Reactive show action device system

Abstract

A reactive show action device system is disclosed, including a show action device including one or more actuators and a special effects system coupled to the show action device. The special effects system includes an effect source and an effect emitter configured to emit a substance from the effect source to provide the special effect. The reactive show action device system also includes a sensor configured to sense a characteristic of the special effect or a characteristic affecting the special effect and transmit data indicative of the characteristic. A control system is configured to receive the data indicative of the characteristic and direct the one or more actuators based on the data indicative of the characteristic. In some embodiments, one or more components of the special effects system can be mounted on the show action device.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 387,218, "REACTIVE SHOW ACTION EQUIPMENT SYSTEM," filed December 13, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

[0002] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art that may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure, which are described and / or claimed below. This discussion is believed to be helpful in providing the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. As such, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art.

[0003] Amusement parks and similar entertainment venues may use show action devices, such as animated characters, robotic arms, autonomous vehicles, and the like, that have at least some parts that move to enhance the patron's experience. Amusement parks and similar entertainment venues may also have special effects, such as fog and smoke, foam, liquid spray, confetti, bubbles, and fire effects (e.g., fire), created using, for example, liquid nitrogen or dry ice, to further enhance the patron's experience. Because the special effects may be affected by environmental factors after they are generated, these special effects may be dynamic and uncontrolled after they are generated. For example, bubbles and foam may drift in the wind, confetti may be affected by rain, and fog / smoke, liquid spray, and fire effects may be affected by wind. These special effects may coordinate with the show action devices but may be in a fixed location and may not move with the show action devices. It is recognized that this may detract from the illusion that the special effects and show action devices are intended to create. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] Certain embodiments commensurate in scope with the originally claimed subject matter are summarized below. A brief summary of certain embodiments disclosed herein is provided below. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. Indeed, the disclosure may encompass a variety of forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.

[0005] In one embodiment, a reactive show action device system is disclosed, including a show action device having an actuator and a special effect coupled to the show action device. The special effect system includes an effect source and an effect emitter configured to emit a substance from the effect source to provide the special effect. The reactive show action device system also includes a sensor configured to sense a characteristic of the special effect or a characteristic affecting the special effect and transmit data indicative of the characteristic. A control system is configured to receive the data indicative of the characteristic and direct the actuator based on the data indicative of the characteristic.

[0006] In one embodiment, a reactive show action device system is disclosed. The reactive show action device system includes an animated figure, an actuator configured to move a portion of the animated figure, a show action controller configured to direct the actuator, and a special effects system including an effect source and a nozzle assembly configured to eject a substance from the effect source to provide the special effect. The reactive show action device system includes a sensor configured to sense a characteristic of the special effect or a characteristic affecting the special effect and transmit data indicative of the characteristic. A control system is configured to receive the data indicative of the characteristic and direct the actuator based on the data indicative of the characteristic.

[0007] In one embodiment, a method for operating a reactive show action device is disclosed, the method including the steps of receiving a received input as input data from an input source, determining a type of special effect to be produced from a special effects system disposed in the show action device based on the received input as a determined type of special effect, controlling the special effects system to produce the determined type of special effect as the produced special effect, receiving data indicative of characteristics of the produced special effect, determining a reaction of the show action device based on the data indicative of the characteristics of the produced special effect as a determined reaction, and producing the determined reaction by controlling at least one actuator of the show action device.

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

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a reactive show action device system according to the present embodiment.

[0010] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a responsive show action device system for interacting with patrons according to the present invention.

[0011] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a responsive show action device system for interacting with guests according to the present invention.

[0012] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of two interactive show action device systems according to this embodiment.

[0013] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of operating a responsive show action device system according to this embodiment.

[0014] One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure are described below. In order to describe these embodiments concisely, not all features of the implementations are described herein. It is understood that the development of any such implementation, as in any engineering or design project, requires numerous implementation-specific decisions to be made to achieve the developer's particular goals, including compliance with system- and business-related constraints that may vary from implementation to implementation. It is further understood that such development efforts may be complex and time-consuming, but would represent a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Furthermore, to the extent that specific terms, such as "parallel" and "perpendicular," are used herein, it is understood that these terms permit certain departures from their strict mathematical definitions (as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art) to allow for departures related, for example, to manufacturing imperfections and associated tolerances.

[0015] When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present disclosure, the articles "a," "an," and "the" are intended to mean the presence of one or more of the element. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. Furthermore, references to "one embodiment" or "one embodiment" of the present disclosure are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also contain the recited features.

[0016] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of special effects and show action equipment. More specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to systems and methods for experiences using special effects mounted on show action equipment that are activated and adjusted under certain conditions. Indeed, to enhance the illusion that the show action equipment and special effects are intended to create, it is recognized that it would be desirable to provide a system including special effects that are at least partially located on or within the show action equipment such that when the special effects are activated, the show action equipment reacts in response to the special effects, or reacts to affect the properties of subsequent special effects, or a combination of both.

