Surface-mounted vehicle with rail coupling system

Abstract

The surface-mounted vehicle includes a body and a mounting system configured to couple the surface-mounted vehicle to a surface. The surface-mounted vehicle also includes a propulsion system configured to move the surface-mounted vehicle along the surface. The surface-mounted vehicle also includes a rail coupling system having at least one rail coupled to the body. The at least one rail is configured to couple components to the surface-mounted vehicle. The rail coupling system also includes a plurality of electrical connectors disposed along the at least one rail. The electrical connectors are configured to provide electrical power to the components.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] [Cross - Reference to Related Applications] This application claims priority and the benefit thereof based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 124,446, entitled "Surface - Mounted Vehicle Having A Rail Coupling System", filed on December 11, 2020, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to surface - mounted vehicles having a rail coupling system.

Background Art

[0003] To facilitate the staging of theatrical productions, various components may be attached around the stage. For example, lighting can be coupled to the ceiling and / or (singular or plural) walls and directed towards the stage. Also, speakers can be placed around the stage and directed towards the audience. Further, figures (e.g., dolls) can be suspended from the ceiling and controlled by cables and actuators. Since a large number of components are attached around the stage, reconfiguring the theater for different theatrical productions (e.g., separating components from mounts, moving components to different locations, moving some components to storage areas, adding new components, coupling components to mounts, etc.) is a complex and time - consuming process, which can increase production costs and / or delay the staging.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] The following summarizes several embodiments within the same scope as the subject matter of the original claims. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter, but rather to outline possible forms of the claimed subject matter. In practice, the claimed subject matter may include a variety of forms that are similar to or different from the embodiments shown below.

[0005] In some embodiments, a surface-mounted vehicle includes a body and a mounting system configured to connect the surface-mounted vehicle to a surface. The surface-mounted vehicle also includes a propulsion system configured to move the surface-mounted vehicle along a surface. The surface-mounted vehicle also includes a rail coupling system having at least one rail connected to the body. The at least one rail is configured to connect components to the surface-mounted vehicle. The rail coupling system also includes a plurality of electrical connectors arranged along the at least one rail. The electrical connectors are configured to supply power to the components.

[0006] A better understanding of these and other features, aspects and advantages of this disclosure will be gained by reading the following detailed description while referring to the attached drawings, which indicate the same parts throughout. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a performance environment having a theater production system including multiple surface-mounted vehicles. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a theater production system, including a surface-mounted vehicle and surface assembly, that can be used within the performance environment shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram of an embodiment of a theater production system, including a surface-mounted vehicle and surface assembly, that can be used within the performance environment shown in Figure 1. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram of another embodiment of a theater production system, including a surface-mounted vehicle and surface assembly, that can be used within the performance environment of Figure 1. [Figure 5] Figures 2 to 4 show perspective views of an embodiment of a rail coupling system that can be used inside any of the surface-mounted vehicles. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The following describes one or more specific embodiments of this disclosure. For the sake of brevity, this specification may not describe all features of the embodiments. In developing any such embodiments, as can be seen in any engineering or design project, it should be understood that numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific objectives, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary by implementation. Furthermore, while such development efforts can be complex and time-consuming, it should nevertheless be understood as routine design, fabrication, and manufacturing for an average engineer interested in this disclosure.

[0009] When describing elements of various embodiments of this disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” mean that there are one or more of these elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be comprehensive and mean that there may be further elements other than those listed. The examples of operating parameters and / or environmental conditions do not preclude other parameters / conditions of the disclosed embodiments.

[0010] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a performance environment 10 having a theater production system 12 including a plurality of surface-mounted vehicles 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the performance environment 10 includes a stage 16, walls 18 and a ceiling 20, and theatrical works (e.g., musicals, plays, monologues, etc.) can be performed within the performance environment 10. For example, during a theatrical work, one or more actors can stand on the stage 16 and move around the entire performance environment 10. Also, audience seating can be arranged adjacent to the performance environment 10 so that the audience can view the theatrical work.

[0011] In the illustrated embodiment, surface-mounted vehicles 14 support several components that facilitate the performance of a theatrical work. As shown in the illustration, two surface-mounted vehicles 14 are coupled to the ceiling 20, and each surface-mounted vehicle 14 coupled to the ceiling 20 supports its respective animated figure 22 (e.g., a doll). As detailed below, each surface-mounted vehicle 14 can actuate one or more cables coupled to its respective animated figure 22 to facilitate the movement of one or more parts of its respective animated figure 22 (e.g., arms, legs, head, etc.). Additionally, two surface-mounted vehicles 14 are coupled to each wall 18 of the performance environment 10. On each wall 18, one surface-mounted vehicle 14 supports its respective light 24, and the other surface-mounted vehicle 14 supports its respective speaker 26. In the illustrated embodiment, each light 24 is directed towards its respective animated figure 22, and the speaker 26 is directed towards the audience. However, in other embodiments, at least one light 24 may be directed towards another preferred part of the performance environment 10, and / or at least one speaker 26 may be directed in another preferred direction.

[0012] In some embodiments, the theater production system 12 includes a surface assembly and a surface-mounted vehicle 14. The surface assembly may include a stage 16, one or more walls 18, a ceiling 20, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, in some embodiments, at least one surface-mounted vehicle 14 includes a body and a mounting system configured to connect the surface-mounted vehicle to the surface assembly. The surface-mounted vehicle 14 also includes a propulsion system configured to move the surface-mounted vehicle 14 along the surface assembly. The surface-mounted vehicle 14 also includes a rail coupling system having at least one rail coupled to the body. The (single or double) rail is configured to connect components such as anime figures 22, lights 24, or speakers 26 to the surface-mounted vehicle 14. Furthermore, the (single or double) rail includes a plurality of electrical connectors arranged along the (single or double) rail, which are configured to supply power to the components. The (single or double) rail is configured to support the components while the surface-mounted vehicle 14 is coupled to the ceiling, wall, or stage. Therefore, the surface-mounted vehicle 14 can position its components along any suitable surface of the performance environment 10.

[0013] The surface-mounted vehicles 14 are configured to facilitate the reconfiguration of the performance environment during and / or between theatrical performances. For example, during a theatrical performance, surface-mounted vehicles 14 coupled to the ceiling 20 can enhance the performance by moving animated figures 22 throughout the performance environment 10 via their respective propulsion systems. Furthermore, surface-mounted vehicles 14 coupled to the walls 18 can move their respective lights 24 to positions suitable for illuminating each animated figure 22 via their respective propulsion systems. In addition, the performance environment can also be reconfigured between theatrical performances using the surface-mounted vehicles 14. For example, if a speaker 26 is not desired for a subsequent performance, each surface-mounted vehicle 14 can move the speaker 26 out of the performance environment (e.g., backstage) via its respective propulsion system. Furthermore, a surface-mounted vehicle 14 supporting an animated figure 22 can move the animated figure out of the performance environment, and / or surface-mounted vehicles supporting other (single or multiple) animated figures can move into the performance environment.

[0014] Furthermore, the (single or double) rails of the surface-mounted vehicle allow for the attachment of various components to the surface-mounted vehicle. Thus, one type of surface-mounted vehicle can be used to support various components in the performance environment (e.g., (single or double) lights, (single or double) speakers, (single or double) animated figures, (single or double) winches, (single or double) displays, (single or double) projectors, etc.). The (single or double) rails also facilitate the operation of the components by supplying power to each component. As detailed below, power can be transmitted to the surface-mounted vehicle and thus to each component via an inductive power system and / or direct electrical connections. In addition, in some embodiments, the component may include a control module coupled to the (single or double) rails and actuator components (e.g., animated figures, etc.) controlled by the control module.

