System and method for thrust-vectored practical fluid flow effects

Abstract

We provide amusement park attraction effect systems. [Solution] The attraction includes a dynamic display 120 that can be viewed by a user 118 moving within the attraction, a display monitor 108 that provides state data indicating the state of the dynamic display, a position identification system that determines the user's position, a thrust-deflecting flow effect generator 112 that generates a fluid flow and directs it to a specific target position within a target position range, and an automated controller 116 that is communicatively coupled to the display monitor, the position identification system, and the thrust-deflecting flow effect generator. The automated controller is configured to receive state data, receive the user's position, set a target position based on the user's position, instruct the thrust-deflecting flow effect generator to direct the fluid flow based on the target position, and instruct the thrust-deflecting flow effect generator to control the fluid flow based on the state data.

Description

[[Technical Field]]

[0001] [[Cross-Reference to Related Applications]] This application claims priority and the benefit thereof based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 067,125, entitled "SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR THRUST-VECTORED PRACTICAL FLUID FLOW EFFECTS", filed on August 18, 2020, which document is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to fluid flow effects for amusement park attractions and amusement park experiences. [[Background Art]]

[0003] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of technology that may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure described and / or claimed below. This discussion is believed to be helpful in providing the reader with background to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art.

[0004] Amusement parks often include attractions or experiences that utilize fluid flow effects (e.g., air, smoke, mist, fog, steam, fire, water spray) to provide and entertain guests. For example, an attraction may include a themed environment established using display devices that show media content (e.g., in the form of video, text, still images, motion graphics, or a combination thereof). In some attractions, it is desirable to add fluid flow effects to the media content to provide audiences with a realistic and / or immersive viewing or playing experience. In one example, such fluid flow effects can be achieved using large fans that create a wide-ranging effect across the entire audience. However, it may be difficult to create air effects for guests due to considerations such as guest spacing, individualization of guest experiences, cost, space, equipment availability, and / or noise. [Overview of the project] [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The following summarizes several embodiments that fall within the same scope as the subject matter of the original claims. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter, but rather to outline possible forms of the subject matter. In practice, the subject matter may include a variety of forms that are similar to or different from the embodiments shown below.

[0006] In one embodiment, the amusement park attraction effect system includes a dynamic display configured to be viewed by a user moving within the attraction. The amusement park attraction effect system further includes a display monitor configured to monitor changes in the dynamic display and provide state data indicating the state of the dynamic display, and a position identification system configured to determine the user's position. The amusement park attraction effect system further includes a thrust-deflecting flow effect generator configured to generate a fluid flow directed to a specific target location within a target location range within the attraction, and an automated controller communicatively coupled to the display monitor, the position identification system, and the thrust-deflecting flow effect generator. The automated controller is configured to receive state data provided by the display monitor and the user's position provided by the position identification system. The automated controller is also configured to set a target location within the target location range based on the user's position. The automated controller is also configured to command the thrust-deflecting fluid flow effect generator to direct the fluid flow based on the target location, and to command the thrust-deflecting fluid flow effect generator to control the fluid flow based on the state data.

[0007] In another embodiment, the amusement park attraction effect system includes a dynamic display configured to be viewed by multiple users, a display monitor configured to monitor changes in the dynamic display and provide state data indicating the state of the dynamic display, and a location identification system configured to determine multiple locations of multiple users. In one embodiment, the amusement park attraction effect system also includes an array of thrust-deflecting flow effect generators comprising a first thrust-deflecting flow effect generator and a second thrust-deflecting flow effect generator. In one embodiment, the first thrust-deflecting flow effect generator is configured to generate a first fluid flow directed to a first target location within a target location range, and the second thrust-deflecting flow effect generator is configured to generate a second fluid flow directed to a second target location within a target location range. In one embodiment, the amusement park attraction effect system also includes an automated controller communicatively coupled to the display monitor, the location identification system, and the array. The automation controller is configured to receive state data provided by the display monitor, receive multiple positions of multiple users provided by the position identification system, and set a first target position and a second target position based on the multiple positions of the multiple users. The automation controller is also configured to command a first thrust-vectoring flow effect generator to direct a first fluid flow based on the first target position, and command a second thrust-vectoring flow effect generator to direct a second fluid flow based on the second target position.

[0008] In another embodiment, the amusement park attraction effect system includes a head-mounted virtual reality (VR) device, which includes an electronic display configured to display images to the user. The amusement park attraction effect system also includes a user detection system for the head-mounted VR device, which is configured to detect the user's position and orientation and output data indicating the position and orientation. The amusement park attraction effect system further includes a directional airflow generator configured to generate an air effect and direct the air effect to a target position, and an automated controller communicatively coupled to the user detection system and the directional airflow generator. The automated controller is configured to receive data output by the user detection system and determine a target position to which the air effect should be directed based on the location and orientation indicated by the data. The automated controller is also configured to control the directional airflow generator to direct the air effect to the target position.

[0009] Various improvements to the features described above can be made in relation to various aspects of this disclosure. Furthermore, additional features can be incorporated into these various aspects. These improvements and additional features may exist individually or in any combination.

