Dynamic projection mapping for morphing set pieces

Abstract

The present disclosure describes an amusement show system that includes guest seating, a backdrop display, a conveyor, and set pieces disposed on the conveyor. The conveyor moves the set pieces relative to the guest seats between the guest seats and the backdrop display. The amusement show system also includes a projection mapping system that includes one or more projectors configured to project images onto the set pieces such that a first image is projected onto the set pieces at a first time and a second image is projected onto the set pieces at a second time.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 108,759, entitled "DYNAMIC PROJECTION MAPPING FOR MORPHING SET PIECES," filed November 2, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

[0002] (Technical field) The present disclosure relates generally to amusement park attractions, and more particularly to projection mapping systems for amusement park attractions. [Background technology]

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

[0004] Amusement parks include various attractions that entertain guests. For example, an amusement park may have attractions including rides and shows to provide a desired experience for guests. Some attractions use a lot of space and have a large real estate footprint when in operation. For example, an attraction may include a ride vehicle that travels to multiple rooms during the ride. As such, attractions may incur real estate costs. Summary of the Invention

[0005] A summary of certain embodiments disclosed herein is provided below. It should be noted that these aspects are presented merely to provide the reader with a summary of these particular embodiments, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Indeed, the present disclosure may encompass a variety of aspects that may not be described below.

[0006] In one embodiment, an amusement show system is provided. The amusement show system includes guest seating, a backdrop display, a conveyor, and set pieces disposed on the conveyor. The conveyor is configured to move the set pieces relative to the guest seating between the guest seating and the backdrop display. The amusement show system also includes a projection mapping system including one or more projectors configured to project images onto the set pieces such that a first image is projected onto the set pieces at a first time point and a second image is projected onto the set pieces at a second time point.

[0007] In one embodiment, a tangible, non-transitory machine-readable medium for an amusement show system is provided, the medium including machine-readable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of the machine, cause the machine to control movement of amusement ride vehicles, control a backdrop display in cooperation with the movement of the amusement ride vehicles, transition set pieces along a conveyor, control the conveyor to move the set pieces along a path between the amusement ride vehicles and the backdrop display, and control a projection mapping system including one or more projectors to project images onto the set pieces such that a first image is projected onto the set pieces at a first time and a second image is projected onto the set pieces at a second time.

[0008] In one embodiment, a method of providing an amusement show is disclosed. The method includes operating an amusement ride vehicle, providing a dynamic backdrop display in cooperation with the operation of the amusement ride vehicle, and transitioning set pieces along a conveyor such that the set pieces move along a path disposed between the amusement ride vehicle and the backdrop display. The method also includes projecting images onto the set pieces such that a first image is projected onto the set pieces at a first time point and a second image is projected onto the set pieces at a second time point.

[0009] In one embodiment, a tangible, non-transitory, machine-readable medium is provided. The medium includes machine-readable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of the machine, cause the machine to perform operations including receiving a first indication of a set piece from a plurality of set pieces configured to be utilized in an amusement show, identifying the set piece based on the first indication, determining a first image to project onto the set piece, and projecting the first image onto the set piece. The plurality of set pieces are disposed on a conveyor configured to move the plurality of set pieces. The instructions also cause the machine to perform operations including receiving a second indication of the set piece, identifying the set piece based on the second indication, determining a second image to project onto the set piece, and projecting the second image onto the set piece.

[0010] Various refinements of the features described above may exist in connection with various aspects of the present disclosure. Additionally, additional features may also be incorporated into these various aspects. These refinements and additional features may exist individually or in any combination. For example, various feature elements discussed below in connection with one or more of the exemplary embodiments may be incorporated alone or in any combination into any of the above-described aspects of the present disclosure. The summary presented above is intended only to familiarize the reader with certain aspects and content of embodiments of the present disclosure, without limitation to the subject matter recited in the claims.