[0015] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface-mounted vehicle supports two lights, but in other embodiments, the surface-mounted vehicle may support more or fewer lights on any suitable (single or multiple) surface of the performance environment. Also, in the illustrated embodiment, the surface-mounted vehicle supports two animated figures, but in other embodiments, the surface-mounted vehicle may support more or fewer animated figures on any suitable (single or multiple) surface of the performance environment. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the surface-mounted vehicle supports two speakers, but in other embodiments, the surface-mounted vehicle may support more or fewer speakers on any suitable (single or multiple) surface of the performance environment. Also, in the illustrated embodiment, the surface-mounted vehicle supports lighting, animated figures, and speakers, but in other embodiments, at least one surface-mounted vehicle may support other suitable components such as a winch, a fogging machine, a theater laser assembly, a display, or a movable wall. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, each surface-mounted vehicle supports a single component, but in other embodiments, at least one surface-mounted vehicle may support multiple components, and / or at least two surface-mounted vehicles may support a single / common component. In the illustrated embodiment, the surface-mounted vehicles are used in a performance environment, but in other embodiments, the surface-mounted vehicles can also be used to control the position of components in other suitable environments, such as in amusement park rides, repair shop workshops, retail stores, warehouses, or other suitable environments.

[0016] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a theater production system 12, including a surface-mounted vehicle 14 and a surface assembly 28, which can be used within the performance environment of Figure 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the surface assembly 28 includes a ceiling 20. However, in other embodiments, the surface assembly may include walls or a stage, as described above with reference to Figure 1.

[0017] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface-mount vehicle 14 includes a body 30 and a mounting system 32 configured to connect the surface-mount vehicle 14 to a surface assembly 28. In some embodiments, the mounting system 32 includes a magnetic mounting system having at least one magnet and / or at least one ferromagnetic structure configured to connect the surface-mount vehicle 14 to the surface assembly 28 via magnetic force. For example, one or more magnets may be connected to the body 30 of the surface-mount vehicle 14, and the surface assembly 28 may include one or more ferromagnetic (e.g., steel, iron, etc.) structures and / or one or more magnets. As a further example, the surface assembly 28 may include one or more magnets, and the body 30 of the surface-mount vehicle 14 may also include a ferromagnetic (e.g., steel, iron, etc.) structure and / or one or more magnets. In some embodiments, the movement of the surface-mounted vehicle along the surface assembly can be facilitated by separating the (single / double) magnet / (single / double) ferromagnetic structure of the surface assembly from the (single / double) magnet / (single / double) ferromagnetic structure of the surface-mounted vehicle by a gap, thereby reducing friction between the surface-mounted vehicle and the surface assembly. For example, the wheels of the surface-mounted vehicle can extend between the body and the surface assembly to establish a gap. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting system 32 includes a magnetic mounting system, but in other embodiments, the mounting system may also include any other suitable (single / double) devices and / or (single / double) systems configured to couple the surface-mounted vehicle to the surface assembly (e.g., alone or in combination with the magnetic mounting system), such as one or more of a rail / track system, a slot / projection system, or a cable / strap system.

[0018] As detailed below, the surface-mounted vehicle 14 also includes a propulsion system configured to move the surface-mounted vehicle along the surface assembly 28. The propulsion system may include one or more motors, one or more wheels, one or more actuators, or a combination thereof. For example, in some embodiments, the propulsion system may include one or more electric motors configured to rotate one or more drive wheels. Each drive wheel may be rotatably coupled to the body of the surface-mounted vehicle and engage with the surface assembly. Thus, the (one or more) electric motors and the (one or more) drive wheels can propel the surface-mounted vehicle along the surface assembly. Although (one or more) electric motors are disclosed above, the propulsion system may also include any other suitable (one or more) motors, such as hydraulic motors and / or pneumatic motors (for example, alone or in addition to the (one or more) electric motors). The propulsion system may also include pivotable wheels (e.g., driven wheels or driven wheels) and actuators (e.g., electric actuators, pneumatic actuators, hydraulic actuators, etc.) configured to steer the surface-mounted vehicle along a target path by pivoting the pivotable wheels. In addition to or instead of this, the propulsion system may also control the direction of movement of the surface-mounted vehicle along a surface assembly by controlling the rotational speeds of multiple wheels. For example, the direction of movement of the surface-mounted vehicle may be controlled by a first motor rotating a first wheel at a first rotational speed and a second motor rotating a second wheel at a second rotational speed different from the first rotational speed. Although wheels are disclosed above, the propulsion system may also include any other suitable (single or multiple) devices / systems, such as gear / rack assemblies and / or cable / pulley assemblies, configured to move the surface-mounted vehicle along a surface assembly (e.g., alone or in combination with (single or multiple) wheels).

[0019] The surface-mount vehicle 14 includes a rail coupling system 34 configured to couple components to the surface-mount vehicle 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the rail coupling system 34 includes a first rail 36 and a second rail 38 that are substantially parallel to each other. As used herein, “substantially parallel” means that the orientation difference between the first and second rails is less than a threshold angle. For example, the threshold angle may be 0.5 degrees, 1 degree, 2 degrees, 3 degrees, 5 degrees, or 10 degrees. As detailed below, the rail coupling system 34 includes a plurality of electrical connectors arranged along at least one of the rails, which are configured to supply power to the components. For example, a first set of one or more electrical connectors may be arranged along the first rail 36, and a second set of one or more electrical connectors may be arranged along the second rail 38. The first set of electrical connectors and the second set of electrical connectors may be configured to facilitate power transmission to the components by having opposite polarities. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the rail coupling system 34 may include one or more data connectors arranged on at least one of the rails. The (single or double) data connectors are configured to facilitate control of the component by establishing a communication link between the controller and the component of the surface-mount vehicle. In the illustrated embodiment, the rail coupling system includes two parallel rails, but in other embodiments, the rail coupling system may include more or fewer rails (e.g., one, three, four, five, six, or seven or more), and each rail may be oriented at any preferred angle.

[0020] Each rail is configured to connect components to a surface-mount vehicle. For example, each rail may include a mounting portion configured to engage with a corresponding mounting portion of a component. In some embodiments, each rail mounting portion includes a lateral projection configured to engage with a corresponding lateral recess in the corresponding mounting portion of the component. As an example, the corresponding (single or double) mounting portions of a component can engage with the (single or double) mounting portions of a rail by aligning the mounting portions with each other and then translating the corresponding (single or double) mounting portions of the component toward the (single or double) mounting portions of the (single or double) rail. Once the mounting portions are engaged with each other, the component can be translated to a desired position along the (single or double) rail. The corresponding mounting portions of the component can then be fixed in the desired position along the (single or double) rail using one or more fasteners. While the above discloses lateral projections on each rail mounting portion and lateral recesses in each corresponding mounting portion of a component, in some embodiments, a lateral recess may be formed in at least one rail mounting portion, and lateral projections may extend from at least one corresponding component mounting portion. The rails (single or double) can support the load (e.g., weight) of the component while the surface-mounted vehicle is coupled to any suitable surface (e.g., wall, ceiling, stage, etc.).

[0021] In the illustrated embodiment, the component includes a light 24 configured to illuminate a portion of the performance environment. As shown, each rail of the rail coupling system 34 allows the surface-mount vehicle 14 to support the load of the light 24 on any suitable surface in the performance environment by coupling the light 24 to the surface-mount vehicle 14. The light 24 is also configured to receive power via an electrical connector of the rail coupling system 34. The surface-mount vehicle 14 is configured to supply sufficient power to the light 24 to enable the light to emit light at a desired intensity. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the light can be controlled via one or more data connectors of the rail coupling system 34. For example, the light 24 can be configured to emit light of various intensities and / or colors. The light can receive a control signal indicating a desired intensity / color via one or more data connectors of the rail coupling system 34, and the light can emit light of the desired intensity / color in response to the reception of the control signal. In the illustrated embodiment, the lights are coupled to the rail coupling system, but in other embodiments, other suitable components, among many other suitable components, such as speakers, anime figures, winches, displays, projectors, fogging machines, theater laser assemblies, or movable walls, may also be coupled to the rail coupling system.

