Show Effects System for Amusement Parks

Abstract

A system for an entertainment venue includes an enclosure (58) containing a display surface (62), a light emitter (66) disposed within the enclosure (58) and configured to output light, and a tube (70) disposed within the enclosure (58). The tube (70) is configured to receive the light and transmit the light to the display surface (62) of the enclosure (58) to form an image (56).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 401,944, filed August 29, 2022, and entitled "SHOW EFFECT SYSTEM FOR AMUSEMENT PARK," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. [Background technology]

[0002] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art that may be related to various aspects of the present 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. As such, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art.

[0003] Amusement parks and other entertainment venues may use special effects to help immerse guests in the ride or attraction experience. Immersive environments may include three-dimensional (3D) props and scenery, robotic or mechanical elements, and / or display surfaces for presenting media. Immersive environments may also include sound effects, smoke effects, and / or motion effects. Thus, immersive environments may include a combination of dynamic and static elements. However, implementing and operating special effects can be complex. For example, providing innovative special effects can be difficult. With the increasing sophistication and complexity of modern ride attractions and corresponding rising expectations among theme park or amusement park guests, improved and more imaginative attractions, including special effects that guests cannot anticipate and / or have not previously experienced, are desirable. Summary of the Invention

[0004]

[0013] The following summarizes certain embodiments commensurate in scope with the originally claimed subject matter. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter, but rather to provide a brief outline of possible forms of the subject matter. Indeed, the subject matter may include a variety of forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.

[0005] In one embodiment, a system for an entertainment venue includes an enclosure including a display surface, an illuminator disposed within the enclosure and configured to output light, and a tube disposed within the enclosure, the tube configured to receive the light and transmit the light onto the display surface of the enclosure to form an image.

[0006] In one embodiment, a show effect system for an amusement park includes a display surface, a plurality of light emitters configured to output light, and a plurality of tubes configured to receive the light output by the plurality of light emitters, propagate the light to a first side of the display surface, and transmit the light through the display surface to form an image viewable on a second side of the display surface.

[0007] In one embodiment, a light system for an amusement park show effect system includes a plate coupled to a light emitter configured to output light, a filter and a support configured to couple to the plate and secure the filter and the light emitter to one another, and a shell coupled to a tube, the filter configured to adjust characteristics of the light output by the light emitter to provide the modulated light, the shell configured to couple to the plate and secure the tube, the light emitter, and the filter to one another, and the tube configured to receive the modulated light and propagate the modulated light for projection onto a display surface of the amusement park show effect system.

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

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an amusement park system including a show effects system configured to present images according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a front view of an embodiment of a show effects system configured to present images in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a front view of an embodiment of a show effects system in operation to present an image, according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a front view of an embodiment of a show effects system in operation to present an image, according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of an embodiment of a show effects system having a light system and an enclosure according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 1 is a side perspective view of an embodiment of a show effects system configured to present images in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of an embodiment of a tube of a show effects system configured to propagate light and facilitate the presentation of images, according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a front exploded view of an embodiment of a show effects system configured to present images in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 1 is a flowchart of an embodiment of a method or process for operating a show effects system to present images according to an aspect of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present disclosure, the articles "a," "an," and "the" are intended to mean the presence of one, two, or more of the element. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. Furthermore, references to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" of the present disclosure are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also contain the recited features.

[0011]

[0013] One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below. For purposes of brevity, not all features of implementations may be described herein. It should be understood that the development of any such implementation, as in any engineering or design project, requires numerous implementation-specific decisions to achieve the developer's particular objectives, including compliance with system- and business-related constraints that may vary from implementation to implementation. Moreover, while such a development effort may be complex and time-consuming, it should be understood to be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0012] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a system that can be used with various attraction systems used in entertainment venues such as amusement parks. The embodiments can include a show effects system configured to operate to present various special effects, such as visual and / or sound effects, to guests. For example, the show effects system can be part of an attraction system in an amusement park and can provide special effects to guests within the attraction system, such as guests in ride vehicles of the attraction system, guests in queues for the attraction system, and guests in the audience seats of the attraction system. Additionally or alternatively, the show effects system can be external to any attraction system and can present show effects to guests in, for example, walking areas, dining areas, and souvenir shops. The special effects presented by the show effects system can entertain guests.

