Resistance control system and method for entertainment attractions - Patents.com

Abstract

A resistance control system (12) for a passenger support in an amusement attraction includes a first base, a second base, and a support extending between the first and second bases. The second base is pivotally coupled to the support at a pivot joint (46). The resistance control system (12) further includes a motor (320) and a linkage system (322) coupled to the motor (320) and the second base, the motor (320) configured to output a torque via the linkage system (322) that adjusts resistance to movement of the second base relative to the first base about the pivot joint (46).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 889,943, entitled “RESISTANCE CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AMUSEMENT ATTRACTIONS,” filed on November 18, 2019, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 889,943, entitled “RESISTANCE CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AMUSEMENT ATTRACTIONS,” filed on August 21, 2019, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. [Background technology]

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

[0003] Various entertainment attractions are designed to provide passengers with unique motion and visual experiences. In some cases, an entertainment attraction may include a ride vehicle and a ride track (or other path) along which the ride vehicle travels. In an increasing number of entertainment attractions, the ride vehicle may not follow a path. For example, the vehicle may be configured to roll, pitch, and / or yaw while fixed in place. Such vehicles may be referred to as stationary vehicles. Both stationary and path-following vehicles employ virtual reality (VR) devices to provide additional excitement. It is now recognized that it is desirable to give passengers the ability to control some aspects of these vehicles and / or the associated VR experience to enhance the excitement and immersion of the ride experience. For example, it is now recognized that it is desirable to give users the ability to steer the ride vehicle, or at least have the user feel that they are steered the ride vehicle via the VR device. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] The following summarizes certain embodiments common in scope to the subject matter of the original claims. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, but rather to provide merely a brief summary of some disclosed embodiments. Indeed, the disclosure may include a variety of forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.

[0005] The present embodiment relates to a resistance control system for a passenger support of an entertainment attraction including a first base, a second base, and a support extending between the first base and the second base. The second base is pivotally coupled to the support at a pivot joint. The resistance control system includes a motor and a linkage system coupled to the motor and the second base, the motor configured to output a torque via the linkage system to adjust resistance to movement of the second base relative to the first base about the pivot joint.

[0006] The present embodiment relates to a resistance control system for an entertainment attraction ride vehicle including a first foundation, a second foundation coupled to a pivot joint and configured to move relative to the first foundation via the pivot joint, a motor configured to cause movement of the second foundation via a linkage system, and a controller communicatively coupled to the motor, The controller is configured to receive an input and, based on the input, command the motor to output a torque to adjust the resistance to movement of the second foundation relative to the first foundation about the pivot joint.

[0007] The present embodiment relates to an entertainment attraction including a virtual reality (VR) device having a VR controller and a ride vehicle, the VR controller configured to command the VR device to present an image, the ride vehicle having a first base, a second base, and a support extending between the first base and the second base. The support is pivotally coupled to the second base via a pivot joint, and the second base is configured to move relative to the first base via the pivot joint. The ride vehicle also includes a motor configured to cause movement of the second base relative to the first base via the pivot joint or a linkage system coupled to the second base. The entertainment attraction further includes a vehicle controller communicatively coupled to the VR controller and the motor. The vehicle controller is configured to command the motor to output a torque based on communication between the vehicle controller and the VR controller.

[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 with like numerals throughout. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of an entertainment attraction having a resistance control system and stationary ride vehicles that enhance the experience of passengers wearing virtual reality (VR) equipment in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 2 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a process that enables a resistance control system to adjust the resistance of the stationary ride vehicle of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] 2 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the stationary ride vehicle embodiment of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 4 is a side perspective view of the stationary ride vehicle embodiment of FIG. 3 in a tilted orientation in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of another embodiment of a stationary ride vehicle having a compound spring, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 6 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a composite spring train of the stationary ride vehicle of FIG. 5 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 2 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the stationary ride vehicle of FIG. 1 having a motor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 2 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the stationary ride vehicle of FIG. 1 having a motor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 2 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a process for enabling a resistance control system to regulate operation of the stationary ride vehicle of FIG. 1 via a motor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below. In order to describe these embodiments concisely, not all features of the implementations may be described herein. It should be understood that the development of any such implementation, as in any engineering or design project, requires numerous implementation-specific decisions to be made to achieve the developer's particular objectives, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints that may vary from implementation to implementation. Moreover, it should be understood that such development efforts may be complex and time-consuming, but would be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication and manufacture for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0011] When introducing elements of various embodiments of the 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. It should also be understood that references to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" of the disclosure are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also contain the recited features.

[0012] The present embodiment relates to a resistance control system for an entertainment attraction, such as an attraction in which passengers wear a virtual reality (VR) device of a VR system. Typically, passengers provide input to the VR system of the stationary attraction by leaning or shifting their weight against a ride vehicle located below them. The ride vehicle includes supports that tension, engage, or otherwise force to appropriately resist this motion to simulate a virtual experience, such as horseback riding or paragliding, provided through the VR device. As described herein, the resistance control system allows for selective adjustment of the ride vehicle's resistance to motion, thus allowing, for example, to provide a particular (e.g., similar) experience for people of different weights and / or to accommodate a wide range of passenger preferences or factors on the stationary attraction.

[0013] The ride vehicle of the resistance control system generally includes a passenger accommodation, such as a chair or seat, coupled to a spring plate. In some embodiments, the spring plate is supported by a structural joint (e.g., a universal joint) that allows the passenger to pitch and roll the spring plate with his or her weight. In particular, springs engage the spring plate or are coupled to a surface of the spring plate to selectively contact an actuator plate disposed below the spring plate. The actuator plate is disposed perpendicular to the spring plate via an actuator, thus allowing the springs of the spring plate to contract and provide stability during the pitch and roll movements of the spring plate. The actuator can move the actuator plate up and down, respectively, to increase or decrease the resistance of the resistance control system to the passenger's movements. Thus, the resistance control system can measure the passenger's weight or other parameters during a normal ride cycle and command the actuator to change the tension of the spring to a predetermined setting or effective spring constant accordingly. In other embodiments, a compound or conical spring coupled to a spring plate can be passively compressed by the passenger to a target height and secured with a ratchet device, thereby providing a targeted resistance to passenger movement.

[0014] In further embodiments, a resistance control system can provide resistance of movement through control of a motor. For example, the motor can be coupled to the spring plate via a linkage and configured to provide a torque on the spring plate to increase the resistance to movement of the spring plate (e.g., relative to the actuator plate). Additionally, the motor can be back-driven by a force that a user provides to the spring plate, such as via their body weight, to allow the user to move (e.g., pitch or roll) the spring plate. Thus, the motor can increase or decrease the output torque to increase or decrease, respectively, the resistance of movement of the spring plate. For example, the resistance control system can adjust the output torque based on the user's weight and / or preferences to vary the resistance of movement of the spring plate. Additionally, the resistance control system can cause the motor to output a torque that actively induces movement of the spring plate. In any case, the resistance control system provides an improved experience for the guest compared to a fully passive system and / or a fully active system.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1, the entertainment attraction 10 includes a resistance control system 12 having a vehicle controller 14 (e.g., a controller) and a ride vehicle 16 (e.g., a motion simulator). In this embodiment of the entertainment attraction 10, the ride vehicle 16 is shown having a seat 20 from which a passenger 22 can operate the ride vehicle 16 and receive a virtual experience supported by a VR device 24 (e.g., a VR headset, a wearable visualization device) having a VR controller 26. In other embodiments, the VR device 24 is not included and additional excitement is added by the resistance control system 12 without VR effects. It should be understood that the ride vehicle 16 can take any suitable form including a sled, a motorcycle, an animal, a surfboard, a skateboard, and the like. Although the resistance control system 12 is described herein with reference to a single passenger 22, it should be understood that similar techniques can be applied to adapt the resistance control system 12 to a multi-passenger ride vehicle.

