SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USING NON-FUNGABLE TOKENS IN AN AMUSEMENT PARK ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

The interactive system includes one or more processors and a memory storing instructions executable by the one or more processors to cause the one or more processors to identify one or more non-fungible tokens (NFTs) owned by a user and provide control signals to one or more output devices of a portable object based on the one or more NFTs. The one or more output devices include an actuator configured to drive movement of at least a portion of the portable object, a speaker configured to output sound, a light emitter configured to emit light, or any combination thereof.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 336,114, filed April 28, 2022, entitled "SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USING NON-FUNGIBLE TOKENS IN AN AMUSEMENT PARK ENVIRONMENT," 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 technology that may be related to various aspects of the technology, which are described and / or claimed below. This discussion is believed to be helpful in providing the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art.

[0003] Amusement parks include a variety of entertainment attractions. Some entertainment attractions may provide guests with an interactive environment. For example, guests may view animated characters within the interactive environment, and guests may provide input that causes the animated characters to move in particular ways within the interactive environment. Additionally, some entertainment attractions may allow guests to participate in special experiences (e.g., dining experiences) and / or purchase interactive souvenirs (e.g., electronic toys or other portable objects). Summary of the Invention

[0004] Certain embodiments within the scope of the originally claimed invention are summarized below. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Indeed, the disclosure may encompass a variety of forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.

[0005] In one embodiment, an interactive system includes one or more processors and a memory storing instructions executable by the one or more processors to cause the one or more processors to identify one or more non-fungible tokens (NFTs) owned by a user and to provide control signals to one or more output devices of a portable object based on the one or more NFTs, wherein the one or more output devices include an actuator configured to drive movement of at least a portion of the portable object, a speaker configured to output sound, a light emitter configured to emit light, or any combination thereof.

[0006] In one embodiment, an interactive system includes one or more processors and a memory storing instructions executable by the one or more processors to cause the one or more processors to identify that a user has completed an experience. The instructions are also executable by the one or more processors to cause the one or more processors, in response to identifying completion of the experience, to create the experience as a non-fungible token (NFT) for the user. The instructions are also executable by the one or more processors to provide control signals to one or more output devices of the portable object based on the NFT.

[0007] In one embodiment, a method of operating an interactive system includes using one or more processors to identify one or more non-fungible tokens (NFTs) owned by a user. The method also includes using the one or more processors to provide control signals to one or more output devices of a portable object based on the one or more NFTs. In the method, providing the control signals to the one or more output devices includes providing the control signals to an actuator to drive movement of at least a portion of the portable object, providing the control signals to a speaker to output sound, providing the control signals to a light emitter to emit light, or any combination thereof.

[0008] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an interactive system including a portable object configured to operate based on a non-fungible token (NFT) owned by a user, according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

[0010] [Figure 2] 2A-2C illustrate a user performing various actions through the interactive system of FIG. 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

[0011] [Figure 3] A diagram showing a graphical user interface (GUI) on a display screen of a user device presenting a library of NFTs that can be used by the interactive system of Figure 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] [Figure 4]FIG. 2 illustrates an amusement park attraction that may be part of the interactive system of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] [Figure 5] 2 is a block diagram of a method of operating the interactive system of FIG. 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure are described below. In the interest of providing a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of an actual implementation will be described herein. It is understood that, as with any engineering or design project, the development of any such actual implementation will require numerous implementation-specific decisions to be made in order to achieve the developer's particular goals, which may vary from implementation to implementation, including compliance with system- and business-related constraints. It is further understood that such a development effort may be complex and time-consuming, but would be a routine exercise in design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. It is also understood that, to the extent certain terms, such as parallel, perpendicular, etc., are used herein, these terms permit certain departures from strict mathematical definitions to accommodate, for example, deviations associated with manufacturing imperfections and associated tolerances.

[0015] When introducing elements of various embodiments of the invention, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” are intended to mean the presence of one or more of the element. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. One or more specific embodiments of the present invention are described below. In the interest of providing a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of an actual implementation will be described in this specification. It should be noted that, as with any engineering or design project, the development of any such actual implementation will require numerous implementation-specific decisions to achieve the developer's particular goals, including compliance with system- and business-related constraints, which may vary from implementation to implementation. It should also be noted that such a development effort, while potentially complex and time-consuming, would be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0016] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to systems and methods that utilize digital objects or tokens, such as non-fungible tokens (NFTs), to enhance a user's experience in an interactive environment. An NFT is a unit of data that can be stored on a distributed ledger (e.g., a blockchain). Because NFTs are unique and / or non-fungible, unique identity and ownership can be confirmed (e.g., verified). This can confer a sense of ownership over the NFT similar to the sense of ownership over a physical object (e.g., a physical photograph or a collectible toy). However, unlike physical objects, NFTs may not be easily lost, damaged, and / or cumbersome to carry. Indeed, one or more NFTs (e.g., any number of NFTs, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, more than 10, more than 100, etc.) can be stored on a distributed ledger and accessible from a user's digital wallet. NFTs can also have other advantages (e.g., compared to physical objects), such as being easily transferable to other users (e.g., via a digital marketplace; without meeting in person).

