Systems and methods for modular ride vehicles

Abstract

Systems and methods for a modular ride vehicle.SOLUTION: A system includes a plurality of ride vehicle modules, each of the plurality of ride vehicle modules including an interlock system configured to perform coupling operations to couple to other ride vehicle modules to form a cluster and decoupling operations to decouple from the other ride vehicle modules throughout a ride, control circuitry configured to control the interlock system and movement of the respective ride vehicle module alone or as part of the cluster, and communication circuitry configured to wirelessly communicate with other ride vehicle modules within and / or outside of the cluster. The clusters may be resized throughout the ride by performing coupling and decoupling operations as desired. A method of resizing clusters of ride vehicle modules throughout a ride is also disclosed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] Ride vehicles in amusement parks, carnivals, and the like are generally utilized to safely transport one or more passengers throughout the ride. There are numerous types of ride vehicles designed for specific types of rides. For example, roller coasters include a track on which ride vehicles are attached and move, simulators require ride vehicles to be attached to a motion base system and may include a simulation display, and water rides may include ride vehicles with floating capabilities, to name a few. Typical ride vehicles include either separate, distinct vehicles or connected, integrated ride vehicles (e.g., a train of vehicles on a fixed track). Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0002]

[0013] The following summarizes certain embodiments commensurate with the subject matter of the original claims. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, but rather to provide a brief summary of some disclosed embodiments. Indeed, the disclosure may encompass a variety of forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.

[0003] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a system includes a plurality of ride vehicle modules, each of the plurality of ride vehicle modules including an interlock system configured to perform coupling operations to other ride vehicle modules to form a cluster and decoupling operations to separate from other ride vehicle modules throughout the vehicle, control circuitry configured to control the interlock system and movement of each ride vehicle module alone or as part of the cluster, and communication circuitry configured to wirelessly communicate with other ride vehicle modules within and / or outside the cluster. The cluster is configured to vary in size throughout the vehicle by performing coupling and decoupling operations as desired via the control circuitry of each of the plurality of ride vehicle modules that controls the interlock system and the communication circuitry that coordinates operation among the plurality of ride vehicle modules.

[0004] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a system includes a plurality of ride vehicle modules configured to synchronously couple to one another in a cluster via any interlocking system mounted on one or more sides of each modular ride vehicle, wherein the ride vehicle modules in the cluster are configured to move together as a unified ride vehicle via on-board control and communication circuitry and to change size by coupling other ride vehicle modules or detaching from already coupled ride vehicle modules throughout the ride.

[0005] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method includes determining, via a control circuit, a desired size of one or more clusters of ride vehicle modules throughout the vehicle; setting, via the control circuitry and communication circuitry, a size of the one or more clusters; and performing coupling and decoupling operations via the interlocking system based on the set size of the one or more clusters throughout the vehicle, via the control circuitry configured to control an interlocking system attached to each of the ride vehicle modules and the communication circuitry configured to communicate between the ride vehicle modules.

[0006] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1A] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a unified ride vehicle that can be separated into multiple smaller ride vehicle modules according to the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a unified ride vehicle that can be separated into multiple smaller ride vehicle modules according to the present disclosure. [Figure 1C] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a unified ride vehicle that can be separated into multiple smaller ride vehicle modules according to the present disclosure. [Figure 1D] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a unified ride vehicle that can be separated into multiple smaller ride vehicle modules according to the present disclosure. [Figure 1E] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a unified ride vehicle that can be separated into multiple smaller ride vehicle modules according to the present disclosure. [Figure 1F] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a unified ride vehicle that can be separated into multiple smaller ride vehicle modules according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a number of ride vehicle modules coupled together to operate as a unified ride vehicle in accordance with the present disclosure; [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a ride vehicle circuit according to the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present disclosure that conceals connections between ride vehicle modules; [Figure 4B] 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present disclosure that conceals connections between ride vehicle modules; [Figure 4C] 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present disclosure that conceals connections between ride vehicle modules; [Figure 4D] 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present disclosure that conceals connections between ride vehicle modules; [Figure 5A] 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an interlocking system utilized during a coupling operation according to the present disclosure; FIG. [Figure 5B] 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an interlocking system utilized during a coupling operation according to the present disclosure; FIG. [Figure 5C] 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an interlocking system utilized during a coupling operation according to the present disclosure; FIG. [Figure 5D] 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an interlocking system utilized during a coupling operation according to the present disclosure; FIG. [Figure 5E] 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an interlocking system utilized during a coupling operation according to the present disclosure; FIG. [Figure 5F] 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an interlocking system utilized during a coupling operation according to the present disclosure; FIG. [Figure 5G] 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an interlocking system utilized during a coupling operation according to the present disclosure; FIG. [Figure 5H] 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an interlocking system utilized during a coupling operation according to the present disclosure; FIG. [Figure 6A] 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an airplane-style ride vehicle and its disconnection feature according to the present disclosure; FIG. [Figure 6B] 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an airplane-style ride vehicle and its disconnection feature according to the present disclosure; FIG. [Figure 7A] 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a cinema ride vehicle and its disconnect feature in accordance with the present disclosure; FIG. [Figure 7B] 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a cinema ride vehicle and its disconnect feature in accordance with the present disclosure; FIG. [Figure 8A] 1 is a top view of an embodiment of a ride vehicle module that configures cluster size by performing coupling and uncoupling operations mid-ride in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 8B] 1 is a top view of an embodiment of a ride vehicle module that configures cluster size by performing coupling and uncoupling operations mid-ride in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 8C] 1 is a top view of an embodiment of a ride vehicle module that configures cluster size by performing coupling and uncoupling operations mid-ride in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 9] 1 is a process for configuring cluster sizes for ride vehicles mid-ride according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Disclosed embodiments relate to systems and methods for configuring the cluster size of multiple ride vehicle modules by performing coupling and uncoupling operations mid-ride. The clustered ride vehicle modules can form an integrated vehicle that can be reconfigured into various module subsets (e.g., intermediate vehicles) to create a desired ride effect (e.g., the illusion of a single vehicle breaking into sections at each stage). In particular, embodiments disclosed in this disclosure relate to systems and methods for physically and / or virtually coupling and uncoupling ride vehicle modules. Ride vehicle modularity can refer to the configuration of these individual units, which is described in detail herein below with respect to flexible arrangements and configurations of clusters of various sizes. Modular ride vehicles can move synchronously or asynchronously in clusters of various sizes or as individual unit modules. At the start of the ride, ride vehicle modules can be coupled essentially seamlessly via an interlocking system to create the appearance of a single, unified ride vehicle. In other words, guests can be given the impression of boarding a single, fully integrated ride vehicle when the ride vehicle is actually a cluster of multiple coupled ride vehicle modules. In fact, guests may not even realize that the unitary ride vehicle can be separated into a cluster of smaller ride vehicle modules based on how the ride vehicle modules are connected.