[0016] In this embodiment, the seat 20 is coupled to an upper surface 30 of the spring plate 32 of the ride vehicle 16, and the spring 34 is engaged or coupled to a lower surface 36 of the spring plate 32. It is noted that in other embodiments, the spring plate 32 is a frame or framework and not a solid plate. Additionally, other features or components, such as motors and / or linkages (e.g., link systems), may be used to provide resistance to movement of the spring plate 32 relative to the remainder of the ride vehicle 16. In this embodiment, the ride vehicle 16 includes a base 40 coupled to a support beam 42 via struts 44. The support beam 42 is coupled to the bottom surface 36 of the spring plate 32 via a pivot joint 46. The pivot joint 46 in this embodiment allows the spring plate 32 to rotate relative to the base 40 via roll 50 and pitch 52. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 40 is generally fixed relative to the ground 54. However, in other embodiments, the base 40 may be part of a larger vehicle that follows a path (e.g., a track). In some embodiments, the pivot joint 46 may be a spherical bearing joint or a universal joint that also allows for rotational movement 56 (e.g., yaw movement) of the leaf 32 about an axis parallel to the vertical axis 72. In other embodiments, the pivot joint 46 may allow for movement along a single axis (e.g., corresponding to a single degree of freedom), which may be suitable for a simplified entertainment attraction 10. For example, the pivot joint 46 may be a gimbal joint or a hinged gimbal expansion joint to provide rotation about a single axis. In any case, the base 40, the support beam 42, and the pivot joint 46 form a support assembly 60 that generally supports the leaf 32 while allowing any suitable pivotal degree of freedom of the leaf 32.

[0017] The VR device 24 worn by the passenger 22 implements VR technology that renders an interactive virtual experience within the passenger's 22 field of view. For example, the VR controller 26 can instruct the display of the VR device 24 to generate a set of target virtual images corresponding to the interactive virtual experience via the processor 62 and memory 64. In some embodiments, the VR technology also includes augmented reality technology. As shown, the VR controller 26 of the VR device 24 is communicatively coupled to the vehicle controller 14 via a wireless communication component 66. In other embodiments, the VR controller 26 can be communicatively coupled to the vehicle controller 14 via any suitable component that forms a communication connection, such as a wired connection, a BLUETOOTH connection, and a Wi-Fi connection. It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the virtual experience provided through the VR device 24 can be selected to correspond to the physical appearance of the ride vehicle 16 and / or the theme of the entertainment attraction 10. For example, in an embodiment in which the theme of the entertainment attraction 10 is a jungle, the seats 20 of the ride vehicle 16 can be designed as animals and the virtual experience can be displayed to the passenger 22 as a race through the jungle. Such a cohesive design of the entertainment attraction 10 components can provide a consistent, immersive experience for passengers 22. In other embodiments, the VR devices 24 can be replaced with augmented reality devices. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the resistance control system 12 can be implemented in any suitable environment where a semi-passive resistance control framework enhances the user experience (e.g., an interactive theater or a motion-based ride).

[0018] Looking in more detail at the resistance adjustment function of the resistance control system 12, the ride vehicle 16 includes an actuator plate 70 disposed between the spring plate 32 and the base 40 with respect to a vertical axis 72. The actuator plate 70 can be a framework similar to the spring plate 32 and does not necessarily include a solid plate. In this embodiment, an actuator 74 is coupled between the actuator plate 70 and the base 40 to adjust the position of the actuator plate 70 based on commands from the vehicle controller 14. In other words, the actuator 74 is commanded to contract or extend to any suitable actuator length between a fully contracted length and a fully extended length to position the actuator plate 70 at a particular separation distance 76 from the spring plate 32. The actuator 74 can be any suitable component that facilitates movement of the actuator plate 70, including an electric actuator, a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, a magnetic actuator, a mechanical actuator, and / or a servo motor, etc. It should be understood that in this embodiment, the actuator plate 70 is not directly coupled to the spring plate 32.

[0019] As described above, the springs 34 are coupled to the bottom surface 36 of the spring plate 32 and can selectively contract relative to and contact the actuator plate 70 in response to the movement of the passenger 22. For example, as the passenger 22 leans against the support beam 42, the pivot joint 46 can tilt the spring plate 32 in response, thereby placing a corresponding portion of the springs 34 in contact (e.g., engagement) with the top surface 80 of the actuator plate 70. The portion of the springs 34 in contact with the top surface 80 contracts in response to continued weight transfer or engagement, providing a resistive force that slows and ultimately stops the movement of the spring plate 32. As recognized herein, by adjusting the separation distance 76 between the spring plate 32 and the actuator plate 70, the resistance control system 12 can effectively tune the ride vehicle 16 to provide the passenger 22 with a sensation of neutral buoyancy suitable for any one of a number of VR experiences provided by the VR device 24.

[0020] Further, while two springs 34 and two actuators 74 are shown for simplicity, it should be understood that these are representative of any number of such features. According to the present embodiment, any suitable number of springs 34 and actuators 74, including one spring 34 and / or one actuator 74, may be included in the ride vehicle 16. For example, in an embodiment having a single actuator 74, the single actuator 74 may include any suitable four-bar linkage, scissor linkage, guide rail and wheel combination, or other suitable linkage that allows the single actuator 74 to adjust the position of the actuator plate 70 in one or more dimensions in accordance with the present technique. Additionally, in an embodiment having a single spring 34, the single spring 34 may be positioned in a central location that corresponds to the expected center of mass of the occupant 22. It should also be understood that spring 34, shown in this embodiment as a mechanical, helical, or coil spring, may in some embodiments include or represent any suitable resistance device, such as a gas spring, air spring, elastomer, leaf spring, rigid air bladder, conical spring washer (e.g., Belleville washer), gas strut, or magnetic repulsion assembly, or any combination thereof. That is, any suitable device that applies a variable force as a function of a dimension of the suitable device is presently contemplated as a suitable component of resistance control system 12.

[0021] Also, while the springs 34 of the leaf 32 are shown as separate from the actuator plate 70, in other embodiments the springs 34 may be coupled between the leaf 32 and the base 40 to provide a normalizing bias to the leaf 32. Additionally, while described herein with reference to the springs 34 coupled to the leaf 32, it should be understood that the springs 34 may be coupled to any suitable location on the ride vehicle 16 that allows for selective engagement of the springs 34, including locations where the springs 34 engage any suitable surface of the actuator plate 70 via cantilever action or any other suitable force-distributing components. That is, the preferred location may be any suitable location where the springs 34 engage in response to tilting of the leaf 32 beyond a threshold angle. In some of these embodiments, one or both ends of the springs 34 may be coupled to the leaf 32 for selective compression between the leaf 32 and the actuator plate 70. In other embodiments, the springs 34 may instead be coupled to the top surface 80 of the actuator plate 70.

[0022] As shown, the resistance control system 12 also includes sensors 90 for collecting suitable information regarding the ride vehicle 16 and / or the passenger 22 on the ride vehicle 16. For example, the sensors 90 currently include an inclinometer 92 coupled to the spring plate 32 for sensing the angle and tilt direction or position of the spring plate 32. In some embodiments, the inclinometer 92 senses the tilt of the spring plate 32 to within thousandths of a degree. In other embodiments, accelerometers, position sensors, and the like may also be coupled to the ride vehicle 16. Additionally, or instead, an accelerometer, position sensor, and the like may also be coupled to the ride vehicle 16. The sensors 90 of the resistance control system 12 further include a weight sensor 94 for sensing data indicative of the weight of the passenger 22 and transmitting the data to the vehicle controller 14. In this embodiment, the weight sensor 94 is shown directly coupled to the support beam 42 such that the weight sensor 94 can sense the entire weight or force from the passenger 22 directed through the support beam 42. In other embodiments, the weight sensor 94 may be located anywhere between the passenger 22 and the base 40 of the ride vehicle 16 , such as between the seat 20 and the spring plate 32 .

