Real-time proximity interaction and object transfer in ride / show environments

Abstract

The show ride system includes a first movable component configured to be coupled to and supported by a show structure, a second movable component configured to be coupled to and supported by the show structure, and a manipulator for the first movable component, the manipulator moving the show structure from the first movable component to the second movable component. The show ride system further includes a detection circuit for determining the initial positions of the first movable component and the second movable component. The show ride system further includes a position controller configured to determine adjustments to the initial positions of the first and / or second movable components, and to provide commands for adjusting the first and / or second movable components so that the show structure moves when either or both of the first and second movable components are moving.

Description

Background Art

[0001] This application claims priority and benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 506,330, filed Jun. 5, 2022, entitled “REAL-TIME PROXIMITY OPERATION AND OBJECT HANDOFF IN A RIDE / SHOW ENVIRONMENT,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] This section is for introducing readers to various aspects of technologies that may be related to the various aspects of the present disclosure described and / or claimed below. This discussion is believed to be helpful in showing the background context to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, these descriptions should be read from the above perspective rather than as an admission of prior art.

[0003] Since the early 20th century, amusement parks have grown significantly in popularity, and the number of people visiting amusement park attractions has increased. Additionally, there has been an increase in amusement park attractions that utilize show ride-type entertainment systems that provide various immersive experiences to amusement park guests. A show ride-type entertainment system may employ a movable vehicle configured to receive and transport one or more park visitors within the amusement park. Further, a show ride-type entertainment system may utilize visual, acoustic, and / or tactile feedback and show structures (e.g., show action devices) to provide an immersive experience to guests within the park. Here, it is recognized that it is desirable to enhance the amusement park visitor experience by incorporating additional components into the show ride system to provide additional services and functions.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] Specific embodiments corresponding to the scope of the subject matter initially claimed are summarized below. It should be understood that these embodiments are presented only to provide the reader with a brief overview of these specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. In fact, this disclosure may encompass a variety of forms similar to or different from those shown below.

[0005] In one embodiment, the show ride system includes a first movable component configured to couple with and support a show structure, and a second movable component configured to couple with and support the show structure. Furthermore, the show ride system includes a manipulator for the first movable component, configured to move the show structure from couple with the first movable component to couple with the second movable component. The show ride system further includes a detection circuit configured to determine the initial position of the first movable component and the initial position of the second movable component, and a position controller configured to determine adjustments to the initial positions of the first and / or second movable components, and to provide commands to the first and / or second movable components to instruct the adjustments so that the show structure moves from the first and / or second movable components when either or both of the first and second movable components are moving.

[0006] In one embodiment, the position detection system includes one or more position data devices configured to communicate position data. The position detection system further includes detection circuits configured to receive position data and determine the initial positions of a first movable component and a second movable component. The position detection system further includes a position controller configured to determine adjustments to the initial positions of the first movable component and / or the second movable component, and to provide the first movable component and / or the second movable component with commands to instruct the adjustments so that the show structure moves from the first movable component to the second movable component when either or both of the first and second movable components are moving. The position detection system further includes one or more communication circuits configured to enable communication between the position controller, the first movable component and the second movable component.

[0007] In one embodiment, the operation method of the show ride system includes monitoring input data and receiving a move instruction to move the show structure from a first movable component to a second movable component based on the input data. The method further includes determining the positions of the first movable component and the second movable component based on position data received from one or more position data devices and determining that the position of the first movable component is within the position range of the second movable component in order to enable the show structure to move from the first movable component to the second movable component. The method further includes communicating a move command to the first movable component to initiate the movement of the show structure from the first movable component to the second movable component, and moving the show structure from the first movable component to a landing target on the second movable component while either or both of the first and second movable components are moving in accordance with the move command.

[0008] Various improvements to the features described above may exist in relation to various aspects of this disclosure. Furthermore, additional features may be incorporated into these various aspects. These improvements and additional features may exist individually or in any combination. For example, the various features discussed below in relation to one or more illustrated embodiments may be incorporated individually or in any combination into any of the above-described aspects of this disclosure. The brief summary presented above is intended solely to familiarize the reader with specific aspects of the embodiments of this disclosure and their background, without limiting the subject matter claimed.

[0009] 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 indicate the same parts throughout. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the amusement park show ride system according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of the various components of the show ride system shown in Figure 1 according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a schematic of one embodiment of the amusement park show ride system according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of the amusement park show ride system according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating the operation method of the showride system according to this embodiment.

[0011] One or more specific embodiments are described below. For the sake of brevity in describing these embodiments, this specification does not describe all the features of the implementation. It should be understood that in developing any such implementation, as 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, while such development efforts may be complex and time-consuming, they should be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure as routine design, fabrication, and manufacturing endeavors. Additionally, to the extent that certain terms such as parallel and perpendicular are used herein, it should be understood that these terms should not be interpreted rigidly in a strict mathematical sense (as they would be interpreted by an ordinary engineer), but rather allow for certain deviations, such as manufacturing imperfections and associated tolerances.

[0012] When describing elements of the various embodiments of this disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” mean 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 “one embodiment” in this disclosure should not be interpreted as excluding the existence of further embodiments, including the features described.

[0013] This disclosure relates generally to the field of amusement parks, and more specifically to show ride entertainment systems within amusement parks. A show ride entertainment system may employ several different components to provide an experience to visitors within an amusement park. For example, a show ride entertainment system may include show structures (e.g., props) mounted on a ride vehicle or on other components of the show ride entertainment system that are movable from the ride vehicle to other components of the show ride entertainment system. Show structures may include active props (e.g., animated figures) or static props (e.g., bubble characters) that are movable (e.g., movable between the ride vehicle and other components of the show ride entertainment system). For example, it may be advantageous to enhance the visitor experience by moving the show structure from the ride vehicle to an animated figure of the entertainment system during the ride experience. To perform this movement, the position, orientation, and velocity vectors of the ride vehicle and the position, orientation, and velocity vectors of the animated figure may be used. In this embodiment, if the vehicle and the animated figure have pre-programmed motion profiles, the respective positions, orientations, and velocity vectors of the vehicle and the animated figure are known and can be used to adjust the movement of the show structure from the vehicle to the animated figure (e.g., as part of a pre-programmed movement routine).