[0009] Additionally, in some embodiments, ride vehicle modules may be electronically and communicatively coupled when physically linked in a cluster. That is, the ride vehicle circuitry (e.g., control and communication circuitry) may enable the linked ride vehicle modules to act together as a single, unified ride vehicle. In some embodiments, each individual ride vehicle module may be connected to a motion-based system that enables it to act in unison with other ride vehicle modules in a cluster. Additionally, when disconnected from a cluster, a ride vehicle module may operate or act independently by utilizing control circuitry (e.g., a processor) to control the associated motion-based system. For example, each ride vehicle module may include an automation controller (e.g., a programmable logic controller) that may coordinate with other controllers (e.g., designating a primary controller and auxiliary secondary controllers) of other ride vehicle modules when the vehicle modules are clustered to effect the unified movement of the entire cluster or unified modular ride vehicle. It should be noted that a ride vehicle module may refer to an automated guided vehicle (AGV), which may be defined herein as a mobile vehicle that follows a predetermined path, moves in six degrees of freedom (e.g., roll, pitch, yaw, surge, heave, and sway), and can be coupled and uncoupled to other similar AGVs.

[0010] To illustrate, in certain embodiments, guests may enter a modular airplane-style ride vehicle that appears as one large, integrated ride vehicle simulator. When the airplane takes off within the simulation, control and communication circuitry may direct the front ride vehicle modules of the unified airplane-style ride vehicle to ascend and the rear ride vehicle modules of the unified airplane-style ride vehicle to descend. However, the airplane may simulate a crash mid-flight by splitting the ride vehicle modules, for example, across the center of the airplane. The front half of the airplane-style ride vehicle (e.g., a first subset of the vehicle modules of the initial modular assembly) may then turn around and begin traveling one path within the ride, and the rear half of the airplane-style ride vehicle (e.g., a second subset of the vehicle modules of the initial modular assembly) may then turn around and begin traveling another path within the ride. Each half or intermediate cluster (each cluster of vehicle modules) of the airplane ride vehicle can function together as a unified ride vehicle under the control of respective processors (e.g., automation controller processors) that communicate with each other, and each path can provide a different story and / or action, thus allowing guests to have a number of different experiences over the course of the ride.

[0011] Further along the ride, one or both halves of the initial cluster, which in this example was a complete airplane, can experience additional events that separate the ride vehicle modules into smaller intermediate clusters. The size of the ride vehicle cluster can be reduced as desired. Indeed, this splitting can continue until all ride vehicle modules are separated, so that each guest or subset of guests experiences part of the ride alone. Then, as the ride nears its end or guests exit the ride vehicle modules, the ride vehicle modules can reconnect by performing a coupling operation to re-establish the initial cluster. This prepares the initial airplane-type ride vehicle for the next group of guests who wish to experience the ride. Note that the use of an airplane as an example ride vehicle is not intended to limit the present disclosure. As can be appreciated, seamlessly connected ride vehicle modules that appear to be a single ride vehicle but can unexpectedly split further can enhance the guest experience by providing surprise and multiple experiences depending on where guests are initially seated.

[0012] 1A-1F, a series of schematic diagrams of embodiments of a unified ride vehicle that can be separated into numerous smaller ride vehicle modules are shown. First, FIG. 1A illustrates a unified ride vehicle 10 that can include four individual ride vehicle modules 12, 14, 16, and 18 and a barrier (e.g., wall and / or ceiling) 20. Each of the four individual ride vehicle modules 12, 14, 16, and 18 can include a plurality of seats 22. The barrier 20 can include one or more entry ways 24 to the unified ride vehicle 10 and one or more exit ways 26 from the unified ride vehicle 10. Note that while four individual ride vehicle modules are shown, the present disclosure contemplates any number of ride vehicle modules being coupled together to form the unified ride vehicle 10. Indeed, in some embodiments, each individual seat 22 is part of its own individual ride vehicle module. Thus, the unified ride vehicle 10 can include 25 individual ride vehicle modules if it includes 25 seats, and similarly for other numbers.

[0013] As shown, when the individual vehicle modules 12, 14, 16, and 18 are connected and surrounded by a barrier 20, they appear as one unified vehicle 10 rather than four separate vehicle modules. The individual vehicle modules may have four sides and may be connected to each other on any of the four sides. That is, vehicle vehicle modules may be connected to other vehicle vehicle modules front-to-back and / or side-to-side. As described in detail below, vehicle vehicle modules may be connected in multiple ways using linkage systems. Additionally, vehicle vehicle modules may include, among other components, an onboard simulator, a motion base system, a traction system (e.g., tires, treads, etc.) for drive and / or connection to tracks, flotation capabilities (e.g., raft), a drive system for powering and / or propelling the vehicle module, a navigation system, a suspension system, and vehicle circuitry for control of the vehicle module and communication with other vehicle vehicle modules.

[0014] In some embodiments, the unified ride vehicle 10 can represent an airplane, with the ride vehicle modules 12, 14, 16, and 18 being different sections of the airplane separated by walkways that conceal the connections between the ride vehicles. In another embodiment, the unified ride vehicle 10 can represent a movie theater, with the ride vehicle modules 12, 14, 16, and 18 being different sections of the theater separated by walkways that conceal the connections between the ride vehicle modules. In either embodiment, the disclosed technology enables multiple individual ride vehicle modules to be arranged together into the unified ride vehicle 10 to appear as a single, integrated vehicle. Also, as described in more detail below, in some embodiments, the ride vehicle modules can be connected to a motion base system that is controlled by control and communication circuitry included in the ride vehicle modules. Thus, the motion base systems can be controlled together to cause the unified ride vehicle 10, comprised of ride vehicle modules, to move (e.g., pitch, roll, vibrate, surge, heave, and sway) as a single, integrated unit.

[0015] The unified ride vehicle 10 may be triggered to split (e.g., perform a separation operation) midway through the ride, such as by computer instructions stored in a non-transitory machine-readable medium (e.g., memory), a received signal from a control system located remotely from the ride vehicle, or a fixed track. In some embodiments, this split may be triggered in response to an event occurring within the ride, such as a simulated collision, explosion, natural disaster, or dinosaur / animal attack. Thus, FIG. 1B illustrates an embodiment of the unified ride vehicle 10 performing a separation operation to split into two distinct intermediate unified ride vehicles 28 and 30 (e.g., wavy line 32 represents a vertical split). While the intermediate unified ride vehicles are shown split vertically, they may split horizontally as well, since the ride vehicle modules may be connected on all four sides. It should be noted that the barrier 20 surrounding ride vehicle modules 12, 14, 16, and 18 may also split in the same manner as the ride vehicle modules using the techniques described herein. In some embodiments, a containment system may be utilized to physically restrain guests from any of the breakaway zones. Additionally, the breakaway zone can be spaced far enough away from guest seating so as not to be an obstacle when docking.

[0016] Each of the intermediate unified vehicle vehicles 28 and 30 represents a cluster of two individual vehicle modules. Specifically, intermediate unified vehicle 28 includes vehicle modules 12 and 18, and intermediate unified vehicle 30 includes vehicle modules 14 and 16. Thus, intermediate unified vehicle 28 can function as a single integrated vehicle by operating vehicle modules 12 and 18 together through the use of their control and communication circuits. The same is true for intermediate unified vehicle 30 and its coupled vehicle modules 14 and 16.

