System and method for deploying and resetting show elements

Abstract

The display system 8 includes a rotating beam assembly 10 having a rotating beam 28, a first track 60, a second track 62, and one or more motors 24. The display system 8 further includes a first display element 20 coupled to the first track 60 so as to be translatable along the first track 60, and a second display element 22 coupled to the second track 62 so as to be translatable along the second track 62. The display system 8 further includes a controller 14 communicatively coupled to the rotating beam assembly 10 and configured to supply control signals to the one or more motors 24 to rotate the rotating beam 28 to rotate the first display element 20 from the display positions 70, 75 to the reset positions 71, 74 and to rotate the second display element 22 from the reset positions 71, 74 to the display positions 70, 75.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] [Cross - Reference to Related Applications] This application claims priority and the benefit thereof to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 350,556, entitled "SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DEPLOYING AND RESETTING SHOW ELEMENTS", filed on June 9, 2022, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

Background Art

[0002] This section is for introducing readers to various aspects of technologies that may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure. This discussion is considered to be helpful in showing readers the background circumstances and facilitating a better understanding of various aspects of the present disclosure. Therefore, these descriptions should not be construed as admitting prior art, but should be understood to be read from the above perspective.

[0003] Amusement parks generally include attractions that provide various experiences for amusement park guests. For example, an amusement park can include different attractions such as roller coasters, drop towers, and log flumes. Some attractions can include show elements (e.g., animated props) that move within a show space.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] Some embodiments within the same scope as the subject matter of the original claims are summarized below. These embodiments do not limit the scope of the present disclosure, but rather merely show an overview of some disclosed embodiments. In fact, the present disclosure can include various forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments shown below.

[0005] In one embodiment, the show system includes a rotating beam assembly having a rotating beam, a first track, a second track, and one or more motors. The show system further includes a first show element coupled to the first track so as to be translatable along the first track, and a second show element coupled to the second track so as to be translatable along the second track. The show system further includes a controller communicatively coupled to the rotating beam assembly and configured to supply control signals to the one or more motors to translate the first show element along the first track in a first direction while the first show element is in a show position to present respective movement profiles within a scene. The controller is also configured to supply control signals to the one or more motors to rotate the rotating beam to rotate the first show element from the show position to a reset position and to rotate the second show element from the reset position to the show position. The controller is further configured to supply control signals to the one or more motors to translate the second show element along the second track in the first direction while the second show element is in the show position to present respective movement profiles within a scene.

[0006] In one embodiment, a method of operating a show system includes, via one or more motors, translating a first show element in a first direction along a first track coupled to a rotating beam while the first show element is in a show position to present respective movement profiles to one or more guests within a first vehicle. The method also includes rotating the rotating beam via the one or more motors to rotate the first show element from the show position to a reset position and to rotate a second show element from the reset position to the show position. The method further includes, via the one or more motors, translating a second show element in the first direction along a second track while the second show element is in the show position to present respective movement profiles to one or more additional guests within a second vehicle.

[0007] In one embodiment, the show system includes a rotating beam assembly including a rotating beam, a first track disposed on a first side of the rotating beam, a second track disposed on a second side of the rotating beam, and one or more motors configured to cause rotation of the rotating beam. The show system further includes a first show element coupled to the first track so as to be translatable along the first track and a second show element coupled to the second track so as to be translatable along the second track. The show system further includes a controller configured to supply control signals to the one or more motors to rotate the rotating beam to alternately present the first show element and the second show element within a scene.

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

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

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[0010] Hereinafter, one or more specific embodiments will be described. For the sake of brevity in describing these embodiments, not all implementation features are described herein. It should be understood that in any such implementation development in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve a developer's specific objectives, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints that may vary depending on the implementation. Further, although such development efforts can be complex and time-consuming, they are understood to be routine endeavors of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those skilled in the art who benefit from the present disclosure.

[0011] When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present disclosure, articles such as "a", "an", "the", and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or two or three or more of these elements. The terms "comprising", "including", and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that additional elements other than the recited elements may exist.

[0012] Entertainment systems, such as those typically provided in amusement parks, often employ show elements (e.g., animatronic props) that move within a show space. Currently, it is recognized as desirable to improve the control of show elements such that they move in a manner that enables the efficient deployment of the animation (e.g., such that as guests move along a path, guests moving in a closely spaced line can each observe the complete movement profile of a show element). The present disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for deploying and resetting show elements. These systems and methods can be implemented within an amusement park, such as within an amusement park attraction. However, the systems and methods can also be implemented in any suitable venue (e.g., an entertainment venue or a show venue). It should be understood that show elements can include props (e.g., actual physical elements) coupled to show action equipment (SAE). The SAE can include devices and structures configured to move the show elements (e.g., within an attraction). For example, the SAE can include beams, tracks, and actuators that cause the movement of show elements to form a show (e.g., a visual show) for guests (e.g., visitors, users, customers).

