Animated Window System

Abstract

To provide an improved window display system that provides an enhanced display to create a more immersive and interactive attraction experience.SOLUTION: An animated window system may include a projection surface configured to display at least one image to a viewer on a viewer side of the projection surface, where the projection surface comprises a tinted material. The animated window system may also include: a projector separated from the projection surface, where the projector is configured to project the at least one image onto a rear side of the projection surface, the rear side opposing the viewer side; and a controller comprising a memory and a processor, where the controller is configured to provide the at least one image to the projector to be projected onto the projection surface.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to the field of amusement parks. More specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an animation window system. [Background technology]

[0002] Theme or amusement attractions are becoming increasingly popular. Such attractions may include images or projections intended to simulate windows displayed on rides or other attractions. Window displays are commonly created using static screens and / or front projection systems to provide simulated images of the window or imagery behind the window. Furthermore, limitations of such screen or projection systems may not provide a realistic or accurate window simulation, thereby detracting from the immersive experience of theme or amusement park attraction patrons. Therefore, it has been recognized that there is a need for improved window display systems that provide enhanced displays to create a more immersive and interactive attraction experience. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Certain embodiments commensurate in scope with the originally claimed subject matter are summarized below. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure; rather, these embodiments are intended only to provide a brief summary of certain disclosed embodiments. Indeed, the disclosure may encompass a variety of forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.

[0004] In one embodiment, an animation window system is provided. The animation window system includes a projection surface that displays at least one image to a viewer on a viewer side of the projection surface. The projection surface includes a colored material. The system also includes a projector spaced apart from the projection surface that projects the at least one image onto a back side of the projection surface facing the viewer side. A controller of the system includes a memory and a processor and provides the at least one image to the projector for projection onto the projection surface.

[0005] In one embodiment, an animation window system is provided. The animation window system includes a projection surface that displays an image to a viewer on a viewer side of the projection surface. The projection surface includes a colored material. A projector of the system projects the image behind the projection surface by rear projection. The system also includes a haptic feedback system including a plurality of haptic actuators associated with the projection surface. A controller of the system includes a memory and a processor, the controller outputs signals to the projector to cause the image to be projected onto the projection surface. The controller provides instructions to the haptic feedback system indicating an activation pattern of the plurality of haptic actuators based at least in part on the projected image.

[0006] In one embodiment, a method is provided. The method includes projecting a first image onto a projection surface including a colored material. The method includes projecting a second image onto the projection surface after projecting the first image to create an animation effect. The second image includes one or more unchanged regions present in the first image and one or more changed regions not present in the first image. The method includes receiving a signal related to user interaction with the projection surface. The method includes controlling, based on the received signal, activation of a special effects system that causes special effects material to be emitted from an aperture formed in the projection surface or from a conduit provided on or within the projection surface. The location of the aperture or conduit corresponds to one of the one or more unchanged regions of the projected second image. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will be better understood when the following detailed description is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like characters represent like parts throughout.

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an animation sequence of an animation window projection system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the animation window projection system of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of a control system that may be utilized in the animation window projection system of FIG. 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] [Figure 4]FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an animation window projection system having an active surface for providing haptic feedback according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram of an animation window interaction technique according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the animation window projection system of FIG. 4 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure are described below. In an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, all features of an actual implementation may not be described herein. It should be understood that the development of such an actual implementation, as with any engineering or design project, will require numerous implementation-specific decisions to be made to achieve the developer's particular goals, which may vary from implementation to implementation, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints. It should also be understood that such a development effort may be complex and time-consuming, but will nevertheless 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 present disclosure relates to an animated window display or projection system for theme parks or amusement parks. Amusement parks include rides or attractions that provide immersive experiences for park guests. As part of the experience, such attractions may utilize illusions or simulations to provide the feeling of being in a different location and / or surrounded by a different environment. To facilitate such illusions, guests may be presented with multiple reinforcing cues, such as false windows, that present the illusion of the outside or other parts of the immersive environment.

[0016] The present technology provides an animated window display or projection system for displaying animated windows, such as stained-glass windows, that create an immersive experience for attraction patrons. For example, the animated window projection system may include a translucent and / or colored projection surface, which may improve window simulation. The window simulation may use projected images to display both the simulated window image (e.g., stained glass, exterior) and the physical structures that may be present in the window, such as sashes, frames, mullions, and / or metal cams. Furthermore, the animated window projection system may provide animated imagery to the projection surface. The present technology improves the immersive feel of the window illusion by providing improved color brightness and contrast that are lacking in some types of projection technology. For example, projection technology includes a light source that projects an image onto the projection surface. However, such approaches often achieve gray or muted dark colors rather than the realistic true black characteristic of mullions or metal cams. Furthermore, the projector light may wash out the jewel tones characteristic of stained glass. Additionally, the direct light of a projector differs from the more diffused light typical of light streaming through a window. By incorporating materials into the projection surface that enhance color or contrast and / or improve light diffusion, the projected image will appear more realistic and more closely resemble a real-looking window facing outside.

[0017] In some embodiments, the animated windows facilitate interaction between patrons and the attraction environment. Additionally, in some embodiments, the animated window projection system may include features that facilitate interaction between patrons and the animated window projection system, such as active surfaces that may provide haptic feedback, special effects systems, touch-interactive frames, etc.

[0018] Although the technology is discussed in the context of an amusement or theme park, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments may also be applicable to other environments, such as entertainment venues or retail spaces.