[0017] As described herein, an NFT can be used in conjunction with multiple different physical objects. For example, an NFT can contain digital data encoding a motion profile, an audio profile, and / or digital artwork (e.g., an NFT image, skin, or other accessory). Indeed, an NFT can contain a data payload in the form of a specific code or algorithm. In some cases, the data payload can be unique to the NFT and / or can be included during the creation of the NFT (e.g., based on input from a user). An NFT can be used to control and / or modify multiple different physical objects associated with a user (e.g., those carried by the user, those in the user's vicinity, those synchronized with the user's mobile device, those linked to the user's digital wallet). Additionally or alternatively, an NFT can be used to control and / or modify various other experiences of a user when the user visits an interactive environment. In this manner, a particular show performed in a physical object and / or interactive environment can be realized (e.g., only realized) by accessing the NFT's data payload.

[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a portable object 10 (e.g., a toy, wand, band, blaster) that can be used as part of an interactive system 8. As illustrated, the portable object 10 includes a computer system 12 (e.g., an electronic computer system; portable object computer system) that includes a processor 14, a memory device 16, and a communication device 18. The portable object 10 may also include an actuator 20, a light emitter 22, a speaker 24, and / or an input device 26 (e.g., a microphone for audio input, a push button for manual input). In operation, the processor 14 can direct the actuator 20 to drive relative movement of a portion 28 (e.g., a wing) of the portable object 10 relative to another portion 30 (e.g., a body) of the portable object 10, as indicated by arrow 32. It should be understood that the portable object 10 may include any number of actuators for driving movement of any number of portions (e.g., limbs, lips, eyes) of the portable object 10. Additionally or alternatively, the processor 14 may instruct the light emitters 22 to emit light and the speaker 24 to emit sound. Further, the processor 14 may receive input via the input device 26, such as input that causes the processor 14 to instruct the actuators 20, the light emitters 22, and / or the speaker 24 to provide their respective outputs. It should be understood that the portable object 10 may include any number of light emitters, speakers, and / or input devices. In one embodiment, the portable object 10 is not a cell phone or tablet and / or has a complex three-dimensional shape (e.g., is not flat). In one embodiment, the portable object 10 does not have a display screen (e.g., does not display text and / or images). However, it should be understood that the portable object 10 may have any of a variety of processing / communication capabilities, have any of a variety of shapes, and / or include a display screen.

[0019] Portable object 10 can be configured to access and / or receive one or more NFTs owned by a user. For example, one or more NFTs can be stored on a distributed ledger 40 (e.g., a blockchain) and can be accessible via the user's digital wallet. In one embodiment, portable object 10 is configured to communicate with another device, such as a user device 42 (e.g., a mobile phone), that can access the user's digital wallet. For example, an application (e.g., a software application) on user device 42 can include a digital wallet for user 50. Computer system 12 can then communicate with user device 42 (e.g., over a network, such as a wireless network), access the digital wallet, and identify one or more NFTs in the digital wallet. In one embodiment, user device 42 stores the address of the digital wallet, and computer system 12 can then receive and use the address to access the digital wallet and identify one or more NFTs in the digital wallet. In one embodiment, a user may provide input via user device 42 to transfer one or more NFTs to portable object 10 (e.g., select one or more NFTs).

[0020] Once the portable object 10 receives one or more NFTs, the portable object 10 can use the one or more NFTs to create a personalized and / or unique version of the portable object 10. For example, the portable object 10 can store and / or operate (e.g., in memory device 16) according to one or more NFTs owned by the user. However, other portable objects can store and / or operate according to other NFTs owned by other users. It should be understood that one or more additional portable objects associated with the user can also store and / or operate (e.g., in their respective memory devices) according to one or more NFTs owned by the user. In some cases, certain features can be implemented among the one or more additional portable objects associated with the user to encourage and / or promote uniqueness. For example, selected NFTs transferred to the portable object 10 may be temporarily and / or permanently unavailable for transfer from the library of NFTs to one or more additional portable objects associated with the user.

[0021] In either case, the interactive system 8 may enable a user to collect one or more NFTs and use the one or more NFTs to create a personalized, unique version of the portable object 10. The user may enjoy using the one or more NFTs to control the movement or behavior of the portable object 10. The user may also use one or more NFTs to change the movement or behavior of the portable object 10 over time (e.g., by collecting and / or transferring new NFTs), thereby providing the user with a more diverse experience. Furthermore, the user may also enjoy using one or more NFTs with multiple different portable objects (e.g., the portable object 10 and one or more additional portable objects). For example, a user may wish to use one or more NFTs during play with the portable object 10 having the form of a winged creature for a first time period, and then use one or more NFTs during play with one of one or more additional portable objects having the different form of a blaster for a second time period. The one or more NFTs may also enable a user to continue to experience the interactive effects corresponding to the one or more NFTs even if the portable object 10 is lost or destroyed (e.g., by using the one or more NFTs with one or more additional portable objects).

[0022] One or more NFTs may encode or cause any of a variety of outputs in portable object 10. That is, an NFT may encode or include a data payload in the form of a particular code or algorithm. In some embodiments, the data payload may be unique to the NFT. For example, one or more NFTs may include a green skin accessory NFT that causes processor 14 to instruct light emitter 22 to emit green light, an audio profile NFT that causes processor 14 to instruct speaker 24 to output a phrase according to an audio profile NFT, and / or a motion profile NFT that causes processor 14 to instruct actuator 20 to move portion 28 relative to portion 30 according to the motion profile NFT. It should be appreciated that an audio profile NFT may cause processor 14 to instruct speaker 24 to output a phrase that matches the phrase encoded in the audio profile NFT and / or has particular audio characteristics, such as pitch, tone, volume, pace, etc., encoded in the audio profile NFT. Similarly, the motion profile NFT can cause the processor 14 to instruct the actuator 20 to move a portion of the portable object 10 in a manner that matches a gesture or sequence of gestures encoded in the motion profile NFT. In this manner, a particular show (e.g., a unique show) can be performed by the portable object 10 upon accessing the data payload of the NFT (e.g., only after accessing the data payload of the NFT).