[0017] It is recognized that to further enhance the guest experience, an amusement park attraction may benefit from having a special effects system that produces one or more special effects (e.g., fog / smoke, foam, fire effects, liquid spray, bubbles, confetti) and that is physically coupled to (i.e., mounted or located on) the show action device (e.g., animated figure, autonomous vehicle, robotic arm). Indeed, it is recognized that having a special effects system mounted on the show action device can further enhance the guest experience of the show action device, especially if the guest is able to react to the special effects generated by the show action device. As an example, if the animated figure is a dolphin, the special effect may be a liquid spray that sprays from the dolphin's blowhole. The liquid spray can cause the animated dolphin figure to react, such as the dolphin's tail moving to send the liquid spray in a particular direction. Because the special effects system is mounted on the animated figure, when the animated figure reacts to the special effect with its movement, the special effect also moves, enhancing the illusion. Thus, the present embodiment is directed to a reactive show action device system, which is a special effects system mounted on a show action device, where the show action device reacts to the special effects.

[0018] Although this disclosure frequently refers to the present embodiments being used in amusement parks, it should be understood that an amusement park is only one example of many different venues that the present embodiments may be employed in. The embodiments may also be employed in concerts, public gatherings, festivals, and other entertainment venues.

[0019] 1 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a reactive show action device system 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the reactive show action device system 10 includes, among other things, a special effects system 11 and a show action device 18. The show action device 18 may be, for example, an animated figure and includes a show action controller 43. In other embodiments, the show action device 18 may be a mechanical device such as a robotic arm or an autonomous vehicle. The show action device 18 is controlled by the show action controller 43, and the special effects system 11 (which may also be controlled by the show action controller 43) can be programmed to emit special effects 17 (e.g., fog / smoke, foam, liquid spray, confetti, bubble, or fire effects), as described in more detail below.

[0020] In the illustrated embodiment, the special effects system 11 includes an effect emitter 12 (e.g., a nozzle assembly) that can be employed to produce a special effect 17, which can represent several different individual or combined special effects. The effect emitter 12 is in passive fluid communication such that fluid can flow from an effect source 20 to the effect emitter 12 when an obstruction, such as a valve, is open. The effect source 20 includes one or more compartments or tanks (e.g., a first tank 22, a second tank 24, and a third tank 26), each of which can contain a different substance necessary to produce a desired type of special effect 17. The special effect 17 can include, without limitation, fog / smoke, foam, liquid spray, confetti, bubbles, or a fire effect. For example, the first tank 22 can contain a flammable substance, such as propane, used to create a fire effect. The second tank 24 can contain a fluid used to create a liquid spray effect. The third tank 26 can contain liquid nitrogen or dry ice, used to create a fog or smoke effect. In other embodiments, tanks 22, 24, 26 can be filled with the same substance to produce the same special effect 17. In other embodiments, special effects system 11 can include only one tank (e.g., only tank 22), two tanks (e.g., only tanks 22 and 24), or more than two tanks. Fluids that make up the liquid spray can include room temperature or chilled potable water, steam, glycol, mineral oil, surfactant-based foams or bubbles, scented air, and the like.

[0021] The effect emitter 12 is configured to generate (e.g., dispense, deliver) the material needed to generate the special effect 17 from the effect source 20. For example, if a fire effect is to be generated, the effect emitter 12 generates propane from the first tank 22. If a fire effect is one of the special effects capable of being generated by the special effects system 11, the special effects system 11 may also include an igniter 33 for igniting the propane from the effect emitter 12 to generate the fire effect. As another example, to generate a liquid spray special effect, the effect emitter 12 may generate liquid from the second tank 24; to generate a fog or smoke special effect, the effect emitter 12 may generate liquid nitrogen or dry ice from the third tank 26. In other embodiments, the special effect 17 may include a foam effect, confetti, or bubbles. To create a foam effect, the effect emitter 12 can generate soap or other material used to create the foam from the effect source 20 (e.g., from tank 22); to generate bubbles, the effect emitter 12 can generate soap or other material used to create the bubbles from the effect source 20 (e.g., from tank 24); to create confetti, the effect emitter 12 can generate confetti from the effect source 20 (e.g., from tank 26) that is suspended in a stream of air or other fluid.

[0022] In certain embodiments, the effect emitter 12 may include a nozzle assembly or a series of nozzle assemblies. In other embodiments, the effect emitter 12 may include other types of dispensing devices, including, but not limited to, a spout, a pipe, a hose, a tube, and the like.

[0023] In the illustrated embodiment, the special effects system 11 includes a control system 29. The control system 29 can include an automated controller 28 including a processor 30 and a memory 32. The control system 29 executes computer-readable instructions (e.g., a computer program) on the memory 32, which can include logic for determining what type of special effect 17 to create. Based on the determination of the type of special effect 17 to create, the control system 29 provides data directing the initiation of active fluid communication (e.g., flow) between a fluid passageway 34 for the effect emitter 12 and at least one of the tanks 22, 24, 26. In the illustrated embodiment, at least one of the tanks 22, 24, 26 is placed in active fluid communication with the fluid passageway 34 of the effect emitter 12 to enable the effect emitter 12 to generate a substance for creating the special effect 17. For example, the control system 29 can direct the placing of a first tank 22 having a propane supply in active fluid communication with the fluid passageway 34 to generate a flame special effect.