[0010] A better understanding of these and other features, aspects and advantages of this disclosure will be gained by reading the following detailed description while referring to the attached drawings, which use the same symbols to indicate the same elements throughout. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a schematic block diagram of an amusement park attraction effect system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of an amusement park attraction incorporating an amusement park attraction effect system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view of an amusement park attraction incorporating an amusement park attraction effect system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4]This is a flowchart of the process for providing amusement park attraction effects according to an embodiment of the disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] The following describes one or more specific embodiments of this disclosure. For the sake of brevity, this specification may not describe all features of the embodiments. It should be understood that in the development of any such embodiment, as is seen in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific objectives, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary by implementation. Furthermore, it should be understood that while such development efforts can be complex and time-consuming, they are nevertheless routine tasks of design, fabrication, and manufacturing for the average engineer interested in this disclosure. In addition, to the extent that certain terms such as parallel and perpendicular are used in the present invention, it should be understood that these terms allow for deviations from their strict mathematical definitions, such as deviations related to manufacturing imperfections and associated tolerances.

[0013] When describing elements of various embodiments of this disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to indicate that there are one or more of these elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be comprehensive and mean that there may be further elements other than those listed. Furthermore, any reference to “one embodiment” or “a certain embodiment” in this disclosure should not be interpreted as excluding the existence of further embodiments, including the features described.

[0014] This disclosure relates to fluid flow effects in general, and more specifically to thrust-vectored fluid flow effects systems for amusement park attractions and amusement park experiences. Attractions may include any type of ride system designed to entertain guests, such as attractions including ride vehicles that move along a path, attractions including rooms or theaters with fixed or movable seats for guests to sit in while watching videos, or attractions including paths for guests to travel along or rooms for guests to explore. Specifically, this thrust-vectored fluid flow effects system provides guests with individualized fluid flow effects without the challenges and / or costs associated with providing such fluid flow effects over a large area and / or a substantial number of guests. While the disclosed embodiments describe fluid flow effects generally used for entertainment purposes, they may also be applied to fluid flow effects systems used for any other preferred purpose.

[0015] Based on the above, Figure 1 shows an amusement park attraction effect system, such as a fluid flow effect system 100, which includes a system controller block 102, a flow effect component 110, and a dynamic display 120, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The fluid flow effect system 100 can be used to provide a fluid flow effect to one or more users 118 during an amusement park attraction and / or amusement park experience. In some embodiments, the system controller block 102, the flow effect component 110, and / or the display 120 can be incorporated into a ride vehicle of the amusement park attraction and / or amusement park experience. The system controller block 102 can control the operation of the flow effect component 110 and process data acquired by the display monitor 108 and the position classifier 122. The flow effect component 110 can be coupled to the system controller block 102 by any preferred technique, such as wireless connection, optical connection, coaxial connection, or other preferred connection, to transmit data and control signals between the flow effect component 110 and the system controller block 102.

[0016] The flow effect component 110 may include a thrust-vectoring flow effect generator 112 and a motor 114. The thrust-vectoring flow effect generator 112 may include a nozzle configured to expand and contract symmetrically or asymmetrically, and is capable of thrust deflection (e.g., thrust deflection control), meaning that the thrust-vectoring flow effect generator 112 operates to manipulate the direction, velocity, effective range and angular plane of the fluid flow stream passing through it. The thrust-vectoring flow effect generator 112 can generate a fluid flow effect (e.g., air, smoke, mist, fog, steam, fire, water spray) and direct the fluid flow effect towards one or more users 118. The thrust-vectoring flow effect generator 112 may include a nozzle that can change the effective range, duration and / or velocity and / or direction of the fluid flow effect. In some embodiments, the thrust-vectoring fluid flow effect generator 112 may include a fan that can generate a constant-velocity fluid flow effect and / or a dynamic fluid flow effect. For example, the thrust-vectoring fluid flow effect generator 112 can generate a fluid flow effect in a speed range of zero to 30 kilometers per hour (e.g., zero to 20 kilometers per hour, zero to 15 kilometers per hour, zero to 10 kilometers per hour, zero to 5 kilometers per hour).

[0017] The flow effect component 110 can generate a fluid flow effect using pressurized air (e.g., compressed air). In some embodiments, the thrust-vectored fluid flow effect generator 112 may include an air compressor capable of generating a compressed fluid flow effect. For example, the thrust-vectored fluid flow effect generator 112 may generate bursts of compressed air (e.g., less than 5 seconds, less than 2 seconds, less than 1 second) as a fluid flow effect. The fluid flow effect component 110 can generate a tactile effect using pressurized air. As used herein, a tactile effect means creating a tactile experience or sensation for the user 118. For example, the flow effect component 110 may provide tactile feedback to the user 118 by generating bursts of compressed air. The thrust-vectored fluid flow effect generator 112 may include nozzles having any number of outlets capable of generating different flow effects (e.g., patterns, intensities, sensations). For example, user 118 may feel a poking sensation and / or a sensation of a projectile passing nearby and / or a sensation of being hit by user 118 due to a single pressurized air burst corresponding to a single nozzle outlet. In another example, user 118 may feel a tingling sensation as a result of any number of pinpoint pressurized air bursts corresponding to any number of nozzle outlets. In some embodiments, the flow effect component 110 may include an array containing any number of thrust-vectoring flow effect generators 112. For example, the array may include one or more thrust-vectoring flow effect generators 112 associated with each user 118. The thrust-vectoring flow effect generators 112 can change the temperature of the fluid flow effect. For example, the thrust-vectoring flow effect generator may include heating and / or cooling components that can raise and / or lower the temperature of the fluid flow effect relative to the ambient temperature. In addition to or instead of this, the thrust-vectoring flow effect generator 112 may also include a water component that can increase the water content of the fluid flow effect. For example, a water component can supply water to a fluid flow effect to generate a mist or water spray directed towards user 118.