[0019] With the above in mind, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an animated window projection system showcasing an animated sequence that may transition between left and right images according to disclosed embodiments. The animated window projection system 10 may be located within an attraction, such as a ride, walk-through attraction, stationary attraction, or other attraction found in a theme or amusement park. The animated window projection system 10 includes a projection surface 12 onto which simulated window images may be projected for viewing by an audience member 14 of the attraction. The image 16 or image sequence projected onto the projection surface 12 may be used to simulate an enhanced window display that may provide a more immersive, and in some embodiments, more interactive, experience for the audience member 14.

[0020] The projection surface 12 of the animated window projection system 10 may replicate or simulate the glass of a window. For example, in some embodiments, the projection surface 12 may replicate the glass surface of a stained-glass window, including displayed features of the image 16 representing metal mullions 18 or metal cams 20 that form part of the image 16 and are rendered, for example, black as the darkest portions of the image 16. The projector of the animated window projection system 10 may project the image 16 or image sequence onto the projection surface 12 from behind the projection surface 12. Such a projection technique may enable the image 16 displayed on the projection surface 12 to appear to the viewer 14 as light coming through a simulated window created by the animated window projection system 10, as discussed in more detail with reference to FIG. 2. The projector of the animated window projection system 12 may provide an animated image 16 that may appear when the glass of a window is animated in some embodiments, as shown between the right and left images of FIG. 1. For example, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the sequence of images 16 may appear to the viewer 14 as an animated stained-glass image 16. The projection surface 12 may be a translucent or partially opaque colored surface, as discussed in more detail with reference to FIG. 2. The material of the projection surface 12 may enable increased color contrast in the projected image 16, such as dark black in the portions of the image 16 corresponding to the mullions 18 or cams 20 and light colors in the portions of the image 16 representing the glass, thereby providing an enhanced representation of a simulated window. For example, the material of the projection surface 12 may enable a more accurate simulation or replication of a stained-glass window, including light colors, as well as provide a more realistic simulation of a black (e.g., metal, lead) sectional divider shown as the mullions 18 or cams 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the mullions 18 or other portions of the image representing the structure of the window may appear fixed in place as the display transitions between images 16, e.g., between a left image and a right image.In this manner, the illusion of animated or dancing glass is enhanced because certain portions of image 16 appear to be changing while other portions appear fixed in place, which in turn supports the illusion that system 10 includes an actual physical window and its supporting structure and is not simply a display. In rendered image 16, certain image features, such as letters 22, may be presented as not being constrained by the physical structure of the window and capable of moving over or even in the face of fixed features such as mullions 18 or cams 20. For example, rendered letters 22 may be depicted as moving across the entire window.

[0021] Additionally, in some embodiments, as discussed in more detail below, the animated window projection system may include features such as features that provide haptic feedback or cause the projection surface 12 to exhibit haptic characteristics of a simulated window display. Additionally, in some embodiments, the animated window projection system 10 may include features that may provide additional special effects such as fog, wind, water spray, sound, and lighting effects corresponding to the images 16 and / or animation of the images 16 that may further enhance the immersive experience of the viewer 14.

[0022] Although the present technology is discussed with particular reference to simulating stained glass window displays, other embodiments may include other window display types. For example, the animated window projection system provided herein may be used to create window displays designed to simulate a view through a clear glass window. Furthermore, while the present technology is discussed with particular reference to amusement parks, the disclosed embodiments may also be implemented in other contexts, such as retail, advertising, entertainment, etc.

[0023] To illustrate the configuration of projection surface 12 and animation window projection system 10, FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of animation window projection system 10 showing the configuration of projection surface 12 having a viewer side 26 and an opposing back side 28. Projector 30 is positioned proximate back side 28, and viewer side 26 is positioned proximate viewer 14. As previously mentioned, animation window projection system 10 may include projection surface 12 and projector 30 that may project an image 16 or image sequence onto projection surface 12. Image 16 or image sequence may be viewed on projection surface 12 by viewer 14.

[0024] The projection surface 12 may be a projection surface assembly 32 formed from one or more layers. The layers may include a projection layer 34 and a glass layer 36. The projection layer 34 may be provided so that the image 16 or image sequence from the projector 30 is projected onto the projection layer 34. Thus, in some embodiments, the projection layer 34 may be provided closest to the projector 30, i.e., on the backside 28, relative to the other layers of the projection surface 12. In some embodiments, the material of the projection layer 34 may be a translucent and / or tinted material, such as a dark color (e.g., black, gray, dark blue, dark green) to reduce light transmission. The darkness of the tint is a trade-off between the contrast (darker tint) the final image will have and the raw brightness of the projector to achieve the brightness of that final image. Tinted tints (e.g., green, blue) may also be used to emulate stained glass or imperfections formed in the type of metal used in mullions.

[0025] The material of the projection layer 34 can be approximately 50% to 80% opaque, such that 20% to 50% of transmitted light passes through the projection layer 34. In the illustrated embodiment, light from the projector 30 passes through the projection surface assembly 32 depending on the properties of its component layers, such as the projection layer 34. For example, if the material is tinted to allow 50% light transmission, 50% of the projector light passes through the backside to the viewer side of the projection surface 12. The translucent quality of the projection layer 34 increases the immersive experience of the viewer 14 by allowing the projector 30 to be shielded from the viewer 14 through the projection surface 12. In one embodiment, the projection layer 34 is tinted with a tinted film or additional layer applied to the projection layer 34. In another embodiment, the projection layer 34 is tinted, impregnated, or includes a pigment (e.g., a metal oxide) dispersed throughout the material to create a hue. Additionally, the material of the component layers of the projection surface assembly 32 can be at least partially opaque or can reduce light transmission without any tinting. Thus, in one embodiment, projection surface assembly 32 may, overall, reduce light transmission by 50-80%.

