inside) of the first wall 284 from a guest area or the like. As an example, the light output by the light emitter(s) 288 may provide illumination for an environment represented via the show effect components 56. Thus, the first wall 284 may be at least partially transparent and / or translucent to facilitate visibility of the light output by the light emitter(s) 288. Meanwhile, the first wall 284 may block or conceal the visibility of the light emitter(s) 288 from the second side 290. Thus, light directed into the space 286 via the light emitter(s) 288 may appear to be provided more naturally or mysteriously, thereby enhancing the show effects provided by the show effects system 54. In some embodiments, the show effects system 54 may not include a display 122 coupled to the first wall 284 to enhance the visibility of the light output by the light emitter(s) 288.

[0048] FIG. 9 is a flow chart of an embodiment of a method or process 310 for operating a show effects system (e.g., show effects system 54 of FIGS. 1-8). Method 310 may be performed by any suitable apparatus (e.g., processing circuitry 66 of control system 62 of FIGS. 1-8). In one embodiment, method 310 may be performed by executing instructions stored on a tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., memory 64 of control system 62). For example, method 310 may be performed at least in part by one or more software components, one or more hardware components, one or more software applications, and the like. Although method 310 is described using a particular order of steps, additional steps may be performed, the described steps may be performed in a different order than that shown, and / or some described steps may be skipped or not performed entirely.

[0049] At block 312, data indicative of operation of the show effects system may be received. By way of example, the data may be indicative of a parameter of the attraction system, such as an operation time (e.g., a ride cycle of the attraction system) and / or a positioning of a guest area (e.g., a positioning of a ride vehicle relative to the show effects system). For example, the data may be received from a sensor configured to monitor the parameter. Additionally or alternatively, the data may include a user input, such as a request to operate the show effects system.

[0050] In block 314, the actuation system can be instructed to move the support based on or in response to the data. For example, a show effect component of a show effect system can be coupled to the support, and moving the support via the actuation system can move the show effect components together as a unit. In one embodiment, the actuation system can move the support toward or adjacent to a guest (e.g., in a guest area) so that the guest can experience a show effect provided by the show effect component. Additionally or alternatively, the actuation system can move the support in a manner that complements or supplements other operations of the attraction system. As an example, the guest area can include a first ride vehicle, and the show effect component can represent a second ride vehicle moving alongside the first ride vehicle in the guest area. Thus, the actuation system can move the support to translate the show effect component alongside the first ride vehicle. Additionally, the actuation system can move the support based on user input, which can indicate a requested positioning or movement of the support.

[0051] In block 316, the show effects components may also be instructed to operate based on or in response to the data. For example, the show effects components may be instructed to provide a particular show effect based on the data. As an example, the show effects components may include animated ride vehicle figures that may move within supports to represent a second ride vehicle moving alongside a first ride vehicle in a guest area, displays that may provide moving scenic images to represent the movement of the second ride vehicle to different locations, audio output devices that may provide sound effects of the moving ride vehicle, lights that may adjust lighting to represent the movement of the second ride vehicle, and fluid output devices that may output fluid to represent smoke created by the movement of the second ride vehicle, etc. Thus, the show effects components may operate cooperatively to represent a particular environment or effect as perceived by or otherwise entertaining the guest.

[0052] The operation of different show effect components can be coordinated with each other to provide a desired show effect. In one embodiment, different controllers can be configured to operate respective subsets of the show effect components, and these controllers can communicate with each other, such as via a mesh network and / or a primary or central controller, to coordinate the operation of the show effect components. For example, continuing the above example, a first controller configured to control the movement of an animated ride vehicle figure can communicate with a second controller configured to operate an audio output device to move the animated ride vehicle figure in conjunction with sound effects provided by the audio output device to realistically represent the movement of the ride vehicle. In effect, each controller can operate an associated show effect component(s) based on the operation of another show effect component achieved by another controller or show effects provided by another show effect component.

[0053] While only certain features of the disclosure have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art and it is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes which fall within the true spirit of the disclosure.

[0054] The technology presented and claimed herein refers to and applies to tangible objects and specific examples of a practical nature that positively improve the art and are therefore not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Moreover, if 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 an element designated in any other manner, such elements are not to be construed pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 112(f). [Explanation of symbols]

[0055] 50 Attraction System 54 Show Effects System 56 Show Effects Component 58 Support 60 Actuation System 62 Control System 64A~G Memory 66A~G Processor 68 Sensors 100 Robot Arm 102 Base 104 First Axis 106 Second Axis 108 The Third Axis 110 The First Wall 112 The Second Wall 114 The Third Wall 116 The Fourth Wall 118 The Fifth Wall 120 Space 122 Display 124 Animated Figures 126 Static Props 128 Audio Output Device 130 Illuminant 132 Fluid Output Device 134 users 136 Partition 138 Compartments 140 Primary Controller 142 Secondary Controller 1 144 Secondary Controller 2 146 Secondary Controller 3 148 Secondary Controller 4 150 Secondary Controller 5 152 Secondary Controller 6

Claims

1. An attraction system for an amusement park, comprising: An actuator; an enclosure coupled to the actuator; a display coupled to the enclosure and disposed within the interior space, the display configured to output an image; a guest area outside the interior space of the enclosure; Equipped with the enclosure defines an interior space of the enclosure; the actuator is configured to move the enclosure to cause movement of the display relative to the guest area for the entertainment of one or more guests in the guest area. Attraction system.