[0018] The system controller block 102 can control the operation of the motor 114. In some embodiments, the motor 114 can adjust the thrust-vectoring fluid flow effect generator 112 according to signals received from the system controller block 102. For example, the motor 114 can adjust the nozzle configuration of the thrust-vectoring fluid flow effect generator 112 to change the effective range, duration and / or speed and / or direction of the fluid flow effect. In some embodiments, each thrust-vectoring fluid flow effect generator 112 may include a corresponding motor 114.

[0019] The dynamic display 120 can display one or more images (e.g., still images, video images) for one or more users 118 to view. The display 120 can display images related to fluid flow effects. For example, an image depicting a windy day can relate to strong, steady gusts of wind, an image depicting an explosion can relate to bursts of hot air, an image depicting a boat trip can relate to light mist, and so on. In some embodiments, the display 120 can be an electronic display such as an LED screen, LCD screen, plasma screen, projector, or any other suitable electronic display. In some embodiments, the display 120 can be a head-mounted display (HMD). For example, the display 120 can be a display device worn on the head of user 118 and can be positioned in front of one or both of user 118's eyes. The display 120 can display computer-generated images, live images, virtual reality images, augmented reality images, and mixed reality images, etc. In addition to or instead of this, the display 120 may be placed on a surface such as the wall, ceiling and / or floor of an amusement park attraction or experience. For example, the display 120 may include a projector that can project images onto the display screen. In some embodiments, any number of users 118 can view the display 120. In addition to or instead of this, the display 120 may also be a stage that any number of users 118 can view. For example, the stage may include any number of props such as animatronic figures, performers, still objects and electronic displays. The display 120 may include a performance on the stage that includes any number of props. In some embodiments, users 118 can control the images displayed on the display 120 based on their selection. For example, users 118 can select the viewing experience displayed on the display according to their preferences.

[0020] As can be understood, the system controller block 102 may include many elements that control the operation of the flow effect component 110, facilitate and / or monitor the display of images on the display 120, and identify and / or track the location of one or more users 118. For example, as shown in the figure, the system controller block 102 may include a display monitor 108, a location classifier 122, and an automation controller 116. In some embodiments, the system controller block 102 may include additional elements not shown in Figure 1, such as additional data acquisition and processing controls, additional sensors and display monitors, and a user interface.

[0021] The display monitor 108 can monitor changes in the display 120 and generate state data related to the state of the display 120. In some embodiments, the display monitor 108 can be communicatively coupled to the display 120 via wireless, optical, coaxial, or other preferred connections. For example, the display monitor 108 can be configured to receive signals from the display 120. These signals can be related to the state of the display 120. For example, the state can indicate that the display 120 has started a user experience for any number of users 118, that the display 120 has ended a user experience for any number of users 118, that the display 120 is changing according to a selection by the user 118, or that the display 120 is drawing an image related to a fluid flow effect. In addition to or instead of this, the display monitor 108 can also control the movement of props on stage and / or control another electronic display separate from the display 120 to draw an image. In some embodiments, the display monitor 108 can be a camera capable of monitoring the display 120, such as detecting the movement of props on stage. In addition to or instead of the above, the display monitor 108 can also monitor changes in the electronic display, such as the movement of objects depicted on the electronic display. In some embodiments, the display monitor 108 can monitor data signals and / or commands transmitted to the electronic display in order to determine changes in the electronic display. In such embodiments, the display monitor 108 can be integrated with the display 120. The display monitor 108 can be communicably coupled to the system controller block 102 via wireless, optical, coaxial, or other preferred connections. The display monitor 108 can generate signals corresponding to the state of the display 120 and transmit these signals to the system controller block 102 for processing.

[0022] In some embodiments, the display monitor 108 may be a sensor, such as a light sensor, that can detect light emitted from the display 120. For example, the sensor may detect light from visible light, infrared light, ultraviolet light, and / or any other preferred portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. The display monitor 108 may transmit a data signal to the processor 104 in response to the detection of light. For example, the display monitor 108 may detect a watermark corresponding to a specific depiction presented by the display 120 that is invisible to humans (e.g., infrared light or indistinguishable pixelation). Furthermore, in such an example, the display monitor 108 may, in response to the detection of a watermark, supply a data signal indicating that the display 120 is depicting an image related to a fluid flow effect (e.g., a movie scene where water is blown onto a ship by wind), has started a display sequence related to a fluid flow effect, has ended a display sequence related to a fluid flow effect, or any other preferred state indication related to the display 120.

[0023] As described in further detail below, the operation of the display 120 cooperates with the operation of the flow effect component 110 to generate a fluid flow effect corresponding to the state of the display 120, such as an image drawn on the display 120. In order to facilitate cooperation between the display 120 and the flow effect component 110, in certain embodiments, the display 120 can emit an optical pulse such as an infrared light (e.g., a start pulse, start light) that indicates the start of a display sequence related to the fluid flow effect. For example, the display 120 can emit the optical pulse, and the display monitor 108 can detect the optical pulse. In certain embodiments, the display monitor 108 can generate a data signal indicating detection of the optical pulse and transmit the data signal to the processor 104. As a result, the processor 104 can control the flow effect component 110 based on and / or in response to receiving the data signal. In some embodiments, the optical pulse can be independent light, or can alternatively be a component of the display 120. In addition or alternatively, the display 120 can indicate the start of a display sequence related to the fluid flow effect by sound, a watermark, a specific image or a series of images, a data signal transmitted via a wireless connection, an optical connection, a coaxial connection or any other suitable connection, or any other suitable communication means between the display 120 and the display monitor 108.