[0026] As discussed, the material of the projection layer 34 may be darkly tinted. In some embodiments, the tint of the projection layer 34 may relate to the translucent quality of the projection layer 34. The tint of the projection layer 34 may allow for deep blacks as well as bright colors in the image 16 or image sequence projected onto the projection layer 34 by the projector 30. In some embodiments, the projection layer 34 may be tinted across its entire surface. In some embodiments, the projection layer 34 may be tinted only in areas of the projection layer 34 of the projection surface 12 where the image 16 or image sequence is animated. For example, if the image 16 or image sequence projected onto the projection surface 12 includes animation only in some areas of the image 16, the projection layer 34 may be tinted only in those portions of the projection surface 12. For areas of the projection surface where the image 16 remains stationary, in some embodiments, the projection layer 34 may not be tinted in those static areas. That is, the tint may only be present on the projection layer 34 where the image 16 or image sequence presents animation to the viewer 14.

[0027] In some embodiments, the projection layer 34 can be made of an acrylic or plastic material. Furthermore, the projection layer 34 can be made from a material with a matte quality (e.g., little or no matte quality) ranging from completely matte to completely glossy. For example, the projection layer 34 can be made from a cell-cast acrylic such as P95 with a matte finish. The matte finish, as well as the translucent quality of the projection layer 34 material, can allow the projector 30 to be shielded or partially hidden from the viewer 14 through the projection surface 12 by diffusing the projector's hot spots. Therefore, the projection layer 34 can be made from any material with light-diffusing properties to enhance the immersive experience of the window display provided by the animation window projection system 10 by effectively diffusing the projector's light hot spots so that they are not visible to the viewer 14. This can be a material such as P95 that is effective at capturing light from a backlight source (e.g., the projector 30) while diffusing the light in a way that prevents the projector's 30 light bulb from being identified by the viewer 14.

[0028] Projection surface 12 may also include glass layer 36. Glass layer 36 may be a thin, frosted, textured glass layer that may provide the feel of window glass when viewer 14 touches projection surface 12. As such, glass layer 36 may be located closest to viewer 14 and opposite projector 30. Glass layer 36 may help closely replicate the visual and tactile properties of glass, such as stained glass, on the viewer side of the projection surface. Thus, glass layer 36 may increase the accuracy of the replicated window display and enhance the immersive experience of viewer 14 within the attraction.

[0029] Additionally, in some embodiments, such as those in which the animated window projection system 10 is used to replicate a static or animated stained-glass window having black dividers between colored glass panes, the projection surface 12 may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) layer 38 that may be used to enhance the deep black colors presented to the viewer 14. The LCD layer 38 may be, for example, a transparent LCD disposed between the projector 30 and the projection layer 34, closer to the backside 28 than to the viewer side 26. The LCD layer 38 may be driven by the controller of the animated window projection system 10 to display or enhance an additional black outline in the area of ​​the divider (see mullions 18 or cams 20 in FIG. 1 ) displayed in each frame of the image 16 or image sequence to enhance the quality of the displayed black. Because the location of the outline or divider may be known based on the image data used to project each image 16, the LCD layer 38 may be driven to provide the additional black in conjunction with the projected image 16 or image sequence, as discussed in more detail below.

[0030] As previously mentioned, the projector 30 of the animation window projection system 10 may be located behind the projection surface 12 and on the rear side 28 of the projection surface 12 opposite the viewer 14, or viewer side 26, and may be used to project an image 16 or image sequence onto the projection surface 12 to replicate or simulate a window display, such as a static or animated stained-glass window display. Such rear projection of the image 16 or image sequence onto the projection surface 12 may allow light generated by the projector 30 to be hidden from the viewer 14's view. Furthermore, rear projection may allow the animation window projection system 10 to simulate light entering through the simulated window, thereby more accurately simulating the window and enhancing the immersive experience for the viewer 14. Furthermore, rear projection of the image 16 or image sequence (formed from sequentially displaying different images) onto certain materials of the projection layer of the projection surface 34 may allow for deeper blacks than can be achieved with other projection techniques, such as front projection, as previously discussed.

[0031] To more accurately display the simulated light passing through the window, in some embodiments, the animation window projection system 10 may include multiple projectors 30 or one or more projectors 30 mounted on a mechanism that allows the projectors 30 to move. The multiple projectors 30 and / or the mechanism to which the projectors 30 may be mounted may be communicatively coupled to a controller of the animation window projection system 10 so that the position of the light source (e.g., a light bulb or other light source of the projector 30) may be controlled in conjunction with the projected image 16 or image sequence. Thus, the angle of light entering through the projection surface 12 (e.g., projection) may be changed to simulate a change in the position of the light source at different times of day, such as a change in the position of the sun at different times of day. Additionally or alternatively, the color of the light of the projection may be changed to simulate a change in the light source at different times of day.

[0032] In some embodiments, the image 16 or image sequence projected onto the projection surface 12 may be processed via the image controller 40 of the animation window projection system 10 and in communication with the projector 30. That is, the image 16 or image sequence may be rendered to appear as stained-glass-like glass or an image through glass to provide a more accurately simulated window display. Thus, rather than a captured image through glass or a captured image of stained glass, the image 16 or image sequence is rendered or processed to appear as glass when projected onto the projection surface 12 for viewing by the viewer 14, resulting in the image being manipulated or rendered rather than being a raw photographic image. In some embodiments, the processing of the image 16 or image sequence may include adding a reflection to a portion of the image 16, which may further simulate the appearance of a single light source, such as the sun, coming through a simulated window. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, some color saturation may be added to the image 16 so that the colors presented to the viewer 14 on the projection surface 12 are brighter, where some color saturation may be lost when the image 16 is projected through the material of the projection layer 34. These processing techniques may provide more accurate and realistically simulated windows by animation window projection system 10, providing a more immersive experience for viewer 14. The processing of image 16 or image sequence by image controller 40 may not include simulating light passing through a window, as is accomplished by rear-projection of image 16 from projector 30, as previously described. Additionally, tinting of projection surface 12 may contribute to improved color rendering.