[0023] In other embodiments, the weight sensor 94 may be omitted and the ride vehicle 16 may include a user input device that allows the passenger 22 to provide input indicative of a weight, a user profile, and / or another parameter indicative of a desired or target resistance setting. In some embodiments, the vehicle controller 14 may receive other data that controls the ride vehicle 16. As an example, the vehicle controller 14 may include or be communicatively coupled to a visual or imaging sensor 96 that may read an identifier (e.g., radio frequency identification tag, bar code) of a component associated with the passenger 22, such as one worn by the passenger 22. For example, the identifier may be uniquely associated with the passenger 22's user profile and may indicate setting (e.g., resistance) preferences, user history (e.g., past entertainment attraction experiences), or other aspects specifically associated with the passenger 22. The vehicle controller 14 may thus use the identifier to determine a desired or target resistance setting that the resistance control system 12 should provide. As another example, the vehicle controller 14 may include or be communicatively coupled to an input device 98 with which the passenger 22 may interact to submit an input indicative of a desired resistance setting. To this end, the input device 98 may include features such as a touch screen, a keyboard, a voice recognition component, a track pad, dials, buttons, knobs, switches, or any other suitable features, and the passenger 22 may utilize the input device 98 to input information such as weight, an identifier, and a desired resistance setting. The vehicle controller 14 may then instruct the resistance control system 12 to adjust the position of the actuator plate 70 relative to the spring plate 32 based on the user input.

[0024] Turning now to the vehicle controller 14, the vehicle controller 14 is generally responsible for controlling the ride vehicle 16 to provide a target distance between the spring plate 32 and the actuator plate 70, as well as for matching the passenger experience (e.g., the physical movement of the vehicle 16) with the virtual experience provided through the VR equipment 24. It should be noted that the VR equipment 24 may present different and / or additional effects (e.g., a flat screen display and an audio system). The vehicle controller 14 may communicate (e.g., form a wired or wireless network) with other components of the entertainment attraction 10 and / or resistance control system 12 via any suitable respective communication circuitry. In this embodiment, the vehicle controller 14 is communicatively coupled to the VR controller 26, actuator 74, inclinometer 92, and weight sensor 94 of the VR equipment 24. In some embodiments, the vehicle controller 14 may be included in the housing or chassis of the ride vehicle 16. In other embodiments, the vehicle controller 14 may be remote from the ride vehicle 16 to coordinate the operation of multiple ride vehicles 16.

[0025] The vehicle controller 14 in the illustrated embodiment includes a processor 100 that provides instructions to the ride vehicles 16 through their respective wireless communication components 66, a memory 102 (e.g., one or more memories) that stores instructions for the processor 100, and a resistance setting database 104. However, it should be understood that any of the components may be suitably stored in any suitable location, such as in a cloud database, and updated therefrom. The processor 100 is any suitable processor capable of executing instructions to perform the presently disclosed techniques, such as a general purpose processor, a system on a chip (SoC) device, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or any other similar processor configuration. In some embodiments, these instructions are encoded in a program or code stored in a tangible, non-transitory computer readable medium, such as the memory 102 and / or other storage circuitry or storage device.

[0026] As will be appreciated, the resistance setting database 104 is a store of data having resistance settings that correlate the resistance to movement of the spring plate 32 based on data received from the sensor 90. In practice, the resistance setting database 104 can correlate data to a target actuator length (e.g., a target length, a length within a threshold range) for the actuator 74. Thus, the resistance setting database 104 allows the vehicle controller 14 to appropriately move the actuator plate 70 to tension the springs 34 of the ride vehicle 16 for passengers 22 related to a wide range of factors. As an example, the resistance control system 12 can command the actuator 74 to provide a low resistance for a lighter passenger 22 and a high resistance for a heavier passenger 22. As another example, the resistance control system 12 can command the actuator 74 to provide a resistance based on a resistance input requested by the passenger 22 or as otherwise indicated by the passenger 22. In some embodiments, the resistance setting database 104 correlates the target actuator length to a signal received by the sensor 90, such as the raw output in volts of the weight sensor 94. Such correlation may provide increased privacy and / or reduced computational latency for the resistance control system 12 compared to embodiments that convert raw power output to a value such as units of weight. The resistance setting database 104 may include target actuator lengths over any suitable range of raw power output and / or weight above a customizable lower weight limit, e.g., in 1 pound increments, 5 pound increments, 10 pound increments, 50 pound increments, etc.

[0027] In some embodiments, the resistance setting database 104 includes individual target actuator lengths corresponding to each virtual experience, each passenger age, each passenger profile, etc. For example, in embodiments where the virtual experience provided via the VR equipment 24 is a detail-oriented or challenging experience, the resistance control system 12 may implement a relatively high resistance setting (e.g., 10% more tension) to provide more motion sensitivity to the ride vehicle 16. Additionally, in embodiments where the resistance control system 12 determines that the passenger profile of the passenger 22 indicates a preference for a relaxed experience (e.g., relaxed VR gameplay), the resistance control system 12 may implement a relatively low resistance setting and instruct the VR equipment 24 to provide a simplified virtual experience commensurate with the relatively low resistance setting. In some embodiments, the resistance control system 12 can also adjust the resistance of the ride vehicle 16 over the duration of a ride cycle of the entertainment attraction 10, such as by increasing resistance in response to determining that the ride cycle is approaching the end, that the passenger 22 is entering a particular area of ​​the simulated environment supported by the VR equipment 24, that the passenger 22 has performed a particular task within the simulated environment, and / or that the passenger 22 has provided user input indicating a request for resistance adjustment.

[0028] In light of the above features of the resistance control system 12, further description is provided herein regarding the operation of the resistance control system 12 to adjust the weight resistance of the ride vehicle 16 to enhance passenger satisfaction on the ride vehicle 16. For example, FIG. 2 is a flow diagram illustrating an embodiment of a process 120 that enables the resistance control system 12 to control the ride vehicle 16 through a ride cycle of the entertainment attraction 10. The steps illustrated in the process 120 are for ease of explanation and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, as additional steps may be performed, some steps may be omitted, and the illustrated steps may be performed in a different order or in parallel, where appropriate. The process 120 may represent start code or instructions stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., memory 102) and executed by, for example, the processor 100 of the vehicle controller 14 of the resistance control system 12. The processor 100 may be communicatively coupled via a network, such as a wireless network, to transmit and receive instructions and signals as described below.

[0029] In the currently shown embodiment, the vehicle controller 14 executing the process 120 initiates a ride cycle (block 122) by receiving an input (block 124). For example, the vehicle controller 14 may receive a signal from the weight sensor 94 after the passenger 22 boards the ride vehicle 16. In some embodiments, the weight sensor 94 may continuously transmit signals, and the vehicle controller 14 may identify one of these signals as indicative of the passenger 22's weight in response to the signal being constant (e.g., within 1%, within 5%) for a threshold period of time. Such an embodiment may prompt security within the entertainment attraction 10 by providing a baseline weight value for the passenger 22 to the vehicle controller 14. Thus, the vehicle controller 14 may provide an alert to an operator of the entertainment attraction 10 and / or stop the ride vehicle 16 in response to detecting a weight value that is outside a predetermined threshold from the baseline weight value (e.g., indicating an item has been dropped, departure is too early). In further or different embodiments, the vehicle controller 14 may receive an image or other identifier from the visual sensor 96, or the like. The identifier may be indicative of a resistance setting, such as a desired resistance setting, of the occupant 22. In other embodiments, the vehicle controller 14 may receive user input from the input device 98. The user input may be indicative of a weight or desired resistance setting of the occupant 22 entered into a user interface. In some embodiments, the vehicle controller 14 may convert the user input into a value, such as a weight value. Thus, it should be appreciated that the vehicle controller 14 may perform the following steps of process 120 on any suitable received information, which may include, for example, the raw output in volts of the weight sensor 94.

[0030] Continuing with the process 120, the vehicle controller 14 queries the resistance setting database 104 to retrieve a target actuator length corresponding to the input (block 126). As described above, the resistance setting database 104 includes entries that associate the length of each of the actuators 74 with various data or parameters, such as passenger weight. The vehicle controller 14 thus utilizes the input to identify a suitable actuator length for the actuators 74 that provides appropriate resistance to the movement of the passenger 22 based on the particular parameters. Generally, the target actuator length will be longer (e.g., corresponding to a smaller separation distance 76) for heavy passenger weights than for light passenger weights such that the heavy passenger weight increases the resistance to movement of the ride vehicle 16. Once the appropriate target actuator length is identified, the vehicle controller 14 controls, manipulates, or commands the actuators 74 to extend or retract until the target actuator length is reached, thus positioning the actuator plate 70 at the particular separation distance 76 from the spring plate 32 (block 130). In other embodiments, the resistance setting database 104 may include entries associating each position of the actuator plate 70 with various passenger parameters, and the resistance control system 12 may control the weight resistance of the ride vehicle 16 by moving the actuator plate 70 to a target actuator plate position that corresponds to a target separation distance 76 from the spring plate 32 that corresponds to the particular passenger parameter.