[0023] Furthermore, the processor may simultaneously execute or track multiple NFTs to provide the effect of the portable object 10 providing sound and movement simultaneously. Indeed, it should be understood that at least some NFTs may include multiple types of profiles (e.g., audio, motion, and / or accessories). For example, at least some NFTs may include both audio and motion profiles to simultaneously and coordinately produce both sound and movement of the portable object 10 (e.g., hand gestures and / or lip movements while speaking a phrase). As another example, at least some NFTs may include digital artwork with both audio and motion profiles to simultaneously and coordinately produce both sound and movement of the portable object 10 (e.g., having the portable object 10 display digital artwork of a red-winged creature that allows the portable object 10 to speak and move in a particular manner) while causing the portable object 10 to change lighting and / or form / shape (e.g., via actuators 20). It should also be understood that the processor 14 may be configured to perform more complex processing, such as receiving a voice input via the input device 26, selecting an appropriate voice profile NFT from a plurality of different voice profiles NFTs based on the voice input, and instructing the speaker 24 to output an appropriate response phrase in accordance with the appropriate voice profile NFT, thereby providing an effect such that the portable object 10 appears to be having a conversation with the user.

[0024] The portable object 10 may include a power source, such as a battery, that provides power to the computer system 12 and its components, the actuator 20, the light emitter 22, the speaker 24, etc. In one embodiment, the portable object 10 may be configured to communicate with the user device 42 to receive one or more NFTs when brought within proximity (e.g., range) of the user device 42. For example, the portable object 10 and the user device 42 may be configured to communicate via near-field communication (NFC) or any other suitable type of communication. Then, when the portable object 10 is held within proximity of the user device 42, the portable object 10 will synchronize with the user device 42 and access a digital wallet and / or a digital wallet address from the user device 42. In one embodiment, the portable object 10 may hold and use one or more NFTs for a period of time (e.g., 10 minutes, 1 hour, 24 hours, or more). In one embodiment, the portable object 10 may retain and use one or more NFTs until the portable object 10 receives an instruction to remove and / or stop using the one or more NFTs (e.g., upon communicating with another device at the exit of an amusement park attraction, upon synchronizing with another user device, upon receiving input via input device 26), which may enable the portable object 10 to be used with multiple different users over time (e.g., a first user may use one or more NFTs of the first user when carrying the portable object 10 through an amusement park attraction, and then a second user may use one or more NFTs of the second user when carrying the portable object 10 through the amusement park attraction, etc.).

[0025] Processor 14 may include a microprocessor that can execute software for generating effects based on one or more NFTs. Processor 14 may include multiple microprocessors, one or more "general-purpose" microprocessors, one or more special-purpose microprocessors, and / or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or a combination thereof. For example, processor 14 may include one or more reduced instruction set computer (RISC) processors. Memory device 16 may include volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM), and / or non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM). Memory device 16 may store information, such as control software, one or more NFTs, configuration data, and communication protocols.

[0026] For example, memory device 16 may store processor-executable instructions, including firmware or software, for execution by processor 14, such as instructions for controlling features of portable object 10. In one embodiment, memory device 16 is a tangible, non-transitory, machine-readable medium capable of storing machine-readable instructions for execution by processor 14. Memory device 16 may include ROM, flash memory, a hard drive, any other suitable optical, magnetic, or semiconductor storage medium, or a combination thereof. Communication device 18 may facilitate communication (e.g., wireless communication) with other components, such as distributed ledger 40 and / or user device 42.

[0027] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a user 50 performing various actions via the interactive system 8, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In particular, the various activities include collecting NFTs at different locations, transferring NFTs via an NFT marketplace 58, acquiring a portable object 10, and printing accessories for the portable object 10 based on the NFTs. As illustrated, the user 50 can travel to various locations (e.g., physical locations) to collect NFTs. In one embodiment, the user 50 can use the user device 42 to display a map showing details about the various locations and / or the NFTs available at each of the various locations. Then, when the user 50 arrives at a particular one of the various locations, the user 50 can use the user device 42 to scan a scannable code (e.g., a barcode) and / or otherwise record their presence at the particular one of the various locations (e.g., via a global positioning monitoring system, via communication between a radio frequency identification [RFID] tag and a reader), allowing the control system 52 to grant one or more NFTs to the user 50. For example, the map may direct the user 50 to a first location 54 (e.g., a restaurant), and the user 50 may grant ownership of an NFT of the voice profile by scanning a scannable code on a wall of the first location 54, on a receipt and / or container of food purchased at the first location 54, etc. Similarly, the map may direct the user 50 to a second location 56 (e.g., a ride attraction), and the user 50 may grant ownership of an NFT of the behavior profile by scanning a scannable code on a wall of the second location 56 and / or by completing an interaction with a prop (e.g., a robotic figure) within the second location 56.User 50 may obtain other NFTs (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, more than 10, or any number of more than 100 other NFTs) by visiting other locations, including other locations within the amusement park and / or other locations outside the amusement park, by completing other challenges, such as riding a roller coaster within the amusement park and / or winning an interactive virtual competition outside the amusement park, and / or by reaching certain achievements, such as spending a threshold amount or more on souvenirs within the amusement park.