[0014] The show ride system according to this embodiment can also have advantages by having the ability to move show structures (e.g., movement from a ride vehicle to an animated figure, or vice versa) between a ride vehicle and an animated figure, and this movement control is not performed according to a pre-programmed motion profile. More spontaneous movement (i.e., when the ride vehicle and animated figure can move outside of a pre-programmed motion profile) can further enhance the visitor experience by increasing opportunities for visitors to interact spontaneously (e.g., in real time) with the show ride system and for the show ride system to interact spontaneously with visitors. Therefore, this embodiment includes a position detection system and other components that enable movement to and / or from the ride vehicle and other components of the show structure of the show ride system (e.g., animated figures, other ride vehicles), so that the position detection system can be used to enable movement from a ride vehicle that does not operate according to a pre-programmed motion profile to an animated figure that does not operate according to a pre-programmed motion profile. Movement between a ride vehicle and an animated figure that does not use a pre-programmed motion profile is called "real-time" movement and can provide more spontaneity and enhance visitor immersion. In this specification, the term “motion profile” refers to a set of movements related to positional information. A motion profile provides physical motion information of a movable component, indicating how the motors controlling the movement of the movable component should behave (usually in terms of position, velocity, and acceleration) to produce the movement. Motion profiles can be used to determine the commands (voltages) that a controller sends to the motors. Positional information can be obtained from the motion profile to guide interactions (e.g., providing the coordinates of moving parts to facilitate interactions). However, this requires established routines and may compromise a certain degree of spontaneity (e.g., control by visitors).The term "pre-programmed motion profile" refers to a pre-programmed or predetermined motion profile that does not include elements that are modified by user input or other inputs received by the controller while the movable component is in motion or after the motion profile has started. Therefore, a motion control algorithm may employ a specific subroutine without using a pre-programmed motion profile.

[0015] A show ride system includes one or more movable components, sometimes called movers, and is considered a component of the show ride system that works in conjunction with other parts of the show ride system. Movable components can be, for example, show action devices (e.g., animated figures, drones), one or more ride vehicles, or a combination thereof. One or more show structures (e.g., props that can move within the ride environment for entertainment purposes) can be moved from one movable component to another. A first movable component (e.g., a show action device) may include a manipulator or other movable mechanism configured to move one or more show structures within the show ride system (e.g., to a second movable component). For example, a manipulator can move a show structure between ride vehicles or between other show action devices. The interactions between these movable components can provide visitors with a unique and engaging experience for the show ride system.

[0016] The ride vehicle according to this embodiment can be configured to accommodate one or more visitors within an amusement park and to transport or transport visitors through a show ride attraction. In some cases, a show structure may be placed on a specific ride vehicle and configured to operate to provide a show experience to visitors inside the vehicle (e.g., by activating the functions of animated figures). The ride vehicle may include manipulators or other movable mechanisms configured to move the show structure within the show ride system.

[0017] Movable components (e.g., ride vehicles, show action devices) can be made to move freely along predetermined paths (e.g., tracks or trackless) or within a defined show ride environment. Due to the nature of the movement of various components within a show ride system, it may be difficult to adjust the position of a first movable component (e.g., show action devices), including show structures, relative to a second movable component (e.g., ride vehicles or other show action devices within the show ride system) without disrupting the visitor experience.

[0018] To move a show structure from a first movable component to a second movable component, both movable components must be in a certain proximity but must not collide with each other. In the case of a show ride system that moves between two movable components operating according to a pre-programmed motion profile, the proximity of the two movable components can be determined based on the pre-programmed motion profile. However, in the case of a show ride system that moves between two movable components that do not operate according to a pre-programmed motion profile, it is necessary to determine the real-time position, orientation, and velocity vectors of the ride vehicle and the animated figures.

[0019] Therefore, a show ride system may include a position detection system to determine the relative proximity of one or more movable components to avoid collisions and to determine a suitable position for the transfer of the show structure. Thus, the position detection system can receive position data regarding the positions of the movable components (e.g., the position of the ride vehicle and the position of the show action device) and guide the movement of the movable components within a moving proximity state (e.g., threshold distance or positional range), enabling the show structure to move from one movable component (e.g., show action device) to another movable component (e.g., ride vehicle). The positions of two movable components suitable for the transfer of the show structure may be closer than the known stopping distance of one or more movable components (i.e., the distance required to bring the vehicle to a complete stop). Therefore, the position detection system can determine the position, attitude, and velocity vector of one of the movable components and the position, attitude, and velocity vector of the other movable component, and determine the relative position, attitude, and velocity vector of both movable components to determine the actions that one or more movable components should take to avoid collisions when the movable components are moving close or their positions overlap. The show structure can be moved when both movable components are moving, when one movable component is moving, when one movable component is stationary, or when both movable components are stationary.

[0020] The position detection system may use position data devices such as cameras, light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensors, sonar sensors, global positioning system (GPS) sensors, barcodes, or radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, or other technologies, to detect the position, orientation, and velocity vectors of each movable component. The position detection system may include a position controller to determine whether adjustments to the position, orientation, and velocity vectors of each movable component are necessary to achieve movement. The position controller can provide commands to each movable component to adjust its position, orientation, and velocity vectors as needed to stay within a position range. Accordingly, the position detection system communicates with communication circuits on each movable component and provides such commands as input. The communication circuits on each movable component provide their inputs to controllers that control the position, orientation, and velocity vectors of each movable component.

[0021] Based on input received from the position detection system, upon receiving a command to position a show structure on a second movable component (e.g., a ride vehicle), the first movable component (e.g., a show action device) and / or the second movable component (e.g., a ride vehicle) can adjust their position, orientation, and velocity vectors to fall within a positional range. The manipulator on the first movable component (e.g., a show action device) can then position the show structure near the landing target of the second movable component (e.g., a ride vehicle). It should be understood that the manipulator may be positioned on the second movable component alternatively or additionally. Once the landing target of the second movable component receives the show structure, the show ride system can send a signal to the manipulator to detach from the show structure. The landing target may include a fixing mechanism such as a connector or magnet, mechanical fastening, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, based on the coupling between the second movable component and the show structure, the show ride system may decide to transfer power (e.g., electricity) and / or entertainment data from the second movable component to the show structure. The movement of the show structure can be achieved while one or both of the two movable components are in motion.