[0031] Once the tension of the ride vehicle 16 has been calibrated to the input, the vehicle controller 14 provides the passenger 22 with a ride experience through the ride vehicle 16 that corresponds to the virtual experience provided through the VR device 24 (block 132). For example, the VR controller 26 of the VR device 24 can instruct the processor 62 to generate a particular virtual image to be displayed to the passenger 22. The passenger 22 typically provides user input to the vehicle controller 14 by shifting their weight relative to the ride vehicle 16 (e.g., via the inclinometer 92), which communicates the user input to the VR controller 26. The VR controller 26 thus adjusts the virtual image displayed to the passenger 22 to display a target virtual image set that corresponds to the received user input. For example, the spring plate 32 can pitch 52 a particular amount (e.g., inches) based on the resistance of the ride vehicle 16 in response to the passenger 22 leaning to the left. The inclinometer 92 senses the movement of the spring plate 32 and sends a signal indicative of the movement to the vehicle controller 14. Thus, the vehicle controller 14 can instruct the VR controller 26 to adjust the virtual imagery provided through the VR equipment 24 to display a corresponding virtual pitch 52 movement. It should be understood that in other embodiments, the VR controller 26 is embedded or stored within the vehicle controller 14. It should be understood that in other embodiments, the entertainment attraction 10 can include features other than or in addition to the VR equipment 24, such as a projection screen that receives user input as feedback to enhance the passenger's enjoyment. In further embodiments, such as when the ride vehicle 16 travels along a track, the VR equipment 24 and VR controller 26 are omitted.

[0032] In addition to instructing the VR device 24 to respond to movements of the ride vehicle 16, the resistance control system 12 enables the ride vehicle 16 to respond to commands from the VR controller 26. For example, the vehicle controller 14 executing the process 120 determines whether a haptic feedback request has been received from the VR controller 26 (block 134). Continuing with the example above, the VR controller 26 may, in response to the passenger 22 maneuvering the ride vehicle 16 to cause the virtual representation of the ride vehicle 16 to contact a boundary (e.g., a fence, a cloud, an obstacle), request the vehicle controller 14 to vibrate or otherwise manipulate the ride vehicle 16 to indicate the contact. It should be understood that the vehicle controller 14 may receive any single or multiple haptic feedback requests from the VR controller 26, including sequential requests and / or preprogrammed requests.

[0033] In response to receiving the haptic feedback request, the vehicle controller 14 commands the actuators 74 to manipulate the actuator plate 70 to correspond to the VR experience of the VR device 24 (block 136). In some embodiments, the actuators 74 can extend to position the actuator plate 70 in contact with the springs 34 of the spring plate 32 and / or move the spring plate 32 to provide haptic feedback to the passenger 22. The vehicle controller 14 can command the actuators 74 to adjust their lengths individually or in sync with each other. For example, the actuators 74 can be commanded to further pull one area (e.g., quadrant, side) of the ride vehicle 16 to prevent the passenger 22 from steering the ride vehicle 16 in a direction corresponding to the one area. In other embodiments, the actuators 74 can be commanded to move the entire actuator plate 70 up and down in sequence or randomly to provide a floating experience to the passenger 22. After the vehicle controller 14 fulfills the haptic feedback request, the actuators 74 can be commanded to move to the target actuator length again (block 130).

[0034] Alternatively, the vehicle controller 14 may determine whether the current ride cycle of the entertainment attraction 10 is complete (block 140) in response to determining that the haptic feedback request is not satisfied or unresolved. The vehicle controller 14 may reference a clock, the VR controller 26, or any other suitable component to make the determination of block 140. In response to determining that the ride cycle is not complete, the vehicle controller 14 performing the illustrated embodiment of the process 120 returns to block 134 to continue determining whether a haptic feedback request has been received. Meanwhile, in response to determining that the ride cycle is complete, the vehicle controller 14 commands the actuator 74 to return to a default length (block 142), thereby terminating the process 120 (block 144). The default length may correspond to a relaxed state of the actuator 74, a most common length suitable for the majority of passengers 22, a length that facilitates disembarkation from the ride vehicle 16 (e.g., tilting the spring plate 32 toward the exit of the entertainment attraction 10), and the like. Thus, the resistance control system 12 with the vehicle controller 14 effectively enhances the passenger experience within the entertainment attraction 10 by semi-passively tuning the weight resistance of the ride vehicle 16 to each particular passenger parameter. Additionally, the resistance control system 12 disclosed herein provides dynamic haptic feedback to the passengers 22 corresponding to the virtual images provided through the VR device 24 to further create a dynamic and enjoyable passenger experience.

[0035] In some embodiments, the VR controller 26 can be configured to operate multiple VR devices 24 for each passenger 22 in a manner that allows the passengers 22 to virtually interact with one another in the same virtual environment. For example, the VR controller 26 can cause the VR devices 24 to present a virtual experience in which the passengers 22 can race one another. To this end, the VR controller 26 can cause the VR devices 24 to present virtual images of the other passengers 22, output haptic feedback based on interactions with the other passengers 22, or otherwise operate the VR devices 24 based on the other passengers 22. As an example, multiple ride vehicles 16 can be positioned within the same enclosure or room of the entertainment attraction 10 such that the entertainment attraction 10 can simultaneously accommodate multiple passengers 22, such as passengers 22 participating in the same virtual environment presented by their respective VR devices 24. In further or alternative embodiments, the entertainment attraction 10 can accommodate multiple passengers 22 participating in different virtual environments and experiences. That is, the entertainment attraction 10 can accommodate multiple passengers 22, but at least some of the passengers 22 can be in different virtual experiences and not virtually interact with one another. In any event, such a configuration may increase the efficiency of providing a virtual experience to passengers 22 as compared to an entertainment attraction 10 having a single ride vehicle 16 .

[0036] With the above understanding of the operation of the resistance control system 12 in mind, further description is provided herein regarding example embodiments of ride vehicles 16 controlled by the resistance control system 12. For example, FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional elevation view of an embodiment of a ride vehicle 16 having a spring plate 32 disposed horizontally (e.g., aligned with a horizontal axis 160). As discussed above, the ride vehicle 16 includes an actuator plate 70, a spring plate 32, and a support assembly 60 having a base plate, a support beam 42, and a pivot joint 46. The ride vehicle 16 is stationary, such that the base 40 is disposed in contact with the ground 54. In other embodiments, the resistance control system 12 may be utilized on a movable motion base, and the ground 54 may represent a larger vehicle to which the ride vehicle 16 is coupled.

[0037] The ride vehicle 16 also includes six springs 34, shown in this embodiment as conical mechanical springs. Conical mechanical springs generally have a variable length or non-linear spring constant such that initial compression of the springs against the actuator plate 70 develops with less force than further compression of the springs 34. In this embodiment, the springs 34 are equally spaced from one another in a hexagonal or circular configuration centered on the pivot joint 46. However, it should be understood that any other suitable type, configuration and quantity of springs 34 that selectively compress and / or contact the actuator plate 70 may also be employed within the ride vehicle 16. For example, in some embodiments, the conical springs may be replaced with cylindrical helical springs (e.g., compound springs) having progressive spring constants coupled in series with one another. Alternatively, the ride vehicle 16 may include a single spring 34 suitably positioned within the ride vehicle 16 such that the presently disclosed features may dynamically adjust the weight resistance of the ride vehicle 16.