[0011] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an amusement show system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of set pieces on a conveyor of the amusement show system of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] 2A-2C are perspective views of exemplary geometric transformations that the set pieces of the amusement show system of FIG. 1 may be configured to undergo, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a projection mapping system of the amusement show system of FIG. 1 coupled to various set piece tracking systems in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] 2 is an exemplary process for projecting images onto set pieces of the amusement show system of FIG. 1. [Figure 6] 2 is an exemplary process for controlling aspects of the amusement show system of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7]1 is an exemplary process for providing an amusement show according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] One or more specific embodiments are described below. In the interest of providing a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of an actual implementation will be described in this specification. It should be noted that, as with any engineering or design project, the development of any such actual implementation will require numerous implementation-specific decisions to be made in order to achieve the developer's particular goals, which may vary from implementation to implementation, including compliance with system- and business-related constraints. It should further be noted that such a development effort, while potentially complex and time-consuming, would be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0014] When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to mean the presence of one or more of the element. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. One or more specific embodiments of the present invention are described below. In the interest of providing a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of an actual implementation may be described in the specification. It should be noted that, as with any engineering or design project, the development of any such actual implementation will require numerous implementation-specific decisions to achieve the developer's particular goals, including compliance with system- and business-related constraints, which may vary from implementation to implementation. It should also be noted that such a development effort, while potentially complex and time-consuming, will be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0015] The following disclosure describes systems and methods for providing an amusement show system according to embodiments of the present invention. The amusement show system may include guest seating (e.g., seats in a ride vehicle or theater), a backdrop display, a conveyor, and set pieces disposed on the conveyor. The conveyor may move the set pieces relative to the guest seats such that the set pieces traverse a path between the guest seats and the backdrop display. The set pieces, which may include dynamic structures (e.g., inflatable robots), may be operable to transition between various geometric configurations. Multiple set pieces may be utilized, including static and dynamic set pieces. Furthermore, the set pieces may be positioned along the conveyor (e.g., a conveyor belt) such that a first group of set pieces are visible to guests in their seats while a second group of set pieces are hidden (e.g., below or behind the conveyor).

[0016] The amusement show system includes a projection mapping system having one or more projectors configured to project (projection map) images onto a set piece (or multiple set pieces). The projection mapping system can be operative to project a first image onto the set piece at a first time (e.g., when the set piece is in a first geometric configuration) and a second image onto the set piece at a second time (e.g., when the set piece is in a second geometric configuration). Thus, the same set piece can appear to be an entirely different object at different times. This can include the set piece transitioning between geometric shapes while visible to guests or while hidden from guests. By moving the set pieces relative to the seats and using one or both of projection mapping and adjustable geometric configurations to transition the appearance of the set pieces, embodiments of the present invention can create the illusion of transition or movement for guests observing from their seats. For example, set pieces may appear to change size to suggest changes associated with relative movement through perspective, or set pieces may appear as different objects at different times to suggest a transition between locations or settings (e.g., a picnic table in a first setting and a television set in a second setting). This illusion of transition or movement may be provided in conjunction with actual movement (e.g., seat movement) to give guests the impression that they are moving between areas or rooms without remaining in their seats and traversing large areas of real estate. Thus, embodiments of the present invention may provide a ride experience that gives guests a substantial sense of movement while making efficient use of real estate.

[0017] Projection mapping technology that utilizes object tracking or object identification methods to project images onto set pieces in an amusement show system is also provided. In particular, projection mapping technology is provided for set pieces, which may include both static and morphing set pieces. The projection mapping system can determine the image to project onto each set piece in an amusement show system based on one or more tracking or identification techniques. For example, computer vision systems, position tracking systems, timing systems, etc. can be utilized to track and / or identify the position, geometry, transition speed, and other parameters associated with the set pieces to facilitate projection mapping onto the set pieces. In one example, the projection mapping system can be coupled to an encoder value system that transmits data indicating the rotational status of a conveyor in the amusement show system to facilitate identification of the position and / or geometry of specific set pieces for projection targeting. Indeed, the parameters of the set pieces detected by tracking or identification techniques, such as parameters including the position and geometric configuration of the set pieces, can be the basis for the projection mapping system to determine not only the projection targeting parameters but also the projection content (e.g., an image of a first cartoon character for a first geometric configuration and an image of a second cartoon character for a second geometric configuration).

[0018] Advantages of the described embodiments may include reducing the amount of space required to change sets in an amusement show. The described technology also allows guests to experience the illusion of moving across rooms to different physical sets without actually moving the guests to different sets. Indeed, using the technology described herein, various content and locations can be simulated in a single room during an attraction experience, thus providing the illusion of moving across rooms or locations. Indeed, due to limited real estate availability, it may be desirable to reduce the amount of space required to change content offered in an amusement show. Other advantages may include tracking set pieces in real time. Indeed, by utilizing a projection mapping system that utilizes object identification technology, such as computer vision system technology or object position tracking technology (e.g., scanning coded values), an interactive attraction can change content or media in real time.

[0019] Returning to the drawings, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an amusement show system 10 within a room 11 in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. The amusement show system 10 includes a controller 12, a background display 14 (e.g., a display panel, a projection screen), a conveyor 16 (e.g., a belt conveyor, a circular conveyor belt) disposed between guest seating 18 and the background display 14, a plurality of set pieces 20 disposed on the conveyor 16, and a projection mapping system 21 that projects images onto the plurality of set pieces 20. While certain set pieces may be directly coupled to the conveyor 16, each set piece of the plurality of set pieces 20 in FIG. 1 is coupled to the conveyor 16 via an extender 22 that, among other things, holds or locks the set piece to the conveyor 16. The illustrated embodiment shows a plurality of set pieces 20, including a first set piece 24, a second set piece 26, and a third set piece 28, disposed on the conveyor 16.