[0022] In fact, by utilizing the show ride system described herein, show structures can be more efficiently transferred, transported, and / or operated within the show ride system while continuously operating to present entertainment data to guests, thereby providing guests transporting the show ride system with an essentially seamless experience (e.g., an experience with a limited number of interruptions based on the show structure not receiving power and / or data) and an interactive experience.

[0023] As will be appreciated, embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented as a system, method, apparatus, or computer program product. Accordingly, aspects of the present disclosure may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.), or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that are generally referred to herein as "circuit", "module", or "system". Furthermore, aspects of the present disclosure may take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer-readable media having computer-readable program code thereon.

[0024] The computer program instructions according to this embodiment can be stored in a computer-readable medium such as a hard drive, memory, disk, etc., so that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium can cause a computer, other programmable data processing device, or other device to function in a specific manner to cause the specified function / operation. The computer program instructions can further be loaded into a computer, other programmable data processing device, or other device, causing a series of operation steps to be executed on the computer, other programmable device, or other device, or causing a computer-implemented process to be generated. The instructions executed on the computer or other programmable device provide a process for implementing the functions / operations described in the blocks or blocks of the flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0025] With the above in mind, Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a show ride system 10 according to an embodiment described herein. As shown, the show ride system 10 includes one or more movable components 11 configured to move within an entertainment environment 14. The movable components 11 may be called movers and may also be considered components of the show ride system 10 in the sense that they work in conjunction with other parts of the show ride system 10. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, one movable component 11 is a ride vehicle 12. The ride vehicle 12 is configured to transport or carry guests 16 within the entertainment environment 14, thereby allowing guests 16 to receive visual and / or auditory feedback from components of the show ride system 10 located at different positions within the entertainment environment 14. The ride vehicle 12 may have a motion base with up to six degrees of freedom. The show ride system 10 also includes a second movable component 11, shown in Figure 1 as a show action device 18 (e.g., an animated figure, a drone), configured to provide guests 16 with visual, auditory, and / or haptic feedback. The show action device 18 may have a motion base with up to six degrees of freedom. In some embodiments, the show action device 18 may include one or more show structures 20 (e.g., animated figures, characters, or other objects) that interact with each other and / or with the ride vehicle 12 and / or the show action device 18 in order to provide guests 16 with an immersive experience. For example, the show structures 20 may correspond to movable objects (e.g., animated figures, characters) that can be moved from the show action device 18 to the ride vehicle 12 by a manipulator 22 and may be operable to provide guests 16 with visual and / or audio feedback.

[0026] The show ride system 10 can further include a position detection system 24 configured to determine the spatial relationship between components of the show ride system 10 within an entertainment environment 14 that includes a movable component 11. The position detection system 24 receives position data regarding the position of the movable component 11 (e.g., the position of the vehicle 12 and the position of the show action device 18). That is, the position detection system 24 receives position data regarding the position, orientation, and velocity vectors of the vehicle 12 and the show action device 18. The position data can indicate that the vehicle 12 and the show action device 18 are each moving. That is, the position data indicates the initial or first position, orientation, and velocity vectors of the vehicle 12 and / or the show action device 18 and can then indicate different or second position, orientation, and velocity vectors of the vehicle 12 and / or the show action device 18. The position detection system 24 can direct the movement of the vehicle 12 and the show action device 18 so that the vehicle 12 and the show action device 18 are within a position range 33 (the distance within which the system can move the show structure 20), and as described in more detail below, move the show structure 20 from the show action device 18 to the vehicle 12.

[0027] The position detection system 24 includes a position controller 26. The position controller 26 can include a processing circuit 50 and one or more memory devices 52 (shown in FIG. 4 and described in more detail below).

[0028] The position detection system also includes a detection circuit 28. The position controller 26 and / or detection circuit 28 may utilize position data devices 29, such as cameras, light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensors, sonar sensors, global positioning system (GPS) sensors, barcodes, radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, coordinates, or other technologies, to detect the position, orientation, and velocity vectors of each of the movable components 11 of the show ride system 10 (e.g., the ride vehicle 12 and the show action device 18). The position data devices 29 may include one or more proximity sensors on each movable component 11, thereby enabling the determination of the relative position of the movable component 11 based on proximity data provided by one or more proximity sensors.

[0029] For example, the position controller and / or detection circuit 28 can determine the spatial relationships between the components of the show ride system 10 by utilizing position data acquired from one or more position data devices 29, such as cameras, placed around the entertainment environment 14. One or more position data devices 29 can provide position data indicating the position, orientation, and / or velocity vectors of the ride vehicle 12, show structure 20, manipulator 22, show action device 18, or any combination thereof. The position data devices 29 shown in Figure 1 can represent multiple position data devices 29 placed at various locations within the entertainment environment 14.

[0030] The position controller 26 can receive or generate instructions from the control system to provide commands for moving the show structure 20 from the show action device 18 to the ride vehicle 12. Using the position data, the position controller 26 and / or the detection circuit 28 can determine the predicted position of the ride vehicle 12. The position controller 26 or another controller can monitor input data, which may include (1) position data of one or more movable components 11, such as data generated by scanning indicators within the area of ​​the entertainment environment 14 by a barcode reader mounted on the ride vehicle 12; (2) interaction data, such as data generated by a guest 16 interacting with an input device 27 on the ride vehicle 12; and / or (3) timing data, such as data from another controller regarding the position and timing of components of the show ride system 10. Based on the input data monitored by the position controller 26, the position controller 26 can generate transfer instructions that provide movement instructions to provide commands for moving the show structure 20 from the show action device 18 to the ride vehicle 12. The generation of a movement instruction can be triggered based on location data, for example, when one or more location data devices 29 indicate that a movable component is within a location range 33 or within a specific area of ​​the entertainment environment 14. The generation of a movement instruction can also be triggered based on interaction data, for example, when a guest interacts with an input device 27 that provides a trigger for generating a movement instruction. The generation of a movement instruction can also be triggered based on timing data, for example, based on the timing of a specific event occurring within the entertainment environment 14. In some embodiments, the generation of a movement instruction can be triggered based on one or more of the aforementioned triggers, for example, based on location data and interaction data.