[0013] To enhance a guest's experience within an amusement park, it may be desirable to provide unexpected show effects to the guest. For example, it may be desirable to present an image through a prop that would not normally be expected to be used to present an image. Accordingly, the present disclosure includes a show effect system including an enclosure having a surface that does not appear to have image-presenting features. For example, the surface may have the appearance and / or texture of a material, such as rock or concrete, that a guest would not expect to present an image to. The show effect system may also include a light emitter and a tube. The light emitter outputs light into the tube, and the tube receives light from the light emitter and propagates the light through the length of the tube. The tube may be positioned adjacent to the interior surface of the enclosure and / or embedded within the interior. Thus, the tube can project light onto the enclosure. In some embodiments, the tube can block light dispersion from within the tube and provide a focused light projection that penetrates the enclosure. Thus, the light can be visible from the outside of the enclosure as opposed to the inside. In this manner, the light emitted by the light emitter can form an image that is visible to a guest from outside the enclosure. As an example, the effect produced by operation of a show effects system may unexpectedly give guests the appearance that the enclosure is projecting an image.

[0014] In some embodiments, the show effect system can include filters that adjust the appearance of the light output by the light emitters, received by the tubes, and transmitted through the enclosure. As an example, the filters can adjust the hue of the light. For example, the filters can be selected or manufactured so that the light transmitted through the enclosure has an appearance that forms a desired image. In this manner, rather than implementing specific light emitters that output light with characteristics that form a desired image, the filters can adjust any light output by the light emitters to form the desired image. Thus, the filters can provide the desired light to form an image regardless of the light originally output by the light emitters. In practice, adjusting filters may be easier and / or more cost-effective than adjusting light emitters to present a particular image via the show effect system. Thus, implementing filters can reduce the complexity and / or costs associated with manufacturing and / or operating the show effect system.

[0015] With this in mind, FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an amusement park system 50, which can represent any venue (e.g., theater, restaurant, waiting area) that benefits from entertainment. As one example, the amusement park system 50 can be part of an attraction system, such as rides (e.g., roller coasters, dark rides) and performance shows. As another example, the amusement park system 50 can be part of a dining area, waiting area, walkways, shopping venues (e.g., gift shops), or any other suitable portion of an amusement park. Accordingly, the amusement park system 50 can include a guest area 52 in which guests can be located. For example, the guest area 52 can include ride cars, walkways (e.g., queues), seats, or any other suitable feature that accommodates guests within the amusement park system 50.

[0016] The amusement park system 50 may also include a show effects system 54 configured to provide particular effects to guests in the guest area 52. For example, operation of the show effects system 54 may present an image 56 that becomes visible to guests at a particular time. The image 56 may be presented through surfaces that would not be expected to be used to display an image. For example, the image 56 may be displayed through what appears to be landforms such as rocks or minerals, building materials, and seemingly opaque materials. To present such an image 56, the show effects system 54 may include an enclosure 58. The enclosure 58 may include a base surface 60 and a display surface 62 that are visible to guests. The base surface 60 may be formed of a material not typically used to display images. For example, the material of the base surface 60 may be selected based on the surrounding environment of the show effects system 54 (e.g., themed props) so that the enclosure 58 appears to be unobtrusively placed as part of the surrounding environment. The display surface 62 may have a texture that blends the display surface 62 into the base surface 60. That is, display surface 62 and base surface 60 may appear to be seamlessly integrated with one another when viewed by a guest. However, image 56 may be presented through display surface 62 for viewing by a guest.

[0017] For example, a light system 64 can be coupled to the display surface 62. The light system 64 can focus illumination through the display surface 62 to present the image 56 through the display surface 62, which can be at least partially translucent and / or transparent to allow light transmission. For example, the display surface 62 can be composed of a hardening material, such as a liquid plastic or resin material that solidifies upon curing. Meanwhile, the display surface 62 can obscure the view of the components of the light system 64. The base surface 60 can be composed of a different material, which can be more opaque than the material of the display surface 62, to obscure unwanted light from transmitting through the base surface 60. As an example, the base surface 60 can be composed of concrete. The base surface 60 and the display surface 62 can be coupled to one another, such as via fasteners, adhesive, or any other suitable feature, and can be fused to provide an essentially seamless optical transition between the base surface 60 and the display surface 62. In some embodiments, the base surface 60 and the display surface 62 can be fused together using a paint, surface finish, or any other suitable technique that allows the base surface 60 and the display surface 62 to appear as a single, integral surface rather than separate, individual surfaces.