[0013] As described above, it is now recognized that it is desirable to improve the movement of show elements so that a guest can observe the complete movement profile of the show elements as the guest moves along the path. As a result, the guest can experience an immersive and engaging story progression as they move along the path. For example, some vehicle attractions can carry guests within the vehicle along the path. Specifically, some vehicle attractions can carry guests within a series of vehicle vehicles along the path (e.g., sequentially). Each vehicle in the series of vehicle vehicles can contact a scene (e.g., one or more show elements) over a certain time period (e.g., show beat, about 60 seconds, 30 seconds, 20 seconds, 10 seconds, 9 seconds, 8 seconds, 7 seconds, 6 seconds, or 5 seconds or less) along the path. For example, the first vehicle in a series of vehicle vehicles can enter a room along the path, move through the interior along the path, and then exit the room along the path. Next, the second vehicle adjacent to the first vehicle in the series of vehicle vehicles can enter the room along the path, move through the interior along the path, and then exit the room along the path. In any case, each vehicle (e.g., the first vehicle and the second vehicle, etc.) is present in the interior containing the show elements and / or positioned to view the show elements over a time period. This time period can vary with and / or be based on the moving speed of each vehicle and / or the length of the path through the room (or other space containing the show elements).

[0014] The systems and methods disclosed herein can advantageously control the SAE to cause the show element to complete and reset a motion profile (e.g., a show) over a time period. For example, if this time period is 7 seconds, the SAE causes the show element to complete the motion profile for a guest in a first vehicle and reset before a guest in a second vehicle contacts the show element. Thus, the guest can view the motion profile (e.g., the entire motion profile) from start to finish while contacting the show element. Without embodiments of the present disclosure, the guest may only be able to view a portion of the motion profile due to limited time constraints of some attractions (e.g., rides) and / or may view the end before the start portion. For example, without embodiments of the present disclosure, the guest in the first vehicle may not have enough time to view the end of the motion profile and / or the second vehicle may view the end of the motion profile before the start portion of the motion profile. By operating the SAE and the show element such that the guest views the motion profile as disclosed herein, it becomes possible to present a story progression to the guest (e.g., the show element presents a story where each motion profile is completed from start to finish in each scene / room as the guest moves along the path). Further, the present embodiments prevent the guest in the vehicle from observing a reset phase that takes the guest out of the immersive experience without introducing a delay for the purpose of reset.

[0015] Specifically, the systems and methods disclosed herein include a controller, a rotating beam assembly, and show elements coupled to the rotating beam assembly (such as two show elements that are replicas of each other, identical to each other, and / or shaped and designed to be perceived as being the same or replicas of each other by a guest). The rotating beam assembly can include a rotating beam, a first track that supports a first show element of the show elements, and a second track that supports a second show element of the show elements. The first track and the second track are disposed on different sides, such as opposite sides of the rotating beam. Further, the rotating beam assembly can include one or more motors (such as electric motors) that cause movement of the first show element along the first track and movement of the second show element along the second track. The one or more motors can also cause rotation of the rotating beam assembly.

[0016] During operation, the controller sends control signals to one or more motors to drive a first show element along a first track to complete respective motion profiles visible to guests of a first vehicle, while resetting a second show element. Thereafter, the controller sends control signals to one or more motors to drive a second show element along a second track to complete respective motion profiles visible to guests of a second vehicle, while resetting the first show element. Thus, the system and method effectively (e.g., from 14 seconds to 7 seconds) halves the run-reset time provided for each show element to complete its motion profile and reset before the next motion profile. Further, the time saved by this efficiency can be converted to be used to provide a more fulfilling observation event without taking away precious ride time. For example, by such increased efficiency, an enhanced guest experience can be provided by increasing the visible execution time for each show element to complete an observable motion profile within the guest's field of view. For example, the system and method can enable the first show element to start its motion profile when the first vehicle enters the room and end its motion profile when the first vehicle leaves the room, and enable the second show element to start its motion profile when the second vehicle enters the room and end its motion profile when the second vehicle leaves the room, rather than spending several seconds to start the reset when the first vehicle leaves the room and / or the second vehicle enters the room.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an embodiment of an amusement park ride system 8 (e.g., a show system). The amusement park ride system 8 includes a rotating beam assembly 10 (e.g., a show action element [SAE] assembly), one or more sensors 12, and a controller 14 having a processor 16 and a memory device 18. The rotating beam assembly 10 is coupled to a plurality of show elements such as a first show element 20 and a second show element 22. The first show element 20 and the second show element 22 can be props such as an animation figure, a robot, a tool, or an object (e.g., an actual physical element). The first show element 20 and the second show element 22 can be replicas of each other (e.g., to provide a consistent show or story), or can be different from each other (e.g., to provide different shows or stories). The rotating beam assembly 10 includes one or more motors 24 and a rotating beam 28, and the one or more motors 24 cause rotation of the rotating beam 28. As will be described in more detail herein, the rotating beam 28 includes a track (e.g., a first track and a second track that are present on different sides such as opposite sides of the rotating beam 28), or can be coupled to such a track, and one or more motors 26 are configured to cause movement of the first show element 20 and the second show element 22 along the track (e.g., the first track and the second track respectively). Examples of the track will be illustrated and described with reference to FIGS. 3-7.