[0017] As noted above, ride vehicle modules are capable of coupling and uncoupling operations on all four of these edges. As the ride progresses, it may be desirable to utilize this capability to further reduce the cluster size(s) of ride vehicle modules upon the occurrence of certain events. For illustrative purposes, FIG. 1C shows the unified ride vehicle 10 of FIG. 1A with each individual ride vehicle module 12, 14, 16, and 18 uncoupled on two of its four edges. As shown, each individual ride vehicle module 12, 14, 16, and 18 can break free from the other ride vehicle modules and continue on its own path, experiencing an entirely different story and / or movement, as will be described in more detail below.

[0018] Thus, each individual ride vehicle module 12, 14, 16, and 18 can move independently. For example, Figure 1D shows ride vehicle module 12 separated from a unified ride vehicle, which can move forward and backward (arrow 36), left and right (arrow 38), and steer left and right (arrow 40). It should be understood that any unified ride vehicle including multiple ride vehicle modules (e.g., 10, 28, and 30) can move in any direction as an integrated unit.

[0019] Additionally, barriers (e.g., walls and / or ceiling) 20 connected to and surrounding the ride vehicle modules may also be removable as the ride progresses. As shown in FIG. 1E, portions of the barriers 20 may be detached from the ride vehicle modules 12. For some types of rides, it may be desirable to remove the barriers 20. For example, in a ride in which simulated dinosaurs attack a crashed airplane and rip off portions of the walls or ceiling, it may be beneficial to have the barriers (e.g., walls and / or ceiling) 20, or portions thereof, detached from each other and separate from their respective vehicle modules. Indeed, removable barriers 20 may further enhance a guest's experience and excitement level midway through the ride.

[0020] In some embodiments, the ceiling can be physically removed by a robot located within the ride (e.g., a robot decorated to look like a dinosaur, giant, etc.), and the side walls of the ride vehicle can immediately be retracted beneath the ride vehicle. Alternatively, the side walls can be removed by the robot. Also, in some embodiments, there can be a transparent wall (e.g., acrylic glass) that remains in place after the wall is removed to avoid interference when reconnecting the wall and / or storing detached objects in the ride vehicle. In other embodiments, a containment system can be utilized to physically restrain guests away from any escape zones. This can include the use of locking lap bars, overhead locking chest bars, seat belts, or any combination thereof.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 1F , in some embodiments, a ride vehicle module 12 may be an intermediate unified ride vehicle and include multiple seats 22 that can be attached to its own individual ride vehicle modules 42. Thus, the intermediate unified ride vehicle 12 may perform disconnection actions to separate as many times as desired during the course of the ride until every single seat 22 and ride vehicle module 42 operates independently. For example, a guest may end the ride floating alone in a canoe (e.g., a cover to which a ride vehicle module 42 connects during a portion of the ride) down a river. Thus, the ride vehicle modules may move asynchronously during different portions of the ride. Indeed, some routes of the ride may involve the vehicle vehicle modules disconnecting and moving asynchronously in response to specific events, terrain, storyline, etc., while other routes may involve the vehicle vehicle modules moving synchronously and reconnecting in response to specific events, terrain, storyline, etc. Furthermore, in some embodiments, entirely separate ride elements may be coupled to the ride vehicle modules. For example, a ride vehicle module 42 may be coupled to an element that changes the appearance of the ride vehicle module 42 (e.g., from looking like airplane debris to a canoe) during a dark portion of the ride. As a result of the coupling action and modular aspects of the disclosed ride vehicles, multiple different experiences can be created within a single ride, thereby encouraging guests to return to the attraction.

[0022] Further illustrating aspects of the present disclosure, FIG. 2 includes a perspective view of an embodiment of multiple ride vehicle modules 12, 14, 16, and 18 coupled together to operate as a single, unified ride vehicle 10. As discussed above, the ride vehicle modules may be coupled together physically and / or virtually. Physical coupling may be enabled, such as by a linkage system, as described below. The ride vehicle modules may also be coupled together virtually through onboard ride vehicle circuitry (e.g., communication circuitry, control circuitry, and / or sensor circuitry) that enables the ride vehicle modules to act together as the unified ride vehicle 10. That is, the ride vehicle modules may coordinate their movements to operate as a single, integrated unit. Indeed, the unified ride vehicle 10 may maintain itself even during pitch, roll, etc., by appropriately coordinating the movements of each coupled ride vehicle module. For example, if a vehicle requires the unified ride vehicle 10 to roll to the right, the ride vehicle module on the right side of the unified ride vehicle 10 may tilt downward and the ride vehicle module on the left side of the unified ride vehicle 10 may tilt upward, so that the left edge of the unified ride vehicle 10 reaches its highest point and the remainder of the unified ride vehicle 10 may tilt downward as a unitary platform until the right edge reaches its lowest point.

[0023] The coordinated movement of the unified ride vehicle 10 may be enabled by a motion base system 44 and a suspension system 45 mounted on each of the platforms 46 of the coupled ride vehicle modules. The motion base system 44 may be controlled through ride vehicle circuitry included in each ride vehicle module, which is described in detail below. The ride vehicle circuitry may include computer instructions stored on a tangible, non-transitory, machine-readable medium (e.g., memory, storage) that the control circuitry (e.g., processor) executes to direct the ride vehicle to move in a desired manner. Alternatively, the ride vehicle circuitry may receive commands or instructions directing the ride vehicle to move in a desired manner from a remote source, such as a control system external to the ride vehicle. For example, ride vehicle modules 12, 14, 16, and 18 may communicate with each other such that the motion base system 44 and suspension system 45 of the right ride vehicle module tilts the attached platform 46 downward while the motion base system 44 and suspension system 45 of the left ride vehicle module tilts the attached platform 46 upward to simulate the physical effects associated with a right turn at high speed.

[0024] Additionally, each ride vehicle module may include an onboard simulator (not shown) that provides visual displays and audio. The motion base system 44 may synchronize visual and audio signals to provide a seamless, immersive, and realistic experience for guests. When ride vehicle modules are connected as a unified ride vehicle 10, the visual and audio signals of each ride vehicle module may be synchronized to provide a unified experience. The suspension system 45 may also be adapted to react to the simulator's movements to provide a unified experience. For example, the suspension system 45 may utilize damping fluid in shock absorbers that can be controlled by energizing the fluid with magnets. The magnets may be programmed to respond in time with the simulator altering the suspension at desired times. The motion base system 44 may also include a traction system (e.g., tires, treads) 48 that may provide drive and / or track connection. The motion base system 44 may enhance the vehicle's motion characteristics, such as speed and acceleration, when driven.

[0025] In another embodiment, the ride vehicle modules may not be attached to a motion-based system, or may not include an on-board simulator. Instead, the ride vehicle modules may be advanced and disengaged from various motion-based systems and simulators located throughout the vehicle. However, ride vehicle modules that do not include a motion-based system may still perform coupled operations and configure cluster sizes throughout the vehicle. Indeed, this ride vehicle module embodiment may also include ride vehicle circuitry configured to uniformly or independently control the ride vehicle modules, communicate with other ride vehicle modules and systems, and the like.