[0020] Each set piece of the plurality of set pieces 20 is configured to move along a conveyor 16 relative to a guest seat 18. The conveyor 16 rotates about an axis parallel to an axis 29. In the illustrated embodiment, the conveyor 16 includes a conveyor belt having a top portion 30 (e.g., a visible portion) and a bottom portion 32 (e.g., a hidden portion). A guest at a guest seat 18 can observe a particular one of the set pieces when the particular set piece is located on the top portion 30 of the conveyor 16. A guest at a guest seat 18 may not be able to observe a particular set piece while the particular set piece is located on the bottom portion 32 of the conveyor 16. In FIG. 1 , the first set piece 24 and the second set piece 26 are depicted as being located on the top portion 30 of the conveyor 16, and the third set piece 28 (e.g., a bulging geometric configuration) is depicted as being located on the bottom portion of the conveyor 16. First set piece 24 and second set piece 26 are depicted as moving parallel to axis 33 on upper portion 30 of conveyor 16. First set piece 24 and second set piece 26 are positioned at different heights parallel to axis 34. Note that while third set piece 28 is depicted as extending downward from conveyor 16, it can be positioned flush with conveyor 16 to allow for collision avoidance with other features according to embodiments. For example, multiple set pieces 20 can be designed to retract (e.g., via a hinged action) when transitioning to or on a hidden portion of conveyor 16, thereby allowing for the height of conveyor 16 to be limited. Also, in other embodiments, conveyor 16 can be positioned in a different orientation (e.g., such that a surface of conveyor 16 faces guest seating 18, blocking guests at guest seating 18 from viewing the opposite side of conveyor 16).

[0021] While some embodiments may include only a single conveyor (e.g., conveyor 16), in the illustrated embodiment, an additional conveyor 35 is located between guest seating 18 and background display 14. The additional conveyor 35 is located at a different depth relative to guest seating 18 than conveyor 16 (e.g., closer to background display 14). Other embodiments may include additional conveyors, including conveyors extending in different directions. For example, in embodiments, the additional conveyor may be located above guest seating 18 (e.g., near the top of background display 14) so ​​as to extend parallel to (or in a different direction from) conveyor 16. By utilizing multiple conveyors 16, 35 in this manner, embodiments of the present invention may provide additional effects that provide a sense of immersion in a scene. For example, the additional set pieces 36 may include miniature structures representing background features (e.g., trees), and the additional conveyor 35 may move the additional set pieces 36 more slowly than the set pieces 20 on the conveyor 16 to create the illusion of depth and movement.

[0022] The additional conveyor 35 and the additional plurality of set pieces 36 disposed on the additional conveyor 35 represent any of a variety of additional conveyors and set pieces. It should be noted that the additional conveyor 35 and the additional plurality of set pieces 36 (as well as other conveyors and set pieces) may generally have similar functionality to the conveyor 16 and the plurality of set pieces 20. Thus, for efficiency of discussion, it should be understood that the disclosed functionality of the conveyor 16 and the plurality of set pieces 20 is applicable to the additional conveyor 35 and the additional plurality of set pieces 36. That is, it should be understood that the general functionality ascribed to the conveyor 16 and the plurality of set pieces 20 is also applicable to the various other conveyors that may be employed.

[0023] Each set piece of the plurality of set pieces 20 of the amusement show system 10 can be projection mapped by a projection mapping system 21. This can involve detecting (e.g., via an image sensor such as a camera or a depth sensor) or using predefined geometric data (e.g., coordinates or contours) to project images onto the plurality of set pieces 20 to create the illusion of texture, depth, color, shape, etc. The projection mapping system 21 includes one or more projectors 37 that project images (e.g., patterns, shapes, textures, graphic features, animations, video content) onto the plurality of set pieces 20 on the visible portion (e.g., upper portion 30) of the conveyor 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the first set piece 24 has a first image 38 projected thereon by the projection mapping system 21, and the second set piece 26 has a second image 39 projected thereon by the projection mapping system 21. The first image 38 and the second image 39 can be similar or different images. A first image 38 may be projected onto the first set piece 24 at a first time, and an image 39 may be projected onto the second set piece 26 at a first time. The first and second images 38, 39 (e.g., projected images) provided on the first and second set pieces 24, 26 may change throughout a show presented by the amusement show system 10. It should be understood that these first and second images 38, 39 may cause the first and second set pieces 24, 26 to appear as any of a variety of different things and may cooperate with physical aspects (e.g., geometric shapes) of the first and second set pieces 24, 26 to enhance the sense of immersion in the illusion provided by the first and second images 38, 39.