[0033] 3 illustrates an embodiment of a control system 50 that may be utilized within the animation window projection system 10 to control image processing and the projection of the image 16 or image sequence onto a projection surface, and, in some embodiments, to coordinate and / or control additional effects that may be provided by the animation window projection system 10, as discussed in more detail below. The control system 50 may include a system controller 52 that may be communicatively coupled to other components of the animation window projection system 10. The system controller 52 may control and / or coordinate the other components of the animation window projection system 10. The controller 52 may include a memory 54 and a processor 56. In some embodiments, the memory 54 may include one or more tangible, non-transitory, computer-readable media that store instructions executable by the processor 56 and / or data processed by the processor 56. For example, the memory 54 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, a hard drive, a rewritable non-volatile memory such as an optical disk, and / or the like. Additionally, processor 56 may include one or more general-purpose microprocessors, one or more application-specific processors (ASICs), one or more field-programmable logic arrays (FPGAs), or any combination thereof. Additionally, memory 54 may store instructions executable by processor 56 to perform the methods and control actions described herein for animation window projection system 10.

[0034] The system controller 52 may further include one or more input / output (I / O) devices 58 that may facilitate communication between the system controller 52 and a user (e.g., an operator). For example, the I / O devices may include buttons, a keyboard, a mouse, a trackpad, etc. to enable user interaction with the system controller 52 and the control system 50. Additionally, the I / O devices 58 may include an electronic display to facilitate providing a visual presentation of information, for example, via a graphical user interface (GUI), an application interface, text, still images, and / or video content. Furthermore, the system controller 52 may be configured to communicate with other components of the animation window projection system 10 via wired or wireless communication paths. In some embodiments, the system controller 52 may include a communications module 60 that may facilitate transmission of information between the system controller 52 and other components of the control system 50 and the animation window projection system 10, such as the projector 30.

[0035] Projector 30 may be communicatively coupled to system controller 52 and may project image 16 or an image sequence onto projection surface 12 of animation window projection system 10 for presentation to viewer 14. Additionally, projector 30 may be communicatively coupled to some or all of the other components of animation window projection system 10. Projector 30 may include an image controller 40, which may process image 16 or an image sequence using one or more techniques, as described above, to provide enhanced accuracy for the projection and simulated window. Image controller 40 may include memory 62 and processor 64. In some embodiments, memory 62 may include one or more tangible, non-transitory, computer-readable media for storing instructions executable by processor 64 and / or data processed by processor 64. For example, memory 62 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, a hard drive, a rewritable non-volatile memory such as an optical disk, and / or the like. Additionally, processor 64 may include one or more general-purpose microprocessors, one or more application-specific processors (ASICs), one or more field-programmable logic arrays (FPGAs), or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, image controller 40 may be associated with projector 30, as in the illustrated embodiment, or image controller 40 may be located remotely from projector 30. Alternatively, in some embodiments, some or all of the image processing techniques described as being performed by image controller 40 may be performed by system controller 52.

[0036] Projector 30 may further include a display module 66. Display module 66 may be communicatively coupled to image controller 40 and may generate image 16 or an image sequence and cause the projection of image 16 onto projection surface 12 of animation window projection system 10. In some embodiments, as previously described, projector 30 may include or be coupled (e.g., attached) to movement mechanism 68. Movement mechanism 68 may be communicatively coupled to image controller 40 and / or system controller 52. Processor 64 of image controller 40 and / or processor 56 of system controller 52 may be configured to determine a target position of projector 30 and / or an angle of light (e.g., projection) to be projected through projection surface 12 based on the target image 16 or image sequence. Based on the determined position of projector 30 and / or the angle of light to be projected, processor 64 of image controller 40 and / or processor 56 of system controller 52 may send a signal indicating the position, angle, or movement of projector 30 relative to movement mechanism 68. As such, movement mechanism 68, in conjunction with image controller 40 and / or system controller 52, may change the location (eg, position) or angle of projector 30 based on the target image being projected.

[0037] Additionally, in some embodiments, image controller 40 may be communicatively coupled to LCD layer 38 of projection surface 12. As previously mentioned, in some embodiments, projection surface 12 may include LCD layer 38 disposed between projection layer 34 and projector 30. LCD layer 38 may be used to enhance the rich blacks presented to viewer 14, for example, in embodiments in which animated window projection system 10 is used to replicate a static or animated stained-glass window having black dividers between colored panes of glass. LCD layer 38 may be driven by image controller 40 and / or system controller 52 to display additional black in areas of image 16 or an image sequence to enhance the quality of the blacks displayed based on image 16.

[0038] In some embodiments, animation window projection system 10 may include a haptic feedback system 70 associated with or integrated with projection surface 12. Haptic feedback system 70 may be used to provide haptic feedback to viewers when they physically interact with or touch projection surface 12. As such, haptic feedback system 70 may provide a tactile experience to viewers 14, thereby promoting an immersive experience of the attraction. Haptic feedback system 70 may include an active surface 72 having a plurality of haptic actuators 74 (e.g., surface-altering components) that may be used to alter the surface of projection surface 12 on the viewer side, such as during animation of animation window projection system 10, as discussed in more detail with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5 .