[0018] The light system 64 may include light emitters 66 (e.g., light-emitting diodes, light bulbs) configured to output light. The light system 64 may also include filters 68 through which the light output by the light emitters 66 may pass. The filters 68 may be configured to adjust the color of the light passing through the filters 68. By way of example, the filters 68 may include a gobo slide, an optical filter, or any other suitable component capable of adjusting a characteristic of the light, such as hue, intensity, saturation, tint, hue, brightness, tone, tint, another suitable characteristic, or any combination thereof. The filters 68 may adjust the appearance of the light originally transmitted by the light emitters 66 to have a desired appearance when viewed as part of the image 56 through the display surface 62. For example, rather than utilizing a particular embodiment of the light emitters 66 that can directly output the desired light through the display surface 62 to provide the image 56, a particular embodiment of the filters 68 may be selected to adjust the light output by the light emitters 66 to provide the desired light that provides the image 56. Indeed, different embodiments of filters 68 may be easier to implement and / or less expensive to manufacture and / or purchase than different embodiments of light emitters 66 that can output different light. Thus, the use of filters 68 may provide increased customization and / or flexibility in tailoring the presented image 56 at a lower cost than different light emitter 66 implementations.

[0019] The light system 64 may further include a tube 70 (e.g., a pixel tube) that may receive the light output by the light emitters 66 through a filter 68. The tube 70 may concentrate the light so that it can be transmitted through the display surface 62. In other words, the tube 70 may increase the transmittance of the projected light through the display surface 62 by reducing the dispersion of the light and concentrating the projection of the light onto the display surface 62. Thus, the tube 70 may make the light, and therefore the image 56 formed by the light, more visible through the display surface 62. The filter 68 may be disposed between the light emitters 66 and the tube 70 such that the tube 70 receives the light conditioned by the filter 68. Thus, the light emitters 66 may be disposed outside the tube 70.

[0020] A control system 72 (e.g., an automation controller, a programmable controller, an electronic controller) that is part of or communicatively coupled to the show effects system 54 can be configured to control the light system 64 to adjust the presented images 56. The control system 72 can include memory 74 and processing circuitry 76. The memory 74 can include volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM), and / or non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM), an optical drive, a hard disk drive, a solid-state drive, or any other non-transitory computer-readable medium that contains instructions for operating the light system 64. The processing circuitry 76 can be configured to execute such instructions. For example, the processing circuitry 76 can include one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), one or more general-purpose processors, or any combination thereof.

[0021] For example, the control system 72 can be configured to operate the light emitters 66 to output light or to prevent the output of light. Adjusting the output of light via the light emitters 66 can enable or prevent the presentation of the image 56 and / or adjust the appearance of the image 56. In some embodiments, the control system 72 can operate the light system 64 based on data received from the sensors 78. For example, the sensors 78 can determine parameters related to the guest area 52. As one example, the parameters can include the amount of guests in the guest area 52. The control system 72 can receive data indicative of the amount of guests and operate the light emitters 66 to output light in response to determining that the amount of guests exceeds a threshold amount. As another example, the parameters can include the location of the guests relative to the enclosure 58, etc. The control system 72 can receive data indicative of the location of the guests and operate the light emitters 66 to output light in response to determining that the location of the guests is within a threshold distance of the enclosure 58. As a further example, the sensor 78 may include a reader configured to receive input or signals transmitted by a guest's device (e.g., a mobile device, a wristband, a headset) and, upon receiving the input, may transmit a data signal to the control system 72, causing the control system 72 to operate the lights 66. The control system 72 may further operate the lights 66 based on any other suitable parameters, such as the time of day, the duration of operation of the show effects system 54, the level of ambient light surrounding the show effects system 54, etc. The control system 72 may operate automatically (e.g., without receiving user input) by operating based on the sensor 78.

[0022] The control system 72 may further include a user interface (UI) 80 with which a user, such as an operator of the show effects system 54 and / or a guest in the guest area 52, may interact. The control system 72 may operate the light system 64 based on an interaction with the UI 80. For example, an interaction with the UI 80 may indicate a request to adjust the presentation of the image 56, and the control system 72 may operate the light emitters 66 accordingly. The UI 80 may thus enhance the customizability of the operation of the control system 72 to operate the show effects system 54.