[0024] The location classifier 122 can determine and track the location of one or more users 118. In some embodiments, the location classifier 122 may include a camera that can detect and determine the location of one or more users 118. For example, this camera may be an infrared camera that can detect one or more users 118 based on a heat signature associated with one or more users 118. In some embodiments, the location classifier 122 may include a processor that processes location data to determine and / or identify the location of one or more users, the orientation of one or more users' bodies, the location of specific body parts of one or more users (e.g., head, neck, arms, hands, and legs), the exposed skin area of ​​one or more users, or any combination thereof. In addition to or instead of this, the location classifier 122 may also include any number of pressure sensors on the floor of the amusement park attraction, the floor of the ride vehicle, and / or the seats of the ride vehicle. In some embodiments, the location classifier 122 may include any preferred device for detecting one or more users 118, determining the location of one or more users 118, and / or tracking the location of one or more users 118. For example, the location classifier 122 may include sensors and devices that can generate signals detectable by the sensors, such as wearable devices on the user 118 and / or portable devices carried by the user 118, a global positioning system (GPS) device, camera-based blob trackers, skeletal trackers, optical trackers, and radio frequency identification (RFID) sensors and RFID tags in light detection and ranging (LIDAR). It can also identify not only basic location information but also directional information (for example, which direction the user is looking or facing).

[0025] The position identifier 122 can include any number of tracking devices. For example, the position identifier 122 can include a single device corresponding to each user 118 of an amusement park attraction. In some embodiments, the position identifier 122 can include a single device capable of determining and tracking the position of any number of users 118 of an amusement park attraction. The position identifier 122 can generate a signal corresponding to the position of one or more users 118 and transmit this signal to the system controller block 102. The position identifier 122 can also provide orientation information that can be based on a sensor (e.g., an accelerometer present in a headset worn by the user 118).

[0026] The system controller block 102 can be provided in the form of a computer device such as a programmable logic controller (PLC), a personal computer, a laptop, a tablet, a mobile device, a server, or any other suitable computer device. The system controller block 102 can be a control system having multiple controllers, such as an automation controller 116, each having at least one processor 104 and at least one memory 106. In some embodiments, the memory 106 may include one or more tangible non-temporary computer-readable media that store instructions that the processor 104 (corresponding to one or more processors) can execute and / or data that the processor 104 should process. For example, the memory 106 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), rewritable non-volatile memory such as flash memory, a hard drive, and / or an optical disc. The processor 104 may include one or more general-purpose microprocessors, one or more application-specific processors (ASICs), one or more field-programmable logic arrays (FPGAs), or any combination thereof. Furthermore, the memory 106 can store user position data acquired via the position classifier 122, display data acquired via the display monitor 108, and / or algorithms that the processor 104 uses to assist in controlling the operation of the flow effect component 110 based on the user position data and display data. The processor 104 can control the generation of fluid flow effects via the thrust-deflecting flow effect generator 112. The processor 104 can also process the acquired data to generate control signals for the thrust-deflecting flow effect generator 112 and / or the motor 114, control and / or monitor the operation of the display 120, and / or detect and determine the location of one or more users 118.

[0027] The processor 104 can receive user location data from the location classifier 122. The user location data can correspond to any number of locations associated with any number of users 118. In some embodiments, the processor can process the user location data to determine the locations of one or more users, the body orientations of one or more users, the locations of specific body parts of one or more users, the exposed skin areas of one or more users, or any combination thereof. The processor 104 can process the user location data to set any number of target locations based on the determined locations, body orientations, the locations of specific body parts (e.g., head, neck, arms, hands, and legs), exposed skin areas, or any combination thereof. For example, the processor 104 can receive user location data from the skeletal tracking device of the location classifier 122, identify body parts based on the joint and body part models generated by the skeletal tracking device, and set a target location for the user's hands. In addition to or instead of this, the processor 104 can also receive user location data from the infrared camera device of the location classifier 122 and determine exposed skin areas based on measured thermal traces.