[0031] In some embodiments, a controller separate from the position controller 26 may monitor input data and, based on the input data, generate movement instructions to provide commands for moving the show structure 20 from one movable component 11 to another movable component 11 within the entertainment environment 14.

[0032] The position range 33 is the area in which a movable component 11 can move the show structure 20 from one movable component 11 (e.g., show action device 18) to another movable component 11 (e.g., ride vehicle 12). The appropriate positions of the two movable components 11 for the movement of the show structure 20 may be closer than the known stopping distance of one or more movable components 11 (i.e., the distance required to bring the vehicle to a complete stop). The position range 33 can be determined based on established data (e.g., the reach of the manipulator 22) from the position detection system 24, the local controller 36A of the ride vehicle 12, the local controller 36B of the show action device 18, or other appropriate system or processor. The position range 33 may take into account multiple relationships regarding relative positions in the three axes x, y, and z.

[0033] The position controller 26 can also be configured to determine whether the position, orientation, and velocity vectors of the movable components 11 (e.g., the show action device 18 and the ride vehicle 12) are appropriate for achieving movement (e.g., whether the manipulator 22 is within the position range 33 for moving the show structure 20 from the show action device 18 to the ride vehicle 12). If the position controller 26 determines, based on the received position data, that the position, orientation, and velocity vectors of the movable components 12 and 18 are outside the position range (e.g., not within the position range), the position controller 26 can provide instructions to the movable components 11 (e.g., the ride vehicle 12 and the show action device 18) to adjust their respective movements. Similarly, the position controller 26 can instruct the manipulator 22 to acquire the show structure 20 based on the predicted position of the movable component 11 (e.g., the ride vehicle 12) that will receive the show structure 20. In this way, the movable component 11 (e.g., show action device 18), including the manipulator 22, is operated by the position controller 26 based on position data from the detection circuit 28, allowing the show structure 20 to be transported within the show ride system 10. As described above, the position range 33 includes the proper positioning of the two movable components 11 for the transfer of the show structure 20, which may be closer than the known stopping distance of one or more movable components 11 (i.e., the distance required to bring the vehicle to a complete stop). Thus, the position detection system 24 can determine the actions to be performed by one or more movable components 11 to avoid collisions while the movable components 11 are within the position range 33.

[0034] It should be understood that the position controller 26 may include numerous other controllers with multiple functions and / or collaborating functions. For example, the relevant operations of determining position, attitude, and velocity vectors and instructing actions accordingly may be performed by a positioner 31 of the position controller 26 (as shown in Figures 1 and 4, etc.), which shares the same processing circuit 50 as the position controller 26 or has one or more separate processors.

[0035] In some embodiments, the movable component 11 can form a communication connection with the position detection system 24 using a communication system 30 such as a wireless communication path via infrared (IR) wireless communication, radio frequency transmission, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ultra-wideband (UWB), etc., enabling communication between electronic devices at distances of 4 meters (m) to 20 meters. In some embodiments, the communication system 30 can be formed using a wired communication system such as an optical fiber cable, Ethernet cable, telephone network cable, coaxial cable, twisted pair cable, or waveguide cable. The communication system 30 can therefore include a wireless communication system (e.g., a wireless network) or a wired communication system (e.g., a wired network).

[0036] Each movable component 11 may include a device that enables communication between the position detection system 24 and the movable component 11. For example, one movable component 11 (e.g., a vehicle 12) may include a communication circuit 32A, such as a transmitter and / or receiver, and another movable component 11 (e.g., a show action device 18) may include a communication circuit 32B, such as a transmitter and / or receiver. The position detection system 24 may include a communication circuit 32C, such as a transmitter and / or receiver. The communication system 30 may include communication circuits 32A, 32B, and 32C.

[0037] In the remaining description of Figure 1, we will use the vehicle 12 and show action device 18 in the embodiment shown in Figure 1, but please understand that this description applies to one or more movable components 11, which may be one or more vehicle vehicles, one or more show action devices, or a combination thereof.

[0038] The communication circuit 32A of the vehicle 12 can receive commands from the communication circuit 32C of the position detection system 24 to adjust its position, attitude, and / or velocity vectors based on input data received by the position detection system 24. The commands received from the communication circuit 32C may be radio transmission commands transmitted by the communication circuit 32C via a radio network. The communication circuit 32A can provide commands to the motion system 34A of the vehicle 12, which controls the operation of the vehicle 12. The motion system 34A may include a controller 36A that instructs the motion system 34A to adjust the position, attitude, and / or trajectory of the vehicle 12 according to the commands received from the position detection system 24. The motion system 34A may include one or more motors 35A to perform the appropriate operation of the vehicle 12. In embodiments in which the vehicle 12 includes a manipulator 22, the motion system 34A of the vehicle 12 may also control the operation of the manipulator 22.

[0039] Similarly, the communication circuit 32B of the show action device 18 can receive commands from the communication circuit 32C of the position detection system 24 to adjust its position, orientation, and / or velocity vectors based on input data received by the position detection system 24. The commands received from the communication circuit 32C may be radio transmission commands transmitted by the communication circuit 32C over a wireless network. In embodiments in which the show action device 18 includes a manipulator 22, the communication circuit 32B can provide commands to the motion system 34B of the show action device 18, which controls the operation of the show action device 18, including the operation of the manipulator 22. The motion system 34B may include a controller 36B that instructs the motion system 34B to adjust the position, orientation, and / or velocity vectors of the show action device 18 and / or the manipulator 22 according to the commands received from the position detection system 24. The motion system 34B may include one or more motors 35B to perform the appropriate operation of the show action device 18 and / or the manipulator 22.

[0040] It is necessary for either or both of the show action device 18 and the ride vehicle 12 to move from their respective initial positions. However, once the show action device 18 and the ride vehicle 12 are within the position range 33, the movement of the show structure 20 from the show action device 18 to the ride vehicle 12 can begin, as will be described in more detail below.