[0028] User 50 may also access NFT marketplace 58. For example, user 50 may decide that he or she wants to transfer the audio profile NFT to another user, and user 50 may list the audio profile NFT on NFT marketplace 58. User 50 may also decide that he or she wants to obtain an accessory NFT and be able to use the accessory NFT on portable object 10. As shown, user 50 may access NFT marketplace 58, such as through an application on user device 42. User 50 may make selection inputs on user device 42 to purchase the accessory NFT (e.g., with currency such as digital currency and / or real currency) and / or exchange it for the audio profile NFT.

[0029] As shown, user 50 can also visit a third location 60 (e.g., a souvenir shop; an interactive attraction) to purchase or otherwise acquire portable object 10. In one embodiment, user 50 can purchase portable object 10 (e.g., with currency, such as digital and / or real currency). In one embodiment, user 50 can rent or temporarily use portable object 10, such as for a limited period of time while visiting an amusement park or passing through one of the park's attractions. Accordingly, user 50 can acquire and own one or more NFTs that are stored on distributed ledger 40 and accessible via user 50's digital wallet. In this manner, user 50 can collect one or more NFTs at various locations, exchange NFTs via NFT marketplace 58, and further acquire portable objects 10 that operate according to the NFTs owned by user 50.

[0030] In one embodiment, the one or more NFTs may include an accessory NFT, such as a skin, a tool, a clothing item, an image, or the like. Additionally, the interactive system 8 may include a fourth location 62 (e.g., a print shop) that may be located within or outside the amusement park. In operation, the user 50 may travel to the fourth location 62 and make a request to print a physical accessory 64 (e.g., a three-dimensional object) corresponding to a particular accessory NFT. For example, the user 50 may select a particular accessory NFT from their digital wallet (e.g., presented as an NFT library via an application on the user device 42) and make a request to print the physical accessory 64. The control system 52 may receive the request, such as through communication with the user device 42. The control system 52 may then send instructions to the printer 66 to print the physical accessory 64 corresponding to the particular accessory NFT. For example, the physical accessory 64 may be a green reptile skin corresponding to the accessory NFT or a red hat corresponding to the accessory NFT. It should be appreciated that requests and instructions to print physical accessory 64 may be provided to printer 66 via any suitable device and / or communications path.

[0031] The physical accessory 64 can be designed to be coupled to the portable object 10 (e.g., a green reptile skin sized to encase the portable object 10) or to be coupled to the user 50 (e.g., a red hat sized to be worn on the head of the user 50). In such cases, the request can include information about the portable object 10 and / or the user 50, and / or can be utilized by the printer 66, to customize the physical accessory 64. For example, the control system 52 can receive an accessory NFT and information indicating the type and / or size of the portable object 10 (e.g., a small winged creature, a large winged creature, a first type of wand, a second type of wand; via communication with the portable object 10 and / or via a user profile). The control system 52 can then instruct the printer 66 to print a physical accessory 64 with appropriate dimensions and features (e.g., a small size with two spaced apart openings to fit over the wings of the small winged creature, a large cylinder to encase the entire handle of the second type of wand).

[0032] In one embodiment, aspects may be automated for efficient processing and throughput for multiple users. For example, in response to control system 52 receiving an indication that user 50 has purchased or otherwise acquired portable object 10 (e.g., via communication with user device 42 synced with portable object 10; via a point-of-sale device at third location 60), control system 52 may access user 50's digital wallet to determine whether user 50 possesses an NFT suitable for supporting printing of a physical accessory 64 for portable object 10. Then, in response to determining that user 50 possesses at least one NFT suitable for supporting printing, control system 52 may direct printing of physical accessory 64 for portable object 10. Additionally or alternatively, control system 52 may direct notification that physical accessory 64 is available for printing and / or display of a map with directions to fourth location 62 via user device 42 in response to a request from the user.

[0033] The control system 52 may monitor one or more NFTs owned by the user 50 and handheld objects owned by the user 50, and then utilize and / or create a more immersive and engaging experience, such as by setting challenges for the user 50 to complete in order to qualify for a physical accessory 64. For example, the control system 52 may determine that the user 50 has a green skin accessory NFT and a small winged creature handheld object. The control system 52 may then notify the user 50 that upon completion of an attraction (e.g., a roller coaster), the user 50 is eligible to have the green skin printed as a physical accessory 64 for the small winged creature handheld object. Furthermore, upon detecting completion of the attraction (e.g., via communication with the user device 42 and / or handheld object 10 on the attraction's ride vehicle and / or at the exit of the attraction; via a sensor), the control system 52 may automatically initiate printing of the physical accessory 64 and / or display a notification that the physical accessory 64 is available for printing upon request from the user.

[0034] Control system 52 includes a processor 70, a memory device 72, and a communication device 74. Processor 70 may include any of the features of processor 14, memory device 72 may include any of the features of storage device 16, and communication device 74 may include any of the features of communication device 18. For example, memory device 72 may store processor-executable instructions, including firmware or software, for execution by processor 70, such as instructions for processing data from sensors, instructions for identifying locations and completed actions, and / or instructions for controlling printer 66. As shown, control system 52 may include, or be communicatively coupled to, one or more databases 76 that may store various types of data (e.g., user profiles).