[0028] The processor 104 can control the operation of the flow effect component 110 based on the received position data, the determined exposed skin area, the determined body part location, or any combination thereof. For example, the processor 104 can generate and transmit (e.g., via wired or wireless communication, via an antenna) a control signal to start and / or change a fluid flow effect related to the state of the display 120 to the flow effect component 110. In one embodiment, the control signal may indicate the type of fluid flow effect to be generated (e.g., air, smoke, mist, fog, steam, fire, water spray), the speed of the fluid flow effect, the temperature of the fluid flow effect, the direction of the fluid flow effect, the target of the fluid flow effect (e.g., area, area size, exposed skin, body part), or any combination thereof. In addition to or instead of this, the processor 104 can also generate and transmit a control signal to the motor 114 to start generating a fluid flow effect, change the speed of the fluid flow effect (e.g., increase, decrease), adjust the direction of the fluid flow effect, or stop generating a fluid flow effect. For example, a control signal may indicate that the nozzle of the flow effect generator 112 can open, close, contract, or expand to change the direction of the fluid flow effect, the effective range of the fluid flow effect, and / or the speed of the fluid flow effect. In some embodiments, the nozzle may include a plurality of movable vanes configured to direct the generated fluid flow effect. For example, the nozzle may deflect the fluid flow effect, change the speed of the fluid flow effect, and / or change the effective range of the fluid flow effect. In some embodiments, the nozzle may be a variable-region nozzle, which can adjust the nozzle's outlet region. The variable-region nozzle may have a first or symmetrical configuration having a centerline of the nozzle's outlet region that coincides with the centerline of the fan that generates the fluid flow effect. The fluid flow effect generator 112 can adjust the configuration of the outlet region by moving one or more vanes of the nozzle. Thus, the outlet region may be asymmetrical (e.g., off-center), and the nozzle can direct the fluid flow effect in a new direction corresponding to the changed outlet region configuration.In addition to or instead of this, the processor 104 may also generate and transmit control signals to the flow effect component 110 to turn off one or more flow effect generators 112 and / or one or more motors 114. In some embodiments, the processor 104 can dynamically control the operation of the flow effect component 110. For example, the processor may set the target position of the flow effect component 110 and dynamically update it in response to dynamically updated user position data.

[0029] In addition to or instead of the above, the processor 104 may also generate and transmit control signals to both the flow effect component 110 and the display 120 (e.g., coordinately, time-dependently) to initiate operation. In one embodiment, the processor 104 may generate and transmit control signals to the display 120 to initiate operation (e.g., display an image frame) in response to receiving signals from the location classifier 122 indicating that one or more users 118 are present for the amusement park experience and / or signals indicating that the amusement park experience is ready (e.g., user location data), receiving signals indicating the timing of a show, receiving signals indicating that the flow effect component 110 is ready (e.g., turned on, receiving power), and / or receiving signals from the user (e.g., via a user interface that can be associated with the display 120 or can be present in an attraction that uses the display 120). The processor 104 may generate and transmit control signals to the flow effect component 110 to operate one or more thrust-bending flow effect generators 112. For example, the processor 104 can operate the array of thrust-deflected flow effect generators 112 to generate fluid flow effect patterns of desired shapes (e.g., circles, squares, and rectangles), letters, numbers, and words. In addition to or instead of this, the processor 104 can also operate the array of thrust-deflected flow effect generators 112 to generate any number of fluid flow effect patterns (e.g., wide patterns, shower patterns, jet patterns, fan patterns, and pulse patterns) similar to the spray patterns of a water hose. In some embodiments, the processor can modify the fluid flow effect by turning any number of thrust-deflected flow effect generators 112 on and / or off to form the contours and / or desired shapes of the fluid flow effect patterns.In addition to or instead of this, the processor 104 may also operate the array of thrust-deflecting flow effect generators 112 to generate any number of fluid flow effect patterns. For example, the processor may modify the fluid flow effect and generate a series of fluid flow effect patterns by alternately turning any number of thrust-deflecting flow effect generators 112 on and / or off. In some embodiments, the user 118 may select any number of fluid flow effect patterns. For example, the user 118 may select a desired fluid flow effect pattern, the velocity of the fluid flow effect, the temperature of the fluid flow effect, and / or any other preferred aspect of the fluid flow effect according to user preference.

[0030] Based on the above, Figure 2 shows an amusement park attraction 210 incorporating an amusement park attraction effect system 200, such as the fluid flow effect system 100 of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The amusement park attraction effect system 200 includes a display 120. In some embodiments, the display 120 may be a head-mounted device that can be worn by a user 118 by placing the frame of the head-mounted device around the user 118's head and wearing the head-mounted device in a similar manner to wearing glasses. In some embodiments, the head-mounted device may be glasses. In some embodiments, the display 120 may be a mixed reality display, an augmented reality display, a virtual reality display, a computer-generated image display, and / or a live image display. The amusement park attraction 210 may include a ride vehicle 206 that moves along a path, such as a track 208 extending within the amusement park attraction 210. The ride vehicle 206 may include spacing and one or more seats for one or more users 118 to sit inside the ride vehicle 206 during the duration of the amusement park attraction 210. The system 200 may include a position classifier such as a camera 204 and a flow effect component 110 including an array 202 of one or more flow effect generators 112. The camera 204 can detect the presence of one or more users in the amusement park attraction 210, such as a user seated in a ride vehicle 206. For example, the camera 204 may be an infrared camera capable of detecting thermal traces associated with a user 118. In some embodiments, the camera 204 may detect and / or determine the position of specific body parts of the user 118 (e.g., head, neck, hands) and / or the position of the user 118's exposed skin. In addition to or instead of this, the ride vehicle 206 may also include pressure sensors that detect the presence of one or more users on the floor and / or seats. In some embodiments, the camera 204 may dynamically update the position of the user 118 (e.g., periodically, in real time) as the ride vehicle 206 moves along the track 208. The array 202 may include any number of flow effect generators 112.For example, the array 202 may include one flow effect generator 112 for each user 118 of the amusement park attraction effect system 200, multiple flow effect generators 112 for each user 118 of the amusement park attraction effect system 200, or one flow effect generator 112 for multiple users 118 of the amusement park attraction effect system 200. In some embodiments, each flow effect generator 112 may be a nozzle that can direct a corresponding air effect to a corresponding user. For example, each flow effect generator 112 in the array 202 may be coupled to a single compressed air source to generate a corresponding air effect. In addition to or instead of this, each flow effect generator 112 in the array 202 may also be coupled to a corresponding compressed air source to generate a corresponding air effect.