[0024] In another embodiment, control system 29 may provide output based on one or more control algorithms that consider one or more input data (e.g., manual input, sensor measurements, data feeds). For example, in the illustrated embodiment, control system 29 receives input data from a communication system 37 (e.g., a wired or wireless communication network, including, but not limited to, a wired or wireless communication network, an intranet, or the Internet), sensors 38 located in an environment 40 proximate to special effects 17, or both. Sensors 38 (which may represent any number of sensors) may provide input data (e.g., signals containing data) related to guests 16, such as guests 16 being within a certain threshold distance of sensor 38 (e.g., a motion detection sensor that detects the presence of a guest within 10 feet), guests 16 using interactive features (e.g., interactive toys or other devices), or other input data related to guests 16. Furthermore, input data to automation controller 28 may be analog, digital, or both. The sensor 38 can be a linear optical encoder, a magnetic encoder, machine vision camera optics in the visible and infrared spectrum, an ultrasonic proximity sensor, a motion detection sensor, a LIDAR (laser), an electromagnetic field strength sensor, or the like.

[0025] Additionally, communication system 37 and sensors 38 or other devices input to automation controller 28 can provide input data to automation controller 28 regarding factors in environment 40 that may affect special effect 17. For example, environmental factors can include the proximity of guest 16 to environment 40, guest 16 interaction with interactive features, lighting, pollution, sunlight, weather conditions, time of day, humidity, barometric pressure, wind conditions, or the presence of guest 16. For example, if the presence of guest 16 is not detected, the control system can shut off effect emitters from generating special effect 17.

[0026] Input data from sensors 38 and / or communication system 37 can be received by control system 29, and more specifically, processor 30 of automation controller 28, which represents a tangible (non-transitory), machine-readable medium and is capable of executing computer-readable instructions (e.g., a computer program) on memory 32. The computer program can include logic that considers the input data from sensors 38, represented by one or more different sensors, and / or communication system 37, and determines, based in part on the input data, what type of special effect 17 to produce. Control system 29 sends instructions to place the appropriate reservoirs 22, 24, 26 in active fluid communication with fluid passageways 34 of special effects system 11 to provide the substances necessary to produce the selected special effect 17.

[0027] In one embodiment, control system 29 may use a lookup table or multiple lookup tables to determine, based in part on input data received from sensors 38 and / or communication system 37 or different communication networks, what type of special effect 17 the effect emitter 12 should generate. For example, the lookup table may include a mapping between input data (e.g., proximity of customer 16, wind speed, temperature, lighting) and a corresponding desired special effect 17 (e.g., if customer 16 is close, the special effect 17 is a liquid spray effect; if it is windy, the special effect 17 is not a fire effect).

[0028] In another embodiment, the control system 29 can use machine learning techniques to determine the type of special effect 17 that the effect emitter 12 will produce based on the input data. For example, the control system 29 can use machine learning techniques trained with training data including the input data and various types of special effects 17 that can be produced by the effect emitter 12. The control system 29 can filter certain inputs (e.g., input data from duplicate sensors 38) to improve processing efficiency, and / or the control system 29 can periodically delete inputs (e.g., input data from sensors 38) to prevent the database from filling up. It should be appreciated that the control system 29 can also use a combination of lookup tables and machine learning techniques to determine the type of special effect 17 that the effect emitter 12 will produce based on the input data.

[0029] Additionally, control system 29 can coordinate with different functions of special effects system 11 (e.g., pressure regulator 31, different or spare nozzles and banks of nozzle arrangements within effect emitter 12) to control different aspects of special effect 17. For example, if control system 29 determines that more pressure is needed, pressure regulator (e.g., pump, compressor, deflation bladder, etc.) 31 can be activated or ignition device 33 can be activated before material enters effect emitter 12. As another example, if control system 29 determines that effect emitter 12, or a portion thereof, may not be functioning as intended (e.g., due to a clog or other unintended condition), control system 29 can affect the closing of a valve, effectively bypassing the non-functioning component of effect emitter 12 and directing the material needed to create special effect 17 to a set of spare nozzles.

[0030] For flame effects, the control system 29 can include a burner controller 41 in addition to the processor 30. The burner controller 41 is configured to command the initiation of an ignition sequence upon receiving a trigger signal from the processor 30. The burner controller 41 commands the ignition of the ignition device 33, confirms the ignition of the ignition device 33, and then commands the release of fuel from the effect source 20 to the effect emitter 12, which ignites the fuel to generate the flame effect 17. The control system 29 can analyze all received information (e.g., digital or analog input signals from sensors 38, communication system 37, or other inputs) and determine whether to send a signal to the burner controller 41 to again initiate the ignition sequence. While the illustrated embodiment includes a pressure regulator 31, the pressure regulator 31 can represent any of a variety of devices that may be employed in the effect emitter 12 to dispense a substance, including, but not limited to, a blower, a fan, a compressor, a constricting bladder, etc.