[0039] Haptic feedback system 70 may be communicatively coupled to system controller 52 and, in some embodiments, to other components of the animation window projection system, such as image controller 40. Haptic feedback system 70 may include a haptic controller 76 that may control the actuation of haptic actuators 74 to alter the surface of projection surface 12. Haptic controller 76 may include memory 78 and processor 80. In some embodiments, memory 78 may include one or more tangible, non-transitory, computer-readable media that store instructions executable by processor 80 and / or data processed by processor 80. For example, memory 78 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, rewritable non-volatile memory such as a hard drive, an optical disk, and / or the like. Furthermore, processor 80 may include one or more general-purpose microprocessors, one or more application-specific processors (ASICs), one or more field-programmable logic arrays (FPGAs), or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, haptic controller 76 may be associated with active surface 72 and / or projection surface 12, or haptic controller 76 may be located remotely from active surface 72 and / or projection surface 12. Alternatively, in some embodiments, some or all of the processing performed by haptic controller 76 may be performed by system controller 52.

[0040] During operation, in some embodiments, the haptic controller 70 may be configured to determine locations on the image 16 where haptic feedback is to be provided based on the image 16 or image sequence and any animation of the images 16. For example, if the animated window projection system 10 is used to display an animated stained-glass window, the haptic controller 70 may determine that haptic feedback is to be provided on individual displayed panes of the displayed stained-glass window and / or along the displayed simulated pane dividers, such as the cam 20, so that the viewer 14 may sense movement along the displayed panes and dividers as the image 16 moves from frame to frame. The haptic controller 70 may determine the haptic feedback to provide based at least in part on the image 16 and may coordinate the transmission of signals to the haptic actuators 74 to activate particular haptic actuators 74 in response to movement and / or processing of the image 16, which may be received from the image controller 40 and / or the system controller 52. Thus, the haptic controller 70 of the animated window projection system 10 may provide an enhanced, immersive, and interactive experience for the viewer 14.

[0041] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, animation window projection system 10 may include an integrated special effects system 82 that may be integrated with projection surface 12 and provide special effects that may be coordinated with images 16 and / or animation of images 16 or image sequences. For example, integrated special effects system 82 may provide special effects material 83, such as one or more streams of air, water, mist, or other fluids emitted or expelled from projection surface 12, such that the viewer 14 sees the fluid sprayed from or through a simulated window. Integrated special effects system 82 may include an integrated effects controller 84 that may control the activation of one or more integrated effects devices 86 to provide special effects material 83, for example, from a reservoir or source. Integrated effects controller 84 may include memory 88 and processor 90. In some embodiments, memory 88 may include one or more tangible, non-transitory, computer-readable media that store instructions executable by processor 90 and / or data processed by processor 90. For example, memory 88 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, rewritable non-volatile memory such as a hard drive, an optical disk, and / or the like. Additionally, processor 90 may include one or more general-purpose microprocessors, one or more application-specific processors (ASICs), one or more field-programmable logic arrays (FPGAs), or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, integrated effects controller 84 may be associated with projection surface 12, or integrated effects controller 84 may be located remotely from projection surface 12. Alternatively, in some embodiments, some or all of the processing that may be performed by integrated effects controller 84 may be performed by system controller 52.

[0042] The integrated effects controller 84 may be communicatively coupled to the system controller 52 and, in some embodiments, to other components of the animation window projection system 10. The integrated effects controller 84 may be communicatively coupled to one or more integrated effects devices 86 and may be configured to send signals to the one or more integrated effects devices 86 to activate them when it is determined that a special effect is to be provided in conjunction with the image 16. The integrated effects controller 84 and / or the system controller 52 may determine the triggering or initiation of an integrated special effect based at least in part on the image 16 or animation of the image 16 or image sequence. Additionally or alternatively, the integrated effects controller 84 and / or the system controller 52 may determine when an integrated special effect is to be provided based at least in part on haptic feedback provided by the haptic controller 76 (based on user interaction) and / or the general attraction environment controlled by the attraction controller 91.

[0043] The integrated effects device 86 may include pipes, conduits, or similar structures coupled to a fluid supply and / or a fan or other mechanism that moves fluid to provide the special effects material 83. For example, the integrated effects device 86 may include one or more pipes coupled to a water source. The one or more pipes may extend from the water source to the surface of the projection surface 12 facing the viewer. In some embodiments, the pipes may be provided on or within the projection surface 12 so that the viewer 14 sees water coming from the pipes through the projection surface 12. For example, in some embodiments, the pipes may be provided on or within the projection surface 12 along a displayed black line (e.g., mullion 18 or cam 20; see FIG. 1 ) or other area of ​​the image 16 that remains unchanged in the transition between two different images. That is, the first image 16 may transition into the second image 16. A comparison of the first image 16 and the second image 16 may result in portions that have changed and portions that remain unchanged, reflecting the animation effect.

[0044] In some embodiments, if a pipe is provided on the projection surface 12 within an area of ​​the image 16 that is animated or changes as the image transitions in an animation effect, the pipe may be coupled to a mechanism that moves the pipe to a position along the projection surface 12 so that the pipe traces the black lines or dark areas of the image 16. Such movement may use image data as input to identify the location of the black lines or dark areas of the image 16 and dynamically move the pipe to such areas as the image 16 transitions. Static pipes that follow fixed or stationary black lines (e.g., black dividing lines in an animated stained-glass embodiment) and / or pipes that are moved along the projection surface 12 by a mechanism to dynamically trace the black lines may allow the pipe to be hidden from the viewer 14 and may provide an enhanced interactive and immersive experience. Such pipes and mechanisms for moving the pipes may be utilized in other types of integrated effects devices 86 to provide air, fog, mist, or other similar fluids from the animation window projection system 10.