[0035] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of a graphical user interface (GUI) 80 on a display screen 82 of a user device 42, where the GUI 80 presents a library of available NFTs and NFTs that can be used by the interactive system 8 of FIG. 1 to provide an immersive user experience. The GUI 80 can be presented on the display screen 82 of the user device 42 when the user scans in to a location, such as the first location 54 of FIG. 2 . The GUI 80 can inform the user that they are eligible to receive a particular NFT, and the GUI 80 can also include a selectable icon (e.g., “Mint as NFT”) to allow the user to accept and mint the particular NFT. In one embodiment, the user may pay a fee to mint a particular NFT, and / or the user may be allotted a limited number of NFTs per time period (e.g., 4 NFTs per day), so the user can choose to decline or mint the particular NFT. In either case, after a user selects a selectable icon to create a particular NFT, or after the process for creating a particular NFT is otherwise completed, the particular NFT is stored on the distributed ledger and made available via the user's digital wallet. The GUI 80 can then present the particular NFT in the NFT library to the user. As discussed herein, an NFT can include a data payload in the form of a particular code or algorithm. In some cases, the data payload can be included during the creation of the NFT (e.g., based on input from the user).

[0036] As shown, GUI 80 includes an NFT library, which provides information about NFTs in the user's digital wallet. For example, the NFT library may list NFTs owned by the user, including representative descriptions and / or images of audio profile NFTs, motion profile NFTs, and / or accessory NFTs. The NFT library may allow the user to select one or more NFTs. For example, the user may select one of the NFTs to transfer to a portable object. The portable object may then store and / or perform an action corresponding to the transferred NFT. In one embodiment, the portable object may perform an action corresponding to the transferred NFT upon receiving the transferred NFT and / or upon receiving input (e.g., via an input device of the portable object; via instructions from a control system; or according to a schedule / program stored in the portable object). It should be understood that GUI 80 is merely exemplary and that GUI 80 may omit certain information and / or include additional information. For example, the GUI 80 may provide an indication that the user device 42 has synchronized with the portable object, a map to a particular location with additional NFTs, and / or other information disclosed herein.

[0037] As discussed herein, the interactive system 8 may be utilized in an amusement park. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the interactive system 8 utilizing NFTs within an amusement park attraction 90 (e.g., second location 56 of FIG. 2 ). As shown, the amusement park attraction 90 is a ride attraction that includes a vehicle 92 configured to transport one or more users, such as user 50, along a path 94. However, it should be understood that the interactive system 8 may additionally or alternatively be implemented in any type of amusement park attraction, such as a walk-through attraction (e.g., without a ride vehicle), a conveyor attraction (e.g., with a conveyor that transports one or more users), a motion simulator attraction (e.g., with a stationary ride vehicle that transports one or more users), a recreational environment, a restaurant, a hotel, etc.

[0038] The interactive system 8 includes a control system 52 having a processor 70, a storage device 72, and a communication device 74. The interactive system 8 also includes one or more databases 76 for storing data, one or more display screens 96 for displaying images (e.g., scenes), and / or one or more props 98 (e.g., three-dimensional animated characters, robotic figures, and / or show objects). The control system 52 may include or be communicatively coupled to the one or more databases 76, the one or more display screens 96, and / or the one or more props 98. The interactive system 8 may also include one or more lights 100 for providing lighting effects and / or one or more speakers 102 for providing sound effects. The control system 52 may be communicatively coupled to the one or more lights 100 and / or the one or more speakers 102.

[0039] In one embodiment, one or more sensors 104 can collect sensor data and provide the sensor data to control system 52. Control system 52 can then process the sensor data to identify respective user profiles (e.g., user accounts) associated with one or more users (e.g., a user profile associated with user 50). Each user profile can include respective park visit history, transaction history, achievements and scores, digital wallet address, etc. As an example, user profile 50's user profile can enable control system 52 to access the digital wallet using the digital wallet address, identify that user 50 owns one or more NFTs in the digital wallet, and / or add additional NFTs to the digital wallet (e.g., create NFTs as user 50 moves through amusement park attraction 90). In such a case, one or more sensors 104 can be a camera, a facial recognition camera, a motion characteristic sensor, an identity sensor, a microphone, etc. One or more sensors 104 can detect one or more identifying characteristics of user 50, such as body temperature, gait, posture, facial structure, bone structure, speech, etc. One or more sensors 104 may be located at various locations within the amusement park attraction 90 .

[0040] Regardless of the technology used to identify that user 50 possesses one or more NFTs, interactive system 8 can use the one or more NFTs to provide entertainment to user 50 while user 50 is within amusement attraction 90. For example, control system 52 can direct one or more display screens 96 to display an animated character whose speech, movements, and / or appearance are based on user 50's one or more NFTs as user 50 moves through amusement attraction 90. Thus, the animated character may speak a phrase corresponding to a voice profile NFT (e.g., a unique phrase such as "Hello, my best friend Jane Smith") and perform a gesture corresponding to a motion profile NFT (e.g., a unique dance). Similarly, the animated character may have one or more accessories (e.g., green skin; visible accessories) corresponding to accessory NFTs.