[0041] The manipulator 22 can correspond to a single movable component 11 (e.g., a show action device 18 in the embodiment shown in Figure 1) configured to move the show structure 20 to a specific location within the show ride system 10 (e.g., moving from the show action device 18 to a ride vehicle 12, moving from a ride vehicle 12 to the show action device 18, moving from a first ride vehicle 12 to a second ride vehicle 12). In some embodiments, the manipulator 22 may include arms and / or joints that enable the manipulator 22 to transport the show structure 20 within the show ride system 10 with multiple degrees of freedom. The manipulator 22 may include multiple arms and multiple joints configured to facilitate the manipulation or movement of the show structure 20 with multiple (e.g., 6) degrees of freedom. In fact, the manipulator 22 can move the show structure 20 with any suitable degrees of freedom, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 degrees of freedom.

[0042] Furthermore, the arms and joints allow the manipulator 22 to adjust the position and / or orientation of the show structure 20, thereby facilitating the movement of the show structure 20 and its coupling and / or fixation with the movable components 11, and facilitating the movement of the show structure 20 from one movable component 11 to another, for example, between the ride vehicle 12, the manipulator 22, and the show action device 18, as will be described in detail below. Again, the show ride system 10 may include one or more manipulators 22, which may be positioned on the ride vehicle 12, or in addition to the show action device 18.

[0043] Furthermore, as described above, a position controller 26 (e.g., an electronic and / or processor-based controller, an automated controller, or a control system) can be used to control the movement of the manipulator 22. For example, the position controller 26 can adjust the position of the show structure 20 by controlling the position and movement of the arms and joints of the manipulator 22 based on the expected positions of various components in the show ride system 10. In some embodiments, the position controller 26 uses a positioner 31 to determine the expected positions of various components in the show ride system 10, thereby enabling the position controller 26 to appropriately control the position of the manipulator 22.

[0044] For example, in the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the show structure 20 can be moved by a manipulator 22 from a landing target 38B on a show action device 18 to a landing target 38A on a ride vehicle 12, according to a movement command received from a position controller 26 or another controller. The movement command may include commands to engage the manipulator 22 with the show structure 20 while the show structure 20 is on the landing target 38B of the show action device 18, to operate the manipulator 22 to position the show structure 20 on the landing target 38A of the ride vehicle 12, and to disengage the manipulator 22 from the show structure 20 after the show structure 20 has engaged with the landing target 38A of the ride vehicle 12.

[0045] The landing target 38A may be a receptacle configured to receive and electrically connect the connector of the ride vehicle 12. The landing target 38A may include the connector and, more specifically, a fixing mechanism 40A (e.g., electromagnet, electrical connection, hook / loop fabric) for securing the show structure 20 onto the ride vehicle 12. The landing target 38B on the show action device 18 may be a receptacle configured to receive and electrically connect the connector of the show action device 18. The landing target 38B may include the connector and, in the embodiment shown in Figure 1, a fixing mechanism 40B (e.g., electromagnet, electrical connection, hook / loop fabric) for securing the show structure 20 onto the show action device 18.

[0046] Therefore, the movement command may include commands to the show action device 18 and / or the manipulator 22 to release the fixing mechanism 40B from the landing target 38B on the show action device 18 and separate the show structure 20, move the manipulator 22 to position the show structure 20 on the landing target 38A of the vehicle 12, and then separate the manipulator 22 from the show structure 20 after the show structure 20 has been fixed to the landing target 38A of the vehicle 12 via the fixing mechanism 40A.

[0047] Since input data is monitored and movement occurs between movable components 11 having free-form motion profiles rather than following pre-programmed motion profiles, the bequest of the show structure 20 is essentially in real time. As a result, one or more movable components 11 can continue to move and adjust during the show, adding options to create an engaging and immersive effect for guests. As described above, the position detection system 24 can determine what actions should be performed by one or more movable components 11 to avoid collisions while the movable components 11 are within the position range 33.

[0048] In some embodiments, the show structure 20 can operate based on power (e.g., electricity) and entertainment data received from components of the show ride system 10. For example, when coupled with a particular ride vehicle 12, the manipulator 22 or show structure 20 receives power and entertainment data, which enables the show structure 20 to operate based on the entertainment data and present it to the guest 16. Furthermore, the show structure 20 can be driven while coupled to the ride vehicle 12 and appear to be alive. For example, during operation, parts of the show structure 20 can be mechanically moved (e.g., moving appendages, arms, legs, or parts of the body), entertainment data can be displayed via an electronic display associated with the show structure 20, audio data can be output from a speaker associated with the show structure 20, parts of the show structure 20 can be illuminated (e.g., eyes can light up), or a combination of these. After providing guests 16 with an experience of the show structure 20 through movement, sound, and / or light emission on the ride vehicle 12, the manipulator 22 on the show action device 18 retrieves the show structure 20 (e.g., combines with the show structure 20 and simulates the show structure 20 leaving the ride vehicle 12), and after being appropriately positioned as described above, places the show structure 20 on a different ride vehicle 12 so that additional ride vehicles 12 in the entertainment environment 14 can receive visual and / or audio feedback from the show structure 20. This can be done in a way that conceals the nature of movement.

[0049] Furthermore, although the manipulator 22 is illustrated as a movable mechanism having one or more arms and one or more joints, in some embodiments the manipulator 22 can be configured to provide an experience to the guest. That is, in some embodiments the manipulator 22 can also operate to provide visual and / or audible feedback to the guest on the show ride system 10, regardless of whether the show structure 20 is coupled to the manipulator 22.

[0050] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of the components of a show ride system 10 according to an embodiment described herein. As shown in the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the movable component 11 includes a ride vehicle 12 and a show action device 18. The ride vehicle 12 is moving in direction 42, and the show action device 18 is moving in direction 44. As shown in Figure 2, the position, orientation, and velocity vectors of the ride vehicle 12 and the show action device 18 follow commands received from a position detection system 24 (e.g., positioner 31) based on input data. The commands from the position detection system 24 are executed by the motion system 34A of the ride vehicle 12 and the motion system 34B of the show action device 18, guiding the ride vehicle 12 into a position range 33, and enabling the show structure 20 to be moved by the manipulator 22 from the show action device 18 to the ride vehicle 12, more specifically to the landing target 38A on the ride vehicle 12. As described above, the position range 33 can be determined based on data established by the position detection system 24 shown in Figure 1, the local controller 36A of the vehicle 12, the local controller 36B of the show action device 18 shown in Figure 1, or other suitable system or processor (e.g., the reach of the manipulator 22). The position range 33 can take into account multiple relationships regarding relative positions within the three axes x, y, and z.