[0023] 2 is a front view of an embodiment of show effects system 54. In the illustrated show effects system 54, enclosure 58 includes a rock-like appearance and texture that renders enclosure 58 appearing like stone. To this end, base surface 60 and display surface 62 may each have a rock-like appearance, and base surface 60 and display surface 62 may blend into one another (e.g., when display surface 62 is not backlit). For example, base surface 60 may surround display surface 62. Enclosure 58 may also conceal certain components of show effects system 54, such as a light system. In this manner, the light system may be hidden from guests, thereby increasing the unexpectedness of the images presented via show effects system 54.

[0024] In the illustrated embodiment, the control system 72 operates the show effects system 54 (e.g., the light system) to prevent the presentation of any images. Thus, the illustrated show effects system 54 can be in a non-display state in which no images are presented. As an example, the control system 72 can operate the show effects system 54 in a non-display state based on the absence of data (e.g., received from the sensor 78) indicating that the show effects system 54 should present an image. In response, the control system 72 can prevent light emission (e.g., via any of the light emitters of the light system) to prevent the presentation of an image.

[0025] 3 is a front view of the embodiment of the show effects system 54 of FIG. 2 in an active state. Specifically, the control system 72 operates the show effects system 54 in a display state in which a first image 56A is presented via the show effects system 54. For example, the control system 72 can operate the light system by causing a first set of light emitters to output light, which can be transmitted to the display surface 62 (e.g., via a light-transmitting tube). The light transmitted through the display surface 62 can form the first image 56A on the exterior (e.g., visible side) 90 of the display surface 62. In this manner, the enclosure 58 can project the first image 56A onto the display surface 62, creating the impression that the first image 56A is being displayed through a stone.

[0026] As an example, the control system 72 can operate the show effects system 54 in the illustrated display state in response to a prompt to present the first image 56A. For example, data received from the sensor 78 can indicate that a guest is within a threshold distance of the show effects system 54 (e.g., of the enclosure 58) and / or that interaction with the UI 80 can provide the prompt to present the first image 56A. As described above, the presentation of the first image 56A can be unexpected for the guest because the enclosure 58 can obscure a light system or other components configured to facilitate the presentation of the first image 56A. For example, the guest would not expect a stone, slab, brick, or the like to present an image. In this manner, the show effects system 54 can present the first image 56A to the guest in a more effective or impressive manner, improving the experience provided to the guest.

[0027] FIG. 4 is a front view of an embodiment of the show effects system 54 of FIGS. 2 and 3. In the illustrated embodiment, the control system 72 operates the show effects system 54 in a display state in which a second image 56B, different from the first image 56A of FIG. 3, is presented on the exterior 90 of the display surface 62 via the show effects system 54. For example, the control system 72 may operate the light system by causing a second set of lights to output light that forms the second image 56B. As an example, the second set of lights operated to form the second image 56B may be different (e.g., include fewer lights) than the first set of lights operated to form the first image 56A of FIG. 3. In practice, the control system 72 may operate the lights independently and control each light's individual operation to output light or block light output to form different images presented by the show effects system 54. For example, the control system 72 may adjust the presented image 56 to provide an animation or appearance of movement of the image 56. In some embodiments, the control system 72 can also control each light emitter to adjust certain characteristics of the emitted light, such as the intensity of the light output by each light emitter. Thus, the control system 72 can operate the show effects system 54 to more precisely adjust the appearance of the presented image. As an example, the control system 72 can adjust the operation of the second set of lights to display the second image 56B in a different manner, such as at a different brightness level.

[0028] In some embodiments, the control system 72 may operate the show effects system 54 to adjust the images presented based on data received from the sensors 78. For example, the control system 72 may selectively operate the lights to present different images based on a particular distance between the guests and the show effects system 54, an amount of guests detected, a time of day, or any other suitable parameter (e.g., as indicated by data received from the sensors 78). In further or alternative embodiments, the control system 72 may operate the show effects system 54 to adjust the images presented based on user interaction with the UI 80. Operating the control system 72 to cause different images to be presented via the show effects system 54 may further improve the experience provided to guests by providing more personalized show effects, increasing the variety of show effects, etc.