[0022] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface assembly 28 includes a first conductor 42 and a second conductor 44. The surface-mounted vehicle 14 also includes a third conductor that contacts the first conductor 42 and a fourth conductor that contacts the second conductor 44. These conductors are configured to facilitate the transmission of power to components (e.g., light 24) via the electrical connectors of the rail coupling system. For example, in some embodiments, the first and second conductors can have opposite polarities and supply direct current (DC) power to the surface-mounted vehicle. Further, in some embodiments, one of the first or second conductors can supply alternating current (AC) power to the surface-mounted vehicle, and the other of the first or second conductors can function as an earth. The first and second conductors can include strips of a conductive material (e.g., wire, conductive ink, etc.) extending along any suitable direction. In embodiments where the surface assembly includes a (single or plural) ferromagnetic structure, an insulator (e.g., a sheet of non-conductive material, etc.) can be disposed between the first and second conductors and the (single or plural) ferromagnetic structure. Also, each of the third and fourth conductors can include a brush, roller, or any other suitable structure configured to facilitate power transmission from the surface assembly 28 to the surface-mounted vehicle by engaging the respective first / second conductors. In the illustrated embodiment, the surface assembly includes two conductors, but in other embodiments, the surface assembly can include more or fewer conductors (e.g., one, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or eleven or more). For example, in some embodiments, the surface-mounted vehicle can be configured to receive power from a single conductor of the surface assembly and / or individual conductors or pairs of conductors can be dispersed throughout the surface assembly to enable the surface-mounted vehicle to receive power while located at various locations on the surface assembly.

[0023] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface-mounted vehicle 14 is configured to receive power via a conductor. However, in other embodiments, the surface-mounted vehicle can also receive power via an inductive power transmission system. For example, the surface assembly can include an inductive transmitter, and the surface-mounted vehicle can include an inductive receiver. The inductive receiver can be configured to receive power from the inductive transmitter and output power to components (e.g., light 24). Further, in some embodiments, the theater production system can also include a combination of a conductor and an inductive power transmission system to facilitate power transmission to the surface-mounted vehicle. Although the conductor and the inductive power transmission system are disclosed above, in some embodiments, the theater production system can include, among other suitable power transmission systems, (single or plural) electrical wires extending to the surface-mounted vehicle, or any other suitable (single or plural) type of (single or plural) power transmission system such as (single or plural) solar panels coupled to the surface-mounted vehicle (e.g., configured to receive light emitted by the surface assembly), either alone or in combination with a conductor and / or an inductive power transmission system.

[0024] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface assembly 28 includes a data conductor 46 that extends along the surface of the ceiling 20. The surface-mounted vehicle 14 also includes a corresponding data conductor configured to contact the data conductor 46 of the surface assembly 28. The data conductor 46 can include a strip of conductive material (e.g., wire, conductive ink, etc.) extending along any suitable direction. In embodiments where the surface assembly includes a (single or plural) ferromagnetic structure, an insulator (e.g., a sheet of non-conductive material, etc.) can be disposed between the data conductor and the (single or plural) ferromagnetic structure. Further, the corresponding data conductor can include a brush, roller, or any other suitable structure configured to establish a communication link between the remote control device and the surface-mounted vehicle / component by engaging the data conductor on the surface assembly.

[0025] In some embodiments, the remote control unit can output a control signal to the propulsion system of the surface-mounted vehicle 14, and the propulsion system can receive the control signal via the data conductor 46. The remote control unit can also output a control signal to the light 24 via the data conductor, and the light can receive the control signal via the data conductor and the (single or multiple) data connector of the rail coupling system. In the illustrated embodiments, the surface-mounted vehicle and components are configured to receive (single or multiple) control signals via the data conductor, but in other embodiments, the surface-mounted vehicle and / or components may be configured to receive (single or multiple) control signals via another suitable (single or multiple) communication link (e.g., alone or in combination with the data conductor). For example, in some embodiments, the surface-mounted vehicle and / or components may include a wireless receiver configured to receive (single or multiple) control signals, and / or the surface-mounted vehicle and / or components may include a wired receiver configured to receive (single or multiple) control signals. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the surface-mounted vehicle and components may not be configured to receive (single or multiple) control signals. In this embodiment, instructions can be stored in the memory of the surface-mount vehicle controller and / or the memory of the component controller.

[0026] In some embodiments, at least one of the third or fourth conductors of the surface-mount vehicle 14 is formed on / by each wheel of the surface-mount vehicle. For example, the first wheel may be formed of a conductive material to form the third conductor, and the second wheel may be formed of a conductive material to form the fourth conductor. The first and second wheels can contact the first and second conductors, respectively, to facilitate the transmission of power to the surface-mount vehicle. In addition to or instead of this, data conductors of the surface-mount vehicle may also be formed on / by each wheel of the surface-mount vehicle. For example, the wheels may be formed of a conductive material to form the data conductors. The wheels can contact the data conductors of the surface assembly to establish a communication link between the remote control device and the surface-mount vehicle / component. Although the above discloses that the wheels are formed of a conductive material, in some embodiments the wheels may be formed of a suitable non-conductive material, and the wheels may include conductors arranged around the non-conductive material to form the contact surfaces of the wheels.

[0027] Figure 3 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a theater production system 12, including a surface-mounted vehicle 14 and a surface assembly 28, which can be used within the performance environment of Figure 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the surface assembly 28 includes a ceiling 20. However, in other embodiments, the surface assembly may include walls or a stage, as described above with reference to Figure 1.

[0028] As described above, the surface-mount vehicle 14 includes a mounting system 32 configured to connect the surface-mount vehicle 14 to the surface assembly 28. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting system 32 includes a magnetic mounting system 48 having a plurality of magnets 50 connected to the body 30 of the surface-mount vehicle 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnetic mounting system 48 includes two magnets 50, but in other embodiments, the magnetic mounting system 48 may include more or fewer magnets (e.g., 0, 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 or more). Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the surface assembly 28 includes a plurality of corresponding magnets 52. The magnets 50 of the magnetic mounting system 48 can connect the surface-mount vehicle 14 to the surface assembly 28 by being magnetically attracted to the magnets 52 of the surface assembly 28. Although the illustrated embodiment shows two magnets 52 on the surface assembly 28, the surface assembly can maintain a magnetic coupling between the surface-mounted vehicle 14 and the surface assembly 28 while the surface-mounted vehicle is positioned at multiple locations on the surface assembly 28 by including a considerable number of magnets distributed throughout the surface assembly 28.