[0031] Continuing with the illustrated embodiment, the control system 29 is configured to direct the opening and / or closing of the control valve 42 of the effect emitter 12, respectively, to allow or block the flow of the substance necessary to generate the special effect 17 through the fluid passage 34 to the effect emitter 12. The control system 29 can direct the opening and / or closing of the control valve 42 based on measurements and / or information from the sensor 38 and the communication system 37 in the same manner as described above; for example, the control system 29 can direct the closing of the control valve 42 if the presence of a customer 16 is not detected by the sensor 38. In some embodiments, the control system 29 can direct the opening and / or closing of the control valve 42 to a certain extent to regulate the pressure of the substance transmitted from the effect source 20 to the fluid passage 34 and necessary to generate the special effect 17. Alternatively, or in combination with the above control aspects, the control valve 42 can include a regulator, or the effect source 20 can include a regulator, to regulate the pressure. The automated controller 28 can be instructed via the processor 30 to direct the regulator or the control valve 42 in the manner described above. In other words, control system 29 generally directs adjustments to the pressure of the substance supplied to fluid passageway 34 (and ultimately to effect emitter 12) necessary to generate special effect 17 based on environmental factors and other inputs provided by sensors 38 and / or communication system 37 that affect special effect 17. The pressure can be adjusted using a pressure regulator 31, as described above, such as, for example, a pump, compressor, blower, fan, or constricting bladder.

[0032] In addition to the above-described special effects system 11, the responsive show action device system 10 can include a show action device 18. The show action device 18 includes a show action controller 43, which can include a show action processor 45 and a memory 48. It should be understood that the control system 29 can also include the show action controller 43. It should also be understood that the show action controller 43 can be the same controller as the automation controller 28.

[0033] The control system 29 receives data indicative of characteristics of the special effect 17, for example, from sensors 38 and / or effect sensors 39. For example, the sensors 38 and / or effect sensors 39 can provide data regarding characteristics of the special effect 17, such as the type of special effect 17 being produced (e.g., a fire effect, a liquid spray effect, a fog / smoke effect, a bubble effect, a confetti effect, and / or a foam effect), the position of the special effect 17, and the pressure of the special effect 17. The control system 29 can execute computer-readable instructions (e.g., a computer program) on memory 48, which represents a tangible (non-transitory), machine-readable medium. The computer program can include logic that considers the data indicative of the characteristics of the special effect 17 from sensors 38 and / or effect sensors 39, which can represent one or more different sensors, and determines a response of the reactive show action device system 10 based on the data indicative of the characteristics of the special effect 17 received from sensors 38 and / or effect sensors 39. The response of the responsive show action device system 10 may be at least (1) movement of a movable feature of the show action device 18, (2) an audio response, (3) a lighting response, or (4) an adjustment in the direction, amount, or other aspect of a subsequent special effect 17 produced by the special effects system 11, each of which is described below.

[0034] In one embodiment, the response of the show action device 18 is to move a movable feature of the show action device 18. For example, if the special effect 17 is a liquid spray effect, the direction of the liquid spray effect and the distance the liquid spray effect reaches may vary depending on environmental factors such as wind, precipitation, and humidity. Thus, the effect sensor 39 may detect the presence of the liquid spray at a particular location in the environment 40 after the liquid spray effect is generated. The effect sensor 39 may then communicate with a control system 29, which may determine that the response of the show action device 18 is to remove the liquid spray or the sprayed liquid (e.g., a movement that appears to wipe away the liquid spray or a movement that appears to wipe away the sprayed liquid). The control system 29 may then instruct a subset of the plurality of actuators 15 of the show action device 18 to achieve that movement at the particular location in the environment 40. The control system 29 may use a lookup table configured to designate the subset of the plurality of actuators 15 based on data indicative of the characteristics of the special effect 17.

[0035] For example, if the special effect 17 is a fog / smoke effect, the effect sensor 39 may detect the presence of the fog / smoke in the environment 40 after the fog / smoke effect is generated by the special effects system 11. The direction and distance the fog / smoke travels may vary depending on environmental factors such as wind, precipitation, humidity, etc. The effect sensor 39 then detects the location of the fog / smoke effect in the environment 40, communicates with the control system 29, determines that the response of the show action device 18 is to remove the fog / smoke (e.g., "cough" or "sweat away" the fog / smoke), and directs a subset of the plurality of actuators 15 of the show action device 18 to remove the fog / smoke.

[0036] For example, if special effect 17 is a flame effect, effect sensor 39 may detect the presence of a flame in environment 40 after the flame effect is generated by special effects system 11. Control system 29 determines that the response of show action device 18 is to extinguish the flame (e.g., "blow out" the flame) and directs a subset of the plurality of actuators 15 of show action device 18 to extinguish the flame.

[0037] For example, if the special effect 17 is a bubble or foam, the effect sensor 39 may detect the presence of the bubble or foam in the environment 40 after it is generated by the special effects system 11. The effect sensor 39 then communicates with the control system 29 to determine that the response of the show action device 18 is to remove or destroy the bubble or foam (e.g., pop the bubble or foam) and instructs a subset of the plurality of actuators 15 of the show action device 18 to remove or destroy the bubble or foam.

[0038] For example, if the special effect 17 is confetti, the effect sensor 39 may detect the presence of confetti in the environment 40 after the confetti is generated by the special effects system 11. The effect sensor 39 then communicates with the control system 29 to determine that the response of the show action device 18 is to at least collect or remove the confetti (e.g., "sweep" the confetti) and direct a subset of the plurality of actuators 15 of the show action device 18 to at least collect or remove the confetti.