[0024] In the illustrated embodiment, the amusement show system 10 includes guest seats 18 (e.g., seats in an amusement ride vehicle) disposed on a motion base 40. The motion base 40 enables the guest seats 18 (and the corresponding guests occupying the guest seats 18) to move in roll, pitch, heave, yaw, sway, and surge directions. For example, the guest seats 18 may be controlled by a hydraulic system in cooperation with the context of the room 11 provided by the amusement show system 10 (e.g., via projections on the backdrop display 14 and on the plurality of set pieces 20). In this manner, the motion base 40 may impart physical effects (e.g., vibrations, jerking motions) to the guests occupying the guest seats 18 in cooperation with the settings provided by the amusement show system 10. For example, as the conveyor 16 moves multiple set pieces 20 in a first direction, the motion base 40 can move guest seats 18 in the opposite direction, giving the guest a sense of actual movement while enhancing the perception of movement based on contextual changes.

[0025] In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 12 is communicatively coupled (via one or more wired or wireless communication media) to the various components of the amusement show system 10. The controller 12 may include one or more processors and one or more computer-readable memories containing instructions executable by the one or more processors. The instructions may include commands or instructions that cause various features of the amusement show system 10, such as the motion base 40, the plurality of set pieces 20, the projection mapping system 21, and the conveyor 16, to operate in synchronization with one another to create the illusion of transitioning between environments. For example, the controller 12 may be configured to coordinate media displayed on the background display 14 with the movement of the conveyor 16 to create the illusion of transitioning between environments.

[0026] FIG. 2 provides a closer view of the first set piece 24 and its extender 22 of the amusement show system 10 of FIG. 1. The first set piece 24 is coupled to the extender 22 on the conveyor 16. The illustrated extender 22 includes various features that allow the first set piece 24 to move relative to the conveyor 16. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the extender 22 includes a rail 60. The rail 60 cooperates with an actuator or driver 65 to move the first set piece 24 parallel to the axis 29 (as indicated by arrow 61). In this manner, movement along the rail 60 can be actuated (e.g., enabled via one or more control signals) to move the first set piece 24 closer or farther from the background display 14 of FIG. 1 (and similarly, closer or farther from the guest seating 18 of FIG. 1), thereby allowing the amusement show system 10 of FIG. 1 to control the depth at which the first set piece 24 is positioned. In some embodiments, the rails 60 may be installed to allow the first set piece 24 to move along other directions.

[0027] In the illustrated embodiment, the extender 22 includes a telescoping arm 62 that can be actuated to translate the first set piece 24. The telescoping arm 62 allows the first set piece 24 to move up and down parallel to axis 34 (as indicated by arrow 63). In the illustrated embodiment, the extender 22 also includes a pivot joint 64 that, when actuated, allows the first set piece 24 to rotate about pivot joint 64 (e.g., about a locking position on conveyor 16). For example, rotation about pivot joint 64 can include rotation about an axis parallel to axis 34 (as indicated by arrow 66), or rotation about any axis perpendicular to axis 34, such as axes 29 and 33 (e.g., following an arc motion), or a combination thereof. One or more of the features of the extender 22 illustrated in FIG. 2 can be included in one or more extenders 22 coupled to multiple set pieces 20 of the amusement show system 10 of FIG. 1. It should be noted that each extender 22 can operate independently of the other extenders 22 on the conveyor 16. For example, a first set piece 24 can move parallel to the axis 29 to a position closer to the guest seats 18, while a second set piece 26 can remain in a particular position or move parallel (e.g., anti-parallel) to the axis 29 to a rearward position away from the guest seats 18. In other embodiments, some or all of the extenders 22 utilized on the conveyor 16 can be coupled to one another, such as via one or more motors (e.g., actuators). The extenders 22 can also take other forms. For example, the extenders 22 can include a series of telescoping sections (in various directions), hydraulic cylinders, inflatable extensions, screw-type extenders, hinged sections that are actuated to expand, accordion-type extenders, etc.