[0026] Because the unified ride vehicle and / or ride vehicle modules can operate without a fixed track, a navigation system can be utilized to track their position and guide their movement by making adjustments as needed. There are several embodiments of navigation systems that can be utilized to track the ride vehicle module path, including gyroscopic navigation, wire-guided navigation, and / or laser-guided navigation. Gyroscopic navigation can track the position of the ride vehicle module by counting the number of revolutions completed by the wheels. An advantage of using gyroscopic navigation is that a programmer can easily program the path of the ride vehicle module to accommodate future course changes due to the absence of fixed tracks and landmarks required to determine location. Visual guidance can also be utilized, including stereoscopic cameras along the ride vehicle module that monitor objects surrounding the ride vehicle module to construct a virtual three-dimensional space and reference its position to control movement accordingly.

[0027] Additionally or alternatively, a wired guidance system may provide a position reference for the ride vehicle modules along the route, and a laser guidance system may reference the position of the ride vehicle modules by reflecting a laser off reflective tape placed along the route. In either embodiment, multiple sensors may be utilized to provide position data back to control circuitry included in each of the ride vehicle modules. For example, a laser guidance system may attach turrets to the ride vehicle modules that emit lasers at various objects in different directions, and the ride vehicle circuitry may determine location based on measured distances from these objects. This may allow the ride vehicle modules to take advantage of knowing their distance from each other in order to synchronize their movements and perform linked operations.

[0028] As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the ride vehicle modules 12, 14, 16, and 18 can be driven on a trackless course. Accordingly, each ride vehicle module can include a drive system. There are several different drive system embodiments available, including electric and hydraulic. In one embodiment, an electric drive system can drive the ride vehicle modules using multiple motors, which can be asynchronous or synchronous motors. In another embodiment, a hydraulic system, including a liquid-based system, can be used. An advantage of using a hydraulic system is that it can be self-lubricating, thereby reducing maintenance costs compared to other types of drive systems. As mentioned above, when separated, the ride vehicle modules can independently drive and move (e.g., drive, pitch, roll, and turn) using the individually attached motion base system 44, navigation system, ride vehicle circuit, drive system, and traction system 48.

[0029] Additionally, in some embodiments, the ride vehicle module can include an on-board rechargeable battery to power the ride vehicle module and any on-board components, such as the ride vehicle circuitry and audiovisual displays of the simulator. In one embodiment, the ride vehicle module can include a conductive receptor mounted on the bottom of the vehicle that can be connected to a dielectric ground plate installed throughout the vehicle for charging. Another embodiment can utilize a wireless charging system that includes a primary coil in a ground-mounted charging pad and a secondary coil in a receptor mounted on the ride vehicle module. When aligned with the receptor, the charging pad can transmit electricity to the receptor to charge the battery.

[0030] With this in mind, FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of various components that may be part of the vehicle vehicle circuitry 50 of each vehicle vehicle module and that may be used to perform coupling operations to, among other things, coordinate movement and / or simulation between the vehicle vehicle modules. As illustrated, vehicle vehicle circuitry 50 may include communications circuitry 52, processor 54 (e.g., control circuitry), sensors 55, memory 56, and storage 58. Communications circuitry 52 may be wireless or wired communications elements that may facilitate communication between the vehicle vehicle modules and other systems (e.g., control systems) and / or devices. Communications circuitry 52 may meet industry standards such as IEEE 802.11b / g. For example, when a unified vehicle separates into different intermediate clusters, communications circuitry 52 may enable the vehicle vehicle modules included in the intermediate clusters to coordinate coupling operations to reform as a unified vehicle. Additionally, when the vehicle vehicle modules are coupled as a unified vehicle, communications circuitry 52 may enable operation as an integrated unit. Processor 54 may be any type of computer processor or microprocessor capable of executing computer-executable code. In some embodiments, processor 54 may be one or more microcontrollers.

[0031] There are also multiple embodiments for the processor 54 architecture. For example, in one embodiment, one central processing unit 54 can directly process all data from the communications circuitry 52, sensors 55, etc. In another embodiment, there can be multiple subsystems, each with a processor 54 that provides data to the central processing unit 54 for more complex decisions. For example, a navigation system can include a processor 54, the communications circuitry 52 can also include a processor 54, the sensors 55 can also include processors 54 that provide data to the central processing unit 54, and so on. The use of multiple processors 54 can enable redundancy. To coordinate movement among linked ride vehicle modules, in one embodiment, one linked ride vehicle module can be designated as a master controller and the other linked ride vehicle modules can be designated as slaves. In this embodiment, the master processor 54 can relay information regarding control of the entire cluster to the slaves via the communications circuitry 52, and the slave processors 54 can determine how to react to their position within the cluster to move in unison.

[0032] As described above, sensors 55 may enable, among other things, ride vehicle modules to determine where they are located within the vehicle and how to synchronize and connect with other ride vehicle modules. Memory 56 and storage 58 may be any articles of manufacture capable of serving as a medium for storing processor-executable code, data, or the like. These articles of manufacture may represent tangible computer-readable media (i.e., any suitable form of tangible memory or storage) capable of storing processor-executable code used by processor 54 to perform the disclosed techniques. Memory 56 and storage 58 may also be used to store video and audio data.

[0033] Reference is now made to Figures 4A-4D, which include a series of perspective views of an embodiment of hiding the connecting lines between ride vehicle modules in accordance with the present disclosure. Generally, the connecting lines between coupled ride vehicle modules can be hidden using patterns, recesses, lighting / shading, and overlaying materials (e.g., carpeting) on ​​the surface of the ride vehicle module platforms. Hiding the connecting lines between ride vehicle modules can enhance the appearance that the coupled ride vehicle modules are a single, unified ride vehicle. The techniques described below can be applied when coupling ride vehicle modules side-by-side and / or front-to-back.

[0034] With this in mind, FIG. 4A illustrates ride vehicle modules 12 and 14 coupled side-by-side. In some embodiments, the platform surfaces of the ride vehicle modules can include lines 60, which can be track lighting rails that form a walkway. As can be appreciated, such walkways can be similar to those commonly found on airplanes and / or movie theaters. In other embodiments, lines 60 can be recessed grooves in the platforms that can be darkened or deepened (e.g., with paint, shadows, etc.). As shown, connecting lines 62 between ride vehicle modules 12 and 14 reside in close proximity to lines 60, such that the cleft where the two platforms meet appears to be integrated with a track lighting fixture or simply another recessed groove. Track lighting can also be used to cast a shadow on connecting lines 62 to further conceal them. Additionally, the sides of the platforms can be designed into wedge shapes 64. Wedge-shaped platforms can fit together to, among other things, prevent light from emanating from the bottom of the ride vehicle modules and exposing connecting lines 62. Also, as mentioned above, the distance 66 between the seat 22 and the connection line 62 (e.g., separation point) may be sufficient to prevent any interference when coupling (e.g., connecting) the ride vehicle modules together mid-ride.