[0038] The resistance control system 12 also includes moderating features that further enhance the passenger experience on the ride vehicle 16. For example, the ride vehicle 16 of this embodiment includes speed limiters 170 (e.g., gas springs) that control the movement of the spring leaves 32. The speed limiters 170 are each coupled between the spring leaves 32 and peripheral support beams 172 that are disposed below an outer edge 174 of the spring leaves 32. In the illustrated embodiment, the speed limiters 170 include spherical rolling bearings 176 that provide three-axis rotational degrees of freedom, although any other suitable connection components that provide the same or more limited rotational motion may be employed. The speed limiter 170 includes a piston 180 and a rod 182 that moves relative to the piston 180 to dampen the movement of the ride vehicle 16. It is noted that in some embodiments, this dampened movement correlates to movement of a seat or portion of the ride vehicle within the ride vehicle, the ride vehicle that is effectively a seat, or both the ride vehicle and the seat of the ride vehicle.

[0039] FIG. 4 is a side perspective view of an embodiment of a stationary ride vehicle 16 having a spring plate 32 in an oblique orientation. As shown, the spring plate 32 is disposed at an oblique angle 200 relative to the actuator plate 70 due to the weight shift of a passenger 22 that may ride on the spring plate 32. The ride vehicle 16 also includes a bumper 202 (e.g., a rubber bumper, stopper) disposed on a peripheral support beam 172 disposed below the spring plate 32. The bumper 202 may allow free rotation of the spring plate 32 up to a threshold angle of obliqueness, typically where the bottom surface 36 of the spring plate 32 contacts the bumper 202, and may prevent further rotation of the spring plate 32 to avoid an unstable orientation of the spring plate 32 relative to the actuator plate 70. As an example, the bumper 202 may allow the spring plate 32 to rotate to various positions forming an oblique angle 200 of up to 10 degrees relative to the actuator plate 70. The bumper 202 may thus restrict the movement of the spring plate 32 within a physical range or limit of movement. The bumpers 202 may also include contact sensors that provide a signal to the vehicle controller 14 indicating whether the spring leaf 32 is contacting the respective bumper 202. For example, the vehicle controller 14, in response to determining that the spring leaf 32 is contacting one of the bumpers 202, may provide haptic feedback to prompt the passenger 22 to shift their weight so that the spring leaf 32 is no longer contacting the bumper 202. In some embodiments, the ride vehicle 16 may include six bumpers 202 and six perimeter support beams 172. In such cases, every other perimeter support beam 172 may be indirectly coupled to the spring leaf 32 via one of the speed limiters 170 described above.

[0040] The actuator 74 shown in this embodiment is coupled between the actuator plate 70 and the base 40. The actuator 74 can thus move the actuator plate 70 along the vertical axis 72, such as by increasing or decreasing a separation distance 76 between the actuator plate 70 and the spring plate 32 (e.g., at a horizontal position corresponding to the pivot joint 46 or the fulcrum of the spring plate 32) to adjust the effective spring constant of the spring 34. The ride vehicle 16 can include three actuators 74 equally spaced apart in a triangular configuration, although it should be understood that additional actuators 74 can be included and equally spaced apart in any suitable polygonal shape. Additionally, the speed limiter 170 described above is arranged in a triangular configuration that is a mirror image of the triangular configuration of the actuator 74, thereby distributing the forces of the speed limiter 170 and the actuator 74 evenly around the ride vehicle 16. In other embodiments, such as those in which the ride vehicle 16 is movable, the forces of the speed limiter 170 and the actuator 74 can be evenly distributed around the seat of the ride vehicle 16.

[0041] 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the resistance control system 12 for controlling the ride vehicles 16 in the entertainment attraction 10. The ride vehicle 16 includes a spring plate 32 and a seat 20 or other passenger accommodation coupled to an upper surface 30 of the spring plate 32. From the seat 20, a passenger 22 can steer the ride vehicle 16 with his or her own weight. Among other things, the ride vehicle 16 includes spring columns 250 coupled to a bottom surface 36 of the spring plate 32 that selectively adjust the resistance of the ride vehicle 16 based on parameters related to the passenger 22. Each spring column 250 includes a height adjustable spring assembly 252 that is passively (e.g., naturally) compressed by the weight of the passenger 22 to a target height 260.

[0042] In this embodiment, each height adjustable spring assembly 252 includes three spring regions 262: a high compression region 264, a medium compression region 266, and a low compression region 268. As used herein, each spring region 262 is defined as any suitable component that provides a respective spring constant. Thus, the low compression region 268 has a greater spring constant than either the medium compression region 266 or the high compression region 264, indicating that more force is utilized to compress the low compression region 268 (e.g., as approximated by Hooke's Law). In this embodiment, the compressibility of each spring region 262 is effected by selecting a target wire thickness for the spring region 262, although any other suitable characteristics of the spring region 262 (e.g., material, coating, treatment, size) may also be varied.

[0043] For example, the high compression region 264 can be designed to operate for passengers having a first weight range (e.g., 0-50 pounds) above which they are fully compressed and substantially rigid. The other spring regions 266, 268 can operate as negligibly compressed and substantially rigid for passengers having weights within the first weight range. The medium compression region 266 can be designed to operate for a second weight range (e.g., 51-150 pounds) that is higher than the first weight range. Thus, for passengers having weights within the second weight range, the medium compression region 266 is actively compressible while the high compression region 264 is fully compressed and the low compression region 268 is substantially rigid. Similarly, the low compression region 268 can be designed to operate in supporting passengers having weights within a third weight range (e.g., 151-300 pounds) above which the other spring regions 264, 266 are fully compressed. Thus, the height adjustable spring assembly 252 of the ride vehicle 16 passively contracts after the passenger 22 enters the ride vehicle 16 to tune the weight resistance of the ride vehicle 16 to the weight of the passenger 22. In further or alternative embodiments, the compression of the spring assembly 252 can be based on other parameters related to the passenger, including a desired resistance setting (e.g., via a semi-passive control system that adjusts the weight resistance based on received or determined input) and previous experience.

[0044] Presently, the spring regions 262 include cylindrical helical coil springs coupled in series with one another between the spring leaf 32 and a respective base plate 272. In other embodiments, each spring array 250 may include a single conical spring providing a continuously varying spring area along the height of the spring array 250, or other suitable variable resistance components as discussed above (e.g., gas springs, magnetic repulsion assemblies). Although four spring arrays 250 are shown, each having three spring regions 262, it should be understood that any suitable number of spring arrays 250 having any suitable number of spring regions 262 may be implemented within the ride vehicle 16, including a single spring array 250 disposed below the center point 274 of the spring leaf 32. In accordance with this disclosure, reference to a spring element may include any feature capable of providing a resistive spring force, such as a metal spring, a plastic spring, a leaf spring, a conical or cylindrical coil, a gas spring, a magnetic repulsion assembly, etc.

[0045] In the illustrated embodiment, each spring train 250 includes a linkage 280 (e.g., cable, rope, chain) coupled between a respective base plate 272 and spring plate 32 to limit lateral movement of the spring train 250. While the linkage 280 is shown disposed within the height adjustable spring assembly 252, it should be understood that the linkage 280 may be disposed elsewhere within the spring train 250. As described in further detail below, in some embodiments, the linkage 280 facilitates locking the spring train 250 at the target height 260. In other embodiments, the ride vehicle 16 may operate without locking the spring train 250, thereby allowing for a simpler construction and operation of the entertainment attraction 10.

[0046] 6 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a resistance control system 12 including the vehicle controller 14 and VR controller 26 described above. While this description focuses on the operation of a single spring train 250 of the ride vehicle 16, it should be understood that each spring train 250 may operate similarly. The illustrated embodiment of the spring train 250 includes a locking device 300 that selectively locks the spring train 250 at the target height 260 based on the weight of the passenger 22. For example, the locking device 300 may be a ratchet device that receives a ribbed extension 302 coupled to a distal end 304 of the body 306 of the linkage 280. In such an embodiment, the base plate 272 may include an opening that allows for coupling and positioning of the body 306 of the linkage 280 on the opposite side of the base plate 272 from the ribbed extension 302. In such an embodiment, the weight of the passenger 22 may passively compress the height adjustable spring assembly 252 to the target height 260, moving the spring plate 32 closer to the base plate 272 and forcing the ribbed extension 302 down to the target position relative to the locking device 300. It should be understood that any other suitable locking device may also be implemented within the ride vehicle 16, such as a reel and spool that secures the linkage 280, a caliper brake, a locking gas spring, a magnetic retention system, a locking rack and / or pinion, etc.