[0045] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the animation window projection system 10 may include an external special effects system 92 (e.g., not integrated within the projection surface 12) that may provide additional special effects consistent with the image 16 or image sequence of the animation window projection system 10. For example, the integrated special effects system 82 may provide special effects such as sound, lighting, fog effects, or other similar special effects that may be provided by one or more external effects devices 94 (e.g., effect devices not integrated into the projection surface 12). The external special effects system 92 may include an external effects controller 96 that may control the activation of the one or more external effects devices 94. The external effects controller 96 may include a memory 98 and a processor 100. In some embodiments, the memory 98 may include one or more tangible, non-transitory computer-readable media that store instructions executable by the processor 100 and / or data processed by the processor 100. For example, memory 98 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, rewritable non-volatile memory such as a hard drive, an optical disk, and / or the like. Additionally, processor 100 may include one or more general-purpose microprocessors, one or more application-specific processors (ASICs), one or more field-programmable logic arrays (FPGAs), or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, some or all of the processing that may be performed by external effects controller 96 may be performed by system controller 52.

[0046] The external effects controller 96 may be communicatively coupled to the system controller 52 and, in some embodiments, to other components of the animation window projection system 10. The external effects controller 96 may be communicatively coupled to one or more external effects devices 94 and may be configured to send signals to the one or more external effects devices 94 to activate them when it is determined that such external special effects are to be provided in conjunction with the images 16. The external effects controller 96 and / or the system controller 52 may determine when external special effects, such as sound, lighting, or fog, are to be provided based at least in part on the images 16 or animation of the images 16 or image sequences. Additionally or alternatively, the external effects controller 96 and / or the system controller 52 may determine when external special effects are to be provided based at least in part on the haptic feedback provided by the haptic controller 76 and / or the general attraction environment, which may be controlled by the attraction controller 91.

[0047] In an embodiment, one or more portions of the projection surface 12 (see FIG. 2 ) may be completely transparent (e.g., allowing 95–100% of transmitted light to pass through). An external special effects system 92 may be configured to emit particles (e.g., dust or reflective particles) into the air on one or both sides of the projection surface to enhance the visibility of light from the projector 30 and create the illusion of a ray axis from the sun. In one embodiment, the effect may be provided in conjunction with a moving projector / multi-projector angle system mediated by the movement mechanism 68 of the projector 30. Interspersing one or more transparent sections of the projection surface 12 among less transparent sections may also allow the viewer to see a limited field of view through these clear sections. Providing some visual scenery (e.g., a screen, a physical set, a painting, etc.) on the backside 28 visible through the transparent sections enhances the illusion that a complete world exists beyond the projection surface 12.

[0048] In another embodiment, the movement mechanism 68 may further control a separate light source (e.g., not part of the projector) to control the directionality of the light. This may be directionally enhanced using particles in the air on one or both sides of the projection surface 12. One example is a frame that can be added to the outside of a regular home window, or a retail space that does not receive enough actual sunlight. The frame would shine light from the light source into the window at an angle controlled by a system that may be programmed to emulate the movement of the sun, for example.

[0049] FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an animated window projection system 10 having a haptic feedback system 70 and an integrated special effects system 82 incorporated on or within a projection surface 12 to provide haptic feedback consistent with the animation of an image 16 or image sequence. It should be understood that in certain embodiments, the animated window projection system 10 may be implemented with either or both a haptic feedback system 70 or an integrated special effects system 82. As previously mentioned, the animated window projection system 10 may include a projection surface 12 and a projector 30 that may project an image 16 or image sequence onto the projection surface 12. The image 16 or image sequence may be viewed on the projection surface 12 by a viewer 14. Additionally, in some embodiments, the animated window projection system 10 may include a haptic feedback system 70 having a plurality of haptic actuators 74 disposed about an active surface 72. In some embodiments, the active surface 72 may be an additional layer of the projection surface assembly 32. In some embodiments, the active surface 72 may be part of the projection layer 34 and / or the glass layer 36, or may be provided within the projection layer 34 and / or the glass layer 36 of the projection surface 12 (e.g., tactile actuators 74 provided within the material of the projection layer 34 and / or the glass layer 36).

[0050] Haptic actuators 74 of active surface 72 may alter the surface of projection surface 12 in response to signals from haptic controller 76 and / or system controller 52. Haptic actuators 74, and / or system controller 53 in conjunction with haptic actuators 74, may convert optical data associated with the locations of specific portions of image 16 received from image controller 40 into haptic information for recreating specific portions of image 16 and / or animations of image 16. For example, if image 16 depicts an animated stained-glass window, haptic controller 76 may determine, based at least in part on image data from image controller 40, positions of image 16 that correspond to dividers (e.g., mullions 18 or cams 20) that remain dark and fixed in color as image 16 is animated (e.g., in an image sequence that transitions between images, where only specific portions of the image change and other portions remain unchanged or static). The haptic controller 76 may then activate the haptic actuators 74 on the active surface 72 (of the projection surface 12) and modify the surface of the projection surface 12 so that the viewer 14 can feel the divider when they touch the projection surface 12. The signals sent from the haptic controller 70 to control the activation of the haptic actuators 74 may vary the activation of the haptic actuators 74 as the image 16 is animated so that the modification of the projection surface 12 can follow the animation. That is, the activation of the haptic actuators 74 may track the movement of the divider during the animation of the image 16 so that the viewer 14 can feel the animation of the image 16.