[0051] Of particular note is that, in one embodiment, the position detection system 24 can bring the show action device 18 closer to the ride vehicle 12 than the stopping distance of either the ride vehicle 12 or the show action device 18. That is, the position range 33 can be smaller than the stopping distance of either the ride vehicle 12 or the show action device 18. This is achieved by the position detection system 24 controlling the motion system 34A of the ride vehicle 12 and the motion system 34B of the show action device 18, enabling movement adjustments in response to stopping. In this way, the embodiment can allow active positioning within a threshold defined by the stopping distance, enabling high-speed and close-range engagement, thus contributing to a more immersive and enjoyable experience for the guest 16.

[0052] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the position detection system 24 enables the real-time movement of the show structure 20 and does not rely on the ride vehicle 12 or show action device 18 moving according to a pre-programmed motion profile (e.g., along a pre-defined path at a pre-defined speed). The ride vehicle 12, the show action device 18, or both may have an unprogrammed, for example, "free-form motion profile" relating to a free-form path and free-form speed within the entertainment environment 14. The free-form path may be controlled, in whole or in part, by the guest 16 or other external factors. The ride vehicle 12 may move at a free-form speed that is controlled, in whole or in part, by the guest 16 or other external factors within a permissible speed range. The position detection system 24 detects the position, orientation, and velocity vectors of the ride vehicle 12 and the show action device 18, thereby determining the relative positions of the ride vehicle 12 and the show action device 18. It is confirmed that the ride vehicle 12 and the show action device 18 are both within the position range 33, and the movement of the show structure 20 can be achieved even if the ride vehicle 12, the show action device 18, or both have unprogrammed motion profiles within the entertainment environment 14.

[0053] While the examples provided in this disclosure focus on moving the show structure 20 from the show action device 18 to the ride vehicle 12, it should be understood that this disclosure also includes moving the show structure 20 from one movable component 11 to another, such as transferring it from the first show action device 18 to the second show action device 18, from the first ride vehicle 12 to the second ride vehicle 12, from the ride vehicle 12 to the show action device 18, or a combination thereof.

[0054] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the show ride system 300 according to the embodiments described herein. In Figure 3, the components of the position detection system 24 are arranged on the movable components 11, which are shown as the first ride vehicle 12A and the second ride vehicle 12B. For example, as an alternative to or addition to one or more position data devices 29 arranged in the show ride system 10, position data can be supplied by one or more position data devices 29 arranged in the first ride vehicle 12A itself. For example, the first and second ride vehicles 12A, 12B may each include one or more inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensors 48 as one of the position data devices 29. The IMU sensors 48 may include a gyroscope for measuring and reporting angular velocity, an accelerometer for measuring and reporting specific forces, and / or a magnetometer for measuring the magnetic field around the first ride vehicle 12A, which functions as a method for detecting the attitude and velocity vectors of the first ride vehicle 12A, for example, like a compass. The signal from the accelerometer of the IMU sensor 48 is used as position data and can be used to identify the position, orientation, and velocity vectors of the first vehicle 12A or the second vehicle 12B. Similarly, the second vehicle 12B can also provide position data regarding its position, orientation, and velocity vectors to the position detection system 24 based on one or more position data devices 29 (e.g., IMU sensors 48) located on the second vehicle 12B. In some embodiments, the position data devices 29 include one or more proximity sensors, which can enable relative position determination of the movable component 11 based on proximity data provided by one or more proximity sensors. The position controller 26 can use the proximity data from one or more proximity sensors to control the movement of the show structure 20.

[0055] As described with respect to Figure 1, the detection circuit 28 of the position detection system 24 can receive position data from the first vehicle 12A and position data from the second vehicle 12B. The position data can be transmitted to the detection circuit 28 via the communication system 30 by the communication circuit 28A of the first vehicle 12A and the communication circuit 28B of the second vehicle 12B, as described with respect to Figure 1. The positioner 31 can then determine whether the position, attitude, and velocity vectors of the first vehicle 12A and the second vehicle 12B are appropriate to achieve movement (e.g., whether the manipulator 22 is within the position range 33 to move the show structure 20 to the second vehicle 12B). If the positioner 31 determines, based on the received position data, that the position, attitude, and velocity vectors of the first vehicle 12A and the second vehicle 12B are not within the position range 33, the positioner 31 can provide commands to the first vehicle 12A and the second vehicle 12B to adjust their movements to guide them into the position range 33. Similarly, the positioner 31 can instruct the manipulator 22 to retrieve the show structure 20 based on the expected position of the vehicle 12 to which the show structure 20 is being moved. In this way, the manipulator 22, the first vehicle 12A, and the second vehicle 12B can be operated by the positioner 31 based on position data from the detection circuit 28 to transport the show structure 20 within the show ride system 10.

[0056] Figure 4 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of the show ride system 10 according to this embodiment. Figure 4 shows some components of the show ride system 10 in more detail. In some embodiments, certain components of the show ride system 10 described above (e.g., movable component 11, show structure 20, manipulator 22) can be communicatively coupled to a position controller 26 configured to control the operation of the show ride system 10. The position controller 26 may include a distributed control system or a fully or partially automated computer-based system. For example, the position controller 26 may include a processing circuit 50 (e.g., a microprocessor) that executes instructions (e.g., software programs, algorithms, executable code) for performing the disclosed technology. Furthermore, the processing circuit 50 may include multiple microprocessors, one or more "general-purpose" microprocessors, one or more special-purpose microprocessors, and / or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or a combination thereof.

[0057] The position detection system 24 may include a memory device 52 that stores commands executable by the processing circuit 50. The data stored in the memory device 52 may include, but is not limited to, algorithms relating to the operation of the vehicle 12, the show structure 20, the manipulator 22, and / or the show action device 18. For example, in some embodiments, the memory device 52 may relate to algorithms that change the position, orientation, and velocity vectors of the movable components 11 to achieve movement of the show structure 20, etc. Information about the components of the show ride system 10, including the movable components 11 (e.g., the vehicle 12, the show action device 18), the manipulator 22, and the show structure 20, can be stored.