[0029] In the illustrated embodiment, the magnets 50 of the magnetic mounting system 48 are separated from the magnets 52 of the surface assembly 28 by a gap 54, thereby reducing friction between the surface-mounted vehicle 14 and the surface assembly 28 and facilitating the movement of the surface-mounted vehicle 14 along the surface assembly 28. As shown in the illustration, the wheels 56 of the surface-mounted vehicle 14 extend between the body 30 and the surface assembly 28, establishing the gap 54. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the wheels 56 establish a gap 58 between the body 30 of the surface-mounted vehicle 14 and the surface 60 (e.g., the underside of the ceiling 20), further reducing friction between the surface-mounted vehicle 14 and the surface assembly 28. The gaps 54 between each magnet, and / or the gap 58 between the surface-mounted vehicle body 30 and the surface 60, can be selected to establish sufficient magnetic force to bond the surface-mounted vehicle 14 to the surface assembly 28 and reduce friction between the surface-mounted vehicle 14 and the surface assembly 28 (for example, by positioning the wheels 56 relative to the body 30, positioning the surface assembly magnets 52 relative to the surface 60, positioning the surface-mounted vehicle magnets 50 relative to the body 30, etc.). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the theater production system can also be configured such that the body of the surface-mounted vehicle contacts the surface of the surface assembly, and / or the (single or double) magnets of the surface-mounted vehicle contact the (single or double) magnets of the surface assembly. For example, wheels can be omitted, and / or the surface-mounted vehicle and / or surface assembly can include (single or double) low-friction pads that facilitate the movement of the surface-mounted vehicle along the surface assembly.

[0030] In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet 50 of the magnetic mounting system 48 includes an electromagnet. The electromagnet is configured to receive power from a power source to establish a magnetic force between the surface-mounted vehicle and the surface assembly. In the illustrated embodiment, the electromagnet is communicatively coupled to a controller 62 of the surface-mounted vehicle 14. The controller 62 is configured to control the magnetic force between the surface-mounted vehicle 14 and the surface assembly 28 by controlling the power supplied to the electromagnet.

[0031] In some embodiments, the controller 62 is an electronic controller having an electrical circuit configured to control the output of an electromagnet. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 62 includes a processor, such as the illustrated microprocessor 64, and a memory device 66. The controller 62 may also include one or more storage devices and / or other suitable components. The processor 64 can be used to run software, such as software that controls the output of the electromagnetics. Furthermore, the processor 64 may include multiple microprocessors, one or more "general-purpose" microprocessors, one or more special-purpose microprocessors, and / or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or any combination thereof. For example, the processor 64 may include one or more reduced instruction set (RISC) processors.

[0032] The memory device 66 may include volatile memory such as random access memory (RAM) and / or non-volatile memory such as read-only memory (ROM). The memory device 66 can store various types of information and can be used for various purposes. For example, the memory device 66 may store processor-executable instructions (e.g., firmware or software) executed by the processor 64, such as instructions for controlling an electromagnet. The (single or duplicate) storage device (e.g., non-volatile storage) may include ROM, flash memory, hard drive, or any other preferred optical, magnetic or solid-state storage medium, or a combination thereof. The (single or duplicate) storage device may store data, instructions (e.g., software or firmware for controlling an electromagnet), and any other preferred data.

[0033] The controller 62 can control the output of the electromagnet based on the weight of the component coupled to the surface-mounted vehicle 14, the angle of the surface 60 with respect to the ground surface, other preferred factors, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one magnet 50 may include a combination of a (single / double) electromagnet and a (single / double) permanent magnet. For example, the (single / double) permanent magnets may provide a first portion of the magnetic force and the (single / double) electromagnets may provide a second portion of the magnetic force (for example, these may be controlled by the controller). In addition to or instead of this, the (single / double) permanent magnets may also function as a backup for the (single / double) electromagnets in the event of some or all power loss. For example, the (single / double) permanent magnets may be biased toward the surface assembly (for example, by a spring, elastic material, etc.), and the (single / double) electromagnets may be configured to move away from the surface assembly (for example, via a link assembly, etc.) while the electromagnets are operating. If some or all of the power is lost, the (single or double) electromagnets may no longer provide sufficient force to overcome the bias of the (single or double) permanent magnets toward the surface assembly. As a result, the movement of the (single or double) permanent magnets toward the surface assembly can increase the magnetic force between the (single or double) permanent magnets and the surface assembly (e.g., the magnets and / or ferromagnetic material of the surface assembly). Thus, if some or all of the power is lost, the (single or double) permanent magnets (e.g., one or more permanent magnets per magnet 50) can provide sufficient magnetic force to maintain the coupling between the surface-mounted vehicle and the surface assembly. Furthermore, in some embodiments, at least one of the magnets 50 may consist solely of (single or double) permanent magnets. In the illustrated embodiment, the electromagnets are electrically coupled to the controller, but in other embodiments, the electromagnets may also be directly electrically coupled to a power system such as an induction receiver and / or battery.

[0034] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface assembly includes magnets, but in other embodiments, the surface assembly may include one or more ferromagnetic structures (e.g., individually or in combination with the magnets) to establish a magnetic force between the surface assembly and the (single or multiple) magnets of the surface-mounted vehicle. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the magnetic mounting system 48 of the surface-mounted vehicle 14 includes magnets, but in other embodiments, the magnetic mounting system may include one or more ferromagnetic structures (e.g., individually or in combination with the magnets) to establish a magnetic force between the magnets of the surface assembly and the surface-mounted vehicle. Also, in some embodiments, at least one wheel may be magnetized and / or include a ferromagnetic structure (e.g., the wheel may be formed from a ferromagnetic material). In such embodiments, the (single or multiple) wheels may form at least part of the magnetic mounting system, and one or more other magnets and / or one or more other ferromagnetic structures of the surface-mounted vehicle may be omitted (e.g., the wheel may establish a magnetic coupling to the surface assembly without further magnets / ferromagnetic structures). In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting system 32 includes a magnetic mounting system 48, but in other embodiments, the mounting system may include any other suitable (single or multiple) devices and / or (single or multiple) systems configured to connect the surface-mounted vehicle to a surface assembly (e.g., alone or in combination with the magnetic mounting system), such as one or more of a rail / track system, a slot / projection system, or a cable / strap system. For example, in some embodiments, a cable / strap system can be used to substantially reduce or eliminate the possibility of the surface-mounted vehicle falling if the attractive force provided by the magnetic mounting system is insufficient to connect the surface-mounted vehicle to the surface assembly.

[0035] Furthermore, the surface-mounted vehicle 14 includes a propulsion system 68 configured to move the surface-mounted vehicle 14 along the surface assembly 28. In the illustrated embodiment, the propulsion system 68 includes electric motors 70 configured to rotate each wheel 56. Each wheel 56 is rotatably coupled to the body 30 of the surface-mounted vehicle 14 and engages with the surface 60 of the surface assembly 28. Thus, the electric motors 70 can propel the surface-mounted vehicle 14 along the surface assembly 28 by rotating each wheel. In the illustrated embodiment, the propulsion system 68 includes two motors 70, but in other embodiments, the propulsion system may include more or fewer motors (e.g., 0, 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 or more). For example, the propulsion system rotates each wheel by including one motor for each wheel (e.g., at least some of the wheels). In addition to or instead of this, at least one wheel may be driven by multiple motors, and / or at least two wheels may be driven by one motor. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the propulsion system 68 includes (one or more) electric motors 70, but in other embodiments, the propulsion system may include any other preferred type of motor, such as (one or more) hydraulic motors and / or (one or more) pneumatic motors (for example, alone or in addition to (one or more) electric motors). In the illustrated embodiment, each wheel 56 is rotationally driven by the motors 70, but in other embodiments, at least one wheel may not be driven by a motor (for example, this wheel may rotate passively along a surface).