[0018] Further, the amusement park ride system 8 includes a plurality of ride vehicles such as a first ride vehicle 30, a second ride vehicle 32, and a third ride vehicle 34. Each of the plurality of ride vehicles can carry one or more guests, and the plurality of ride vehicles move along a path 36 (e.g., a ride path or track). The path 36 can be a continuous loop and / or can include a boarding / alighting station. For example, the path 36 can include a boarding station where guests board a plurality of ride vehicles, a ride portion that includes a plurality of different scenes (e.g., separate rooms or sections) that present each show element to form a story progression, and an alighting station where guests disembark from the plurality of ride vehicles.

[0019] The plurality of vehicle carriages can move along path 36 according to a programmed speed setting and / or at regular intervals, but can also move along path 36 in other ways (e.g., via driving control by one or more guests within the plurality of vehicle carriages). Each guest in each of the plurality of vehicle carriages can be in contact with a specific scene (e.g., a room, a part of path 36) over a continuous or sequential time period (e.g., a show beat, a known time, a time of about 60 seconds, 30 seconds, 20 seconds, 10 seconds, 9 seconds, 8 seconds, 7 seconds, 6 seconds, or 5 seconds or less). For example, when the plurality of vehicle carriages are moving along path 36, the first vehicle carriage 30 can be arranged so that its guest can view a specific scene over a time period, then the second vehicle carriage 32 can be arranged so that its guest can view a specific scene over a time period, and then the third vehicle carriage 34 can be arranged so that its guest can view a specific scene over a time period, and the same can be done for other vehicle carriages. Note that the waiting time of the vehicle carriages can be such that while one vehicle carriage is arranged so that its guest can view a specific scene over one time period, all other vehicle carriages are arranged away from the specific scene and / or coordinated so that the guests of all other vehicle carriages cannot view the show elements. In one embodiment, the plurality of vehicle carriages can also be arranged so that their guests can view a specific scene over one time period, but at least one other vehicle carriage is arranged away from the specific scene and / or its guest cannot view the show elements. In any case, the plurality of vehicle carriages can thus move to a plurality of different scenes and follow the story development by viewing the respective show elements in each of the plurality of different scenes during the ride portion. Further, in some embodiments, when a guest passes through the viewing area of a show element within a vehicle carriage, environmental features (e.g., a tunnel or a wall) or a part of the vehicle carriage (e.g., a high-back seat) can block further viewing of the scene, further enhancing the immersion in the narrative.

[0020] The sensors 12 and one or more motors 24, 26 are communicatively coupled to the controller 14 (e.g., via a wired or wireless connection). In one embodiment, the first show element 20 and the second show element 22 can be communicatively coupled to the controller 14 (e.g., via a wired or wireless connection). In one embodiment, a plurality of vehicle vehicles can be communicatively coupled to the controller 14 (e.g., via a wired or wireless connection).