[0047] In embodiments having the locking device 300, the vehicle controller 14 is communicatively coupled to the locking device 300 to control its operation. For example, a ratcheting-type locking device 300 embodiment may passively hold the spring train 250 at the target height 260 in response to a force exerted by a passenger's weight. In other embodiments having an active locking device 300, the vehicle controller 14 may instruct the locking device 300 to secure the spring train 250 in response to determining that a ride cycle of the entertainment attraction 10 has begun. In either case, the vehicle controller 14 may instruct the locking device 300 to release the ribbed extension 302 or other suitable component of the spring train 250 to return the spring train 250 to a default height (e.g., an uncompressed height) in response to determining that the ride cycle has been completed.

[0048] The illustrated embodiment of the resistance control system 12 also includes an inclinometer 92 coupled to the spring plate that provides feedback to the VR controller 26 to enable the VR controller 26 to align the virtual experience of the VR device 24 with the current position of the ride vehicle 16. As noted above, the ride vehicle 16 may additionally or alternatively be coupled to any other suitable sensors 90 that facilitate operation of the entertainment attraction 10. Notably, the resistance control system 12 of Figures 5 and 6 provides a simpler embodiment of the ride vehicle 16 by not including a weight sensor 94, while allowing for semi-passive control of the weight resistance of the ride vehicle 16 to improve the passenger experience.

[0049] 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a ride vehicle 16 that uses a resistance control system 12 to control movement of a passenger support (e.g., seat 20, ride vehicle cabin). The resistance control system 12 includes a motor 320 and a linkage system 322 that enables the motor 320 to cause movement of the spring leaf 32 about a pivot joint 46 of a support beam 42 that extends between the spring leaf 32 and an actuator plate 70. Thus, the motor 320 can cause movement of the spring leaf 32 relative to the actuator plate 70. Although the ride vehicle 16 is shown including the spring leaf 32 and the actuator plate 70, the spring leaf 32 and the actuator plate 70 are intended to represent any suitable foundation, support, or brace. That is, the spring leaf 32 and / or the actuator plate 70 can have any suitable shape (e.g., dome, sphere, cube) that effects movement of the ride vehicle 16.

[0050] Each motor 320 (e.g., electromechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic) can operate to adjust the resistance to movement of the leaf 32 about the pivot joint 46. In the illustrated embodiment, each motor 320 is coupled to a respective gearbox 324 of the linkage system 322, and each gearbox 324 is coupled to a first bracket 326 of the linkage system 322. Thus, torque output by the motor 320 that causes a shaft of the motor 320 to rotate can cause a gear of the gearbox 324 to rotate and rotate the first bracket 326. As an example, each motor 320 can utilize a keyless bushing to rotate the shaft and the gearbox 324 to enable smooth movement of the leaf 32. Each first bracket 326 is coupled to a linkage 328 of the linkage system 322 at a first end 330 of the linkage 328. Further, the second end 332 of each linkage 328 can be coupled to a respective second bracket 334 of the link system 322, with each second bracket 334 being coupled to a portion (e.g., a corner, a side) of the bottom surface 36 of the spring plate 32.

[0051] Each motor 320 can be configured to output a torque capable of controlling and / or driving rotational movement of the first bracket 326 about a respective horizontal axis 336 or a respective axis parallel to the horizontal axis 336. Such rotational movement of the first bracket 326 can cause corresponding movement of the linkage 328 generally along an axis parallel to the vertical axis 72 to impart a force to a respective portion of the leaf 32. This imparted force can cause the leaf 32 to move (e.g., pitch, roll) relative to the actuator plate 70. To this end, each linkage 328 can be rotatably coupled to a corresponding first bracket 326 and second bracket 334 via a rotatable fastener 338 (e.g., shoulder screw) of the link system 322 to enable rotational movement between the linkage 328 and the brackets 326, 334 about the respective horizontal axis 336. Rotation between the linkage 328 and the brackets 326, 334 can enable greater control of the movement of the leaf 32 relative to the actuator plate 70. Additionally, the coupling between the linkage 328 and the brackets 326, 334 may allow additional movement between the linkage 328 relative to the brackets 326, 334 to facilitate movement of the spring leaf 32 relative to the actuator plate 70. As an example, the linkage 328 may translate linearly along a rotatable fastener 338 and / or rotate relative to the brackets 326, 334 about another axis (e.g., via an additional fastener in the linkage system 322).

[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, the linkage system 322 is supported via a plate 340 (e.g., coupled to the support beam 42) that extends between the base 40 and the actuator plate 70. The plate 340, which may be part of the support assembly 60, for example, may be fixedly coupled to the actuator plate 70, the base 40, and / or the support beam 42, and the gearbox 324 may be fixedly coupled to the plate 340 to prevent movement between the gearbox 324 and the support assembly 60, thereby stabilizing the linkage system 322. In this manner, the plate 340 may facilitate the motor 320 providing the desired movement of the spring plate 32 relative to the actuator plate 70.

[0053] In some embodiments, each motor 320 can be back-drivable. That is, sufficient force applied to the leaf 32 (e.g., by the weight shift of the passenger 22) can cause movement of the leaf 32 relative to the actuator plate 70 in a direction opposite to the movement of the leaf 32 caused by the torque output by the motor 320. In other words, sufficient force can be used to rotate one of the first brackets 326 in a direction opposite to the direction of rotation caused by the torque output by the motor 320. In this way, the amount of torque output by the motor 320 to apply to the leaf 32 can adjust the amount of counter force required to move the leaf 32 relative to the actuator plate 70 against the torque output by the motor 320. Thus, the torque output by the motor 320 sets the movement resistance of the leaf 32. Specifically, increasing the torque output increases the movement resistance, and decreasing the torque output decreases the movement resistance.

[0054] Each motor 320 can be communicatively coupled to the vehicle controller 14, which can command the motors 320 to output torque accordingly. In practice, the vehicle controller 14 can receive input, such as from the inclinometer 92, weight sensor 94, visual sensor 96, input device 98, another suitable source, or any combination thereof, and operate the motors 320 to provide resistance to movement of the spring plate 32 based on the input. In the illustrated embodiment, the weight sensor 94 is positioned below the base 40 (e.g., coupled to the underside of the base 40) to monitor the weight of the spring plate 32, support assembly 60, actuator plate 70, motor 320, linkage system 322, passenger 22, etc. (e.g., the entire ride vehicle 16). In further or alternative embodiments, the weight sensor 94 can be positioned to monitor a portion of the ride vehicle 16 and / or passenger 22 (e.g., between the actuator plate 70 and the spring plate 32). In any event, any of the techniques discussed above with respect to setting the resistance of movement of the spring plate 32 may be incorporated to set the torque output by the motor 320 based on the weight of the passenger 22, the preferences of the passenger 22, an identifier for the passenger 22, and the like. As an example, the vehicle controller 14 may operate in a semi-passive mode to provide a resistance of movement between the spring plate 32 and the actuator plate 70 via the torque output of the motor 320, and may refer to the resistance setting database 104 to determine the particular torque that the motor 320 should output based on an algorithm or database table (e.g., a look-up table) stored in the resistance setting database 104 that relates the torque output to another parameter, or the like.

[0055] The vehicle controller 14 may also operate in an active mode, causing each motor 320 to output a torque that overcomes the force exerted on the leaf 32 by the passenger 22. In effect, in the active mode, the vehicle controller 14 may operate the motors 320 to move the leaf 32 in a desired manner (e.g., to a target position or orientation) relative to the actuator plate 70, instead of allowing the passenger 22 to cause the movement of the leaf 32 (e.g., in the semi-passive mode of the vehicle controller 14). For example, the vehicle controller 14 may operate in an active mode to move the leaf 32 to provide a particular sensation and ride experience to the passenger 22. To this end, the vehicle controller 14 may receive sensor data, such as the orientation of the leaf 32 determined via the inclinometer 92 and / or the weight of the passenger 22 determined via the weight sensor 94, to determine the appropriate torque that the motors 320 should output to cause the desired movement of the leaf 32 relative to the actuator plate 70.