[0035] In another embodiment, FIG. 4B illustrates the use of a zigzag pattern to conceal the connecting lines 62 between side-by-side coupled ride vehicle modules 12 and 14. This pattern can be a portion of carpet installed on the surface of the ride vehicle module platform, painted onto the surface of the ride vehicle module platform, recessed as a groove on the surface of the ride vehicle module platform, or the like. The pattern can cover the entire platform surface or only a portion of it. The carpet or paint can use a dark color (e.g., black, gray) to conceal the connecting lines 62. Also, if the zigzag is a recessed groove, the groove can also be darkened using painting and / or shading. The sides of the platform can be designed with a zigzag pattern to allow corresponding teeth to interlock when coupled.

[0036] In another embodiment, FIG. 4C illustrates the use of an interlocking square pattern to conceal the connection lines 62 between side-by-side coupled ride vehicle modules 12 and 14. This pattern can be a portion of carpet installed on the surface of the ride vehicle module platform, painted onto the surface of the ride vehicle module platform, recessed as grooves on the surface of the ride vehicle module platform, or the like. The pattern can cover the entire platform surface or only a portion thereof. The carpet or paint can use a dark color (e.g., black, gray) to conceal the connection lines 62. Furthermore, if the interlocking squares are recessed grooves, the grooves can also be darkened using painting and / or shading. The sides of the platform can be designed with interlocking squares so that corresponding teeth interlock upon coupling.

[0037] In yet another embodiment, the platform surface of one of the ride vehicle modules may include a flap that extends over the connected ride vehicle module to completely cover connecting line 62. The flap may be constructed of carpet, rubber, or the like. The flap may include a pattern that matches the pattern included across the platform surface of the coupled ride vehicle module to create a unified platform appearance.

[0038] FIG. 4D illustrates ride vehicle modules 12, 14, 16, and 18 connected front to back and side to side. In this embodiment, left and right connecting lines 62 and front to back connecting lines 68 are hidden as part of a checkerboard pattern. As discussed above, this checkerboard pattern can be part of a carpet installed on the surface of the ride vehicle module platform, painted onto the surface of the ride vehicle module platform, recessed as a groove in the surface of the ride vehicle module platform, or the like. The carpet or paint can use a dark color (e.g., black, gray) to hide connecting lines 62. Furthermore, if the lines making up the checkerboard pattern are recessed grooves, the grooves can also be darkened using painting and / or shading. This pattern can help hide connecting lines 62 and 68 as part of the pattern so that guests get the impression that the assembled ride vehicle modules 12, 14, 16, and 18 are actually one unified, fully integrated ride vehicle.

[0039] Turning now to methods of physically coupling ride vehicle modules, FIGS. 5A-5M include a series of perspective views of embodiments of interlocking systems that ride vehicle modules can utilize to perform coupling operations in accordance with the present disclosure. The disclosed embodiments of the interlocking system can be mounted on the side, front, and / or rear of each ride vehicle module. In some embodiments, the interlocking system can be controlled by ride vehicle circuitry 50 included in the ride vehicle module. For example, the ride vehicle circuitry 50 can receive feedback when a ride vehicle module is fully locked in place. This feedback can be obtained via sensors (e.g., proximity sensors) mounted on the side, front, and / or rear of the ride vehicle. The ride vehicle circuitry 50 can use this information to communicate with the locked ride vehicle module to operate as a unified ride vehicle. Similarly, the ride vehicle circuitry 50 can also receive feedback (e.g., via sensors) when a ride vehicle module is disconnected. Using this information, ride vehicle circuitry 50 can continue to operate the ride vehicle module together with any remaining connected ride vehicle modules, or, in the case of a single ride vehicle module, continue to operate that ride vehicle module alone. Additionally, the interlocking system can also firmly and securely lock the ride vehicle modules together to function as an integrated unit.

[0040] FIG. 5A illustrates an embodiment of an interlocking system including a T-screw rail lock 70. The T-screw 72 can be installed on a first ride vehicle and retracted parallel to the floor until needed. When activated or commanded by the ride vehicle circuitry 50 to connect to an approaching ride vehicle module, the T-screw 72 can extend, as shown, into a rail 74 within the approaching ride vehicle module and rotate to lock. The first ride vehicle module can then retract the T-screw 72 to draw the connected vehicle modules as close as possible. The T-screw rail lock 70 can include, among other features, a thick rubber pad 76 that resists rotation of the T-screw 72 and provides a strong holding force within the rail 74 to manage alignment. When commanded to separate from the connected ride vehicle module, the T-screw 72 can rotate again and retract to its original position, allowing for quick separation between ride vehicle modules. It should be noted that each ride vehicle module may include T-screws 72 and / or rails 74 attached to the sides, front and / or rear in any combination that enhances modularity.

[0041] In another embodiment, Figures 5B-5C illustrate an interlocking system including a bolt lock 80. As shown in Figure 5B, a locking member 82 may be attached to a first vehicle vehicle module 84, and a bolt 86 may be attached to the interior of a second vehicle vehicle module 88. When actuated or commanded by vehicle circuitry 50 to connect to the second vehicle module 88, the locking member 82 may be guided into an opening 90 in the second vehicle vehicle module 88. The bolt 86 may then be inserted through the lock and closed, as shown in Figure 5C, to hold the vehicle modules 84 and 88 in place. When commanded to disconnect from the connected vehicle module, the bolt 86 may be removed from the locking member 82, and the first vehicle module 84 may be moved away, thereby retracting the locking member 82 from the second vehicle module 88. Multiple bolts 86 and / or locking members 82 may be positioned along the sides, front, and rear of the vehicle vehicle modules as desired to strengthen the connection.

[0042] In another embodiment, Figures 5D-5E show an interlocking system that includes an electromagnetic lock 94 attached to a ride vehicle module. When activated or commanded by ride vehicle circuitry 50 to connect to another ride vehicle module, current can be supplied to electromagnets 96, as shown in Figure 5E, to pull the desired ride vehicle modules together. When commanded to disconnect, the current supplied to electromagnets 96 is turned off, allowing the ride vehicle modules to separate and operate alone or in conjunction with any remaining connected ride vehicle modules. Multiple electromagnets 96 can be positioned as desired along the sides, front, and rear of the ride vehicle module to strengthen the connection.

[0043] In another embodiment, Figures 5F-5G illustrate an interlocking system including a slide lock 100. As shown in Figure 5F, a bolt 102 may be attached to a first vehicle module 104 and a recess 106 may be attached inside a second ride vehicle module 108. When actuated or commanded by the ride vehicle circuitry 50 to couple, the bolt 102 may be inserted into the second ride vehicle module 108 and lowered by a mechanism into the recess 106 of the second ride vehicle module 108, as shown in Figure 5G. When commanded to separate, the mechanism may be commanded to raise the bolt 102 and withdraw it from the recess 106 of the second ride vehicle module 108. Multiple slide locks 100 may be positioned as desired along the sides, front, and rear of the ride vehicle modules to strengthen the connection.