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment, each motor 70 is communicably coupled to a controller 62, and the controller 62 is configured to control the rotation of each motor 70. Thus, the controller 62 can control the speed of the surface-mounted vehicle 14 along the surface assembly 28 by controlling the rotational speed of the wheels 56. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the controller 62 is configured to control the direction of movement of the surface-mounted vehicle 14 by commanding the motors 70 to drive the wheels 56 at different rotational speeds and / or in different rotational directions. For example, the controller 62 can control the direction of movement of the surface-mounted vehicle 14 by commanding a first motor 70 to rotate a first wheel 56 at a first rotational speed and a second motor 70 to rotate a second wheel 56 at a second rotational speed different from the first rotational speed. In addition to or instead of the above, the propulsion system may include (one or more) pivotable wheels (e.g., (one or more) driven wheels or (one or more) driven wheels) and (one or more) actuators (e.g., electric actuators, pneumatic actuators, hydraulic actuators, etc.) configured to steer a surface-mounted vehicle along a target path by pivoting the (one or more) pivotable wheels. For example, the (one or more) actuators may be communicably coupled to a controller, which can control the (one or more) actuators to control the direction of movement of the surface-mounted vehicle. Although wheels are disclosed above, the propulsion system may also include any other suitable (one or more) devices / systems, such as gear / rack assemblies and / or cable / pulley assemblies, configured to move a surface-mounted vehicle along a surface assembly (e.g., alone or in combination with (one or more) wheels).

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface-mounted vehicle 14 includes an inductive power system 72 configured to receive power from an inductive power source 74 of the surface assembly 28 and output power to (e.g., a controller, (one or more) motors, components, (one or more) electromagnets, etc.). As shown, the inductive power source 74 of the surface assembly 28 includes an inductive transmitter 76, and the inductive power system 72 of the surface-mounted vehicle 14 includes an inductive receiver 78. The inductive receiver 78 is configured to receive power from the inductive transmitter 76 and output power. In the illustrated embodiment, the inductive receiver 78 is electrically coupled to a controller 62, and the controller 62 is configured to control the flow of power from the inductive receiver 78 to (one or more) motors, (one or more) electromagnets, and components via a rail coupling system 34. However, in other embodiments, at least one element (e.g., one or more motors, one or more electromagnets, components, etc.) may also be directly electrically coupled to the inductive receiver.

[0038] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface-mounted vehicle 14 includes an inductive power system 72, but in other embodiments, the surface-mounted vehicle may also receive power via other and / or further electrical connections. For example, as disclosed above with reference to Figure 2, in some embodiments, the surface-mounted vehicle may receive power from (one or more) conductors of the surface assembly. For example, in some embodiments, the theater production system may include a combination of conductors and an inductive power system / inductive power source to facilitate power transmission to the surface-mounted vehicle. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the theater production system may include any other preferred (one or more) type of (one or more) power transmission system (for example, alone or in combination with conductors and / or an inductive power system / inductive power source), among many preferred power transmission systems, such as (one or more) wires extending to the surface-mounted vehicle and / or (one or more) solar panels coupled to the surface-mounted vehicle (for example, configured to receive light emitted by the surface assembly).

[0039] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface-mount vehicle 14 includes a battery 80 configured to supply power (e.g., continuously, on demand, etc.) to specific elements of the surface-mount vehicle 14 and / or components coupled to the surface-mount vehicle. For example, the battery 80 can supply power to electromagnets (one or multiple) when external power to the surface-mount vehicle 14 is partially or completely cut off. In the illustrated embodiment, the battery 80 is electrically coupled to a controller 62, which is configured to control the flow of power from the battery 80 through the rail coupling system 34 to the motors (one or multiple), electromagnets (one or multiple), and components. For example, the controller 62 can detect a power interruption (e.g., due to misalignment between the induction receiver 78 and the induction transmitter 76, or misalignment between the conductors of the surface-mount vehicle and the conductors of the surface assembly) and in response can supply power from the battery 80 to one or more elements of the surface-mount vehicle / components. Furthermore, in some embodiments, at least one element (e.g., one or more motors, one or more electromagnets, components, etc.) can be directly electrically coupled to the battery. In the illustrated embodiment, the surface-mount vehicle 14 includes a single battery 80, but in other embodiments, the surface-mount vehicle may include more or fewer batteries (e.g., 0, 2, 3, 4, or 5 or more). For example, in some embodiments, at least one element of the surface-mount vehicle / component can be electrically coupled to each battery. Furthermore, in some embodiments, batteries can be omitted.

[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface-mount vehicle 14 includes a communication system 82 communically coupled to a controller 62, the communication system 82 being configured to receive commands indicating control of the surface-mount vehicle 14 and / or components coupled to the surface-mount vehicle. In the illustrated embodiment, the communication system 82 includes a data receiver 84 configured to be communically coupled to a data transmitter 86 of a surface assembly 28. The data transmitter 86 can output radio signals indicating commands to the data receiver 84, and the data receiver 84 can output each of the signals indicating commands to the controller 62. The data transmitter 86 and the data receiver 84 can communicate using any one or more preferred radio frequencies and / or any preferred (single or dual) radio communication protocols. For example, the data transmitter and data receiver can communicate via radio frequency signals, microwave signals, infrared signals, optical signals, another preferred type of (single or dual) radio signal, or a combination thereof. Alternatively, the data transmitter and data receiver can communicate via standard (single or dual) radio protocols (e.g., WiFi, Bluetooth®, etc.) or (single or dual) dedicated radio protocols. The data transmitter 86 can be communicatively coupled to a remote control system (e.g., a computer, server, tablet, etc.), which can control the operation of the surface-mounted vehicle / component (e.g., by giving commands to move the surface-mounted vehicle to a target position on the surface assembly, or by giving commands to control the operation of a component coupled to the surface-mounted vehicle by a rail coupling system). In the illustrated embodiment, a single data transmitter 86 is coupled to / a component of the surface assembly 28, but in other embodiments, one or more data transmitters (e.g., individually or in combination with the data transmitters of the surface assembly) can be placed (e.g., individually or in combination with the data transmitters of the surface assembly) in any suitable (one or more) locations within the performance environment and / or in locations (one or more) away from the performance environment.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, the communication system 82 includes a wireless data receiver 84, but in other embodiments, the communication system may include a wired connection to a remote control system (e.g., alone or in combination with the illustrated wireless connection). For example, as disclosed above with reference to Figure 2, in some embodiments, the communication system may include a data conductor configured to contact the corresponding data conductor of the surface assembly. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the communication system may include another suitable wired connection to the remote control system via (single or double) electric wires, (single or double) fiber optic cables, another suitable (single or double) wire / (single or double) cable, or a combination thereof (e.g., alone or in combination with the illustrated wireless connection and / or the conductor disclosed above with reference to Figure 2). In some embodiments, a surface-mounted vehicle may be configured to move to a data receiving position to receive commands from the remote control system (e.g., in response to the reception of a wireless signal, etc., via commands stored in the controller's memory, etc.). For example, a surface-mounted vehicle can move to a position where the data receiver is within range of the data transmitter, or the surface-mounted vehicle can move to a position where the data conductor of the surface-mounted vehicle is in contact with the data conductor of the surface assembly. Instructions received while the surface-mounted vehicle is in the data-receiving position can be stored in the memory of the surface-mounted vehicle controller. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the communication system can be configured to output / transmit signals to a remote control system (e.g., indicating the position of the surface-mounted vehicle, the speed of the surface-mounted vehicle, the status of components coupled to the surface-mounted vehicle via a rail coupling system, etc.).

[0042] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the surface-mounted vehicle may include a sensor assembly communicatively coupled to a controller. The sensor assembly may include position sensors (e.g., Global Positioning System (GPS) sensors, Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensors, wheel rotation sensors, etc.), object detection sensors (e.g., LiDAR sensors, RADAR sensors, ultrasonic sensors, induction sensors, capacitive sensors, etc.), other suitable sensors (e.g., light detection sensors, sound detection sensors, cameras, etc.), or combinations thereof. The controller can control the operation of the surface-mounted vehicle based on feedback from (one or more) sensors. For example, the position of the surface-mounted vehicle can be controlled based on feedback from the position sensors, and / or the surface-mounted vehicle can be controlled to avoid obstacles based on feedback from the object detection sensors.