[0039] In a subset of examples, the control system 29 instructs the show action device 18 to respond to the special effect 17 after the special effect 17 is generated by the special effects system 11 and detected by the effect sensor 39. The effect sensor 39 senses the special effect 17 and characteristics of the special effect 17, such as the location of the special effect 17, which may be affected by environmental factors, as described above. The effect sensor 39 then provides data indicative of the special effect 17 to the control system 29 and determines a response of the show action device 18 based on the data indicative of the special effect 17. It should be understood that the control system 29 can include a show action controller 43 and an automation controller 28. It should also be understood that the show action controller 43 can be the same controller as the automation controller 28. In another embodiment, the automation controller 28 can be a controller separate from the show action controller 43.

[0040] In addition to the reaction of the show action device 18 being movement of the show action device 18, the show action device 18 can react in different ways, such as by producing a sound effect or a lighting effect. In one embodiment, a sound device 35 associated with the show action device 18 can be directed by the control system 29 to play a specific phrase or a specific noise in the direction of the special effect 17 as determined by data indicative of the special effect 17 provided to the control system 29 by an effect sensor 39. The sound device 35 can be, for example, a speaker mounted on the show action device 18 or a speaker in the environment 40. The specific phrase or noise may depend on the data indicative of the special effect 17, such as the type of special effect 17, as detected by the effect sensor 39. In another embodiment, the reaction of the show action device 18 to the special effect 17 detected by the effect sensor 39 can be a combination of movement and sound. In yet another embodiment, a lighting effect (e.g., a beam of light) can be directed by the control system 29 based on the location of the special effect 17. The lighting effect can be provided in combination with movement and / or sound.

[0041] The reaction of the reactive show action device system 10 also includes adjusting at least the direction, amount, or other aspects of subsequent special effects 17 generated by the special effects system 11, as described in detail with respect to Figures 2 and 3.

[0042] With respect to determining the type of special effect 17 that the effect emitter 12 will produce, as described above, in one embodiment, the control system 29 may use a lookup table or multiple lookup tables to determine the response of the show action device 18 based in part on the data indicative of the special effect 17. For example, the lookup table may include a mapping between the data indicative of the special effect 17 (e.g., the type of special effect 17, the location of the special effect 17) and the desired response of the corresponding show action device 18 (e.g., if the special effect 17 is a liquid spray effect, the response may be to activate a subset of multiple actuators 15 on or in the show action device 18 to spray the liquid or remove the sprayed liquid).

[0043] In another embodiment, the control system 29 can use machine learning techniques to determine the response of the show action device 18 based on the data indicative of the special effects 17. For example, the control system 29 can use machine learning techniques trained with training data including data indicative of the special effects 17 and various types of responses available to the reactive show action device system 10. The control system 29 can filter certain inputs (e.g., duplicate sensor data) to increase processing efficiency and / or periodically delete inputs (e.g., sensor data) to prevent the database from filling up. It should be understood that the control system 29 can also use a combination of lookup tables and machine learning techniques to determine the response of the reactive show action device system 10 based on the data indicative of the special effects 17.

[0044] In one embodiment, multiple special effects 17 can occur in sequence as signaled by effect sensor 39 and sensor 38. For example, if special effect 17 is a fire effect, effect sensor 39 can detect the fire effect and show action processor 45 can determine that the response of show action device 18 is to extinguish the fire effect. Show action processor 45 can then instruct a subset of the multiple actuators 15 of show action device 18 to achieve that movement. Sensor 38 can detect the movement associated with extinguishing the fire effect, which can trigger control system 29 to instruct special effects system 11 to stop generating the fire effect by closing active fluid communication with tank 22 associated with the fire effect and to instruct tank 24 to enter active fluid communication with effect emitter 12 to generate a fog / smoke effect. Once special effects system 11 generates the fog / smoke effect, effect sensor 39 can detect the fog / smoke and control system 29 can determine that the response of show action device 18 is to remove the fog / smoke. The removal of the fog / smoke can be detected by sensor 38. Detection by sensor 38 can trigger the automation controller 28 of the special effects system 11 to stop generating the fog / smoke effect by closing fluid communication with the tank 24 associated with the fog / smoke effect and to open fluid communication with tank 26 to generate a liquid spray effect. When the special effects system 11 generates the liquid spray effect, effect sensor 39 can detect the liquid spray effect and trigger the show action processor 45 to instruct a subset of the multiple actuators 15 in the show action device 18 to activate the show action device 18 to remove the liquid spray or sprayed liquid. Because the special effects 17 and reactions are signaled by effect sensor 39 and sensor 38, the sequence of special effects 17 and reactions need not be pre-programmed but instead can occur automatically in response to inputs to effect sensor 39 and sensor 38.This allows for many potential combinations and sequences of special effects 17 and reactions, including examples of other special effects 17 occurring in other sequences (eg, foam, bubbles, confetti, etc.).

[0045] Although the illustrated embodiment includes a sensor 38 and an effect sensor 39, it should be understood that these may be the same sensor 38 or different sensors 38.

[0046] The show action processor 45 and the processor 30 of the automation controller 28 can include one or more processing devices, and the memory 32 and the memory 48 can include one or more tangible, non-transitory, machine-readable media. For example, such machine-readable media can include RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, magnetic storage devices, or any medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by the processor 30 or other processor-based device. As discussed above, the show action processor 45 and the processor 30 of the automation controller 28 can be the same processor 30.