[0021] In one embodiment, the sensor 12 can be used to detect the position of each of a plurality of ride vehicles. For example, the sensor 12 can detect each of the plurality of ride vehicles when entering a particular scene (e.g., a particular scene including the show elements 20, 22) and / or when exiting a particular scene (e.g., a particular scene including the show elements 20, 22). The sensor 12 can include a motion sensor, a position sensor, an optical sensor, a camera, and / or any other suitable type of sensor configured to detect the position of each of the plurality of ride vehicles. The sensor 12 can be disposed along the path 36 (e.g., attached to the floor or wall along the path 36) and / or attached to each of the plurality of ride vehicles. The sensor 12 transmits a signal indicating the position of each of the plurality of ride vehicles to the controller 14, and the controller 14 can initiate other actions based on the signal (e.g., in response to a signal indicating that one of the plurality of ride vehicles has entered the scene and / or is within a threshold distance of the show elements 20, 22). It should be understood that the sensor 12 can also be used to detect the respective characteristics (e.g., position, gesture, facial features) of the first show element 20, the second element 22, the guest, and / or other components within the scene in addition to or instead of this. Further, it should be understood that the position of each of the plurality of ride vehicles can be detected and / or the motion profile can be triggered without using the sensor 12. For example, in one embodiment, the controller 14 can receive the programmed and / or current timing inputs (e.g., moving speed, interval, start / stop time) of the plurality of ride vehicles and operate the rotating beam assembly 10 based on the timing inputs to present a motion profile to the guests within each of the plurality of ride vehicles. In one embodiment, the controller 14 can cooperatively control the plurality of ride vehicles and the rotating beam assembly 10 to present a motion profile to each of the respective guests within the plurality of ride vehicles.

[0022] As described above, the first show element 20 and the second show element 22 can be communicatively coupled to the controller 14. The first show element 20 and the second show element 22 can have controllable features such as (single or plural) servo motors and / or (single or plural) actuators that move one part relative to another part (e.g., move a wing relative to a body), light emitters that emit light, and / or speakers that emit sound. Accordingly, the controller 14 can supply control signals for controlling the controllable features of the first show element 20 and the second show element 22 when the first show element 20 and the second show element 22 are moving within the scene (e.g., moving along the rotating beam 28). Further, the controller 14 can control other components within the scene, such as light emitters and / or speakers mounted on the wall, to coordinate the output of light and sound when a movement profile is presented to each guest in each of the plurality of vehicle vehicles.

[0023] The controller 14 can include a processor 16 and a memory device 18. The processor 16 can include one or more processors and can supply control signals to specific controllable components (e.g., one or more motors 24, 26, show elements, and / or a vehicle). The processor 16 can receive inputs such as inputs from the sensor 12 and supply control signals to the controllable components in response to the inputs. The memory device 18 can include one or more tangible non-transitory computer-readable media that store instructions executable by the processor 16. The memory device 18 can store a time period, a motion profile, etc., so that preferred operations regarding the presentation of the story development in the scene can be automatically executed via the processor 16 regardless of whether or not the operations are monitored by an operator (e.g., a human operator). The memory device 18 can include a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), rewritable non-volatile memory such as flash memory, a hard drive, and / or an optical disk, etc. Also, the processor 16 can include one or more general-purpose microprocessors, one or more application-specific processors (ASICs), one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or any combination thereof. The controller 14 can also include components for an operator to interact with the amusement ride system 8 via a display panel and / or an input / output device, etc. (e.g., checking operation parameters, inputting desired operation parameters, checking error logs and past operations).

[0024] FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a process 50 for deploying and resetting show elements 20, 22 of the amusement ride system 8 of FIG. 1. The process 50 can be executed by any suitable device such as the processor 16. In some embodiments, the process 50 can be implemented by using the processor 16 to execute instructions stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium such as the memory device 18. Although the process 50 is described using blocks in a particular order, it should be understood that the present disclosure also contemplates the execution of the blocks in a different order, the omission of particular blocks, and / or the addition of further blocks.

[0025] In block 52, the processor 16 supplies a control signal for rotating the rotary beam 28 to move the first show element 20 to the initial show position and move the second show element 22 to the initial reset position to one or more motors 24. As described herein, the first show element 20 can be coupled (e.g., slidably coupled) to a first track disposed on the first side of the rotary beam 28 such that the first show element 20 can translate (e.g., slide) along the first track, and the second show element 22 can be coupled (e.g., slidably coupled) to a second track disposed on the second side of the rotary beam 28 (e.g., the second side of the rotary beam 28 can be opposite the first side of the rotary beam 28) such that the second show element 22 can translate (e.g., slide) along the second track. Accordingly, when the rotary beam 28 rotates, both the first show element 20 and the second show element 22 move. Note that the initial show positions of the first show element 20 or the second show element 22 are basically the respective starting positions from which the respective elements 20, 22 can be seen presented along their respective first or second tracks. The first show element 20 or the second show element 22 can rotate from the final reset position to the initial show position when the rotary beam 28 rotates. That is, after each show element 20, 22 has completed its reset transition (e.g., crossed its respective track disposed on the back side of the rotary beam 28), it rotates to the initial show position and then crosses its respective track (e.g., the track disposed on the front side of the beam) to become visible to the guest.