[0044] In another embodiment, Figure 5H illustrates an interlocking system that includes a drop pin connector lock 110. As shown in Figure 5H, a connector 112 may be attached to and extend from a first vehicle vehicle module 114, and another connector 112 may be attached to and extend from a second vehicle vehicle module 116. When actuated or commanded to couple by the vehicle circuitry 50, the connectors 112 on both the first vehicle vehicle module 114 and the second vehicle vehicle module 116 may be aligned, and a mechanism on either the first vehicle vehicle module 114 or the second vehicle vehicle module 116 may insert and lock a drop pin 118 into the connector 112. When commanded to uncouple, the mechanism removes the drop pin 118 from the connector 112, and the vehicle vehicle modules may separate, thereby separating the connectors 112. The drop pins 118 and connectors 112 may be multiplexed as desired along the sides, front and rear of the ride vehicle module to enhance the connection.

[0045] 6A and 6B include perspective views of an embodiment of an airplane-style ride vehicle 130 illustrating decoupling capabilities in accordance with the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 6A, the airplane-style ride vehicle 130 includes two connected ride vehicle modules 132 and 134, a wall 136, and a ceiling 138. Each ride vehicle module 132 and 134 may include a plurality of seats 22 arranged in groups of various sizes. The airplane-style ride vehicle 130 may face a display screen 140, or the display screen 140 may be attached to each ride vehicle module 132 and 134. In this embodiment, a connecting line 142 divides the two rows of seats 22 along the aisle between them. The techniques described above for hiding the connecting line 142 may be utilized. Note that any number of rows of seats 22 may be present if other ride vehicle modules are attached side-by-side. There may also be other ride vehicle modules attached to the front and / or rear of the ride vehicle modules 132 and 134. In reality, many ride vehicle modules can be linked together, with the connecting wires hidden so that the ride vehicle appears to be one large airplane-style ride vehicle 130 operating as a single integrated unit. For example, to simulate takeoff, the front of the airplane-style ride vehicle 130 can be raised and the rear of the airplane-style ride vehicle 130 can be lowered.

[0046] The airplane-style ride vehicle 130 may or may not include a motion base system attached to each modular ride vehicle. Each ride vehicle module connected within the airplane-style ride vehicle 130 includes wheels 144 that allow the ride vehicle module to drive and / or connect to a roller coaster track throughout the ride. Furthermore, the walls 136 and ceiling 138 may be joined together in a manner that does not appear separate to guests. For example, the connecting line 146 may resemble the connecting line between two exterior metal panels commonly found on airplanes. That is, externally, both the walls 136 and ceiling 138 may include bolts or fasteners near the connecting line 146 to resemble an actual airplane. Then, internally, the connecting line 146 appears as a recess where two wall panels join together. Similar techniques, such as shading and patterns, as described above for camouflaging the connecting line on the platform surface may be utilized. As a result, guests can be given the illusion that when they enter a ride vehicle in a fully clustered configuration, the walls and ceiling will remain intact as a unit throughout the entire ride experience.

[0047] FIG. 6B illustrates the ability of the airplane-style ride vehicle to separate ride vehicle modules 132 and 134. Additionally, the illustrated embodiment shows that the roof 138 of the ride vehicle module is separable and / or removable. As discussed above, the ride vehicle circuitry included in each ride vehicle module can execute a command to physically separate (e.g., disconnect) from another ride vehicle module. This command can be triggered by a specific event occurring mid-ride. For example, the airplane-style ride vehicle 130 can, among other things, crash into a mountain or enter a massive storm that tears the vehicle apart. At this time, the airplane-style ride vehicle 130 can split apart as desired (e.g., left and right, front and back) at any point where the ride vehicle modules are connected.

[0048] While the illustration shows the airplane-style ride vehicle 130 split vertically down the middle, it should be understood that the technology disclosed herein allows the airplane-style ride vehicle 130 to split in any number of ways (e.g., horizontally down the middle). Each ride vehicle module 132 and 134 can operate independently after being detached from the other ride vehicle modules. This allows each ride vehicle module 132 and 134 to travel separate paths within the ride. For example, ride vehicle module 132 could be attached to a roller coaster and lowered down the mountain where the airplane crashed, while the other ride vehicle module 134 could land in a forest. Ride vehicle module 134 could further encounter an animatronic dinosaur 148 that rips off the ceiling 138. Wavy line 146 represents the connection between ceiling 138 and wall 136, where they can be separated. The walls could also be demolished, such as by being stored underneath the ride vehicle or physically removed. Additionally, both ride vehicle modules 132 and 134 may be moved onto and off the motion-based system throughout the ride and / or positioned within the simulator. In this manner, each ride vehicle module 132 and 134 may experience different simulations and / or movements resulting in different experiences within the same ride.

[0049] 7A and 7B also include perspective views of an embodiment of a movie theater-style ride vehicle 150 illustrating decoupling capabilities in accordance with the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 7A, movie theater-style ride vehicle 150 includes four ride vehicle modules 152, 154, 156, and 158 joined by connecting line 160. Movie theater-style ride vehicle 150 may include walls and a ceiling (represented by dashed line 162) as well as multiple entry ways 164 and exit ways 166. However, in some embodiments, walls and a ceiling 162 may not be connected to ride vehicle modules 152, 154, 156, and 158. Each ride vehicle module 152, 154, 156, and 158 may include multiple seats 22 arranged in groups of various sizes. Movie theater-style ride vehicle 150 may face a video display screen 140. Alternatively, each ride vehicle module 152, 154, 156, and 158 can include an on-board simulator (not shown) that includes audio and video display screens 140. In some embodiments, the ride vehicle modules can utilize the techniques described above with respect to hiding the connecting wires 160 on the surface of platform 46. As shown, the connecting wires 160 are not visible on the surface of the ride vehicle module's platform 46. This allows guests to perceive the room as a regular movie theater; that is, guests may not even realize they have entered a ride at all. Instead, guests can get the impression that they are in some kind of movie simulator that does not move or split up.

[0050] It should be noted that any number of ride vehicle modules can be installed side-to-side and / or front-to-back, and the modules can include any number of seats 22 as desired. In fact, numerous ride vehicle modules can be linked together, with the connecting wires hidden, so that the ride vehicle modules appear to be one large movie theater. Furthermore, the circuitry 50 of the linked ride vehicle modules can also allow for synchronized operation as a single, integrated movie theater-style ride vehicle 150. For example, the front of the movie theater-style ride vehicle 150 can be raised and the rear of the movie theater-style ride vehicle 150 can be lowered simultaneously, repeatedly, to simulate an earthquake, shaking, etc.

[0051] The movie theater ride car 150 may or may not include a motion base system 44 attached to each ride vehicle module 152, 154, 156, and 158. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the movie theater ride car 150 includes a motion base system 44 attached to each ride vehicle module 152, 154, 156, and 158. The motion base system 44 may include a traction system (e.g., wheels) 48 that provides drive throughout the ride and / or connection to a roller coaster track. Additionally, the walls and ceiling 162 may be connected in a manner that is not apparent to park guests. For example, the connecting lines may resemble the connecting lines commonly found in connected walls and ceilings within a room. Alternatively, the connecting lines may be covered by curtains commonly used in movie theater rooms. To conceal the connecting lines between the walls and ceiling, similar techniques, such as shading and patterns, may be used as described above with respect to camouflaging connecting lines on the surface of the platform 46. As a result, guests entering a complete cluster of vehicle modules are given the illusion that the walls and ceiling will remain intact as a unit throughout the experience.