[0029] FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of the show effect system 54 having a light system 64 engaged with an enclosure 58. For example, the light system 64 can extend at least partially within a channel 98 (e.g., a compartment, a cavity) defined by the enclosure 58. Light emitters (not shown) can be secured to a plate 100 of the light system 64. The plate 100 can be coupled to a shell 102 of the light system 64 via fasteners 104 or any other suitable feature (e.g., welding, adhesive, punching) to secure the light emitters and the shell 102 together. Tubes (not shown) can be secured to the shell 102 such that the light emitters and the tubes are positioned adjacent to each other when the plate 100 and the shell 102 are secured together. Thus, light emitted by the light emitters can be guided through the tubes. Additionally, the tubes can be coupled to or embedded in the interior (e.g., hidden side) 103 of the display surface 62, allowing light emitted by the light emitters and guided through the tubes to transmit through the display surface 62 and form an image visible to guests.

[0030] In some embodiments, the plate 100 may include a heat sink 106 (e.g., fins) configured to dissipate heat, such as heat generated during operation of the show effects system 54. For example, the light emitters may generate heat during operation to output light, which can be channeled to the heat sink 106 and rejected to the surrounding environment via convection and / or radiation. To this end, the light emitters may be in contact with the heat sink 106 to allow heat transfer from the light emitters to the heat sink 106. Reducing the temperature of the light emitters by dissipating heat through the heat sink 106 may improve the structural integrity of the light emitters and / or extend their useful life. The plate 100 may also include a fan 108 (e.g., a tangential fan) configured to operate to direct airflow. For example, the fan 108 may direct airflow across the light emitters and / or the heat sink 106 to enhance heat dissipation and further reduce the temperature of the light emitters. Thus, the heat sink 106 and the fan 108 may each improve the operation of the show effects system 54.

[0031] The plate 100, the shell 102, the fasteners 104, the heat sink 106, the fan 108, and / or any other suitable components of the light system 64 may not be visible through the enclosure 58. For example, a guest viewing the show effects system 54 will not be able to see the light system 64 through the display surface of the enclosure 58. Thus, guests may be more amazed by the appearance of the image formed by the show effects system 54 when they view the light transmitted by the light system 64 through the display surface and into the enclosure 58.

[0032] 6 is a side perspective view illustrating an embodiment of the show effects system 54. The shell 102 can be engaged with a flange 130 or the like of the enclosure 58 to secure the shell 102 and the enclosure 58 together, thereby engaging the tubes 70 with the enclosure 58 (e.g., inserting the tubes 70 into channels in the enclosure 58 to embed the tubes 70 within the display surface). Additionally, a filter 68 can be coupled to the plate 100 to allow light emitters (not shown) secured to the plate 100 to output light through the filter 68. In an assembled configuration in which the plate 100 and the shell 102 are coupled together, the filter 68 can be engaged with the tubes 70. Thus, the tubes 70 can receive light emitted by the light emitters, transmitted through the filter 68, and conditioned by the filter 68. The tubes 70 can transmit the received light into the enclosure 58 (e.g., through the display surface) to form an image visible to guests. As discussed above, the filter 68 can adjust the light transmitted through the filter 68 to provide a desired appearance of the light transmitted through the tube 70 to form the target image.

[0033] 7 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of tubes 70 and a shell 102. The shell 102 can define a space 150 into which the tubes 70 can be inserted. As an example, the tubes 70 can be secured together to form a tube array 152, which can be inserted into the space 150 to collectively position the tubes 70 within the space 150. The tubes 70 and the shell 102 can be secured together by inserting fasteners 154 (e.g., set screws) through the shell 102 and into the space 150, contacting the fasteners 154 to secure the tubes 70 within the space 150. For example, the fasteners 154 can apply a compressive force to the tubes 70, thereby providing a frictional force that prevents relative movement between the array of tubes 152 and the shell 102.