[0026] In block 54, the processor 16 supplies a control signal (e.g., a command or instruction) for moving the first show element 20 along the first track to present a motion profile to one or more guests within the first vehicle 30. For example, the first show element 20 can move from an initial show position (where the rotating beam 28 rotates to make the motion profile visible to the guests) along the first track towards the first vehicle 30 to present a motion profile to one or more guests within the first vehicle 30 and then proceed to a final show position on the first track. As the processor 16 supplies a control signal for moving the first show element 20 from the initial show position to the final show position, it can also supply a control signal for moving the second show element 22 from an initial reset position on the second track to a final reset position on the second track that is out of the field of view at the current rotational position of the rotating beam 28 (e.g., simultaneously). In this way, the first show element 20 can present a motion profile while the second show element 22 is completing a reset process.

[0027] In block 56, the processor 16 supplies a control signal to one or more motors 24 to rotate the rotating beam 28 such that the second track is visible to the guest and the first track is not visible to the guest. As a result, the first show element 20 moves to the initial reset position (from the final show position), and the second show element 22 moves to the initial show position (from the final reset position). In block 58, the processor 16 supplies a control signal to move the second show element 22 along the second track to present a motion profile to one or more guests in the second vehicle 32. For example, the second show element 22 can move from the initial show position (where the rotating beam 28 rotates to make the motion profile visible to the guest) along the second track towards the second vehicle 32 to present a motion profile to one or more guests in the second vehicle 32. As described herein, the rotation of the rotating beam 28 and / or the movement of the show elements 20, 22 relative to the rotating beam 28 can be coordinated with the movement of the plurality of vehicles such that a motion profile (e.g., a complete motion profile from start to finish) is presented to each guest in the plurality of vehicles as those guests move through the scene.

[0028] Figures 3 to 7 show some embodiments of a part of the amusement ride system 8 of FIG. 1 at different times in the process 50 of FIG. 2. Specifically, FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a part of the amusement ride system 8 in which the first show element 20 is in the initial show position 70. The first show element 20 can be present at the first end (e.g., the end portion) of the first track 60 coupled to the rotating beam 28 when it is in the initial show position 70. Also, when the first show element 20 is in the initial show position 70, the second show element 22 is in the initial reset position 71. The second show element 22 can be present at the second end (e.g., the end portion) of the second track 62 coupled to the rotating beam 28 when it is in the initial reset position 71. As shown, the first track 60 is on the first side of the rotating beam 28, and the second track 62 is on the second side of the rotating beam 28 opposite to the first side of the rotating beam 28. The first end of the first track 60 is close to the first end 61 (e.g., the end portion) of the rotating beam 28, and the second end of the second track 62 is close to the second end 63 (e.g., the end portion) of the rotating beam 28. Similarly, the first end (e.g., the end portion) of the second track 62 is close to the first end 61 of the rotating beam 28, and the second end (e.g., the end portion) of the first track 60 is close to the second end 63 of the rotating beam 28. As shown, the rotating beam 28 is configured to rotate about its rotation axis 64.

[0029] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a portion of an amusement ride system 8 that executes a motion profile in which a first show element 20 is present at a show position 72 (e.g., a show side, a show position, or a show area), travels along a first track 60, and can be part of a story progression presented within a scene. When the first show element 20 is present at the show position 72 and travels along the first track 60 to execute the motion profile (e.g., traversing the first track 60 in a first direction toward a second end 63 of the rotating beam 28), a second show element 22 is present at a reset position 73 (e.g., a reset side, a reset position, or a reset area) and travels along a second track 62 (e.g., traversing the second track 62 in a second direction opposite the first direction toward a first end 61 of the rotating beam 28) to execute a reset process. Generally, the reset process transports the second show element 22 toward a final reset position 74 (and similarly toward an initial show position 70), preparing the second show element 22 to execute a motion profile at a later time (e.g., for a next vehicle after the first show element 20 has completed its motion profile). When the first show element 20 travels along the first track 60 to execute the motion profile and the second show element 22 travels along the second track 62 to execute the reset process, the first show element 20 and the second show element 22 can pass under / over each other. In one embodiment, the rotating beam 28 rotates back and forth (e.g., about 10 - 90 degrees, about 20 - 60 degrees, or about 30 - 45 degrees, side to side, in first and second rotational directions) along its axis of rotation 64 as indicated by arrow 66 so that the first show element 20 rocks back and forth (the second show element 22 also rocks but is not visible to guests) as it travels along the first track 60, thereby enhancing the motion effect.