[0028] During an amusement show, the amusement show system 10 of FIG. 1 allows one or more of the plurality of set pieces 20 to change shape. Indeed, a feature provided by the amusement show system 10 is the dynamic changing of the context by "recycling" the set pieces. The plurality of set pieces 20 are recycled not only in that they alternate between the top and bottom portions 30 and 32 of the conveyor 16, but also in that the set pieces 20 can change their geometric configuration. In particular, some of the plurality of set pieces 20 disposed on the conveyor 16 can change shape at one or more times or time intervals during a show provided by the amusement show system 10. A set piece of the plurality of set pieces 20 can include any of a variety of morphing mechanisms that allow the shape (e.g., geometric configuration) of the set piece to change. For example, a servo motor or a pneumatic actuator, or a combination thereof, can be included in or coupled to the first set piece 24. In this manner, servo motors or pneumatic actuators, or a combination thereof, can manipulate the structural features of the set pieces, causing the set pieces to change geometric configurations. The plurality of set pieces 20 can include similar or different types of set pieces with similar or different structures to change one or more geometric characteristics of a particular set piece. For example, one or more of the plurality of set pieces 20 arranged on the conveyor 16 can be soft robots. In some embodiments, the plurality of set pieces 20 arranged on the conveyor 16 includes set pieces with fixed geometry and set pieces with variable geometry. Note that the geometry of a particular set piece can change relative to the view of the particular set piece from the guest seating 18 (e.g., anti-parallel to axis 29). Such shape changes can occur via extenders 22 coupled to the particular set piece.For example, pivot joint 64 in FIG. 2 may allow first set piece 24 to rotate about pivot joint 64 (e.g., about axis 34), potentially causing first set piece 24 to have a different shape relative to guest seating 18 in FIG. 1 before the rotation occurs, thereby enabling a different projective mapping and an entirely different perception of first set piece 24. As another example, a set piece may be a square at a first time with an image showing a store projected onto it, and then, after rotation, the same set piece may become a rectangular prism at a second time with an object showing a fire truck projected onto it. In some embodiments, the absolute dimensions of the set piece may remain the same, but the relative orientation and relative dimensions based on the view from guest seating 18 may change, giving a guest at guest seat 18 the illusion that the actual object (i.e., set piece) is a different set piece than previously observed due to the change in observed geometry.

[0029] 3 is a diagram of exemplary geometric transformations that a set piece of the amusement show system 10 of FIG. 1 can undergo, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In a first transformation 70, the first set piece 24 begins with a first set of geometric characteristics that give the first set piece 24 a triangular shape relative to the guest seats 18. The first set piece 24 can have the first set of geometric characteristics when the first set piece 24 is on the upper portion 30 of the conveyor 16 at a first time. At a second time when the first set piece 24 is on the upper portion 30 of the conveyor 16, the first set piece 24 has a second set of geometric characteristics that give the first set piece 24 a circular shape relative to the guest seats 18 of FIG. 1. In a second transformation 72, the second set piece 26 begins with a first set of geometric characteristics that give the second set piece 26 a rectangular shape relative to the guest seats 18. The second set piece 26 may have a first set of geometric characteristics when the second set piece 26 is on the upper portion 30 of the conveyor 16 at a first time. At a second time, the second set piece 26 may have a second set of geometric characteristics that give the second set piece 26 a rectangular shape relative to the guest seating 18. The second set piece 26 may have the second set of geometric characteristics when the second set piece 26 is on the upper portion 30 of the conveyor 16 at the second time. In some cases, the first set piece 24 or the second set piece 26 may undergo a first or second transformation 70, 72 of relative or absolute shape, respectively, while the respective set piece is on the bottom portion 32 of the conveyor 16 of the amusement show system 10 of FIG. 1 . In other cases, the first set piece 24 or the second set piece 26 may undergo a first or second transformation 70, 72 of relative or absolute shape, respectively, while the respective set pieces are in the upper portion 30 of the conveyor 16 of the amusement show system 10 of FIG. 1.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 3 , a first set piece 24 has a first image (e.g., a circular pattern) 73 projected thereon by the projection mapping system 21 of FIG. 1 when the first set piece 24 has a first shape or set of geometric characteristics at a first time. Then, the first set piece 24 has a second image (e.g., a square pattern) 74 projected thereon by the projection mapping system 21 of FIG. 1 when the first set piece 24 has a second shape or set of geometric characteristics at a second time. The projection mapping system 21 can project the first image 73 in cooperation with the first geometric configuration at a first time, and then project the second image having second image characteristics in cooperation with the second geometric configuration at a second time. The transformation of the second set piece 26 of FIG. 3 shows a similar change as described above with respect to the first set piece 24. Additionally, as described below with respect to FIG. 4 , the projection mapping system 21 of FIG. 1 can project images onto the set pieces based on characteristics such as the shape of the set pieces.

[0031] Various systems can be utilized by the projection mapping system 21 of Figure 1 to project specific images onto each set piece. For example, the projection mapping can be programmed or timed for a particular show, or the projection mapping can be performed in real time. Figure 4 is a block diagram of the projection mapping system 21 of the amusement show system 10 that utilizes various set piece tracking systems to determine specific images to project onto specific set pieces, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the projection mapping system 21 is coupled to an encoder value system 90 and a computer vision system 92.