[0034] Each tube 70 may include a silver, matte, or other suitable exterior to prevent light from scattering from within the tube 70. In this manner, the silver exterior of the tube 70 may allow for good light transmission through the tube 70, improving the projection of concentrated light onto the display surface to form a desirable image. Additionally or alternatively, each tube 70 may be constructed of a material such as acrylic and / or plastic that avoids light absorption and allows for greater light transmission. In an installed configuration of the show effect system, a first end 156 of the tube 70 may be positioned adjacent to the filter and the light emitters. Thus, light output by the light emitters and conditioned by the filter may be directed into the tube 70 at the first end 156. The light propagates within the tube 70 and may be projected from the tube 70 via a second end 158 of the tube 70. The second end 158 of the tube 70 may be positioned adjacent to and / or engaged with (e.g., embedded in) the display surface to allow light to pass through the display surface. For example, each tube 70 may enable light to be projected onto a concentrated area of ​​the display surface. As an example, the light projected by each tube 70 may form a respective portion (e.g., a respective pixel) of an image presented via the display surface.

[0035] Any suitable quantity of tubes 70 may be present in the array of tubes 152 to allow light to pass through the display surface to form a desired image. In some embodiments, the quantity of tubes 70 may match the quantity of light emitters, with each tube 70 aligned with and corresponding to one light emitter. In other embodiments, there may be a different quantity of tubes 70 compared to the quantity of light emitters. As an example, there may be a greater quantity of tubes 70 than light emitters, and during operation of the light emitters, a subset of the installed tubes 70 may be utilized to output light and present an image. The greater the quantity of tubes 70, the greater the resolution and / or detail associated with the image presented by the show effect system. As another example, there may be a smaller quantity of tubes 70 than light emitters (e.g., one of the tubes 70 may receive light from multiple light emitters). Also, while the illustrated tubes 70 have a rectangular cross-sectional shape, in further or alternative embodiments, the tubes 70 may have any suitable cross-sectional shape, such as a circular, triangular, and / or irregular cross-sectional shape. Furthermore, the tubes 70 can have any suitable size (e.g., cross-sectional area, length from the first end 156 to the second end 158). In practice, the array of tubes 152 can include tubes 70 having a variety of cross-sectional shapes and sizes.

[0036] FIG. 8 is a front exploded view of an embodiment of the light system 64 illustrating the coupling between the illuminator 66 and the filter 68. The filter 68 can be coupled to the plate 100 using a support 180, positioning the filter 68 adjacent to the illuminator 66. For example, the support 180 can include a separate element or component that captures the periphery of the filter 68 to avoid affecting light transmitted through the inner surface 182 of the filter 68 (e.g., via the illuminator 66). The support 180 can also be configured to couple to the plate 100 via fasteners 184 that are separate from the fasteners used to couple the plate 100 to the shell with the tubes. Thus, the plate 100 and the shell can be separated from one another without separating the plate 100 and the support 180 from one another. For example, the illuminator 66 and the filter 68 can be removed from the show effect system (e.g., for maintenance) without affecting the packaging of the tubes and / or enclosure. In some embodiments, the support 180 may position the filter 68 at an offset distance from the light emitter 66, such as 1.25 centimeters (cm) (e.g., 0.5 inches), 2.5 cm (e.g., 1 inch), 5 cm (e.g., 2 inches), or any suitable distance from the light emitter 66. Positioning the support 180 at an offset distance from the light emitter may maintain the structural integrity of the filter 68 by reducing heat transfer from the light emitter 66 to the filter 68 and preventing the filter 68 from overheating.

[0037] As described above, the filter 68 can condition the light output by the light emitters 66 to propagate light of desired characteristics through the tube to form an image. As an example, different portions of the filter 68 can have different properties (e.g., absorbing different colors and allowing transmission of different colors) that provide a desired pattern or arrangement of light that is directed through the tube and projected onto the display surface. For example, operation of a first subset of the light emitters 66 to output light through a first portion of the filter 68 can cause a first image to be presented (e.g., first image 56A of FIG. 3 ), while operation of a second subset of the light emitters 66 to output light through a second portion of the filter 68 can cause a second image to be presented (e.g., second image 56B of FIG. 4 ). In this manner, the filter 68 can enable different images to be provided based on the light emitters 68 operating to output light through the filter 68 and the display surface.

[0038] For example, the filter 68 can condition the light output by the light emitters 66 so that the light projected onto and transmitted through the display surface forms an image having desired light (e.g., color) characteristics. Indeed, in some embodiments, the display surface can also condition the characteristics (e.g., color) of the light transmitted therethrough. For example, the material of the display surface can cause the light to be conditioned, such as by imparting a bluish hue to the light. Thus, the filter 68 can be selected to present a desired image taking into account the light conditioning by the display surface. For example, a filter can be used to offset the inherent filtering that occurs through the display surface to achieve a desired result. Thus, the light output by the light emitters, first conditioned by the filter 68, and transmitted through and conditioned by the enclosure can provide a desired image viewed by a guest.