[0030] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the amusement ride system 8 during rotation of the rotating beam 28. When the rotating beam 28 rotates in a first rotational direction represented by arrow 68 about the axis of rotation 64, the first show element 20 and the first track 60 rotate in the first rotational direction about the axis of rotation 64. On the other hand (e.g., simultaneously), when the rotating beam 28 rotates in the first rotational direction about the axis of rotation 64, the second show element 22 and the second track 62 also rotate in the first rotational direction about the axis of rotation 64. In one embodiment, the rotation of the rotating beam 28 (e.g., the rotation that moves the first show element 20 from the final show position 75 to the initial reset position 71 and moves the second show element 22 from the final reset position 74 to the initial show position 70) is performed after the first show element 20 has completed its motion profile, after the second show element 22 has completed its reset process, after the first show element 20 has reached the second end of the first track 60 (proximate to the second end 63 of the rotating beam 28), after the second show element 22 has reached the first end of the second track 62 (proximate to the first end 61 of the rotating beam 28), after the first show element 20 has stopped sliding along the first track 60, and / or after the second show element 22 has stopped translating along the second track 62. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the rotation of the rotating beam 28 (e.g., the rotation that moves the first show element 20 from the final show position 75 to the initial reset position 71 and moves the second show element 22 from the final reset position 74 to the initial show position 70) can be performed while the first show element 20 is translating along the first track 60 and / or while the second show element 22 is translating along the second track 62.

[0031] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portion of an amusement ride system 8 in which a second show element 22 is in an initial show position 70. The second show element 22 can be at the first end of a second track 62 (proximate the first end 61 of the rotating beam 28) when in the initial show position 70. Also, when the second show element 22 is in the initial show position 70, the first show element 20 is in an initial reset position 71. The first show element 20 can be at the second end of a first track 60 (proximate the second end 63 of the rotating beam 28) when in the initial reset position 71. To transition from FIG. 5 to FIG. 6, the rotating beam 28 can rotate about a rotation axis 64 (e.g., about 45 to 180 degrees, about 60 to 120 degrees, about 90 to 180 degrees, about 90 degrees, or about 180 degrees about the rotation axis 64).

[0032] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a part of a theme park ride system 8 that executes a motion profile in which a second show element 22 is present at a show position 72 and travels along a second track 62 and can be part of a story progression presented within a scene. When the second show element 22 is present at the show position 72 and travels along the second track 62 to execute the motion profile (e.g., traversing the second track 62 in a first direction toward a second end 63 of the rotating beam 28), the first show element 20 is at a reset position 73 and travels along the first track 60 (e.g., traversing the first track 60 in a second direction opposite to the first direction toward a first end 61 of the rotating beam 28) to execute a reset process that transports the first show element 20 to a final reset position 74 (and similarly toward an initial show position 70). The reset process also prepares the first show element to execute the motion profile at a later time (e.g., for the next vehicle after the second show element 22 has completed the motion profile). The second show element 22 and the first show element 20 can pass under / over each other when the second show element 22 travels along the second track 62 to execute the motion profile and the first show element 20 travels along the first track 60 to execute the reset process. In one embodiment, a motion effect can be added by rotating the rotating beam 28 back and forth along its axis of rotation 64 such that the second show element 20 rocks back and forth as indicated by arrow 66 when traveling along the second track 62 (the first show element 22 also rocks but is not visible to the guest).

[0033] As shown in FIGS. 3-7, the show elements 20, 22 can be slidably coupled to the tracks 60, 62 via respective sliding platforms (e.g., rolling bogies or brackets) that travel along the tracks 60, 62. Each sliding platform can be considered part of the rotating beam assembly 10, and the show elements 20, 22 can be removably coupled to connection points on their respective sliding platforms. For example, the first show element 20 can be connected to the first sliding platform (e.g., via a fastener such as a hook or clip), and the first sliding platform can convey the first show element 20 along the first track 60 as described herein. Similarly, the second show element 22 can be connected to the second sliding platform (e.g., via a fastener such as a hook or clip), and the second sliding platform can convey the second show element 20 along the second track 62 as described herein. This configuration can enable the show elements 20, 22 to be efficiently exchanged with other show elements for changes in the story development and / or maintenance operations (e.g., repairing components of the show elements 20, 22). Also, it should be understood that the rotating beam 28 disclosed herein can have any suitable shape (e.g., a linear beam, a curved beam, or any beam having linear and curved portions, and any cross-sectional shape such as an I-shape, circular, rectangular, truss cross-section, or any combination thereof). Further, the rotating beam assembly 10 can also include other forms and / or components that allow the show elements 20, 22 to cross the rotating beam 28 (e.g., in the reverse direction) in the form disclosed herein. For example, the rotating beam assembly 10 can include a pulley system (e.g., cables and pulleys) that causes the movement of the show elements 20, 22, a bogie system (e.g., bogies that move along the tracks 60, 62) that causes the movement of the show elements 20, 22, and the like.