[0032] The encoder value system 90 may be part of or coupled to the conveyor 16 of the amusement show system 10. The encoder value system 90 may transmit (via any suitable wireless or wired medium) encoder values ​​indicating the current rotation of the conveyor 16 to the projection mapping system 21. For example, the encoder value system 90 may convert the angular position of a component (e.g., a shaft or axle) of the conveyor 16 into a computer-readable signal, and the encoder value system 90 may read barcodes placed on moving portions of the conveyor 16 to determine positioning. Certain detected aspects (e.g., angular position or configuration based on detected data such as barcodes) may be correlated with the location of set pieces. As a specific example, when a particular barcode on a conveyor belt is scanned by a fixed barcode reader, it may be established (e.g., based on an algorithm or lookup table) that a particular set piece is in a particular location. Based on input received from the encoder value system 90, the projection mapping system 21 can determine one or more images to project onto the set pieces of the plurality of set pieces 20 of the amusement show system 10. As an example, the encoder value system 90 can include an encoder that generates an indicator of a first position of the first set piece 24. The projection mapping system 21 can receive the generated indicator and, based on the generated indicator, construct characteristics of the image to project onto the first set piece 24 (e.g., based on an algorithm or look-up table).

[0033] In FIG. 4 , the projection mapping system 21 is also coupled to a computer vision system 92. Other embodiments may utilize only one of the projection mapping system 21, the encoder value system 90, or any other position detection system. The computer vision system 92 may employ various computer vision-based tracking systems, such as infrared (IR) markers and other object recognition technologies. For example, IR markers may be placed on the extender 22, the plurality of set pieces 20, or the conveyor 16 to flash IR light at various frequencies unique to each set piece of the plurality of set pieces 20. Based on the frequency of the flashing IR light, the projection mapping system 21 may identify the set piece and determine the image or images to project onto the set piece. As another example, the computer vision system 92 may include one or more cameras (e.g., light detection and ranging cameras) configured to detect the shape of the set piece and use such detected shape in conjunction with the projection mapping system 21 to provide essentially real-time projection mapping output. The computer vision system 92 may include circuitry that transmits geometric values ​​(e.g., encoded in a computer readable signal) indicative of the shape of the set piece, detected from the shape itself or based on encoded data (e.g., a QR code), to the projection mapping system 21. Based on the shape, the projection mapping system 21 can determine an image to project onto the set piece.

[0034] 5 illustrates a method 110 that can be utilized by the projection mapping system 21, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method 110 can be performed by one or more processors of the projection mapping system 21. One or more steps of the method 110 can be stored in machine-readable instructions on one or more tangible, non-transitory, and machine-readable media. Additionally, the steps of the method 110 can be performed in any suitable order.

[0035] Method 110 begins with receiving (block 112) a first indicator of a set piece from a plurality of set pieces configured for use in an amusement show. The first indicator may be transmitted from a computer vision system that detects a flash frequency of IR light emitted from the set piece. Indeed, an IR marker may be coupled to the set piece and may emit IR light at a specific frequency unique to the set piece. In other embodiments, other indicators may be received (e.g., a shape detected based on data from a light detection and ranging camera).

[0036] The method 110 proceeds to identifying a set piece based on the first indicator (block 114). For example, in response to detecting a particular frequency of emitted IR light detected from the set piece, a mapping of IR flash frequencies to a particular set piece of a plurality of set pieces can be queried. Based on the mapping, the set piece can be identified. As another example, the set piece can be identified via a computer vision system that can transmit values ​​indicative of the shape or geometric configuration of the set piece.

[0037] Method 110 then proceeds to determining (block 116) a first image to project onto the set piece. For example, in response to identifying the set piece, a schedule may be consulted to determine a particular image to project onto the set piece at a particular time during the amusement show, or the image may be determined based on a particular type of detected set piece or configuration of the set piece. Once the first image has been determined, method 110 then proceeds to causing the first image to be projected onto the set piece (block 118). For example, a signal may be sent to a projector in projection mapping system 21 of FIG. 1 to project the first image onto the set piece.

[0038] The method 110 then proceeds to receiving a second indicator for the set piece (block 120). For example, the second indicator can be received when the set piece completes a full cycle of the conveyor and is again near the top or visible portion of the conveyor where the set piece was located. The first indicator and the second indicator can include indicators from similar or different set piece tracking systems, as discussed with respect to FIG. 4. For example, the first indicator can be transmitted to the projection mapping system 21 by the encoder value system 90 of FIG. 4, and the second indicator can be transmitted to the projection mapping system 21 by the computer vision system 92 of FIG. 4. The method 110 then proceeds to identifying the set piece based on the second indicator (block 122) and determining a second image to project onto the set piece (block 124). For example, in response to identifying the set piece based on the second indicator, a schedule can be again consulted to determine a particular image to project onto the set piece at a particular time during the amusement show. The method 110 then proceeds to projecting a second image onto the set piece (block 126). For example, a signal can be sent to a projector in the projection mapping system 21 to activate certain lighting features to project the second image onto the set piece.