[0051] Haptic actuator 74 may be any type of actuation mechanism capable of altering projection surface 12 toward the viewer side of projection surface 12. For example, in some embodiments, optical data of image 16 may be converted into bumps on projection surface 12 that form the shape of structural features of image 16, such as dividers (e.g., mullions 18 or cams 20; see FIG. 1 ) in embodiments in which image 16 is a simulated stained-glass window. In some embodiments, a fluid may be used to displace or alter the surface of projection surface 12 to provide haptic information. In some embodiments, haptic actuator 74 may be a vibration actuator, and the optical data may be converted into acoustic waves or vibrations that create patterns on the viewer surface of projection surface 12. For example, the intensity of the vibration may be varied. Different shapes and / or contours on the surface of projection surface 12 that represent specific portions of image 16 and / or animations of image 16 may be created based on the intensity of the vibration.

[0052] In some embodiments, the haptic actuator 74 may include a plurality of pegs that move in response to one or more stimuli (e.g., magnetic field, electric current) activated by the haptic controller 76 in a direction away from the projection surface 12 and toward the viewer 14. At least a portion of the pegs may protrude from the projection surface 12, thereby forming ridges on the surface of the projection surface 12. In another embodiment, the haptic actuator 74 may include a plurality of pockets or cells that may be filled with a fluid (e.g., gas, liquid) in response to one or more stimuli activated by the haptic controller 76. When filled, the pockets form ridges on the surface of the screen. In other embodiments, the pockets may include a material such as an electrorheological (ER) or magnetorheological (MR) material. The ER and MR materials respond to electrical and magnetic stimuli, respectively. In the absence of a corresponding stimuli, the ER and MR materials are in a liquid state. However, when a corresponding stimuli is applied, the viscosity of the ER and MR materials increases. The increased viscosity leads to the formation of a solid gel, thereby forming ridges or ridges on the surface of the projection surface 12. In particular embodiments, haptic actuators 74 may include a combination of pegs and cells. Each peg and / or cell may be actuated independently and / or together to generate haptic information (e.g., bumps, ridges) that simulate protrusions from projection surface 12 at particular portions of image 16 along the black dividers between panes in a simulated window or stained-glass window. As image 16 is presented and / or animated, the haptic controller may vary which haptic actuators are activated such that the haptic information provided to projection surface 12 changes as image 16 animates.

[0053] In some embodiments, the tactile actuators 74 may include magnetic particles (e.g., nanomagnetic particles) that respond to a magnetic field. Each magnetic particle may be individually actuated by a magnetic field in response to optical data received from the image controller 40 and / or the system controller 52. The magnetic particles may modify the surface of the projection surface 12 to provide tactile feedback. For example, the magnetic particles may vibrate in response to the magnetic field. The vibration may form a pattern on the projection surface 12 that represents a particular portion of the image 16. In some embodiments, the magnetic field may cause the magnetic particles to move. For example, the magnetic field may form a gradient on the projection surface 12. The magnetic particles may move to form a pattern that represents a particular portion of the image 16 on the projection surface 12 based on the magnetic field.

[0054] In some embodiments, the haptic actuator 74 may include a polymer that responds to a stimulus (e.g., electrical current, temperature) from the haptic controller 76. For example, the haptic actuator 74 may include an electroactive polymer (EAP), such as a ferroelectric polymer, that vibrates in response to an electrical signal. Based on the intensity of the vibration, the viewer 14 may perceive different shapes on the projection surface 12 that correspond to specific portions of the image 16. In some embodiments, the haptic actuator 74 may include light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that vibrate at various frequencies and intensities. The LEDs may be activated by the haptic controller 76 to correspond to specific portions of the image 16. Other materials, such as piezoelectric materials and carbon nanotubes, are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0055] Thus, the haptic actuator 74 of the haptic feedback system 70 may be any type of actuation mechanism capable of changing or altering the viewer surface of the projection surface 12 so that a particular portion of the image 16 is felt by the viewer 14. For example, the haptic actuator 74 may be actuated along a black divider between panes of a projected window or stained-glass window image to simulate the divider felt in an actual window or stained-glass window. As such, the haptic feedback system 70 of the animated window projection system 10 may provide a more accurate and realistic window display and a more immersive experience for the viewer 14. In the provided animated window projection system 10, the system may simulate the effect of a window formed from different pieces of glass, which may have different textures. To simulate this, the instructions provided by the haptic actuator 74 and / or the haptic feedback system 70 may be applied differently to the different displayed pieces of glass. For example, the haptic feedback system 70 may create different vibration intensities / patterns based on the color of the displayed glass piece or the texture of a portion of the image (such as rippling water, rough sand, or a tree trunk). That is, the tactile feedback system 70 can be used to simulate the sensations caused by touching smooth, rough, bubbly, distorted glass, or glass having surface treatments that may be present in actual stained glass.

[0056] In certain embodiments, projection surface 12 may include one or more passageways 102 in fluid communication with one or more pipes or conduits 104 that are activated to sequentially provide special effects material through conduits 104 and passageways 102 to emit special effects material from viewer side 26 under the control of integrated special effects system 82.

[0057] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of a method 106 for controlling special effects using an animation window projection system 10 that projects a first image onto a projection surface (block 108). The system 10 creates at least a portion of the animation effect by projecting a second image onto the projection surface after the first image (block 110). The second image includes one or more unchanged regions present in the first image and one or more changed regions not present in the first image. Upon receiving a signal (e.g., a sensor or proximity signal, haptic feedback) regarding user interaction with the projection surface (block 112), the system controls activation of a special effects system (e.g., integrated special effects system 82, see FIG. 3) based on the signal (block 114). Activation of the special effects system causes special effect material to be emitted from an opening or passageway (e.g., passageway 102) formed in the projection surface or from a conduit (e.g., conduit 104) provided on or within the projection surface 12. As discussed herein, the location of the aperture 102 or conduit 104 corresponds to an invariant region that is assessed by comparing the first and second images.