[0058] Based on these algorithms, the positioner 31 can determine that it is necessary to adjust the position, attitude, and / or velocity vectors of the show action device 18, the ride vehicle 12, the manipulator 22, or a combination thereof, and can issue commands to make such adjustments. The communication circuit 32C of the position detection system 24 can communicate commands from the positioner 31 to the ride vehicle 12, the manipulator 22, and / or the show action device 18. The commands are received by the communication circuit 32A on the ride vehicle 12 and the communication circuit 32B on the show action device 18 (including the manipulator 22), and provided to the local controllers 36A and 36B, respectively. The local controllers 36A and 36B provide commands to the motion systems 34A and 34B, respectively, to adjust the operation of the ride vehicle 12, the show action device 18, and the manipulator 22 as appropriate. As another example, the data stored in the memory device 52 may include information about the theme of the show ride system 10, and information about whether a particular show structure 20 is appropriate to move from the show action device 18 to the ride vehicle 12 (e.g., whether the show structure 20 is part of the theme or experience of the ride vehicle 12). The memory device 52 can be integrated with the position controller 26, or it can be provided separately from the position controller 26, as in the embodiment shown in Figure 4.

[0059] As another example, in some embodiments, the memory device 52 stores entertainment data used for the operation of the show structure 20, and the communication circuit 32C of the position detection system 24 can communicate the entertainment data to the ride vehicle 12, the manipulator 22, and / or the show action device 18. Then, when the show structure 20 is coupled with the ride vehicle 12, the manipulator 22, and / or the show action device 18, the entertainment data communicated via the position controller 26 is transferred to the show structure 20, thereby enabling the show structure 20 to operate from its respective coupling position or landing target 38B. In some embodiments, the entertainment data stored in the memory device 52 is transmitted directly to the local controller 54 associated with the show structure 20, thereby enabling the show structure 20 to operate to present the entertainment data. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the show structure 20 stores the entertainment data locally, and upon receiving power (e.g., via coupling with the ride vehicle 12, the manipulator 22, and the show action device 18), the show structure 20 can operate to present the entertainment data to the guest 16.

[0060] In some embodiments, the local controller 54 of the show structure 20 may include a local memory 56 for storing entertainment data necessary for the operation of the show structure 20, and the show structure 20 may present the entertainment data stored in the local memory 56 to the local controller 54. Furthermore, as described above, in some embodiments, the show structure 20 may include a local power source (e.g., a battery) that enables operation whether or not the show structure 20 is coupled to another power source (e.g., electrically coupled to a ride vehicle 12, a manipulator 22, and / or a show action device 18).

[0061] As described above, in some embodiments, the vehicle 12 may further include a motion system 34A, which includes a motor 35A and a local controller 36A (e.g., a processor-based controller). In some embodiments, the show action device 18 may also further include a motion system 34B, which includes a motor 35B and a local controller 36B (e.g., a processor-based controller). As described above, the position controller 26 is communicatively coupled to the local controllers 36A and 36B and can send control signals to the local controllers 36A and 36B to operate the motion system 34A of the vehicle 12 and / or the motion system 34B of the show action device 18, thereby enabling the vehicle 12 to be within a suitable moving proximity distance 46 of the show action device 18 and enabling the movement of the show structure 20.

[0062] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing one embodiment of the operation method 100 of the Showride system 10 according to this technology. It should be understood that the steps described herein are merely illustrative, and certain steps may be omitted or added, and the steps may be performed in a different order. In one embodiment, the steps of method 100 can be performed by the Showride system 10.

[0063] Method 100 includes the step of monitoring input data (block 102). As described above, the position controller 26 or another controller may monitor input data including (1) position data of one or more movable components 11, (2) interaction data such as data generated by a guest 16 interacting with an input device, (3) timing data such as data from another controller regarding the position and timing of components of the show ride system 100, and / or (4) position / orthography data such as data generated by a barcode reader mounted on the ride vehicle 12 scanning indicators in a zone of the entertainment environment 14.

[0064] The method also includes the step of generating a transfer instruction, which is an instruction to provide a command to move the show structure 20 from the show action device 18 to the ride vehicle 12, based on monitored input data (block 104). A position controller 26 or another controller may generate the transfer instruction. As described above, the move instruction may be generated in response to a trigger, such as when multiple position data devices 29 in the entertainment environment 14 indicate that the movable component 11 is within the position range 33. The trigger may also be based on input from a guest received from an input device 27.

[0065] The method also includes the step of receiving a move instruction to move a show structure 20 from one movable component 11 (e.g., show action device 18) of the show ride system 10 to another movable component 11 (e.g., ride vehicle 12) (block 110). The method also includes the step of determining the position of the movable components 11 of the show ride system 10 (block 120). As described above, determining the position of the movable components 11 may include the position controller 26 and / or detection circuit 28 receiving position data from one or more position data devices 29 to detect the position, attitude, and velocity vector of each movable component 11 from a camera, LiDAR (light detection and ranging) sensor, sonar sensor, GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor, barcode, radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, coordinates, or other technology.

[0066] The method also includes the step of determining whether a movable component 11 is within a position range 33 necessary to move the show structure 20 from one movable component 11 to another movable component 11 (block 140). As described above, the determination of whether a movable component 11 is within the position range 33 can be performed by the position detection system 24, more specifically the position controller 26, and even more specifically the positioner 31. If the movable component 11 is outside the position range 33 (e.g., not within the position range 33), the method proceeds to the step of determining the adjustments necessary to bring the movable component 11 into the position range 33 (block 160). As described above, the positioner 31 can determine the necessary adjustments. The method also includes the step of communicating commands regarding adjustments to the movable component 11 (block 180). As described above, the positioner 31 can communicate commands regarding adjustments to the communication circuits 32A and 32B on the movable component 11 via the communication circuit 32C. The motion systems 34A and 34B of the movable component 11 then execute the command. The method returns to block 140 to determine whether the movable component is within the position range 33 in order to achieve the movement of the show structure 20.