[0052] FIG. 7B illustrates the movie theater ride vehicle's ability to separate ride vehicle modules 152, 154, 156, and 158. Additionally, the walls and / or ceiling 162 of the ride vehicle modules described above may be detachable and / or removable. In some embodiments, the walls and / or ceiling 162 may be removed, such as by a robot or mechanical arm. Alternatively, the walls may be stored beneath the ride vehicle module, or the walls may not be connected to the ride vehicle module at all. As described above, the ride vehicle circuitry 50 included in each ride vehicle module may execute instructions to physically separate (e.g., perform a disconnection operation) from the connected ride vehicle module. This instruction may be triggered by a specific event occurring during the ride vehicle simulation. For example, movie theater ride vehicle 150 may simulate a natural disaster that might affect a typical movie theater, such as an earthquake or tremor, or the video display screen 140 may display a meteor shower in a three-dimensional simulation, with a stray meteorite "crash" onto screen 140. In either scenario, the cinema ride vehicle 150 can then split as desired (e.g., left and right, front and back, along a diagonal, along a curve, along multiple connections) anywhere the ride vehicle modules 152, 154, 156, and 158 are connected.

[0053] The figure shows the cinema ride vehicle 150 separating into front, rear, left, and right sections, thereby releasing all ride vehicle modules 152, 154, 156, and 158. Each ride vehicle module can operate independently after being disconnected from the other ride vehicle modules. This allows each ride vehicle to travel a separate path within the ride vehicle. Specifically, the circuitry 50 of each ride vehicle module can independently control its own motion base system 44 to move (e.g., drive) the ride vehicle module in a desired direction. Furthermore, the motion base system 44 can synchronize with an onboard simulator (not shown) to perform roll, pitch, yaw, surge, heave, and / or sway (e.g., six degrees of freedom of movement). For example, ride vehicle modules 152, 154, 156, and 158 may all travel different paths, with one ride vehicle module hurtling through simulated city streets trying to escape an earthquake, while another ride vehicle is coupled to a roller coaster and flies away from a simulated tornado, alien spaceship, or dinosaur, etc. All the while, motion base system 44 vibrates and modulates in sync with events occurring within the on-board simulator. In this way, each ride vehicle module 152, 154, 156, and 158 may experience different simulations and / or movements resulting in different experiences within the same ride.

[0054] To help illustrate the different paths the ride vehicle modules can travel, Figures 8A-8C include a series of top views of ride vehicle modules configured to form cluster sizes by performing a coupling operation midway through the ride. Note that each ride vehicle module may include one or more seats. Furthermore, the connecting lines between each ride vehicle module may be hidden from guests on the surface of the ride vehicle module platform by utilizing the techniques described above. Figure 8A shows a unified ride vehicle 170 at the start of the ride. For example, the unified ride vehicle 170 may be the airplane-type ride vehicle or movie theater-type ride vehicle described above, or any other unified ride vehicle 170 that includes one or more coupled ride vehicle modules 172. At an initial time point (t1), the unified ride vehicle 170 begins to perform a separation operation due to some event, separating into two distinct intermediate unified ride vehicles 174 and 176, each including one or more ride vehicle modules 172. Using ride vehicle circuit 50, intermediate unified ride vehicles 174 and 176 can be operated as an integrated unit to travel or move along separate routes. As shown, intermediate unified ride vehicle 174 can travel along route 178 and intermediate unified ride vehicle 176 can travel along route 180.

[0055] As mentioned above, both paths 178 and 180 may include different stories, simulations, and movements. Indeed, one or both paths may include roller coaster tracks onto which intermediate unified ride vehicles 174 and / or 176 may connect, water chutes and / or bodies of water onto which intermediate unified ride vehicles 174 and / or 176 may float and flow, and paved roads onto which intermediate unified ride vehicles 174 and / or 176 may travel. Similarly, the audio and visual elements experienced by intermediate unified ride vehicles 174 and 176 may differ.

[0056] 8B further illustrates a top view of path 178, where at a second time point (t2), another event can separate intermediate unified ride vehicle 174 and split it into two different intermediate unified ride vehicles 182 and 184. Each intermediate unified ride vehicle 182 and 184 can then travel a different path. For example, intermediate unified ride vehicle 182 can travel path 186, and intermediate unified ride vehicle 184 can travel path 188. Here, each intermediate unified ride vehicle 182 and 184 can again experience a different story, simulation, and / or movement. As can be appreciated, the intermediate unified ride vehicle can continue to split until only a single ride vehicle module remains. Each time an intermediate unified ride vehicle splits, the resulting remaining ride vehicle (e.g., a single ride vehicle module or subset of modules) can have a different experience. This can encourage multiple rides of the attraction to experience all the different paths.

[0057] It may be desirable for the ride vehicle modules to reconnect at some point during the ride. Thus, FIG. 8C shows two intermediate unified ride vehicles 190 and 192 performing a reconnection operation at a third time point (t3). Time point t3 may be in response to some event occurring during the ride, which may be part of a storyline within the simulation. For example, in a ride in which the guests and ride vehicles are blood cells moving through the veins of a human body, the blood cells may reconnect when they encounter an artery, etc. Or, in a ride in which the guests and ride vehicles are fighter jets, the fighter jets may return to the aircraft carrier at the end of their mission. Thus, the intermediate unified ride vehicles 190 and 192 may reconnect to create the impression of inevitability as a unified ride vehicle 194. At this point, the ride ends, and guests may exit the unified ride vehicle 194.

[0058] In other embodiments, separate ride vehicle clusters may drop guests off separately at different exit points and not recombine for the next ride cycle until guests have exited. Additionally, there may be other points throughout the ride where the ride vehicle clusters are coupled together to change size as they travel. It should be understood that in any embodiment, the ride vehicle modules may increase or decrease the size of the clusters as they travel throughout the ride. This allows guests to ride the attraction multiple times and experience something new depending on which unified ride car, cluster, or ride vehicle module they sit in.

[0059] 9 is also a block diagram of a vehicle module operation process 200. Process 200 may include determining cluster size (processing block 202), setting cluster size (processing block 204), and performing vehicle coupling operations (processing block 206). Specifically, determining cluster size (processing block 202) may be performed by vehicle vehicle circuitry 50 (e.g., processors) of multiple vehicle vehicle modules communicating with each other throughout the vehicle. For example, at a particular time during the vehicle, an event may occur within the simulation or as part of the course that causes a split of a unitary vehicle or cluster, and the vehicle vehicle circuitry 50 may determine how many vehicle vehicle modules should be included in the split cluster. The cluster size may be stored in a tangible, non-transitory medium (e.g., memory) accessible to the vehicle vehicle circuitry 50 that is associated with the particular time / event during the course of the vehicle. The vehicle vehicle circuitry 50 may then set the cluster size accordingly (processing block 204). Thereafter, ride vehicle modules that need to be separated and split can perform a separation operation to separate into the determined cluster size (processing block 206).