[0039] As described above, for example, rather than adjusting the light emitters 66 (e.g., light emitters having individual colors), filters 68 can be used to adjust the image presented to guests (e.g., change the color of the light forming the image). In fact, changing filters 68 can be easier than changing light emitters 66. For example, to replace filters 68, plate 100 can be separated from the shell to provide access to filter 68 and supports 180, and supports 180 can be separated from plate 100 and / or from each other to allow removal of filter 68. A new filter 68 can then be coupled to support 180, supports 180 can be coupled to each other and to plate 100 to secure the new filter 68 to plate 100, and plate 100 can be coupled to the shell to assemble light system 64 and establish the show effect system in the assembled configuration. In further or alternative embodiments, instead of implementing a single filter 68, multiple filters can be used to adjust the light output by light emitters 66. For example, each individual filter can be configured to receive light output by a subset of the light emitters 66, and these filters can cooperatively adjust the light output by the light emitters 66 to enable the presentation of a desired image.

[0040] The light emitters 66 may be attached to the plate 100, such as to a first side 186 of the plate 100 opposite a second side 188 of the plate 100 to which a heat sink may be attached. By way of example, the light emitters 66 may be secured to the plate 100 via fasteners, adhesives, welding, punching, an interference fit, or any other suitable feature. The amount of light emitters 66 may be selected for implementation based on the desired appearance of the image to be presented. For example, to present a higher resolution and / or more detailed image, more light emitters 66 (and corresponding tubes configured to receive the light output by the light emitters 66, for example) may be utilized. Additionally, the light emitters 66 may be arranged in any suitable manner to form a particular shape or the like that enables the presentation of a desired image. In any event, each light emitter 66 may be communicatively coupled to the control system 72 such that the control system 72 can operate the light emitters 66 independently of one another. For example, the control system 72 can selectively cause a first subset of the light emitters 66 to output light and prevent a second subset of the light emitters 66 from outputting light.

[0041] While the above-described embodiments include filters 68 configured to adjust the light output by the light emitters 66 to enable the presentation of an image by the show effects system, further or alternative embodiments may utilize other techniques to present an image having a desired appearance. For example, in one embodiment, the light emitters 66 (e.g., liquid crystal displays) may be configured to adjust the characteristics of the light they output. Thus, the control system 72 may directly operate the light emitters 66 to output light having the desired characteristics, without the use of filters 68 to adjust the light projected onto and transmitted through the display surface to form the desired image.

[0042] 9 is a flowchart of an embodiment of a method or process 210 for operating any of the show effects systems 54 described herein. Method 210 may be performed by a single component or system, such as control system 72 (e.g., processing circuitry 76). In further or alternative embodiments, multiple components or systems may perform the operations of method 210. Also, additional operations may be performed with respect to the described method 210. Additionally, some operations of the illustrated method 210 may be modified.

[0043] At block 212, instructions for operating the light system can be received. As one example, the instructions can include data indicative of parameters. For example, the parameters can include a location of guests relative to components of the show effects system, an amount of guests, an operation duration, a time of day, another suitable parameter, or any combination thereof. The parameters can be received from a sensor. In some embodiments, the instructions can include a signal received from a reader. The reader can be configured to transmit the signal in response to receiving input from a device, such as a guest's device. As another example, the instructions can include user input received through user interaction, such as with a UI of the show effects system.

[0044] In block 214, the light system can be operated to output light based on instructions to present an image. For example, in response to receiving instructions, light emitters of the light system can be operated to output light, and the light can be transmitted to the display surface through tubes that concentrate the light transmission. Thus, the light transmitted through the display surface can appear to form an image. For example, the enclosure can appear to project an image. In one embodiment, each light emitter can be independently controllable. Thus, each light emitter can be selectively operated to present an image. For example, in response to receiving a first instruction to present a first image, a first subset of the light emitters can be activated. In response to receiving a second instruction to present a second image, a second subset of the light emitters can be activated. In practice, different light emitters can be activated to present different images based on individually received instructions. As an example, different light emitters can be activated to provide the appearance of animated or moving images and / or to provide different show effects for different guests.