[0047] In some embodiments, the show action device 18 and / or the control system 29 can form a communication connection with the sensors 38 and / or the effect sensors 39 using a wireless communication system 76, such as a wireless communication path via, for example, infrared (IR) wireless communication, radio frequency transmission, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ultra-wideband (UWB), etc. That is, the sensors 38 and / or the effect sensors 39 can include devices that enable communication between the show action device 18 and the sensors 38 and / or the effect sensors 39. For example, the sensors 38 and / or the effect sensors 39 can include communication circuitry, such as a transmitter and / or a receiver. The communication connection can include a wireless communication protocol, such as UWB, IR, or radio frequency transmission, that enables communication between electronic devices over distances, such as distances of 4 meters (m) to 20 m. Additionally, in some embodiments, the communication connection can be formed using a wired communication system, such as fiber optic cable, Ethernet cable, telephone network cable, coaxial cable, twisted pair cable, or waveguide cable.

[0048] 2 and 3 are each schematic diagrams of another embodiment of a reactive show action device system 10 in which an effect sensor 39 senses the amount and direction of a special effect 17, including a liquid spray effect, and provides data indicative of the special effect 17 to a control system 29. The control system 29 can then provide instructions to an effect emitter 12 to modify the special effects system 11 by adjusting the direction, amount, or other aspect of the next special effect 17 generated by the special effects system 11.

[0049] In FIG. 2 , in response to input received from sensor 38, special effects system 11 generates special effect 17, including a liquid spray effect having a particular amount and direction, spraying passengers 16 aboard vehicle 50 at time 1. After the liquid spray effect is generated by special effects system 11, effect sensor 39 detects data indicative of special effect 17, such as the direction of the liquid spray effect and the distance traveled by the liquid spray effect. The direction and distance traveled by the liquid spray effect may each vary depending on environmental factors, such as wind, precipitation, humidity, and air pressure. After effect sensor 39 detects the direction and distance of the liquid spray effect, effect sensor 39 provides an output to control system 29, which can then modify special effects system 11, for example, by instructing pressure regulator 31 (e.g., pump, compressor, fan, blower, or collapsible bladder) of special effects system 11 to apply more pressure so that subsequent liquid spray effects land in different locations, or by instructing effect emitter 12 to spray in a different direction.

[0050] 3, at time 2, i.e., a period after time 1, special effects system 11 can be modified by adjusting effect emitter 12 or other portions of special effects system 11 (e.g., pressure regulator 31) so that subsequent liquid spray effects impinge on passengers 21 seated at other locations on ride 50, rather than on passengers 16 seated in the same location. In this manner, the sequence and impact of special effects 17 is unpredictable to other passengers 16. In addition to adjusting the direction of special effects 17, automated controller 28 can modify special effects system 11 by instructing effects source 20 to change the amount of subsequent special effects 17, or otherwise modify other aspects of the subsequent special effects 17 produced by special effects system 11.

[0051] A reaction of the responsive show action device system 10 may therefore be a modification of the special effects system 11 to adjust at least the direction, amount, or other aspect of the movement of the show action device 18, the sound effect, the lighting effect, or the subsequent special effect 17 produced by the special effects system 11. A reaction of the responsive show action device system 10 may be a combination of one or more of these reactions.

[0052] One or more components of the special effects system 11 can be mounted on the show action apparatus 18 such that the mounted components are physically coupled to the show action apparatus 18. For example, the effects emitter 12, the effects source 20 including the tanks 22, 24, and 26, and the automation controller 28 can be physically coupled to the show action apparatus 18 such that as the show action apparatus 18 moves (e.g., changes position or orientation), the mounted components of the special effects system 11 similarly adjust (e.g., changes position or orientation). In another embodiment, a portion of the communication system 37 can also be mounted on the show action apparatus 18, although it should be understood that this embodiment does not contemplate that the entire communication system 37, including the Internet, be mounted on the show action apparatus 18. In another embodiment, only the effects emitter 12 can be mounted on the show action apparatus 18. In another embodiment, the effects emitter 12 and the effects source 20 including the tanks 22, 24, and 26 are mounted on the show action apparatus 18, but the automation controller 28 and the communication system 37 are not mounted on (i.e., physically coupled to) the show action apparatus 18. In another embodiment, the sensor 38 and / or the effect sensor 39 can be mounted on the show action apparatus 18. Mounting portions of the special effects system 11 on the show action apparatus 18 enhances the illusion of the special effects 17 from the show action apparatus (e.g., animated figure) 18. Additionally or alternatively, one or more components of the special effects system 11 can be not mounted on (i.e., not coupled to) the show action apparatus 18. In these embodiments, one or more components of the special effects system 11 are not mounted on the show action apparatus 18 and can move with the show action apparatus 18, or are not mounted on the show action apparatus 18 and at least their position or orientation is independent of the show action apparatus 18, i.e., the position or orientation of one or more components of the special effects system 11 that are not mounted on the show action apparatus 18 is not related to the position or orientation of the show action apparatus 18.

[0053] 4 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a reactive show action device system 100. The reactive show action device system 100 can include a show action device 18 having a special effects system 120A and an additional show action device 19 having an additional special effects system 120B. In this embodiment, the special effects system 120A on or in the first show action device 18 generates a special effect 17A in response to input data as described above. An effect sensor 39B of the second show action device 19 detects the special effect 17A generated by the first show action device 18, and a show action processor 45B of the second show action device 19 determines the response of the second show action device 19 based on the type of special effect 17A generated.