[0043] As described above, the surface-mount vehicle 14 includes a rail coupling system 34 configured to couple a component 88 to the surface-mount vehicle 14. For example, as described above with reference to Figure 2, the rail coupling system 34 may include a first rail and a second rail substantially parallel to each other. The rail coupling system 34 includes a plurality of electrical connectors arranged along at least one of the rails, the electrical connectors configured to supply power to the component. In the illustrated embodiment, (one or more) electrical connectors establish an electrical connection 90 between the controller 62 of the surface-mount vehicle 14 and the controller 92 of the component 88. The controller 92 of the component 88 is configured to control the flow of power from the surface-mount vehicle controller 62 to a particular element of the component 88. However, in other embodiments, at least one element of the component may also be directly electrically coupled to (one or more) electrical connectors (for example, by bypassing the component controller). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the component controller and / or at least one element of the component can bypass the surface-mount vehicle controller by receiving power directly from the surface-mount vehicle's power system (e.g., battery, inductive receiver, etc.).

[0044] In some embodiments, the controller 92 is an electronic controller having electrical circuits configured to control (one or more) specific elements of component 88. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 92 includes a processor, such as the illustrated microprocessor 94, and a memory device 96. The controller 92 may also include one or more storage devices and / or other suitable components. The processor 94 can be used to run software, such as software that controls (one or more) specific elements of component 88. Furthermore, the processor 94 may include multiple microprocessors, one or more "general-purpose" microprocessors, one or more special-purpose microprocessors, and / or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or a combination thereof. For example, the processor 94 may include one or more reduced instruction set (RISC) processors.

[0045] The memory device 96 may include volatile memory such as random access memory (RAM) and / or non-volatile memory such as read-only memory (ROM). The memory device 96 can store various types of information and can be used for various purposes. For example, the memory device 96 may store processor-executable instructions (e.g., firmware or software) executed by the processor 94, such as instructions to control specific elements (one or multiple) of component 88. The (one or multiple) storage device (e.g., non-volatile storage) may include ROM, flash memory, hard drive, or any other preferred optical, magnetic or solid storage medium, or a combination thereof. The (one or multiple) storage device may store data, instructions (e.g., software or firmware to control specific elements (one or multiple) of component), and any other preferred data.

[0046] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the rail coupling system 34 includes one or more data connectors located on at least one rail. The (single or multiple) data connectors are configured to facilitate control of component 88 by establishing a communication link 98 between the controller 62 of the surface-mount vehicle 14 and the controller 92 of component 88. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 92 is communicatively coupled to the actuator 100, and the actuator 100 is configured to control an animated figure 22 (e.g., a doll). The controller 92 and actuator 100 are part of a control module 101 coupled to the rail coupling system 34, and the animated figure 22 (e.g., actuator component 103) is coupled to the control module 101. However, in other embodiments, the components coupled to the rail coupling system may have a different preferred structural configuration. The controller 62 of the surface-mount vehicle can give commands to the controller 92 of component 88 to control the animated figure 22, and the controller 92 of component 88 can instruct the actuator 100 to control the animated figure 22 based on these commands. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 62 of the surface-mount vehicle 14 is communicatively coupled to the actuator 100 via the controller 92 of the component 88. In other embodiments, the surface-mount vehicle controller 62 may be directly communicatively coupled to the actuator 100. In such embodiments, the component controller may be omitted. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the controller 92 may also be communicatively coupled to other suitable (single or multiple) communication systems (e.g., the component's communication system, the surface-mount vehicle's communication system 82, the surface-mount vehicle's (single or multiple) data conductors, etc.). In such embodiments, the controller 92 may directly receive commands from other (single or multiple) communication systems (e.g., alone or in combination with receiving commands from the surface-mount vehicle controller).

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, component 88 includes two actuators 100, but in other embodiments, the component may include more or fewer actuators (e.g., 0, 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 or more). Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, an anime figure is coupled to the rail coupling system 34, but in other embodiments, other suitable components such as speakers, lights, winches, displays, projectors, fogging machines, theater laser assemblies, or movable walls may be coupled to the rail coupling system. In such embodiments, a controller for the surface-mounted vehicle and / or a controller for the component may control the operation of one or more functions of the component.

[0048] Figure 4 is a block diagram of another embodiment of the theater production system 102, including a surface-mounted vehicle 104 and a surface assembly 28, which can be used within the performance environment of Figure 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the surface assembly 28 includes a ceiling 20. However, in other embodiments, as described above with reference to Figure 1, the surface assembly may include walls or a stage.

[0049] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface-mounted vehicle 104 includes a first part 106 and a second part 108. As shown, the first part 106 is positioned on the first side 110 (e.g., the upper side of the surface assembly) of the surface assembly 28, and the second part 108 is positioned on the second side 112 (e.g., the lower side of the surface assembly) opposite to the first side 110 of the surface assembly. The first part 106 of the surface-mounted vehicle 104 also includes a propulsion system 68, and the second part 108 of the surface-mounted vehicle 104 includes a body 30 and a rail coupling system 34. Furthermore, a mounting system 114 is positioned between the first part and the second part to connect the surface-mounted vehicle 104 to the surface assembly 28.

[0050] In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting system 114 includes a magnet 50 coupled to the body 116 of the first part 106 of the surface-mount vehicle 104, and a magnet 50 coupled to the body 30 of the second part 108 of the surface-mount vehicle 104. The magnet 50 of the first part 106 is substantially aligned with the magnet 50 of the second part 108, thereby establishing a magnetic force between the first and second parts of the surface-mount vehicle 104. Thus, while the surface-mount vehicle 104 is positioned on the ceiling 20 as shown, the weight of the first part 106 of the surface-mount vehicle 104 can be supported by the surface assembly 28, and the weight of the second part 108 of the surface-mount vehicle 104 can be supported by the magnetic force to the first part 106 of the surface-mount vehicle 104. In the illustrated embodiment, each magnet 50 consists only of (single or double) permanent magnets. Therefore, each magnet is not electrically coupled to a controller or a suitable power system. However, in other embodiments, at least one magnet in the mounting system may include at least one electromagnet (e.g., alone or in combination with one or more permanent magnets). In such embodiments, the (single or double) electromagnets can be electrically coupled to a controller and / or a suitable power system (e.g., an induction receiver, a (single or double) conductor configured to receive power from the surface assembly, etc.).

[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, the first part 106 of the surface-mount vehicle 104 includes two magnets 50, and the second part 108 of the surface-mount vehicle 104 includes two magnets. In other embodiments, at least one part of the surface-mount vehicle may include more or fewer magnets (e.g., 0, 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 or more). For example, each part of the surface-mount vehicle may have the same number of magnets, and each magnet in one part may be substantially aligned with each magnet in the other part. Furthermore, in some embodiments, at least one part of the surface-mount vehicle may include one or more ferromagnetic structures (e.g., individually or in combination with (single or multiple) magnets). For example, in some embodiments, the first part of the surface-mount vehicle may include one or more ferromagnetic structures configured to interact with each of the one or more magnets of the second part of the surface-mount vehicle, and / or the second part of the surface-mount vehicle may include one or more ferromagnetic structures configured to interact with each of the one or more magnets of the first part of the surface-mount vehicle. Furthermore, in some embodiments, at least one wheel of one part of a surface-mounted vehicle may be magnetic. In such embodiments, at least one corresponding wheel of the other part may be magnetic and / or include a ferromagnetic structure (for example, the wheels may be formed from a ferromagnetic material). Alternatively or in addition to this, at least one magnetic wheel of one part may interact with a magnet or ferromagnetic structure of the other part, and / or at least one wheel having a ferromagnetic structure of one part may interact with a magnet of the other part.