[0056] In practice, the vehicle controller 14 may adjust the torque output by the motor 320 at different points in a single ride cycle. As an example, the vehicle controller 14 may operate in a first semi-passive mode at a first point in the ride cycle to command the motor 320 to output respective torques to cause a first resistance of movement between the spring plate 32 and the actuator plate 70 that allows the passenger 22 to move the spring plate 32. The vehicle controller 14 may operate in a second semi-passive mode at a second point in the ride cycle to command the motor 320 to increase the torque output to cause a second increased resistance of movement between the spring plate 32 and the actuator plate 70 that makes it more difficult for the passenger 22 to move the spring plate 32. The vehicle controller 14 may operate in an active mode at a third point in the ride cycle to command the motor 320 to further increase the torque output to cause movement of the spring plate 32 and the actuator plate 70 to prevent the passenger 22 from moving the spring plate 32 relative to the actuator plate 70. Thus, the vehicle controller 14 may operate in different modes at different points in the ride cycle to provide different experiences for the passenger 22. For example, the vehicle controller 14 may operate in different modes based on a predetermined setting (e.g., the point in the ride cycle), in response to sensor data, based on the preferences of the passenger 22, etc.

[0057] Additionally, the vehicle controller 14 may also adjust the torque output by the motors 320 based on the positioning of the spring plate 32 relative to the actuator plate 70. As an example, in response to determining (e.g., based on sensor data received from the inclinometer 92) that the tilt angle 200 between the spring plate 32 and the actuator plate 70 has increased, the vehicle controller 14 may command one of the motors 320 to increase the torque output to prevent the tilt angle 200 from increasing further. In this manner, the vehicle controller 14 may adjust the torque output by the motors 320 to adjust the resistance to movement of the spring plate 32 to maintain the tilt angle 200 between the spring plate 32 and the actuator plate 70 below a threshold value.

[0058] 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a ride vehicle 16 that uses a resistance control system 12 including three motors 320 and three corresponding linkage systems 322. The vehicle controller 14 can be communicatively coupled to each of the motors 320 to move the spring leaf 32. As an example, the illustrated spring leaf 32 has a triangle shape in which a first motor 320A is configured to move a first linkage system 324A coupled to a first corner 360 of the spring leaf 32, a second motor 320B is configured to move a second linkage system 324B coupled to a second corner 362 of the spring leaf 32, and a third motor 320C is configured to move a third linkage system 324C coupled to a third corner 364 of the spring leaf 32. The vehicle controller 14 can control the motors 320 to coordinate the movement of the corners 360, 362, 364 to control the movement of the spring leaf 32 relative to the actuator plate 70.

[0059] Controlling the leaf 32 via three motors 320 allows for greater control over the movement of the leaf 32 than controlling the leaf 32 via two motors 320. As an example, in addition to pitching and / or rolling the leaf 32 relative to the actuator plate 70, the vehicle controller 14 can translate the leaf 32 along an axis parallel to the vertical axis 72 to cause the leaf 32 to undulate, etc. In some embodiments, the vehicle controller 14 can control the motors 320 to move each of the corners 360, 362, 364 to a respective target position. For example, the vehicle controller 14 can control the motors 320 to move each of the corners 360, 362, 364 a substantially equal distance along a respective axis parallel to the vertical axis 72 to translate the leaf 32 along an axis parallel to the vertical axis 72 without rolling and / or pitching the leaf 32.

[0060] Although the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 includes two motors 320 and two link systems 322 and the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 includes three motors 320 and three link systems 322, in further or alternative embodiments, any other suitable number of motors 320 and link systems 322 may be used to control the movement between the leaf 32 and the actuator plate 70. As an example, a single motor 320 and a single corresponding link system 322 may be used, or more than three motors 320 and more than three corresponding link systems 322 may be used. In practice, the number of motors 320 and corresponding link systems 322 used to control the movement of the leaf 32 may be based on the shape of the leaf 32 (e.g., four motors 320 and four link systems 322 to move each corner of the leaf 32 having a rectangular shape) and / or the desired amount of movement of the leaf 32 relative to the actuator plate 70 (e.g., the number of degrees of freedom). Additionally, a combination of motors 320, link systems 322, and springs 34 may be used to control the movement between the leaf 32 and the actuator plate 70. Additionally, any of the techniques described above may be used to induce other types of movement of the spring leaf 32 , such as translational movement along an axis parallel to the horizontal axis 160 .

[0061] 9 is a flow diagram illustrating an embodiment of a process 380 for controlling a ride vehicle 16 via a motor 320 through a ride cycle of an entertainment attraction 10. Process 380 may represent initiation code or instructions stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium for execution by the processor 100 of the vehicle controller 14 of the resistance control system 12. Some steps illustrated in process 380 may be similar to those described above with respect to process 120. Additionally, additional steps may be performed and / or some steps illustrated in FIG. 9 may be omitted, modified, or performed in a different order, where appropriate.

[0062] During the process 380, the vehicle controller 14 may also initiate a ride cycle (block 124) by receiving an input (block 122). The input may include a weight from the weight sensor 94, an image or an identifier from the visual sensor 96, and / or a user input from the input device 98. The vehicle controller 14 then queries the resistance setting database 104 to retrieve a target torque output corresponding to the input (block 382). In practice, the resistance setting database 104 may include entries or algorithms that relate each torque output to various data or parameters, and the vehicle controller 14 may utilize the input to identify an appropriate torque output for each motor 320. As an example, a higher torque output may be provided to increase the resistance of movement of the ride vehicle 16 for a heavier passenger weight than a lighter passenger weight and / or for a more relaxed experience than a more challenging experience. After identifying the target torque output, the vehicle controller 14 controls, operates, or commands the motors 320 to output the target torque (block 384).

[0063] The vehicle controller 14 provides the passenger 22 with a ride experience via the ride vehicle 16 after calibrating the torque output by the motor 320 (block 386), which may correspond to the virtual experience provided by the VR device 24, also using the techniques described above. As an example, the image presented by the VR device 24 may correspond to the movement of the spring plate 32 relative to the actuator plate 70 (e.g., based on the force applied by the passenger 22 against the torque output by the motor 320). Additionally, the vehicle controller 14 may adjust the torque output by the motor 320 during the ride experience to correspond to the virtual environment presented to the passenger 22 by the VR device 24 (block 388). In one example, the vehicle controller 14 may receive a haptic feedback request from the VR controller 26 and adjust the torque output based on the haptic feedback request (e.g., to satisfy the haptic feedback request). In another example, the vehicle controller 14 may automatically adjust the torque output based on a signal corresponding to a time during the ride experience or an aspect of the ride experience (e.g., a narrative change in the VR experience). In practice, the vehicle controller 14 can command the motor 320 to adjust the torque output to vary the resistance to movement between the leaf 32 and the actuator plate 70 and / or to transition between a semi-passive mode of operation in which the passenger 22 can primarily drive the movement of the leaf 32 and an active mode in which the motor 320 can primarily drive the movement of the leaf 32. In a further example, the vehicle controller 14 can adjust the torque output based on the orientation of the leaf 32 relative to the actuator plate 70. For example, in response to receiving sensor data (e.g., from the inclinometer 92) indicating that the tilt angle 200 is greater than a threshold value, the vehicle controller 14 can command the motor 320 to increase the torque output to prevent movement of the leaf 32 that would further increase the tilt angle 200.

[0064] After completion of the ride cycle, the vehicle controller 14 may command the motor 320 (block 390) to output a default torque to end the process 120 (block 144). The default torque may enable a particular positioning or orientation of the spring plate 32 (e.g., relative to the actuator plate 70) and / or may set a resistance to movement between the spring plate 32 and the actuator plate 70 to facilitate disembarking from the ride vehicle 16. For example, the default torque may substantially increase the resistance to movement of the spring plate 32 to avoid movement relative to the actuator plate 70, such as caused by forces exerted by the passenger 22 during disembarking from the ride vehicle 16, to facilitate exit of the passenger 22 from the ride vehicle 16.