[0058] In one embodiment, the passageways 102, conduits 104, or other special effect diffusing structures are fixed in place, and the system 10 accounts for these features by rendering the displayed images 16 according to rule-based logic such that the images forming the image sequence are fixed in positions corresponding to these features, while other positions are allowed to vary to create an animated effect. In certain embodiments, the fixed portions of the images correspond to dark features such as mullions.

[0059] FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of animation window projection system 10, illustrating haptic feedback system 70 and other components that may be present in animation window projection system 10, such as sensing elements and touch-interactive technology. As previously described, animation window projection system 10 may include projection surface 12 and projector 30, which may project image 16 or an image sequence onto projection surface 12 via rear projection. Image 16 or an image sequence may be viewed on projection surface 12 by viewer 14. Additionally, in some embodiments, animation window projection system 10 may include haptic feedback system 70 having haptic actuators 74 disposed around an active surface 72 associated with projection surface 12. In the illustrated embodiment, viewer 14 is touching the observer side of projection surface 12. The haptic actuators 74 of haptic feedback system 70 may provide haptic feedback that may enable viewer 14 to feel portions of the simulated window image 16 projected onto projection surface 12. For example, the haptic actuators 74 may cause ridges or ridges to protrude from the projection surface 12 toward the viewer 14 along features depicted as cams or frameworks, such as the dividers 118 in an embodiment where the image 16 is a simulated stained-glass image and the viewer 14 feels the texture of the individual pieces of glass in the simulated stained-glass image. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, as the image 16 changes, the viewer 14 may feel the haptic feedback provided by the haptic actuators 74, creating a more realistic and immersive experience for the viewer 14. Additionally, as the image 16 is animated, such as from a left image to a right image, activation of the haptic actuators 74 by the haptic controller 76 may track or follow the dividers 118 or other portions of the image 16, allowing the viewer 14 to feel the animation of the image 16 as the viewer 14 touches the projection surface 12.

[0060] In some embodiments, the animated window projection system 10 may include a sensor 120 that can be used to detect or determine the presence of a viewer 14. The sensor 120 may be communicatively coupled to the system controller 52. In such embodiments, the image 16 may be animated by the image controller 40 and / or the system controller 52 based on signals received by the system controller 52 from the sensor 120, such that when a viewer 14 is detected, the image 16 may provide an animated image, e.g., an animated stained-glass simulation. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the animated window projection system 10 may include one or more cameras disposed adjacent to the projector 30 or at any other location near the animated window projection system 10, communicatively coupled to the system controller 52, and capable of providing image data of the area in front of the projection surface 12. The image data from the one or more cameras 122 may be used by the system controller 52, alone or in combination with signals received from the sensor 120, to determine when the viewer 14 is in front of the projection surface 12. In some embodiments, one or more cameras 122 may additionally or alternatively be used to determine when viewer 14 is touching projection surface 12, so that animation of image 16 and / or activation of haptic actuators 74 may be controlled based at least in part on viewer 14's interaction with image 16 and projection surface 12.

[0061] Additionally or alternatively, to provide touch interaction of the image 16 with the viewer 14 and / or activation of the haptic actuators 74, in some embodiments, the animation window projection system 10 may include a touch-interactive frame 124 disposed around or adjacent to the projection surface 12. The touch-interactive frame 124 may be communicatively coupled to the system controller 52 and may include a plurality of sensors, such as infrared (IR) hairs 126 disposed on an opposite side of the touch-interactive frame 124. The IR hairs 126 may be used to sense the location of the viewer's 14 fingers or hands touching the projection surface 12 based on detection by the IR hairs 126 of the viewer's fingers or hands. Such detection of touches on and locations of touches around the projection surface 12 may enable the system controller 52, the image controller 40, and / or the haptic controller 76 to control the animation of the image 16 and / or activation of the haptic actuators 74 based at least in part on signals received from the touch-interactive frame 124. That is, the touch interactive frame 124 provides a more immersive and interactive experience for the viewer 14, as it may provide the viewer 14 with the opportunity to interact with the animation and, in some embodiments, control the animation and / or haptic feedback presented on the projection surface 12.

[0062] While only certain features 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 present disclosure.

[0063] The technology presented and claimed herein refers to and applies to material objects and specific examples of a practical nature that demonstrably improve the state of the art, and as such is not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Furthermore, where any claim appended hereto contains one or more elements designated as "means for [performing] [function]..." or "steps for [performing] [function]...," it is intended that such elements be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f). However, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, it is intended that such elements not be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f).

Claims

1. A method comprising: projecting a first image onto a projection surface including a colorant material; projecting a second image onto the projection surface after projecting the first image, the second image including one or more unchanged regions present in the first image and one or more changed regions not present in the first image, to create an animation effect; receiving a signal related to a user interaction with the projection surface; controlling activation of a special effects system based on the received signal so that special effects material is emitted through an opening in a pipe disposed on or within the projection surface corresponding to one of the one or more constant areas of the projected second image; and Equipped with the pipe is coupled to a mechanism for moving the pipe; The method comprises: projecting a sequence of images onto the projection surface; activating the mechanism to move the pipe relative to the projection surface based on image data of the image sequence; The method further comprises:

2. activating one or more haptic actuators based on the received signals. The method of claim 1.

3. the one constant region corresponds to a dark or black portion of the projected first image and the projected second image; The method of claim 1.

4. The coloring material includes a coloring film. The method of claim 1.

5. The coloring material includes a dye. The method of claim 1.

6. the special effect material comprises a fluid; The method of claim 1.

7. the special effect material is emitted from the opening of the pipe in a spray or mist; The method of claim 1.

8. the portion of the image data showing movement of a black line in the sequence of images; activating the mechanism includes moving the pipe according to the movement of the black line. The method of claim 1.

Images