[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting system 114 includes a magnet 50, but in other embodiments, the mounting system may include a physical structure configured to extend between the first and second parts to connect the surface-mounted vehicle to the surface assembly. For example, in some embodiments, one or more cables and / or one or more rods may extend between the first part and the second part of the surface-mounted vehicle. In such embodiments, the (single or double) cables / (single or double) rods may extend through openings in the surface assembly (for example, to support the weight of the second part of the surface-mounted vehicle while the surface-mounted vehicle is positioned on the ceiling). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the second part of the surface-mounted vehicle may be connected to the surface assembly (for example, alone or in combination with connection to the first part of the surface-mounted vehicle) by one or more preferred systems such as the systems disclosed above with reference to Figure 3 (e.g., magnetic mounting systems, rail / track systems, slot / projection systems, cable systems, other preferred (single or double) systems, or combinations thereof). In addition to or instead of the above, the first part of the surface-mounted vehicle may also be coupled to a surface assembly by one or more preferred systems, such as the systems disclosed above with reference to Figure 3 (e.g., magnetic mounting systems, rail / track systems, slot / projection systems, cable systems, other preferred (single or multiple) systems, or combinations thereof) (for example, alone or in combination with coupling to the second part of the surface-mounted vehicle).

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, the propulsion system 68 is located within the body 116 of the first part 106 of the surface-mounted vehicle 104. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the propulsion system 68 includes an electric motor 70 configured to rotate each wheel 56. Each wheel 56 is rotatably coupled to the body 116 of the first part 106 of the surface-mounted vehicle 104 and engages with the surface 118 of the surface assembly 28. Thus, the electric motor 70 can propel the surface-mounted vehicle 104 along the surface assembly 28 by rotating each wheel. The motor 70 can be controlled in the manner disclosed above with reference to Figure 3. Furthermore, any of the variations of the propulsion system disclosed above with reference to Figure 3 (e.g., number of motors, type of motors, inclusion of (single or multiple) pivotable wheels, etc.) may be applied to the illustrated propulsion system.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the movement of the first part 106 of the surface-mounted vehicle 104 is configured to cause the movement of the second part 108 of the surface-mounted vehicle 104 due to a coupling (e.g., magnetic coupling) between the parts. For example, when the propulsion system 68 drives the first part 106 of the surface-mounted vehicle 104 along the surface assembly 28, the magnetic coupling between the first and second parts causes the second part 108 of the surface-mounted vehicle 104 to move along the surface assembly 28. In some embodiments, the second part of the surface-mounted vehicle may include a propulsion system configured to move the second part of the surface-mounted vehicle along the surface assembly. For example, in some embodiments, the propulsion system for the first part of the surface-mounted vehicle may be omitted, and the coupling between the first and second parts may cause the first part to move along the surface assembly in response to the movement of the second part along the surface assembly. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the first part of the surface-mounted vehicle may include a first propulsion system, and the second part of the surface-mounted vehicle may include a second propulsion system.

[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface-mount vehicle 104 includes an internal power transmission system 120 configured to transmit power from a first portion 106 of the surface-mount vehicle 104 to a second portion 108 of the surface-mount vehicle 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the internal power transmission system 120 includes an induction transmitter 122 coupled to the body 116 of the first portion 106 of the surface-mount vehicle 104. The internal power transmission system 120 also includes an induction receiver 124 coupled to the body 30 of the second portion 108 of the surface-mount vehicle 104. The induction transmitter 122 is configured to output power to the induction receiver 124, which receives power from the induction transmitter 122 and is configured to output power to a component (e.g., a light 24) coupled to the rail coupling system 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the induction transmitter 122 is electrically coupled to the controller 62, which is configured to control the transmission of power to components (e.g., lights 24) coupled to the rail coupling system 34 by controlling the output of the induction transmitter 122. In the illustrated embodiment, the induction transmitter 122 is electrically coupled to the controller 62, but in other embodiments, the induction transmitter may be directly electrically coupled to a power system (e.g., a battery, (single or multiple) conductors, an induction receiver of a surface assembly - an induction power system of a surface-mounted vehicle, etc.).

[0056] The surface-mount vehicle 104 may include any preferred system configured to receive power from an external power source, such as the power transmission system disclosed above with reference to Figures 2-3 (for example, via (single or double) wires, conductors, inductive power systems, another preferred (single or double) system, or a combination thereof). For example, in some embodiments, one or more conductors may be placed on the surface 118 of the surface assembly 28 facing the first part 106 of the surface-mount vehicle 104, and / or one or more conductors may be placed on the surface 60 of the surface assembly 28 facing the second part 108 of the surface-mount vehicle 104. In such embodiments, power transmission from an external source to the first and / or second parts of the surface-mount vehicle can be facilitated by including corresponding (single or double) conductors configured to contact the (single or double) conductors of the surface assembly. Furthermore, in some embodiments, power transmission from an external source to the surface-mounted vehicle can be facilitated by including (one or more) inductive transmitters in the surface assembly and (e.g., a first and / or second part of the surface-mounted vehicle) including (one or more) inductive receivers. Also, in some embodiments, one or more conductors can be placed on the surface of the first part of the surface-mounted vehicle opposite to the surface assembly. In such embodiments, power transmission from an external source to the first part of the surface-mounted vehicle can be facilitated by including corresponding (one or more) conductors configured to contact (one or more) conductors on the surface. In some embodiments, a second part of the surface-mounted vehicle can receive power and an internal power transmission system can transfer it to the first part of the surface-mounted vehicle. Furthermore, in some embodiments, power can also be transmitted from an external power source to each part of the surface-mounted vehicle. In such embodiments, the internal power transmission system can be omitted.

[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, the battery 80 is coupled to the body 116 of the first part 106 of the surface-mount vehicle 104. As described above, the battery 80 is configured to supply power (e.g., continuously, on demand, etc.) to specific elements (one or more) of the surface-mount vehicle 104 and / or components coupled to the surface-mount vehicle. For example, the battery 80 can supply power to (one or more) electromagnets when external power to the surface-mount vehicle 14 is partially or completely cut off. In the illustrated embodiment, the battery 80 is electrically coupled to a controller 62, which is configured to control the flow of power from the battery 80 to the motor 70, to the induction transmitter 122, to other elements of the surface-mount vehicle, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one element (e.g., one or more motors, induction transmitters, etc.) can be directly electrically coupled to the battery. The battery 80 is coupled to the body 116 of the first part 106 of the surface-mount vehicle 104, and since the first part 106 of the surface-mount vehicle 104 is supported by the surface assembly 28 (for example, while the surface-mount vehicle is positioned on the ceiling), a larger battery can be used (compared to, for example, a battery coupled to the second part of the surface-mount vehicle which is supported by (one or more) magnets). In the illustrated embodiment, the surface-mount vehicle 104 includes a single battery 80, but in other embodiments, the surface-mount vehicle may include more or fewer batteries (e.g., 0, 2, 3, 4, or 5 or more). For example, in some embodiments, at least one element of the surface-mount vehicle / component can be electrically coupled to each battery. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the battery is coupled to the body of the first part of the surface-mount vehicle, but in other embodiments, the battery may also be coupled to the body of the second part of the surface-mount vehicle (for example, alone or in combination with a battery coupled to the body of the first part of the surface-mount vehicle). Also, in some embodiments, the battery may be omitted.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, a communication system 82, commutably coupled to a controller 62, is coupled to the body 116 of the first part 106 of the surface-mount vehicle 104. As described above, the communication system 82 is configured to receive commands indicating control of the surface-mount vehicle 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the communication system 82 includes a data receiver 84 configured to be commutably coupled to a data transmitter (e.g., on the surface assembly 28). The data transmitter can output a radio signal indicating a command to the data receiver 84, and the data receiver 84 can output each signal indicating a command to the controller 62. In the illustrated embodiment, the communication system 82 includes a radio data receiver 84, but in other embodiments, the communication system may include a wired connection to a remote control system (e.g., alone or in combination with the illustrated radio connection). For example, in some embodiments, as disclosed above with reference to Figure 2, the communication system may include a data conductor configured to contact a corresponding data conductor on the surface assembly. In some embodiments, the surface-mounted vehicle can be configured to move to a data receiving location to receive commands from a remote control system (for example, in response to the reception of a wireless signal via commands stored in the controller's memory). Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the communication system is coupled to the body of the first part of the surface-mounted vehicle, but in other embodiments, the communication system may be coupled to the body of the second part of the surface-mounted vehicle, or the communication system may be distributed between the first and second parts of the surface-mounted vehicle. For example, in some embodiments, each part of the surface-mounted vehicle may be configured to communicate with the remote control system.