[0060] Similarly, process 200 can also be utilized when a cluster size needs to be increased. For example, an event may occur at a particular time within the vehicle that causes one or more clusters (e.g., intermediate unified ride vehicles) to be reconnected by performing a coupling operation. The ride vehicle circuitry 50 may determine the size of the cluster(s), including determining how many ride vehicle modules should be coupled, using the techniques described herein (processing block 202). Thereafter, in processing block 204, the ride vehicle circuitry 50 sets the cluster size, and in processing block 206, the ride vehicle modules accordingly perform a coupling operation to achieve the desired size cluster(s).

[0061] 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.

[0062] [Section 1] 1. A system including a plurality of ride vehicle modules, each of the plurality of ride vehicle modules comprising: an interlocking system configured to perform coupling and decoupling operations throughout the vehicle to couple to and from other vehicle vehicle modules to form clusters; a control circuit configured to control the movement of the linkage system and each of the ride vehicle modules, either alone or as part of the cluster; and communication circuitry configured to wirelessly communicate with the other ride vehicle modules within and / or outside of the cluster; the cluster is configured to vary size throughout the vehicle by performing the coupling and decoupling operations as desired via the control circuitry of each of the plurality of ride vehicle modules that controls the interlocking system and the communication circuitry that coordinates the operations among the plurality of ride vehicle modules. [Section 2] Item 1. The system of item 1, wherein at least some of the ride vehicle modules are configured to be coupled together such that connecting lines are hidden on the surface of the cluster. [Section 3] Item 3. The system of item 2, wherein the connecting lines are hidden using techniques including patterns, shading, recesses, lighting, wedging, overlapping material, or combinations thereof. [Section 4] Item 1. The system of claim 1, wherein the cluster is configured to move together as a unified ride vehicle by utilizing the control circuitry and the communication circuitry to coordinate movement among the plurality of ride vehicle modules. [Section 5] Item 1. The system of item 1, wherein the interlocking system includes a T-screw rail system, a sliding locking system, a drop pin connector locking system, an electromagnetic locking system, a bolt locking system, or any combination thereof. [Section 6] Item 1, wherein each of the plurality of ride vehicle modules includes a drive system, a traction system, and a navigation system that cooperate to drive each of the ride vehicle modules alone and / or as part of the cluster without a fixed track throughout the vehicle. [Section 7] Item 1. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of ride vehicle modules includes a drive system, a traction system, and a navigation system that cooperate to drive each of the ride vehicle modules alone and / or as part of the cluster through different routes within the vehicle. [Section 8] Item 1. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one ride vehicle module of the plurality of ride vehicle modules includes an attached motion-based system and an on-board simulator, the motion-based system configured to pitch, roll, yaw, surge, heave, and / or sway in synchronization with events in the on-board simulator. [Section 9] The system described in item 1, wherein the control circuit, when performing the coupling and decoupling operations via the communication circuit, operates the vehicle module synchronously with other vehicle modules using data acquired via multiple sensors attached to each side of the vehicle module. [Section 10] Item 1. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one vehicle module among the plurality of vehicle modules includes a navigation system configured to track the position and location of the at least one vehicle module within the vehicle by utilizing technology including laser guidance, wire guidance, gyroscope guidance, or any combination thereof. [Section 11] 1. A system comprising a plurality of ride vehicle modules, the plurality of ride vehicle modules comprising: configured to synchronously couple to one another in a cluster via any interlocking system attached to one or more sides of each modular ride vehicle; The system wherein the plurality of ride vehicle modules in the cluster are configured to move together as one unified ride vehicle via on-board control and communication circuits and to change size by coupling other ride vehicle modules throughout the ride or by detaching from already coupled ride vehicle modules. [Section 12] Item 12. The system of item 11, wherein the ride vehicle modules are seamlessly coupled within the cluster such that any connecting lines between coupled ride vehicle modules are hidden on the surface of the cluster. [Section 13] Item 13. The system of item 12, wherein the connecting lines are hidden using techniques including patterns, shading, recesses, lighting, wedging, overlapping material, or combinations thereof. [Section 14] Item 12. The system of item 11, wherein the on-board control circuitry is configured to operate the cluster as a unified vehicle by designating an automation controller of one vehicle module in the cluster as a master and designating the remaining automation controllers of other vehicle modules in the cluster as slaves, and the master communicates information regarding control of the cluster to the slaves via the communication circuitry. [Section 15] Item 12. The system of item 11, wherein the control circuitry is configured to operate the ride vehicle module, either alone or together with other connected ride vehicle modules as part of the cluster, to travel along multiple routes within the vehicle. [Section 16] Item 12. The system of item 11, wherein at least one ride vehicle module of the plurality of ride vehicle modules is configured to ride on a motion base system positioned along the path of the ride vehicle. [Section 17] Item 12. The system of item 11, wherein the interlocking system comprises a T-screw rail system, a sliding locking system, a drop pin connector locking system, an electromagnetic locking system, a bolt locking system, or any combination thereof. [Section 18] determining, via the control circuitry, a desired size for one or more clusters of vehicle vehicle modules throughout the vehicle; setting the size of the one or more clusters via control circuitry and communication circuitry; and performing coupling and decoupling operations via the interlocking system based on the set size of the one or more clusters throughout the vehicle via control circuitry configured to control an interlocking system attached to each of the vehicle vehicle modules and communication circuitry configured to communicate between the vehicle vehicle modules. [Section 19] Item 19. The method of item 18, wherein the determination of the size of the one or more clusters of the vehicle vehicle module is made in response to an event occurring as part of a simulation within the vehicle, and includes accessing the cluster size stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium of the vehicle vehicle module. [Section 20] Item 19. The method of item 18, wherein the control circuit processes data input by at least one sensor mounted on each side of the vehicle module and performs the coupling and decoupling operations through the interlocking system by coordinating the coupling or decoupling operations of the interlocking system between the vehicle module via the communication circuit. [Section 21] Item 19. The method of item 18, wherein the one or more clusters are configured to operate together as a unified ride vehicle by coordinating the movement of each associated ride vehicle module within each of the one or more clusters via corresponding control circuitry and communication circuitry. [Section 22] Item 19. The method of item 18, wherein the one or more clusters are configured to follow different paths within the vehicle. [Section 23] Item 19. The method of item 18, wherein the one or more clusters are configured to move without a fixed track throughout the vehicle by utilizing a navigation system attached to each of the vehicle vehicle modules.

Claims

[Claim 1] 1. A system including a plurality of ride vehicle modules, each of the plurality of ride vehicle modules comprising: an interlocking system configured to perform coupling and decoupling operations throughout the vehicle to couple to and from other vehicle vehicle modules to form clusters; a control circuit configured to control the movement of the linkage system and each of the ride vehicle modules, either alone or as part of the cluster; and communication circuitry configured to wirelessly communicate with the other ride vehicle modules within and / or outside of the cluster; the cluster is configured to vary size throughout the vehicle by performing the coupling and decoupling operations as desired via the control circuitry of each of the plurality of ride vehicle modules that controls the interlocking system and the communication circuitry that coordinates the operations among the plurality of ride vehicle modules.

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