[0034] It should be understood that the rotating beam assembly 10 and the show elements 20, 22 can be arranged to present one of the show elements 20, 22 to each guest of a plurality of respective passenger vehicles moving along the path 36. For example, the rotating beam assembly 10 having the show elements 20, 22 can be suspended from the ceiling or supported on another surface within the scene (e.g., the floor or wall). In this way, when the first show element 20 is executing a movement profile, each guest of the first passenger vehicle 30 can view the first show element 20, and then when the second show element 22 is executing a movement profile, each guest of the second passenger vehicle 32 can view the second show element 22, and then when the first show element 20 is executing a movement profile, each guest of the third passenger vehicle 33 can view the first show element 20, and this is repeated. Thus, while one show element present at the show position is visible to each guest within the (single or plural) passenger vehicle(s) within the scene, the other show element present at the reset position is not visible to each guest within the (single or plural) passenger vehicle(s) within the scene (or can be made not visible to any passenger vehicle within the amusement ride system 8). For example, the other show element present at the reset position can be hidden from view by the ceiling or other structure. It should be understood that the other show element present at the reset position can also be made visible to each guest within the (single or plural) passenger vehicle(s) within the scene or to other guests (who can be present within the (single or plural) passenger vehicle(s)) within another scene. For example, the other show element can be made visible to other guests being carried by the (single or plural) other passenger vehicles through another scene of the attraction. It should be understood that the show elements 20, 22 can be visible throughout the entire movement along their respective tracks 60, 62 or only during a part of the movement along their respective tracks 60, 62. For example, the show elements 20, 22 can be visible or not visible at the initial show position. As another example, the show elements 20, 22 can be visible or not visible when starting to rotate to the initial reset position.

[0035] As described herein, each show element 20, 22 (e.g., a mechanical butterfly) can include one or more actuators that cause movement of a portion of the show elements 20, 22 (e.g., mechanical wings) to enhance the guest experience. For example, by sliding a mechanical butterfly along an orbit, it can be made to appear as if the butterfly is flying towards the guest. In one embodiment, the show elements 20, 22 can include any of a variety of morphing mechanisms that change the shape (e.g., geometric configuration) of the show elements 20, 22 over time. For example, one or more actuators (e.g., servo motors or pneumatic actuators, or both) can manipulate the structural features of the first show element 20 to cause a change in geometric configuration in the first show element. The first show element 20 and the second show element 22 can include the same or different types of show elements having the same or different structures that change one or more geometric properties of specific set pieces. For example, the first show element 20 and the second show element 22 coupled to the rotating beam 28 can be soft robots. In some embodiments, the first show element 20 and the second show element 22 include fixed geometric show elements or modifiable geometric show elements. Thus, the first show element 20 and the second show element 22 can be replicas of each other and / or can perform the same movement profile and / or the same shape change to provide the same experience and story progression (e.g., same means basically the same as designed to be perceived as basically the same by the guest). Also, it should be understood that the first show element 20 and the second show element 22 can be different and / or can perform different movement profiles and / or different shape changes to provide various experiences and story progressions.

[0036] Some embodiments may include only one beam 28, but the amusement ride system 8 may also include one or more additional beams that include one or more additional show elements. The one or more additional beams can be arranged at a depth (e.g., further back) different from that of the rotating beam 28 relative to the vehicle. This embodiment can provide an additional effect for creating a sense of immersion in the scene by utilizing multiple beams in this way. For example, the one or more additional show elements can include miniature structures representing background features (e.g., trees), and the one or more additional beams can move the one or more additional show elements more slowly compared to the show elements 20, 22 to create an illusion of depth and realistic movement.

[0037] In this specification, only some features of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described, but many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it should be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes that follow the true spirit of the present disclosure. The technology shown and claimed in this specification refers to and is applicable to tangible objects and specific examples of a practical nature that will surely improve this technical field, and thus is not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Further, if any claim appended at the end of this specification includes one or more elements designated as "means for [performing]... [function]" or "steps for [performing]... [function]", such elements should be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. § 112(f). On the other hand, for any claim that includes elements designated in any other form, such elements should not be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. § 112(f).