[0041] Additionally or alternatively, the control system 52 may provide instructions to one or more props 98 to speak, move, and / or change their appearance based on one or more NFTs of the user 50 as the user 50 moves through the amusement park attraction 90. Thus, the one or more props 98 may speak phrases corresponding to the voice profile NFTs and perform gestures corresponding to the action profile NFTs. Similarly, the one or more props 98 may be modified to change their appearance to include one or more accessories corresponding to the accessory NFTs. It should be understood that the animated characters and the one or more props 98 may provide the same or different phrases, the same or different actions, and / or the same or different appearances based on any of the one or more NFTs of the user 50. For example, as user 50 moves through amusement park attraction 90, an animated character may perform a first gesture (e.g., a unique dance) based on a first NFT, one of props 98 may perform a second gesture (e.g., a unique handshake) based on a second NFT, and so on. Control system 52 may also trigger various other effects based on one or more NFTs owned by one or more users. For example, control system 52 may control lights 100, speakers 102, and / or display screen 96 to provide output based on one or more NFTs (e.g., characteristics of the NFTs) owned by user 50. Thus, a particular show (e.g., a unique show) may be performed at amusement park attraction 90 upon accessing the data payload of the NFT (e.g., only after accessing the data payload of the NFT). In this manner, interactive system 8 may provide an immersive and dynamic experience for one or more users.

[0042] As shown, a user 50 may carry a portable object 10 through an amusement park attraction 90. In such a case, both the in-attraction show effects (e.g., a display screen 96, one or more props 98, lights 100, speakers 102) and the portable object 10 may perform actions (e.g., simultaneously and / or in coordination) according to one or more NFTs possessed by the user 50. For example, the portable object 10 may perform an action corresponding to a motion NFT (e.g., a unique dance) and communicate completion of the action to the control system 52 (or this may be detected by the control system 52, such as through analysis of images captured by the sensor 104). The control system 52 may then instruct one of the props 98 to perform an action corresponding to the motion NFT (e.g., repeat the unique dance). As another example, to provide the effect of the portable object 10 and one of the props 98 interacting with each other (e.g., greeting each other via a unique handshake), the portable object 10 and one of the props 98 can be controlled to simultaneously perform an action corresponding to the action NFT (e.g., a unique handshake).

[0043] One or more NFTs may also be used in other ways to provide an immersive and dynamic experience. For example, as user 50 moves through amusement park attraction 90, user 50 may successfully complete experiences such as challenges, interactions with animated characters displayed on display screen 96, and / or interactions with one or more props 98. For example, user 50 may speak the correct keyword in response to a question posed by an animated character. Control system 52 may then unlock and / or create a new NFT for user 50, such as a new voice profile NFT corresponding to the spoken interaction (e.g., the question and response). It should be understood that the new voice profile NFT may encode only words and / or voice characteristics (e.g., such that, when repeated by portable object 10 upon transfer of the new voice profile NFT to portable object 10, at least a portion of the words sound as if spoken by the animated character). In one embodiment, the new voice profile NFT may encode a recording of the speech interaction (e.g., captured via a sensor 104, which may be a microphone; such that the user 50 can play the recording via the portable object 10 upon transfer of the new voice profile NFT to the portable object 10).

[0044] As another example, the user 50 may successfully perform a dance gesture imitating one of the props 98. The control system 52 may then unlock and / or create a new NFT for the user, such as a new movement profile NFT corresponding to the dance gesture. As another example, the user 50 may aim the portable object 10 to fire a virtual projectile from the portable object 10 to cause a virtual hit on a virtual target displayed on the display screen 96. In response, the control system 52 may unlock and / or create a new NFT for the user 50, such as a new accessory NFT having a color and / or other characteristics (e.g., pattern, texture, type) that match the virtual target. In either case, the new NFT may be transferred to the portable object 10, enabling the portable object 10 to perform an action based on the new NFT (e.g., the portable object 10 may output a question and response, perform a dance gesture, and / or light up to reflect the color of the accessory NFT). As described herein, a new accessory NFT can be accessed and used to print a physical accessory corresponding to the accessory NFT. For example, the physical accessory can be printed and / or otherwise provided to the user 50 upon completion (e.g., at or after) of the amusement park attraction 90. Furthermore, as described herein, the NFT can be considered a combination NFT that includes an audio profile, a motion profile, and / or digital artwork. It should be understood that as the user 50 moves through the amusement park attraction 90, the portable object 10, the user device 42, and the control system 52 may communicate with one another, thereby enabling access to and use of one or more NFTs to control show effects, the minting and transfer of any new NFTs to the portable object 10 during this time, and the like.

[0045] 5 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a method 110 for providing an immersive experience utilizing NFTs. Method 110 includes various steps, represented by blocks. Note that method 110 may be performed as an automated procedure by a system such as interactive system 8 of FIGS. 1, 2, and 4. While the flowchart illustrates steps in a particular order, it should be understood that steps may be performed in any suitable order, and that certain steps may be performed simultaneously, where appropriate. Additionally, certain steps or portions of method 110 may be performed by separate systems or devices.

[0046] In block 112, the system may identify NFTs owned by users of the amusement park attraction. The NFTs may be stored on a distributed ledger (e.g., a blockchain) and may be accessible via the user's digital wallet. For example, an application (e.g., a software application) on a user device (e.g., a mobile phone) associated with the user may include the user's digital wallet. As described herein, the system may utilize various techniques to identify NFTs owned by users of the amusement park attraction. For example, in some cases, the user may present a code (e.g., a quick response [QR] code, a barcode, an alphanumeric code) to a scanner (e.g., an imager or camera) of the system to enable the system to retrieve the user's digital wallet.