[0054] For example, the special effects system 120A of the first show action device 18 can generate a liquid spray special effect as the special effect 17A. The special effect 17A from the first show action device 18 can be sensed by the effect sensor 39B of the second show action device 19. The show action processor 45B of the second show action device 19 can determine a response to a movement of the second show action device 19 (e.g., a movement such as the second show action device 19 wiping its eyes) and direct a subset of the plurality of actuators 15 to act on such movement. The show action processor 45B of the second show action device 19 can also provide input to the automation controller 28B of the second special effects system 120B of the second show action device 19. This input can trigger the automation controller 28B to determine a response to the special effect 17A from the first show action device 18, such as a responsive liquid spray effect 17B. The automated controller 28B can then direct fluid passageway 34B (not shown in FIG. 4 ) to open so that fluid can flow from the appropriate tank 22B of the effect source 20B to the effect emitter 12B of the second show action device 19 to generate a reactive liquid spray effect as special effect 17 from the second show action device 19. In this manner, the first show action device 18 and the second show action device 19 can appear to be engaged in a liquid spray battle, with each show action device reacting to the special effect generated by the other show action device. While a liquid spray battle is used in this example, it should be understood that the special effects 17A and 17B can be of any type (e.g., a fire effect, a fog / smoke effect, etc.), and that the reactive special effect 17B from the second show action device 19 can be different from the special effect 17A from the first show action device 18. It should be understood that in this embodiment of the reactive show action device system 100, each show action device 18, 19 can share certain components of the reactive show action device system 100.For example, each show action device 18, 19 can have its own dedicated automation controller 28A and 28B, and show action controller 43A and 43B, respectively, or the automation controller 28 and show action controller 43 can be shared. Additionally, as noted above, it should be understood that the show action controller 43 can be the same controller as the automation controller 28. As another example, each show action device 18, 19 can communicate with its own dedicated sensors 38A and 38B, respectively, and / or effects sensors 39A and 39B, respectively, or each show action device 18, 19 can share sensor 38 and / or effects sensor 39. As noted above, sensor 38 and / or effects sensor 39 can be the same sensor or set of sensors.

[0055] 5 is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method 300 for operating a responsive show action device system 10 in accordance with the present technology. It should be understood that the steps described herein are merely examples, and that certain steps may be omitted, added, or performed in a different order. In one embodiment, the steps of method 300 may be performed by a responsive show action device system 10.

[0056] The method 300 may include receiving input data from an input source (block 310). The input source may be a sensor 38, an effect sensor 39, or a communication system 37. The input data may be received using a wired or wireless communication system 76 (e.g., circuitry) and may be received by the control system 29. The method 300 may include determining a type of special effect 17 to generate based on the input data received from the input source (block 320). For example, the input source may be a motion detector that indicates that a patron 16 is in proximity to a show action device 18 (e.g., an animated figure) when the patron 16 is in proximity to the show action device 18. Based on the input, the show action processor 45 determines that a liquid spray special effect 17 should be generated in the direction of the patron 16. As described above, a lookup table and / or machine learning may be used to determine the type of special effect 17 to generate. The method 300 may include generating the special effect 17 (block 340). This may include opening the control valve 42 to allow fluid to flow from an appropriate reservoir (e.g., the first reservoir 22) of the effect source 20 depending on the type of special effect 17 to be produced (block 330). For example, to produce a liquid spray special effect, the control valve 42 is opened to place the appropriate reservoir (e.g., the first reservoir 22) of the effect source 20 containing the fluid in active fluid communication with the effect emitter 12 (e.g., the nozzle assembly). This may include, for example, producing the liquid spray special effect from the effect emitter 12 in accordance with received input data regarding the direction in which to produce the liquid spray special effect. The method 300 may also include receiving data from the effect sensor 39 indicative of characteristics of the special effect 17 or characteristics that affect the special effect (block 350). For example, the effect sensor 39 may provide data regarding at least the amount, direction, and pressure of the produced liquid spray special effect, which may vary depending on environmental factors, as described above.Method 300 also includes determining a response of the responsive show action device system 10 (block 360) based in part on data indicative of characteristics of the special effect or characteristics affecting the special effect, such as data received from effect sensor 39 regarding at least the amount, direction, and pressure of the produced liquid spray special effect. The system response can be any of the previously described responses, such as a sound effect from show action device 18, a lighting effect, an adjustment of the special effects system 11, movement of show action device 18, or another produced special effect 17. For example, the response can be adjusting the direction of effect emitter 12 or a pressure regulator (e.g., a pump) associated with producing the special effect. As another example, the response can be a response from show action device 18, such as moving away from patrons 16 affected by the liquid spray special effect. Method 300 also includes causing the determined response (block 370). Thus, the reaction determined in the previous step is produced, such as, for example, changing a component such as an effect emitter 12 or pump pressure of the special effects system 11, or powering a subset of the plurality of actuators 15 to move the show action device 18, or producing a sound effect, or producing another special effect 17 in sequence. By having the special effects system 11 mounted on the show action device 18, when the show action device 18 moves, the special effects system 11 moves as well, reinforcing the illusion for the patron.

[0057] While only certain features of the invention 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 invention.