2. 2. The attraction system of claim 1, wherein the attraction system comprises an animated figure disposed within the interior space of the enclosure, the animated figure configured to move within the interior space, and the actuator configured to move the enclosure to cause collective movement of the display and the animated figure relative to the guest area.

3. 3. The attraction system of claim 2, wherein the enclosure includes a first wall and a second wall extending laterally from the first wall, the display being coupled to the first wall and the animated figure being coupled to the second wall.

4. The attraction system of claim 1 , wherein the actuator is configured to cause movement of the enclosure in 1 to 6 degrees of freedom.

5. The attraction system of claim 1 , wherein the guest area includes a ride vehicle.

6. 2. The attraction system of claim 1, comprising a control system communicatively coupled to the actuator and the display, the control system configured to control the actuator to move the enclosure to cause corresponding movement of the display, and the control system configured to control the image output by the display.

7. 7. The attraction system of claim 6, further comprising a sensor configured to detect a parameter of the guest area, the control system being communicatively coupled to the sensor and configured to control the actuator based on the parameter to facilitate observation of the interior space by the one or more guests in the guest area.

8. A show effect system for an amusement park attraction system, comprising: an enclosure defining an interior space; a light emitter coupled to the enclosure and configured to output light into the interior space of the enclosure; an animated figure coupled to the enclosure and configured to move within the interior space; an actuator coupled to the enclosure and configured to move the enclosure to cause collective movement of the light emitters and the animated figure; Equipped with a show effect system.

9. 9. The show effects system of claim 8, comprising a control system configured to operate the lights, the animated figures, the actuators, or any combination thereof based on operational parameters during operation of the amusement park attraction system.

10. 10. The show effects system of claim 9, wherein the operating parameters include a positioning of the enclosure relative to a guest area of ​​the amusement park attraction system, the guest area being outside the interior space of the enclosure.

11. The show effects system of claim 9 , wherein the data is indicative of a user interaction with the show effects system.

12. 9. The show effects system of claim 8, comprising a first controller communicatively coupled to the actuators, a second controller communicatively coupled to the animation figure, and a third controller communicatively coupled to the lights, the first controller, the second controller, and the third controller configured to communicate with each other to coordinate the operation of the actuators, the animation figure, and the lights.

13. 9. The show effects system of claim 8, comprising a display coupled to a first side of a wall of the enclosure, the actuator being coupled to a second side of the wall opposite the first side.

14. The show effects system of claim 8 , comprising a fluid output device coupled to the enclosure and configured to output a fluid into the interior space of the enclosure.

15. An attraction system for an amusement park, comprising: An actuator; a support coupled to the actuator and defining a space; a display configured to engage the support within the space of the support and output an image; an animated figure configured to engage the support and move within the space of the support; a control system communicatively coupled to the actuator, the display, and the animated figure; The control system comprises: activating the actuator to move the support and cause corresponding movement of the display and the animated figure; operating the display to adjust an image output by the display; operating the animated figure to move the animated figure within the space; An attraction system configured to perform operations including:

16. 16. The attraction system of claim 15, wherein the control system comprises a primary controller, a first secondary controller communicatively coupled to the actuator, a second secondary controller communicatively coupled to the display, and a third secondary controller communicatively coupled to the animation figure, the primary controller being communicatively coupled to the first secondary controller, the second secondary controller, and the third secondary controller, and the primary controller being configured to communicate with the first secondary controller, the second secondary controller, and the third secondary controller to coordinate the operation of the actuator, the display, and the animation figure.

17. 17. The attraction system of claim 16, comprising a sensor, the primary controller communicatively coupled to the sensor, and the primary controller configured to communicate with the first secondary controller, the second secondary controller, and the third secondary controller based on data received from the sensor.

18. 20. The attraction system of claim 17, wherein the sensors include a motion sensor, a position sensor, a shape detector, a gaze detector, or any combination thereof configured to detect a parameter of a ride vehicle or a guest.

19. 16. The attraction system of claim 15, further comprising a ride vehicle outside the space of the support, the control system being configured to operate the actuator to move the support and cause corresponding movement of the display and the animation figure relative to the ride vehicle.

20. 16. The attraction system of claim 15, comprising a backing coupled to the support, the display coupled to the backing, the backing configured to resist deformation of the display caused by movement of the support via the actuator.

Images