[0047] In block 114, the system can control show effects (e.g., scenes and / or animated characters on a display screen, one or more props, lights, sounds) of the amusement park attraction based on the NFT. For example, when a user device is carried to the amusement park attraction, the system can communicate with the user device (e.g., over a network, such as a wireless network) to access a digital wallet and identify that a user associated with the user device owns an NFT. The system can then instruct an output device to provide show effects according to the NFT (e.g., causing an animated character to speak according to the voice profile NFT, moving a prop according to the motion profile NFT, and / or illuminating lights in a color according to the accessory NFT).

[0048] In block 116, the system can control a portable object (e.g., a toy) carried by the user based on the NFT. For example, when the portable object is brought within proximity of the user device, the portable object can communicate with the user device (e.g., sync; over a network, such as a wireless network) to access a digital wallet and identify that the user associated with the user device owns the NFT. The system can then instruct an output device of the portable object to provide output according to the NFT (e.g., cause a speaker of the portable object to emit a sound according to the audio profile NFT, cause an actuator of the portable object to move according to the motion profile NFT, and / or cause a light on the portable object to illuminate a color according to the accessory NFT).

[0049] At block 118, the system may print or otherwise form or make available a physical accessory based on the NFT. The physical accessory may be designed to be coupled to a portable object, such as a skin sized to encase the portable object. In one embodiment, the physical accessory may be designed to be worn or carried by a user, such as a hat that fits the NFT and is designed to be worn by the user. It should be understood that method 110 may include any other features disclosed herein, including, for example, directing a user to a location to collect a new NFT.

[0050] The interactive systems disclosed herein can be configured to facilitate any of a variety of immersive experiences. For example, an amusement park or other entertainment venue can offer a unique (e.g., one-of-a-kind) experience, such as a unique dining experience (e.g., a “chef's table” experience) during which a restaurant / chef creates a unique menu (e.g., a list of courses, ingredients) for the user. The interactive system can create the unique menu as an NFT for the user (e.g., automatically at some point, such as upon completion of the meal, or upon confirmation by the user). Then, on a later visit to the restaurant, the user can present the NFT to allow the restaurant / chef to prepare a meal according to the unique menu. Furthermore, the user can sell or trade the NFT on an NFT marketplace. In this way, the user can find more value and / or entertainment in booking a “chef's table” experience, since they have a digital token commemorating the unique menu, can choose to dine on the unique menu again at a later date, and / or can share (e.g., sell or trade) the unique menu via the marketplace.

[0051] As another example, the interactive system may include a performance such as an unmanned aerial vehicle (e.g., drone) show, a fireworks show, a parade, and / or a play. In one embodiment, the interactive system may select one or more users (e.g., from among a number of users, such as all users in an amusement park) and use the one or more users' NFTs to control at least some aspects of the performance. The interactive system may select one or more users based on any of a variety of factors, such as a special day (e.g., birthday), the number of attractions visited in the amusement park during a certain period (e.g., the day before, the day), the number of points earned through interactions at one or more attractions in the amusement park, etc. The interactive system may randomly select one or more users (e.g., using a random selection generator).

[0052] In either case, once selected, the interactive system can access the digital wallets of one or more users and use the NFTs therein (e.g., the data payload of the NFTs) to control the performance. In one embodiment, the interactive system can provide notifications to one or more users (e.g., via their respective user devices) to allow the one or more users to opt in to participate in the performance and / or select specific NFTs to use in the performance. As an example, the interactive system can control the unmanned aerial vehicles to light up green to correspond to a green accessory NFT and / or emit a sound corresponding to an audio profile NFT as the unmanned aerial vehicles move in coordination to provide the performance (e.g., visible to multiple users, such as all users in the amusement park). Additionally or alternatively, the interactive system can control the unmanned aerial vehicles to fly in formation during the performance, generating a shape corresponding to a dragon NFT. In this way, the interactive system can encourage users to participate in specific activities within the amusement park (e.g., visiting an attraction to increase their chances of being selected for a performance, attending a performance), as well as provide additional entertainment while users wait for the performance. Additionally, using an NFT as part of a performance may increase the value of the NFT (e.g., NFTs used in a performance are deemed more valuable) and / or drive activity through the NFT marketplace (e.g., if a user wins, they visit the NFT marketplace and acquire the NFT they want to use in the performance). Similar effects can be provided through fireworks (e.g., the colors and / or sounds of fireworks played during a performance based on the NFT) and parades and plays (e.g., the costumes worn by performers, the sounds played during a performance, the phrases spoken by performers, and / or the gestures made by performers based on the NFT).

[0053] Advantageously, embodiments of the present invention store data as an NFT, which is unique and verifiable. Advantageously, embodiments of the present invention store data as an NFT, which is unique and verifiable. It should be understood that the control system can employ and utilize stored data not stored as an NFT, such as images, motion profiles, and / or sound profiles stored in association with a user in a storage device of a computer system within an amusement park, a cloud computer system, a remote computer system, a morphological object, or other suitable device or system (e.g., a lookup table). For example, a user can gain access to an image by scanning a code at a location within the amusement park, and the image is added to their user profile. Then, upon scanning a unique identifier or otherwise identifying themselves within the amusement park attraction, the control system can determine that the user has obtained (or otherwise has or is associated with) the image. Indeed, any of the examples and embodiments disclosed herein by reference to an NFT can be used for other images, motion profiles, and / or sound profiles (e.g., non-NFTs).