[0031] In some embodiments, the display 120 can be a component of a computer device such as a mobile device. In addition to or instead of this, the computer device may also include the automation controller 116 and position classifier 122 shown in Figure 1. For example, the computer device may include a global positioning system (GPS) that determines the location of the user 118, and / or a gyroscope that determines the orientation of the user 118's body. In addition to or instead of this, the camera 204 may also generate and transmit user location data to the computer device. In some embodiments, the computer device may generate signals corresponding to one or more target locations and transmit them to the flow effect component 110. The computer device may instruct the flow effect component 110 to control the fluid flow based on the state of the display 120. For example, if the display 120 draws an image of fire, the computer device may instruct the heating component of the flow effect component 110 to increase the temperature of the fluid flow and / or direct the heated fluid flow towards the user 118. In some embodiments, a computer device such as the system controller block 102 shown in Figure 1 may instruct the flow effect component 110 to dynamically control the fluid flow based on the state of the display 120. For example, the display 120 can depict the user approaching a virtual fire located near the user. The computer device can receive dynamically updated user location data from a location classifier such as the camera 204. As a result, the computer device, such as the system controller block 102 in Figure 1, can instruct the flow effect component 110 to dynamically control the fluid based on the apparent distance between the virtual fire and the user 118. For example, as the vehicle 206 and the user 118 approach the virtual fire, the system controller block 102 can instruct the flow effect component 110 to increase the temperature of the fluid flow effect.In addition to or instead of this, the system controller block 102 can also dynamically control the operation of the flow effect component 110 to adjust the target position of one or more flow effect generators 112. For example, as the vehicle 206 and the user approach the virtual fire, the system controller block 102 can instruct the flow effect component 110 to adjust the target position from the front of the user 118 when the user 118 is approaching the virtual fire, to the side of the user 118 when the user 118 is passing by the virtual fire, and to the rear of the user 118 when the user is moving away from the virtual fire.

[0032] In addition to or instead of this, the first flow effect generator of array 202 may generate a fluid flow effect different from that of the second flow effect generator of array 202. For example, a first user can see an image on the corresponding display 120 that relates to a hot fluid flow effect, such as moving near a volcano. A second user can see an image on the corresponding display 120 that relates to a cold fluid flow effect, such as moving across a frozen tundra. Thus, the display monitor 108 in Figure 1 can receive a first signal corresponding to a display related to a hot fluid flow effect, and a second signal corresponding to a display related to a cold fluid flow effect. The display monitor 108 can provide state data indicating two or more displays to the system controller block 102. The system controller block 102 can control the operation of the first flow effect generator to generate a hot fluid flow effect and command the first flow effect generator to direct the hot fluid flow effect towards the first user, and can control the operation of the second flow effect generator to generate a cold fluid flow effect and command the second flow effect generator to direct the second fluid flow effect towards the second user. Thus, the amusement park attraction effect system 200 can be controlled and operated to generate any number of fluid flow effects, including different fluid flow effects, and target any number of users. In addition to or instead of this, the system controller block 102 can determine, based on position data received from the position classifier 122, that the first user is adjacent to the second user (e.g., within 10 feet, within 5 feet, within 1 foot). Thus, the system controller block 102 can determine the target positions of the first user and / or the second user to prevent interference from flow effects directed towards the other user. An advantage of this embodiment is its ability to customize the experience for each individual, even if those individuals may be in very close proximity to each other (for example, in the same vehicle).

[0033] Although the flow effect component 110 is shown as being separate from the vehicle 206, in some embodiments the flow effect component 110 can also be incorporated into the vehicle. For example, the vehicle 206 may include one or more flow effect generators 112 on the vehicle's seats, vehicle's restraints, vehicle's walls, vehicle's floor, or any other suitable component of the vehicle 206. In some embodiments, one or more flow effect generators 112 incorporated into the vehicle 206 (e.g., seats, restraints, walls, and floor) can generate tactile effects. For example, a flow effect generator 112 incorporated into the vehicle's restraints can provide tactile feedback to a user 118 clinging to the restraints. Furthermore, numerous flow effect components 110 can be included to provide different sensations to different passengers or parts of a passenger's body. For example, in a scene depicting a boat moving under a burning bridge, heat could be directed to the passenger's head while water droplets are sprayed onto the user's hand resting on a lap bar.

[0034] Based on the above, Figure 3 shows an amusement park attraction 310 incorporating an amusement park attraction effect system 300, such as the fluid flow effect system 100 of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The amusement park attraction 310 includes a ride vehicle 304. The ride vehicle 304 may include spacing and one or more seats for one or more users 118 to sit inside the ride vehicle 206 during the duration of the amusement park attraction. In some embodiments, the ride vehicle 304 may include hydraulics for raising the ride vehicle 304, lowering the ride vehicle 304, and / or tilting the ride vehicle 304 (for example, forward, backward, or sideways). The amusement park attraction effect system 300 may include a display 120 that depicts an object 302. For example, the object 302 could be an airplane, and the display 120 could depict the object 302 passing over the heads of one or more users 118 inside the ride vehicle 304. The system 300 may include a location classifier such as a camera 204 and a flow effect component 110 which includes an array 202 of one or more flow effect generators 112. The camera 204 can detect the presence of one or more users in an amusement park attraction, such as a user sitting inside a ride vehicle 304.