[0039] 6 illustrates a method 140 for controlling aspects of the amusement show system 10 of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. One or more steps of the method 140 may be stored in machine-readable instructions on one or more tangible, non-transitory, and machine-readable media. The machine-readable instructions may be executed by one or more processors of a machine, such that, when executed, one or more steps of the method 140 are performed. It should be noted that the method may be performed in any suitable order. It should also be noted that the instructions may be executed by one or more processors of multiple machines operating together to provide the amusement show system 10.

[0040] Method 140 includes controlling (block 142) movement of an amusement ride vehicle (e.g., guest seat 18 of FIG. 1 ). The movement of the amusement ride vehicle may be movement directed by a motion base. Method 140 includes controlling (block 144) a backdrop display in coordination with the movement of the amusement ride vehicle. Controlling the backdrop display may include projecting or otherwise displaying objects on the backdrop display. Controlling the backdrop display in coordination with the movement of the amusement ride vehicle allows guests on the amusement ride vehicle to experience physical effects in coordination with the context displayed on the backdrop display.

[0041] Method 140 includes controlling a conveyor (block 146) to transition a set piece, which may be one of a plurality of set pieces, along the conveyor such that the set piece moves along a path between the amusement ride vehicle and a backdrop display. In some embodiments, block 146 includes controlling a plurality of conveyors to cause movement of the plurality of set pieces along a plurality of different paths relative to guest seating. The conveyor may be controlled to move at a particular angular velocity. Additionally, in some embodiments, method 140 includes controlling the conveyor to cycle the set piece from a top of the conveyor to a bottom of the conveyor.

[0042] Method 140 includes controlling (block 148) a projection mapping system including one or more projectors that project images onto the set pieces to project a first image onto the set pieces at a first time point and a second image onto the set pieces at a second time point, which may include providing animation, adjusting the projections to accommodate changes in the shape and position of the set pieces, coordinating the projected images with moving guest seating, coordinating the projected images with projected images provided on a backdrop display, etc.

[0043] In some embodiments, method 140 includes controlling an actuator of a set piece to transition the set piece from a first geometric configuration to a second geometric configuration. For example, the set piece may include inflatable robotics, and the actuator may supply or remove air from a diaphragm of the set piece to change the overall shape of the set piece. The actuator may actuate the set piece to transition from the first geometric configuration to the second geometric configuration while the set piece is in a hidden position. The hidden position may be a position where the set piece is not visible to guests in guest seats 18.

[0044] 7 illustrates a method 160 for providing an amusement show according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Method 160 may be performed by one or more processors of a computing system. Method 160 may also be performed by one or more components of amusement show system 10 of FIG. 1. Method 160 includes steering the amusement ride vehicle (block 162), which may include commands to move the amusement ride vehicle and / or actual repositioning of the amusement ride vehicle. The amusement ride vehicle may be steered via a motion base or other suitable mechanism based on instructions from a controller.

[0045] The method 160 includes providing a background display in cooperation with the operation of the amusement ride (block 164). For example, one or more projectors may project or provide a background display illustrating an accelerating spaceship. The amusement ride vehicle may be operated to induce one or more physical effects (e.g., vibration effects, acceleration) that simulate the accelerating spaceship depicted in the background display. This may provide a guest on the amusement ride vehicle with a physical experience of being in an accelerating spaceship.

[0046] Method 160 also includes transitioning the set pieces along a conveyor such that the set pieces move along a path disposed between the amusement ride vehicles and the backdrop display (block 166). For example, a set piece having an octagonal shape may move around the path. Images may be projected onto the set pieces (block 168), such that a first image (e.g., a projected image) is projected onto the set piece at a first time point, and a second image is projected onto the set piece at a second time point. Returning to the example above, the set piece having an octagonal shape may receive a projection object showing a stop sign. For example, the projection mapping may include projecting a red background with white lettering showing the word "STOP."

[0047] The set pieces may continuously rotate on the conveyor in cooperation with the context provided by the background display. At different times, the set pieces may have different images with different image characteristics (e.g., different colors, textures, contours, intensities, contrasts). In some embodiments, the method 160 includes activating a feature of the set pieces to transition the set pieces between at least two shapes (e.g., geometric configurations). In these embodiments, the set pieces may move (e.g., along a rail) relative to the conveyor that is moving the set pieces relative to the amusement ride vehicles. For example, in some embodiments, the method 160 includes activating an extender (e.g., extender 22 of the amusement show system 10 of FIG. 1 ) to move the set pieces relative to the conveyor while the set pieces move between the amusement ride vehicles and the background display.

[0048] While only certain features of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art, and it is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the disclosure.