[0054] It should be understood that any of the features shown or described with reference to Figures 1-5 may be combined in any suitable manner. Furthermore, a portable toy may have any of the features of a user device (e.g., a portable toy may be configured to perform operations described herein as being performed by a user device, such as storing the address of a digital wall and / or presenting an NFT library for selection by a user). 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 should therefore be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes that fall within the true spirit of the present disclosure.

[0055] The technology presented and claimed herein refers to and applies to specific examples of a tangible and practical nature that clearly improve the art of the present invention, and as such is not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Furthermore, to the extent any claim appended hereto includes one or more elements designated as "means for performing a function" or "steps for performing a function," such elements are intended to be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f). However, for any claim including elements designated in any other manner, such elements shall not be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f). [Explanation of symbols]

[0056] 8 Interactive Systems 10 Portable Objects 12 Computer Systems 14 processors 16 Memory Devices 18. Communication Devices 20 Actuator 22 Light-emitting organ 24 speakers 26 Input Devices

Claims

1. 1. An interactive system comprising: one or more processors; a memory storing instructions executable by said one or more processors; Equipped with The instructions executable by the one or more processors include: Identifying one or more non-fungible tokens (NFTs) owned by the user; providing control signals to one or more output devices of the portable object based on the one or more NFTs; causing the one or more processors to execute The one or more output devices comprise an actuator configured to drive movement of at least a portion of the portable object, a speaker configured to output sound, a light configured to emit light, or any combination thereof.

2. The interactive system of claim 1 , wherein the instructions are executable by the one or more processors to cause the one or more processors to identify the one or more NFTs owned by the user via communication with a user device carried by the user.

3. The interactive system of claim 1 , wherein the portable object is a portable toy configured to be carried by the user.

4. The interactive system of claim 1 , wherein the instructions are executable by the one or more processors to cause the one or more processors to provide a control signal to the actuator for driving movement of at least a portion of the portable object based on the one or more NFTs.

5. The interactive system of claim 1 , wherein the instructions are executable by the one or more processors to cause the one or more processors to provide control signals to the speakers to output sound based on the one or more NFTs.

6. The interactive system of claim 1 , wherein the instructions are executable by the one or more processors to cause the one or more processors to provide control signals to cause the lighting to emit light based on the one or more NFTs.

7. The interactive system of claim 1 , wherein the instructions are executable by the one or more processors to cause the one or more processors to instruct a printer to print a physical accessory of the portable object based on the one or more NFTs.

8. The interactive system of claim 1 , wherein the instructions are executable by the one or more processors to cause the one or more processors to output a notification to a user device carried by the user directing the user to travel to a location to obtain at least one additional NFT.

9. The interactive system of claim 1 , wherein the instructions are executable by the one or more processors to cause the one or more processors to provide control signals to attraction light emitters, attraction speakers, or both within an amusement park attraction based on the one or more NFTs.

10. 2. The interactive system of claim 1, wherein the instructions are executable by the one or more processors to cause the one or more processors to select the user from the plurality of users based on the performance of each of the plurality of users before identifying the one or more NFTs owned by the user.

11. The interactive system of claim 10 , wherein the portable object comprises an unmanned aerial vehicle.

12. The interactive system of claim 1 , wherein the instructions are executable by the one or more processors to cause the one or more processors to synchronize the portable object with the user device of the user when the portable object is within range of the user device thereby identifying the one or more NFTs owned by the user.

13. The interactive system of claim 1 , wherein the instructions are executable by the one or more processors to cause the one or more processors to provide an NFT market and facilitate transfer of the one or more NFTs to other users.

14. 1. An interactive system comprising: one or more processors; a memory storing instructions executable by said one or more processors; Equipped with The instructions executable by the one or more processors include: Identifying when a user has completed a journey; In response to identifying completion of the experience, create the experience as a non-fungible token (NFT) for the user; providing control signals to one or more output devices of the portable object based on the NFT; The interactive system causes the one or more processors to execute the above steps.

15. 15. The interactive system of claim 14, wherein the one or more output devices comprise an actuator for driving movement of at least a portion of the portable object, a speaker for providing sound, a light emitter for emitting light, or any combination thereof.

16. 15. The interactive system of claim 14, wherein the instructions are executable by the one or more processors to cause the one or more processors to determine that the user has completed the experience upon detection of a verbal interaction between the user and an element at the amusement park attraction, a gesture performed at the amusement park attraction, or an interaction with a target at the amusement park attraction.

17. The interactive system of claim 14 , wherein the portable object is a portable toy configured to be carried by the user.

18. 1. A method of operating an interactive system, comprising: Identifying, with one or more processors, one or more non-fungible tokens (NFTs) owned by a user; providing, with the one or more processors, control signals to one or more output devices of a portable object based on the one or more NFTs; Including, Providing the control signal to the one or more output devices comprises: providing said control signal to an actuator to move at least a portion of said portable object; providing the control signal to a speaker to output sound; providing said control signal to a light emitter to emit light; or a combination thereof, A method comprising:

19. determining, with the one or more processors, that the user has completed an experience; using the one or more processors to generate the experience as one of the one or more NFTs; 20. The method of claim 18, comprising:

20. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein determining that the user has completed the experience includes detecting a verbal interaction between the user and an element at the amusement park attraction, a gesture performed at the amusement park attraction, or an interaction with a target at the amusement park attraction.

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