[0045] 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 and it is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the present disclosure.

[0046] The technology shown and claimed herein refers to and applies to tangible objects and specific examples of a practical nature that will materially improve the art, and thus are not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Furthermore, if any claim appended at the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as "means for (performing) ... (function)" or "step for (performing) ... (function)," such elements are to be construed pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 112(f). Conversely, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, such elements are not to be construed pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 112(f). [Explanation of symbols]

[0047] 50 Amusement Park System 52 Guest Area 54 Show Effects System 56 images 58 Enclosure 60 base surface 62 Display surface 64 Light System 66 Luminous Object 68 filters 70 tubes 72 Control System 74 memory 76 Processing Circuit 78 Sensors 80 User Interface

Claims

1. 1. A system for an entertainment venue, comprising: an enclosure including a display surface; a light emitter disposed within the enclosure and configured to output light; a tube disposed within the enclosure; and Equipped with the tube is configured to receive the light and transmit the light to the display surface of the enclosure to form an image. system.

2. 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising a filter disposed between the light emitter and the tube, the filter configured to adjust characteristics of the light output by the light emitter and received by the tube.

3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the light characteristics include color tone.

4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the tube is embedded in the display surface.

5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the tube includes a silver exterior to prevent light from scattering through the tube and facilitate propagation of the light from the light emitter to the display surface.

6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the light emitter is disposed outside the tube.

7. The system of claim 1 , comprising a control system, the control system configured to selectively operate the light emitters to output the light.

8. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the enclosure includes a base surface coupled to the display surface, the base surface and the display surface fused together to form the enclosure, and the base surface is constructed of a material that prevents the light from passing through the base surface.

9. The system of claim 8 , wherein the display surface is comprised of liquid plastic and the base surface is comprised of concrete.

10. 1. A show effects system for an amusement park, comprising: A display surface; a plurality of light emitters each configured to output light; a plurality of tubes configured to receive the light output by the plurality of light emitters, propagate the light to a first side of the viewing surface, and transmit the light through the viewing surface to form an image viewable on a second side of the viewing surface; Equipped with a show effect system.

11. 11. The show effect system of claim 10, comprising a shell coupled to the plurality of tubes and a plate coupled to the plurality of light emitters, the shell and the plate being configured to couple to each other to secure the plurality of tubes and the plurality of light emitters to each other.

12. 12. The show effect system of claim 11, comprising a support coupled to a filter, the support configured to couple to the plate to secure the filter, the plurality of light emitters, and the plurality of tubes to one another, and the filter configured to adjust characteristics of the light output by the plurality of light emitters before the light is received by the plurality of tubes.

13. 11. The show effect system of claim 10, comprising a control system configured to operate the plurality of light emitters independently of one another to adjust the image formed via the light output by the plurality of light emitters and propagated to the first side of the display surface.

14. 14. The show effect system of claim 13, comprising a reader communicatively coupled to the control system, the reader configured to receive input from devices of guests of the amusement park, the reader configured to send a signal to the control system in response to receiving the input from the device, and the control system configured to operate the plurality of light emitters to output the light in response to receiving a signal from the reader.

15. 1. A light system for an amusement park show effects system, comprising: a plate coupled to the light emitter configured to output light; a support configured to couple to the filter; a shell coupled to the tube; Equipped with the support is configured to couple to the plate to secure the filter and the light emitter to one another, and the filter is configured to adjust a characteristic of the light output by the light emitter to provide adjusted light; the shell is configured to couple to the plate to secure the tubes, the light emitters, and the filters together, the tubes being configured to receive the modulated light and propagate the modulated light for projection onto a display surface of the amusement park show effect system. Light system.

16. 16. The light system of claim 15, wherein the support is configured to offset the light emitter and the filter from one another.

17. 16. The light system of claim 15, wherein the plate includes a heat sink configured to dissipate heat generated by the light emitters.

18. 16. The light system of claim 15, comprising a fan coupled to the plate, the fan configured to direct an airflow across the heat sink.

19. 16. The light system of claim 15, wherein the shell defines a space, the tube is disposed within the space, and the light system comprises a fastener inserted through the shell and into the space, the fastener applying a force to the tube to secure the tube within the space.

20. 16. The light system of claim 15, comprising a first fastener configured to couple the support and the plate together, and a second fastener configured to couple the plate and the shell together.

Images