[0035] In some embodiments, the display 120 can be integrated onto the vehicle 304. For example, each user 118 may have a corresponding display 120 positioned in front of the user's seat on the vehicle 304. In some embodiments, the vehicle 304 may include a position classifier such as a GPS sensor and / or a gyroscope. A position classifier such as a camera 204 can generate user position data and transmit it to a computer device such as the system controller block 102 in Figure 1. The display 120 can generate signals indicating a state associated with the display 120 (e.g., the start of a display sequence) and transmit them to the system controller block 102. For example, the display 120 may display an image of an airplane passing over the heads of one or more users in the vehicle 304 and transmit a signal to the system controller block 102. The system controller block 102 in Figure 1 receives the user position data and signals from the display 120 and can determine a set of target positions for one or more users 118 based on the user position data and the state of the display 120. Therefore, the system controller block 102 can instruct one or more flow effect generators 112 to target one or more target positions of one or more users 118. For example, if the display 120 depicts an airplane passing over the heads of one or more users 118, the system controller block 102 can instruct one or more flow effect generators 112 to generate an airflow effect corresponding to the image depicted on the display 120. The system controller block 102 can dynamically control one or more flow effect generators 112 based on signals indicating the state of the display 120. For example, the system controller block 102 can instruct one or more flow effect generators 112 to increase the speed of the flow effect when the airplane approaches on the display 120, and / or decrease the speed of the flow effect when the airplane moves away on the display 120.In addition to or instead of the above, the system controller block 102 may also instruct one or more flow effect generators 112 to adjust their target positions. For example, the system controller block 102 may instruct one or more flow effect generators 112 to target the part of the display facing the user when the plane is approaching on the display 120, to target the part of the user facing upwards when the plane is passing overhead on the display 120, and to target the part of the user facing backwards when the plane is moving away on the display 120.

[0036] Based on the above, Figure 4 shows a flowchart of a process 400 that provides amusement park attraction effects using an amusement park attraction effect system such as the system 100 of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Process 400 is described as being performed by an automation controller 116, but it should be understood that it may also be performed by any preferred device, such as a processor 104, which can control and / or communicate with the components of the amusement park attraction effect system. Furthermore, while process 400 is described using steps in a specific order, it should be understood that for the purposes of this disclosure, the steps described may be performed in an order different from the illustrated order, or some described steps may be skipped or not performed at all. In some embodiments, process 400 can be implemented by using any preferred processing circuit, such as a processor 104, to execute instructions stored in a tangible, non-temporary computer-readable medium, such as a memory 106.

[0037] In process 400, a display such as the display 120 in Figure 1 can generate and transmit a signal indicating a state related to the display. A display monitor such as the display monitor 108 in Figure 1 can receive this signal and generate state data indicating the state in response to receiving the signal. The state data can be received, for example, by the automation controller 116 (step 402). In addition to or instead of this, the automation controller 116 can also receive the signal and generate state data indicating the state in response to receiving the signal from the display 120.

[0038] A location classifier, such as the location classifier 122 in Figure 1, can generate sets of user location data for one or more users and determine the (single or multiple) locations of one or more users based on the sets of user location data. In some embodiments, the location classifier can determine the body orientation of one or more users, the location of body parts of one or more users, the exposed skin area of ​​one or more users, or any combination thereof. The location classifier can transmit sets of user location data and / or the (single or multiple) locations of one or more users, and the automated controller 116 can receive sets of user location data and / or the (single or multiple) locations of one or more users (step 404).

[0039] In step 406, the automated controller 116 can determine a set of target locations based on a set of user location data and / or the locations of one or more users (single or multiple). For example, to give the impression of being in a frozen environment, the user's exposed skin can be targeted by a cold airflow. In addition to or instead of this, the automated controller 116 can also determine a set of target locations based on state data associated with the display 120. The automated controller 116 can dynamically update the set of target locations in response to receiving further user location data and / or further state data.

[0040] In step 408, the automation controller 116 may instruct one or more flow effect generators, such as the flow effect generator 112, to direct the fluid flow effect based on a determined set of target positions. In addition to or instead of this, the automation controller 116 may also instruct one or more flow effect generators to direct the fluid flow effect based on state data.

[0041] In step 410, the automation controller 116 can instruct one or more flow effect generators to control the fluid flow effect based on state data. For example, the automation controller can instruct one or more flow effect generators to change the velocity, water composition, temperature, size, or any other preferred aspect of the fluid flow effect.

[0042] While this specification illustrates and describes only a few features of the present disclosure, many modifications and changes will come to mind for those skilled in the art. Therefore, it should be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as well as the actual spirit of the present disclosure.