[0065] Thus, the technical effect of the disclosed resistance control system includes enabling selective adjustment of the tension or weight resistance of the ride vehicle. Thus, the ride vehicle can accommodate a wide range of passenger parameters or passenger preferences for experiencing the stationary attraction via the VR device. Generally, passengers provide input to the VR system of the stationary attraction by tilting or shifting their weight relative to the ride vehicle. The ride vehicle operates to appropriately resist this movement to simulate the virtual experience provided through the VR device. In some embodiments, the spring plate of the ride vehicle is supported by a pivot joint that allows passengers to manipulate the spring plate with their weight. The ride vehicle includes at least one spring coupled to a surface of the spring plate that selectively contracts against an actuator plate disposed below the spring plate. The actuator plate is disposed perpendicular to the spring plate via at least one actuator that can move the actuator plate up and down to respectively increase or decrease the resistance of the resistance control system to the passenger's movement. Thus, during a normal ride cycle, the resistance control system can receive input indicative of a parameter associated with the passenger and command the actuator to tension the spring to a predetermined setting corresponding to the parameter. In other embodiments, compound or conical springs arranged in an array and coupled to the spring plate can be passively compressed by the passenger to a target height, thereby providing a target resistance to the passenger's movement. In a further embodiment, the ride vehicle can include at least one back-drivable motor coupled to the spring plate that outputs a torque to control the resistance to movement between the spring plate and the actuator plate, such as in response to a force that overcomes the output torque to back-drive the motor. For example, the resistance control system can adjust the output torque to increase or decrease the resistance to movement of the spring plate based on the input received. The motor can also be controlled to output a torque that actively drives the spring plate to move. In any case, the disclosed system provides an improved experience for guests of a wider range of weights, preferences, and other parameters.

[0066] Although only certain features of the disclosure have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. It is therefore to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes that comply with the true spirit of the disclosure. It is to be understood that any of the features illustrated or described with respect to the above figures may be combined in any suitable manner.

[0067] The technology presented and claimed herein refers to and applies to tangible objects and specific examples of a practical nature that positively improve the art and are therefore not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Moreover, if any claim appended at the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as "means for [performing] ... [function]" or "step for [performing] ... [function]," such elements are to be construed pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 112(f). On the other hand, for any claim containing an element designated in any other manner, such elements are not to be construed pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 112(f). [Explanation of symbols]

[0068] 10. Recreational Attractions 12 Resistance Control System 14 Vehicle Controller 16 Vehicles 32 Spring plate 36 Underside of spring plate 40 Base 42 Support beam 46 Pivot joint 60 Support Assembly 70 Actuator Plate 90 Sensors 92 Inclinometer 94 Weight Sensor 96 Imaging Sensor 98 Input Devices 100 processors 102 Memory 104 Resistor Setting Database 320 Motor 322 Link System 324 Gearbox 326 Bracket 328 Linkage 330 First end of linkage 332 Second end of linkage 334 Second Bracket 336 horizontal axis 338 Fasteners 340 Plate

Claims

1. 1. A resistance control system for a passenger support of an entertainment attraction, comprising: The first foundation, a second base configured to receive forces applied by passengers of the entertainment attraction; a support extending between the first foundation and the second foundation, the second foundation pivotally coupled to the support at a pivot joint; A motor; a linkage system coupled to the motor and the second foundation such that the motor is configured to output a torque via the linkage system to adjust resistance to movement of the second foundation relative to the first foundation about the pivot joint; a controller communicatively coupled to the motor, the controller configured to command the motor to output the torque to adjust the resistance to movement of the second base based on the force applied by the passenger and imparted to the second base; A resistance control system.

2. the link system includes a bracket coupled to a linkage, the linkage coupled to the second foundation, and the motor configured to output the torque to cause rotation of the bracket to impart an opposing force on the second foundation through the linkage to adjust the resistance to movement of the second foundation about the pivot joint. The resistance control system of claim 1 .

3. The linkage is rotatably coupled to the bracket. The resistance control system of claim 2 .

4. the controller is communicatively coupled to a virtual reality (VR) controller, the controller being configured to command the motor to output the torque based on input received from the VR controller; The resistance control system of claim 1 .

5. the motor is configured to output the torque to move the second foundation relative to the first foundation in a pitch, roll, translation, or any combination thereof. The resistance control system of claim 1 .

6. a further motor coupled to the linkage system, the motor and the further motor being backdrivable motors; The resistance control system of claim 1 .

7. 1. A resistance control system for an amusement attraction ride vehicle, comprising: The first foundation, a second foundation coupled to a pivot joint and configured to move relative to the first foundation via the pivot joint, the second foundation configured to receive forces applied by passengers of the entertainment attraction; a motor configured to induce movement of the second foundation via a linkage system; a controller communicatively coupled to the motor, the controller configured to receive an input and command the motor to output a torque based on the input to adjust resistance to movement of the second base relative to the first base about the pivot joint, the input including the force imparted on the second base by the passenger of the entertainment attraction; and A resistance control system.

8. a sensor communicatively coupled to the controller, the input comprising sensor data transmitted by the sensor; The resistance control system of claim 7.

9. The sensor is a position sensor, a weight sensor, a visual sensor, or any combination thereof. The resistance control system of claim 8.

10. an input device communicatively coupled to the controller, the input comprising a user input received via the input device; The resistance control system of claim 7.

11. the controller includes a memory that stores a resistance setting database, the controller being configured to query the resistance setting database to determine a target torque based on the input, and to command the motor to output the target torque. The resistance control system of claim 7.

12. the controller is configured to command the motor to increase the torque to cause movement of the second foundation relative to the first foundation about the pivot joint. The resistance control system of claim 7.

13. the controller is communicatively coupled to a virtual reality (VR) controller, and the input comprises a signal transmitted by the VR controller. The resistance control system of claim 7.

14. 1. An entertainment attraction comprising: a virtual reality (VR) device including a VR controller; A vehicle; A vehicle controller; Including, the VR controller is configured to instruct the VR device to present an image; The ride vehicle includes: The first foundation, The second foundation; a support extending between the first foundation and the second foundation, the support pivotally coupled to the second foundation via a pivot joint such that the second foundation is configured to move relative to the first foundation via the pivot joint; a motor configured to output a torque to adjust resistance to movement of the second foundation relative to the first foundation about the pivot joint and to cause movement of the second foundation relative to the first foundation via a linkage system coupled to the pivot joint or the second foundation, the motor being back-drivable; Including, the vehicle controller is communicatively coupled to the VR controller and to the motor, the vehicle controller being configured to command the motor to output the torque based on communication between the vehicle controller and the VR controller; the second base is configured to receive forces applied by passengers of the entertainment attraction, and the vehicle controller is configured to command the motors to output the torques to adjust resistance to movement of the second base relative to the first base about the pivot joint based on the forces imparted on the second base. Recreational attractions.

15. the VR controller is configured to instruct the VR device to present a virtual environment including the image, and the vehicle controller is configured to instruct the motor to output the torque corresponding to the virtual environment presented by the VR device.

15. The entertainment attraction of claim 14.

16. the vehicle controller is configured to receive a signal indicative of a movement of the second foundation relative to the first foundation, the vehicle controller being configured to instruct the VR controller to adjust the image presented by the VR device based on the signal.

15. The entertainment attraction of claim 14.

17. the vehicle controller is configured to operate in a semi-passive mode to command the motors to output the torques to adjust resistance to movement of the second foundation relative to the first foundation about the pivot joint; 15. The entertainment attraction of claim 14.

18. the vehicle controller is configured to operate in an active mode to command the motors to output the torques to cause movement of the second foundation relative to the first foundation about the pivot joint.

15. The entertainment attraction of claim 14.

19. the vehicle controller is configured to receive a haptic feedback request from the VR controller, the vehicle controller being configured to command the motor to output the torque to satisfy the haptic feedback request.

15. The entertainment attraction of claim 14.

Images