Description of Reference Numerals

[0038] 8 Amusement ride system 10 Rotating beam assembly 12 (Single or plural) sensors 14 Controller 16 Processor 18 Memory 20 First show element 22 Second show element 24 Motor 26 Motor 28 Rotating beam 30 - 34 Vehicle 36 Route

Claims

1. A show system comprising: a rotating beam assembly including a rotating beam, a first track, a second track, and one or more motors; a first show element coupled to the first track so as to be translatable along the first track, and a second show element coupled to the second track so as to be translatable along the second track; a controller communicably coupled to the rotating beam assembly; and the controller is configured to: translate the first show element along the first track to present respective movement profiles within a scene while the first show element is in a show position; rotate the rotating beam to rotate the first show element from the show position to a reset position and to rotate the second show element from the reset position to the show position; translate the second show element along the second track to present respective movement profiles within the scene while the second show element is in the show position; and supply control signals to the one or more motors to effect the foregoing. A show system.

2. The show system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to supply control signals to the one or more motors to translate the first show element in a first direction along the first track to present respective movement profiles within the scene and, simultaneously, to translate the second show element in a second direction along the second track to effect a reset process.

3. The show system according to claim 1, wherein the first track is disposed on a first side of the rotating beam and the second track is disposed on a second side of the rotating beam.

4. The show system according to claim 3, wherein the first side is opposite to the second side.

5. The show system according to claim 1, wherein the first show element is a replica of the second show element.

6. The show system according to claim 1, wherein each movement profile presented by the first show element is a replica of each movement profile presented by the second show element.

7. The show system according to claim 1, wherein the first show element, the second show element, or both are configured to deform between one or more geometric configurations.

8. The show system according to claim 1, comprising an actuator configured to move a part of the first show element relative to another part of the first show element when the first show element is translating along the first track to present the respective movement profiles.

9. The controller is configured to supply control signals to the one or more motors to translate the first show element along the first track to present the respective movement profiles to one or more guests in a first vehicle, and to translate the second show element along the second track to present the respective movement profiles to one or more additional guests in a second vehicle.

10. The show system according to claim 9, comprising one or more sensors configured to generate a signal indicating the position of the first vehicle, the controller being communicatively coupled to the one or more sensors and configured to supply control signals to the one or more motors to translate the first show element along the first track based on the position of the first vehicle to present the respective movement profiles.

11. A method for operating a show system, comprising: While a first show element is in a show position, translating the first show element in a first direction along a first track coupled to a rotating beam to present respective movement profiles to one or more guests in a first vehicle via one or more motors; Rotating the rotating beam via the one or more motors to rotate the first show element from the show position to a reset position and to rotate a second show element from the reset position to the show position; While a second show element is in the show position, translating the second show element in the first direction along a second track via the one or more motors to present respective movement profiles to one or more additional guests in a second vehicle; A method comprising the above.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein rotating the rotating beam causes the first show element to rotate from the show position to the reset position and simultaneously causes the second show element to rotate from the reset position to the show position.

13. The method according to claim 11, comprising translating the first show element in the first direction along the first track and simultaneously translating the second show element in a second direction along the second track via the one or more motors to perform a reset process.

14. The method according to claim 11, wherein rotating the rotating beam includes rotating the rotating beam by about 90 to 180 degrees.

15. The method according to claim 11, comprising driving a part of the first show element relative to another part of the first show element via an actuator of the first show element when the first show element is translating in the first direction along the first track to present each of the movement profiles. **Claim 16** The method according to claim 11, comprising rotating the rotating beam back and forth via one or more motors to swing the first show element when the first show element is translating in the first direction along the first track coupled to the rotating beam to present each of the movement profiles to one or more guests in the first vehicle. **Claim 17** Receiving, in a controller, a signal indicating a position of the first vehicle; Translating the first show element in the first direction along the first track coupled to the rotating beam to present each of the movement profiles to one or more guests in the first vehicle based on the position of the first vehicle; The method according to claim 11, comprising. **Claim 18** A show system, comprising: A rotating beam assembly including a rotating beam, a first track disposed on a first side of the rotating beam, a second track disposed on a second side of the rotating beam, and one or more motors configured to cause rotation of the rotating beam; A first show element coupled to the first track so as to be translatable along the first track; A second show element coupled to the second track so as to be translatable along the second track; A controller configured to supply a control signal for rotating the rotating beam to alternately present the first show element and the second show element in a scene to the one or more motors; A show system comprising. **Claim 19** The show system according to claim 18, wherein the first side of the rotating beam is opposite to the second side of the rotating beam.

20. The controller is configured to present the first show element in the scene to enable the first show element to provide respective movement profiles for a guest to view while the second show element is in the reset position, present the second show element in the scene to enable the second show element to provide respective movement profiles for another guest to view while the second show element is in the reset position, and supply a control signal for rotating the rotating beam to the one or more motors, the show system according to claim 18.

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