[0043] The claimed technologies described herein refer to and apply to tangible objects and specific examples of a practical nature that are not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical, but which certainly improve the art. Furthermore, if any of the claims appended to the end of this specification contain one or more elements designated as "...means for performing [function]" or "...steps for performing [function]," such elements should be interpreted in accordance with 112(f) of the United States Patent Act. On the other hand, any claim containing elements designated in any other form should not be interpreted in accordance with 112(f) of the United States Patent Act. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0044] 110 Flow Effect Components 112 Flow Effect Generator 118 users 120 Dynamic Displays 200 Amusement Park Attraction Effect Systems 202 Array of Flow Effect Generators 204 Camera 206 Vehicles 210 Amusement Park Attractions

Claims

1. It is an amusement park attraction effect system, A dynamic display configured to be seen by users moving within the attraction, A display monitor configured to monitor changes in the dynamic display and provide state data indicating the state of the dynamic display, A location identification system configured to determine the location of the user, A thrust-deflection flow effect generator configured to generate a fluid flow and direct it to a specific target location within a range of target locations in the attraction, The display monitor, the position identification system, and the thrust deflection type flow effect generator are communicateable together with an automation controller, The automation controller is equipped with, The state data provided by the display monitor is received, The user's location is received by the location identification system. Based on the user's position, set a target position within the target position range. The thrust deflection flow effect generator is instructed to direct the fluid flow based on the target position, The thrust deflection type flow effect generator is instructed to control the fluid flow based on the state data. It is configured in such a way. system.

2. The thrust-deflection type flow effect generator is configured to adjust the temperature or shape of the fluid flow in response to commands from the automation controller based on the state data. The system according to claim 1.

3. The thrust-deflection flow effect generator is configured to adjust the velocity and direction of the fluid flow by modifying the configuration of the nozzles of the thrust-deflection flow effect generator in response to commands from the automation controller based on the state data. The system according to claim 1.

4. The position identification system is configured to determine the position as including a portion of the user's position, and the automation controller is configured to adjust the target position based on the portion of the user's position. The system according to claim 1.

5. The aforementioned location of the part of the user corresponds to the exposed skin area or body part of the user. The system according to claim 4.

6. The thrust deflection type flow effect generator is configured to generate one or more pulsed compressed air as the fluid flow. The system according to claim 1.

7. The position identification system includes a camera configured to capture an image of the user, and the position identification system is configured to determine the orientation of the user based on the image. The system according to claim 1.

8. The automation controller is configured to instruct the thrust-deflection flow effect generator to direct the fluid flow based on the user's orientation. The system according to claim 7.

9. The thrust-deflection flow effect generator is configured to control the fluid flow by including one or more of mist, smoke, or water droplets. The system according to claim 1.

10. The location identification system includes a portable device configured to be carried by the user and to generate a signal, and the location identification system includes a sensor configured to detect the user's location based on the signal. The system according to claim 1.

11. It is an amusement park attraction effect system, A dynamic display configured to be viewed by multiple users, A display monitor configured to monitor changes in the dynamic display and provide state data indicating the state of the dynamic display, A location identification system configured to determine multiple locations of the aforementioned multiple users, An array of thrust-deflection flow effect generators comprising: a first thrust-deflection flow effect generator configured to generate a first fluid flow and direct it toward a first target position within a target position range; and a second thrust-deflection flow effect generator configured to generate a second fluid flow and direct it toward a second target position within the target position range; The display monitor, the position identification system, and the automation controller communicatively coupled to the array, The automation controller is equipped with, The state data provided by the display monitor is received, The location identification system receives the multiple locations of the multiple users provided by the location identification system, Based on the multiple locations of the multiple users, the first target location and the second target location are set. The first thrust-deflection type fluid flow effect generator is instructed to direct the first fluid flow based on the first target position, The second thrust-deflection type fluid flow effect generator is instructed to direct the second fluid flow based on the second target position. It is configured in such a way. system.

12. The automation controller is configured to instruct the first thrust-deflection flow effect generator to direct the first fluid flow based on the state data. The system according to claim 11.

13. The automation controller is configured to instruct the first thrust-deflection flow effect generator to control the first fluid flow based on the first target position. The system according to claim 11.

14. The first target position and the second target position are the same. The system according to claim 11.

15. The first thrust-deflection flow effect generator includes a nozzle, the nozzle is configured to direct the first fluid flow through asymmetric or symmetrical modifications of the nozzle's shape. The system according to claim 14.

16. It is an amusement park attraction effect system, A head-mounted virtual reality (VR) device including an electronic display configured to show images to the user, A user detection system for the head-mounted VR device, configured to detect the position and orientation of the user and output data indicating the position and orientation, A directional airflow generator configured to generate an air effect and direct the air effect to a target position, An automation controller that is communicatively coupled to the user detection system and the directional airflow generator, The automation controller is equipped with, The user detection system receives the data output by the user detection system, Based on the position and orientation indicated by the aforementioned data, the target position for directing the air effect is determined. The directional airflow generator is controlled so that the air effect is directed towards the target position. It is configured in such a way. system.

17. The automation controller is configured to control the directional airflow generator so that the timing of providing the airflow is coordinated with the VR presentation provided by the head-mounted VR device. The system according to claim 16.

18. The automation controller is configured to control a heating element or a cooling element to change the temperature of the air effect based on the VR presentation provided by the head-mounted VR device. The system according to claim 16.

19. It comprises multiple directional airflow generators, each configured to direct the corresponding airflow to a target location within its respective position range. The system according to claim 16.

20. The directional airflow generator includes a matrix of smaller directional airflow generators, each of which is configured to generate pulsed compressed air as the air effect. The automation controller is configured to change the pattern of the air effect. The system according to claim 16.

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