[0058] The technology presented and claimed herein is not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical, since it refers to and is applied to tangible objects and specific examples of a practical nature, thereby providing a definite improvement in the art. Furthermore, where any claim appended at the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as "means for [performing] ... [function]" or "step for [performing] ... [function]," it is intended that such elements be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f). Conversely, for any claim containing an element designated in any other manner, it is intended that such element not be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f).

Claims

1. a show action device comprising an actuator; a special effects system coupled to the show action device, The source of the effect, an effect emitter configured to eject a substance from said effect source to provide a special effect; a special effects system comprising: a sensor configured to sense a characteristic of the special effect or a characteristic affecting the special effect and transmit data indicative of the characteristic; a control system configured to receive the data indicative of the characteristic and to provide instructions to the special effects system based on the data indicative of the characteristic; Equipped with Reactive show action device system.

2. one or more components of the special effects system are mounted on the show action apparatus and move with the show action apparatus, one or more components of the special effects system are not mounted on the show action apparatus and move with the show action apparatus, or one or more components of the special effects system are not mounted on the show action apparatus and are independent of the show action apparatus in at least position or orientation; The reactive show action device system of claim 1 .

3. the control system is configured to direct a reaction in response to the data indicative of the characteristic, the reaction being at least a sound effect, a lighting effect, a movement of the show action device, or a modification to the special effects system. The reactive show action device system of claim 1 .

4. the control system uses one or more machine learning algorithms to determine the response in response to the data indicative of the characteristic. The reactive show action device system of claim 3.

5. The control system includes: a show action controller configured to direct the actuator based on the data indicative of the characteristic; an automation controller separate from the show action controller and configured to direct the special effects system; 10. The reactive show action device system of claim 1, comprising:

6. 2. The reactive show action device system of claim 1, wherein the effect source comprises at least a first tank and a second tank, the first tank containing at least a first substance for causing the special effect as a first type of special effect, and the second tank containing at least a second substance for causing the special effect as a second type of special effect.

7. The reactive show action device system of claim 1 , wherein the special effects comprise at least bubbles, liquid spray, fire, foam, smoke, fog, or confetti.

8. the effect emitter comprises a nozzle assembly, and the special effects system comprises a pressure regulator configured to deliver substance from the effect source to the nozzle assembly. The reactive show action device system of claim 1 .

9. a plurality of actuators including the actuator, wherein the control system directs at least a movement or a position of the show action device by directing a subset of the plurality of actuators in response to the data indicative of the characteristic. The reactive show action device system of claim 1 .

10. the control system comprising a look-up table configured to designate the subset of the plurality of actuators based on the data indicative of the characteristic.

10. The reactive show action device system of claim 9.

11. the sensors comprise one or more sensors configured to detect data of the characteristics of the special effect or of the characteristics affecting the special effect including at least brightness, pollution, sunlight, weather conditions, time of day, humidity, air pressure, wind conditions, the presence of one or more guests or the approach of one or more guests; The reactive show action device system of claim 1 .

12. the sensor or additional sensors are configured to detect the presence of one or more customers; the control system is configured to direct the shutoff of the discharge of the substance from the benefit emitter when the presence of a customer is not detected by the sensor; The reactive show action device system of claim 1 .

13. an additional show action device having an additional special effects system, the additional show action device configured to respond to the special effects; The reactive show action device system of claim 1 .

14. the additional show action device is configured to be controlled by the control system.

14. The reactive show action device system of claim 13.

15. Animated figures and one or more actuators configured to move a portion of the animated figure; a show action controller configured to direct the actuator; 1. A special effects system comprising: The source of the effect, a nozzle assembly configured to eject material from the effect source to provide one or more special effects; a special effects system comprising: an effect sensor configured to sense a characteristic of the special effect or a characteristic affecting the special effect and transmit data indicative of the characteristic; a control system configured to receive the data indicative of the characteristics of or affecting the special effect and to control the one or more actuators based on the data indicative of the characteristics of or affecting the special effect; Equipped with Reactive show action device system.

16. the control system is configured to direct a reaction in response to the data indicative of the characteristic, the reaction being at least a sound effect, a lighting effect, a movement of a portion of the animated figure, or a change to the special effects system.

16. The reactive show action device system of claim 15.

17. One or more components of the special effects system are mounted on the animated figure and move with the animated figure, one or more components of the special effects system are not mounted on the animated figure and move with the animated figure, or one or more components of the special effects system are not mounted on the animated figure and are at least independent in position or orientation from the animated figure; 16. The reactive show action device system of claim 15.

18. the special effects system includes a pressure regulator configured to provide a substance from the effects source to the nozzle assembly; 16. The reactive show action device system of claim 15.

19. receiving input data from an input source as received input; determining a type of special effect to be produced from a special effects system having components with or without a show action device based on the received input as a determined type of special effect; controlling the special effects system to produce the determined special effect type as a produced special effect; receiving data indicative of characteristics of or affecting the generated special effect; determining a response of the show action device as a determined response based on the data indicative of the characteristics of the produced special effect; causing the determined reaction by controlling at least one actuator of the show action device; A method for operating a reactive action device, including:

20. the input source is a sensor or a communication system, and the input data is received using a wired or wireless communication system; 20. The method of claim 19.

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