[0067] To achieve movement of the show structure 20, if the movable component is within the position range 33, the method proceeds to the step of communicating a movement command to the movable component (block 200). As described above, the position detection system 24 can communicate the movement command to the communication circuits 32A and 32B on the movable component 11 via the communication circuit 32C.

[0068] The method also includes the step of transferring the show structure 20 from one movable component 11 to another movable component 11 in accordance with a movement command (block 210). Movement can occur when both movable components 11 are moving, when neither movable component 11 is moving, or when only one movable component 11 is moving. Since input data is monitored and movement occurs between movable components 11 that are not moving according to a pre-programmed motion profile, movement is essentially in real time, and one or more movable components 11 can continue to move and adjust during the transfer, adding options to create an engaging and immersive effect for guests.

[0069] The technologies described and claimed herein are not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical, but are applied to and apply to tangible objects and specific examples of a practical nature, and 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 are intended to be construed in accordance with 112(f) of the U.S. Patent Act. On the other hand, any claim containing elements designated in any other form is not intended to be construed in accordance with 112(f) of the U.S. Patent Act.

[0070] Only certain features of the present invention are shown and described herein, but many modifications and changes can be made by those skilled in the art. Therefore, it should be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all modifications and changes that are in line with the true spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A first movable component configured to be coupled to and supported by the show structure, A second movable component configured to be coupled to and supported by the aforementioned show structure, A manipulator for the first movable component, configured to move the show structure from its connection with the first movable component to its connection with the second movable component, A detection circuit configured to determine the initial position of the first movable component and the initial position of the second movable component, A position controller configured to determine the adjustment of the initial position of the first movable component and / or the initial position of the second movable component, and to provide commands to the first movable component and / or the second movable component to instruct the adjustment to move the show structure from the first movable component to the second movable component when either or both of the first and second movable components are moving, Equipped with, Show ride system.

2. A position detection system separate from the first movable component and the second movable component, comprising at least a camera, a LiDAR sensor, a sonar sensor, a GPS sensor, a barcode, or a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag configured to communicate position data of the first movable component and the second movable component to the detection circuit, wherein the position detection system comprises the position controller, and the position controller comprises the detection circuit, according to claim 1.

3. The show ride system according to claim 1, comprising proximity sensors configured to detect the relative positions of the first movable component and the second movable component, wherein the position controller is configured to use proximity data from the proximity sensors to control the movement of the show structure from the first movable component to the second movable component.

4. The Showride system according to claim 1, wherein the first movable component has a first motion profile, the second movable component has a second motion profile, the first motion profile is not pre-programmed, and the second motion profile is not pre-programmed.

5. The show ride system according to claim 1, wherein the first movable component comprises a show action device, and the second movable component comprises a ride vehicle.

6. The show ride system according to claim 1, wherein the second movable component comprises a receptacle configured to receive and electrically couple a connector of the show structure.

7. The Showride system according to claim 1, comprising at least a camera configured to communicate position data of the first and second movable components to the detection circuit, a LiDAR sensor, a sonar sensor, a GPS sensor, a barcode, or a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, wherein the position controller includes the detection circuit.

8. The show ride system according to claim 1, comprising the show structure, wherein the show structure comprises an animated figure configured to receive power from either or both of the first and second movable components.

9. The show ride system according to claim 1, wherein the first movable component comprises a motion system and a local controller configured to provide the motion system with commands for coordinating the operation of the first movable component, including the operation of the manipulator.

10. The first movable component includes a first communication circuit configured to receive commands wirelessly transmitted from the position detection system, The Showride system according to claim 1, wherein the second movable component comprises a second communication circuit configured to receive commands wirelessly transmitted from the position controller.

11. The show ride system according to claim 1, wherein the position controller is configured to provide movement commands to the first movable component, enabling the show structure to move from the first movable component to the second movable component.

12. A position detection system, One or more location data devices configured to communicate location data, A detection circuit configured to receive position data in order to determine the initial position of a first movable component and the initial position of a second movable component, A position controller configured to determine the adjustment of the initial position of the first movable component and / or the initial position of the second movable component, and to provide commands to the first movable component and / or the second movable component to instruct the adjustment to move from the first movable component to the second movable component when either or both of the first and second movable components are moving, One or more communication circuits configured to enable communication between the position controller, the first movable component, and the second movable component, Equipped with, Location detection system.

13. The location detection system according to claim 12, wherein the one or more location data devices comprises at least a camera, a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensor, a sonar sensor, a global positioning system (GPS) sensor, a barcode, or a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag.

14. The position detection system according to claim 12, wherein the position controller includes a positioner configured to provide commands to the first movable component so that the adjusted position of the first movable component falls within a positional range relative to the second position of the second movable component, thereby enabling the movement of the show structure from the first movable component to the second movable component.

15. The position detection system according to claim 12, wherein the position controller does not operate based on a pre-programmed motion profile.

16. The position detection system according to claim 12, wherein one or more elements of the position detection system are arranged on the first movable component, and one or more elements of the position detection system are arranged on the second movable component.

17. A method for operating a show ride system, wherein the method is To monitor input data, Based on the input data, the system receives movement instructions to move the show structure from the first movable component to the second movable component, The position of the first movable component and the position of the second movable component are determined based on position data received from one or more position data devices, In order to enable movement of the show structure from the first movable component to the second movable component, it is determined that the position of the first movable component is within the positional range of the position of the second movable component, Communicating a movement command to the first movable component to initiate the movement of the show structure from the first movable component to the second movable component, In accordance with the movement command, when either or both of the first movable component and the second movable component are moving, the show structure moves from the first movable component onto the landing target of the second movable component. including, How the show ride system works.

18. Determining that the first movable component is outside the positional range of the second movable component, To determine one or more adjustments to the position of the first movable component and / or the position of the second movable component, The method according to claim 17, comprising communicating a command relating to the adjustment to at least one of the first movable component or the second movable component.

19. The method according to claim 17, wherein the movement instruction is based on the input data, and the input data includes position data, interaction data, timing data, or a combination thereof.

20. The method according to claim 17, wherein the communication of a command to the first movable component includes the communication of a command to a communication circuit of the first movable component.

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