[0049] The approaches presented and claimed herein refer to and apply substantial objectives and specific embodiments of a practical nature that clearly improve the art of the present invention, and as such are not abstract, intangible, or theoretical in nature. Furthermore, to the extent any claim appended at the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as "means for 'performing' a 'function'" or "steps for 'performing' a 'function,'" such elements shall be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. §112(f). However, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, such elements shall not be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. §112(f). [Explanation of symbols]

[0050] 10 Amusement Show System 12 Controllers 14 Background Display 16 Conveyor 20 set pieces 21 Projection Mapping System

Claims

1. An amusement show system, Visitor seats and background display and A conveyor and set pieces disposed on the conveyor, the conveyor configured to move the set pieces relative to the guest seats between the guest seats and the backdrop display; a projection mapping system including one or more projectors configured to project images onto the set pieces such that a first image is projected onto the set pieces at a first time point and a second image is projected onto the set pieces at a second time point; An amusement show system comprising:

2. a ride vehicle including the guest seats; and a motion base configured to move the ride vehicle.

2. The amusement show system according to claim 1.

3. 10. The amusement show system of claim 1, comprising an extender coupled to the set piece and configured to operate to manipulate the set piece relative to the conveyor.

4. 4. The amusement show system of claim 3, wherein the extender comprises a rail along which the set piece is configured to move, an extendable arm configured to actuate to translate the set piece, a pivot joint configured to rotate the set piece, or a combination thereof.

5. The amusement show system of claim 1 , wherein the set pieces are configured to morph between geometric configurations.

6. The amusement show system of claim 5 , wherein the set pieces include soft robots.

7. 6. The amusement show system of claim 5, including a servo motor, a pneumatic actuator, or a combination thereof configured to manipulate structural features of the set pieces to change between the geometric configurations.

8. 2. The amusement show system of claim 1, comprising a plurality of set pieces arranged on the conveyor, the plurality of set pieces including at least set pieces of fixed geometry or set pieces of variable geometry.

9. 2. The amusement show system of claim 1, wherein the conveyor comprises a circulating conveyor belt configured to circulate the set pieces between a visible portion of the circulating conveyor belt and a hidden portion of the circulating conveyor belt, the set pieces configured to transition from a first geometric configuration to a second geometric configuration while traveling along the hidden portion.

10. 10. The amusement show system of claim 9, wherein the projection mapping system is configured to project the first image having first image characteristics that cooperate with the first geometric configuration at the first time point, and to project the second image having second image characteristics that cooperate with the second geometric configuration at the second time point.

11. 2. The amusement show system of claim 1, further comprising an additional conveyor disposed between the conveyor and the guest seats, the additional conveyor having a plurality of second set pieces disposed thereon and configured to move the plurality of second set pieces relative to the guest seats and the conveyor.

12. 12. The amusement show system of claim 11, wherein the amusement show system comprises a controller, the background display includes a projection screen, and the controller is configured to coordinate media displayed on the projection screen with movement of the conveyor to create the illusion of a transition between environments.

13. 2. The amusement show system of claim 1, further comprising an encoder configured to generate an indicator of a first position of the set piece, the projection mapping system configured to receive the indicator and construct characteristics of the first image based on the indicator.

14. 2. The amusement show system of claim 1, further comprising an additional set piece on an opposite side of the conveyor from the set piece, the additional set piece being visible on the conveyor when the set piece is hidden.

15. a tangible, non-transitory machine-readable medium for an amusement show system, the tangible, non-transitory machine-readable medium comprising machine-readable instructions; The machine-readable instructions, when executed by one or more processors of a machine, Controlling the movement of amusement park ride vehicles; controlling a background display in coordination with the movement of the amusement park ride vehicle; transitioning set pieces along a conveyor and controlling the conveyor so that the set pieces move along a path between the amusement ride vehicle and the scenery display; controlling a projection mapping system including one or more projectors to project images onto the set pieces such that at a first time a first image is projected onto the set pieces and at a second time a second image is projected onto the set pieces; A tangible, non-transitory machine-readable medium that causes the machine to perform the following:

16. 16. The tangible, non-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 15, wherein the machine-readable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the machine to control actuators of the set pieces to transition the set pieces from a first geometric configuration to a second geometric configuration.

17. 16. The tangible, non-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 15, wherein the machine-readable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the machine to control the conveyor to cycle the set pieces from a visible position to a hidden position between the first time point and the second time point.

18. 1. A method of providing an amusement show, comprising: operating an amusement park ride vehicle; providing a background display in coordination with the operation of the amusement ride vehicle; transitioning set pieces along a conveyor such that the set pieces move along a path disposed between the amusement ride vehicle and the scenery display; projecting images onto the set pieces such that a first image is projected onto the set pieces at a first time point and a second image is projected onto the set pieces at a second time point; A method comprising:

19. 20. The method of claim 18, comprising activating a feature of the set piece to transition the set piece between at least two geometric configurations.

20. 20. The method of claim 18, including activating an extender to move the set piece relative to the conveyor while the set piece is moving between the amusement ride vehicle and the scenery display.

Images