[0059] In some embodiments, a surface-mount vehicle may include an internal communication system configured to facilitate communication between first and second parts of the surface-mount vehicle. For example, the internal communication system may include a first transmitter / receiver / transceiver coupled to the body of the first part of the surface-mount vehicle, and a second transmitter / receiver / transceiver coupled to the body of the second part of the surface-mount vehicle. As a further example, the internal communication system may include a wired connection between the first and second parts of the surface-mount vehicle. Furthermore, in some embodiments, signals can be transmitted between the first and second parts of the surface-mount vehicle via (single or double) conductors extending through a surface assembly, in which case each (single or double) conductor of the first part and each (single or double) conductor of the second part contacts a (single or double) conductor of the surface assembly to establish a communication link between the first and second parts of the surface-mount vehicle.

[0060] Furthermore, in some embodiments, a first and / or second portion of the surface-mounted vehicle may include a sensor assembly communicatively coupled to its respective controller. The sensor assembly may include position sensors (e.g., Global Positioning System (GPS) sensors, Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensors, wheel rotation sensors, etc.), object detection sensors (e.g., LiDAR sensors, Radar sensors, ultrasonic sensors, induction sensors, capacitive sensors, etc.), other suitable (single or multiple) sensors (e.g., light detection sensors, sound detection sensors, cameras, etc.), or combinations thereof. The controller can control the operation of the surface-mounted vehicle based on feedback from the (single or multiple) sensors. For example, the position of the surface-mounted vehicle can be controlled based on feedback from a position sensor mounted on the first portion of the surface-mounted vehicle, and / or the surface-mounted vehicle can be controlled to avoid obstacles based on feedback from an object detection sensor mounted on the second portion of the surface-mounted vehicle.

[0061] In the illustrated embodiment, a second portion 108 of a surface-mount vehicle 104 includes a rail coupling system 34 configured to couple a component 88 to the second portion 108 of the surface-mount vehicle 104. For example, as described above with reference to Figure 2, the rail coupling system 34 may include a first rail and a second rail substantially parallel to each other. The rail coupling system 34 includes a plurality of electrical connectors arranged along at least one of the rails, which are configured to supply power to the component. In the illustrated embodiment, (one or more) electrical connectors establish an electrical connection 90 between the induction receiver 124 and the component 88. In the illustrated embodiment, a direct electrical connection is established between the induction receiver 124 and the component 88 (e.g., the light 24), but in other embodiments, the component may also be electrically coupled to the induction receiver via a controller of the surface-mount vehicle configured to control the power output to the component. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the component can also be electrically coupled (for example, directly or via a controller) (for example, alone or in combination with an inductive receiver) to other suitable (single or double) power systems such as batteries and / or (single or double) conductors.

[0062] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the rail coupling system includes one or more data connectors located on at least one rail. The (single or multiple) data connectors are configured to facilitate control of the component by establishing a communication link between the surface-mount vehicle controller and the component controller. In the illustrated embodiment, the surface-mount vehicle controller is coupled to the body of a first part of the surface-mount vehicle. Thus, the surface-mount vehicle controller can be communicatively coupled to the component controller by an internal communication system. In some embodiments, the surface-mount vehicle controller can be coupled to the body of a second part of the surface-mount vehicle. In such embodiments, the controller can be directly communicatively coupled to the component controller via the rail coupling system. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the surface-mount vehicle may include a first controller coupled to the body of a first part of the surface-mount vehicle, and a second controller coupled to the body of a second part of the surface-mount vehicle. In such embodiments, the first and second controllers can be communicatively coupled to each other by an internal communication system. Furthermore, a controller coupled to the body of the second part of the surface-mounted vehicle (e.g., a second controller, a single controller, etc.) may be configured to control other elements of the second part of the surface-mounted vehicle (e.g., a propulsion system coupled to the second part of the surface-mounted vehicle, (single or multiple) electromagnets, etc.) and / or elements of the first part of the surface-mounted vehicle (e.g., via an internal communication system).

[0063] Any of the functions of the elements disclosed above with reference to the embodiments in Figures 2 to 3 can be applied to the elements of the illustrated embodiments. Furthermore, any of the modifications disclosed above with reference to the embodiments in Figures 2 to 3 can also be applied to the illustrated embodiments. For example, any of the modifications related to the propulsion system, mounting system, wheels, communication system, controller, power system, and battery disclosed above with reference to Figure 3 can be applied to the illustrated surface-mounted vehicle embodiment.

[0064] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a rail coupling system 34 that can be used inside any of the surface-mounted vehicles of Figures 2 to 4 (for example, the second part of the surface-mounted vehicle in Figure 4). In the illustrated embodiment, the rail coupling system 34 includes a first rail 36 and a second rail 38 that are substantially parallel to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the rail coupling system 34 includes two parallel rails, but in other embodiments, the rail coupling system may include more or fewer rails (e.g., one, three, four, five, six, or seven or more) each oriented at any preferred angle.

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, the rail coupling system 34 includes a plurality of electrical connectors 126 arranged along a first rail 36 and a second rail 38. At least some of the electrical connectors 126 are configured to supply power to components coupled to the rail coupling system 34. For example, a first set of one or more electrical connectors may be arranged along the first rail 36, and a second set of one or more electrical connectors may be arranged along the second rail 38. In embodiments where DC power is supplied to components coupled to the rail coupling system, the first set of electrical connectors and the second set of electrical connectors may have opposite polarities to facilitate power transmission to the components coupled to the rail coupling system. Furthermore, in embodiments where AC power is supplied to components coupled to the rail coupling system, the first set of electrical connectors may supply either AC power or a ground connection, and the second set of electrical connectors may supply either AC power or a ground connection, to facilitate power transmission to the components coupled to the rail coupling system. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a first set of one or more electrical connectors can be arranged along one rail (e.g., a first rail 36 or a second rail 38), and a second set of one or more electrical connectors can be arranged along the same rail (e.g., a first rail 36 or a second rail 38). In embodiments where DC power is supplied to the components coupled to the rail coupling system, the first set of electrical connectors and the second set of electrical connectors have opposite polarities to facilitate power transmission to the components coupled to the rail coupling system. Furthermore, in embodiments where AC power is supplied to the components coupled to the rail coupling system, the first set of electrical connectors supplies AC power and the second set of electrical connectors supplies the ground connection to facilitate power transmission to the components coupled to the rail coupling system.

[0066] While the above discloses a rail coupling system including two sets of electrical connectors, in some embodiments the rail coupling system may include one set of electrical connectors. In some embodiments, each electrical connector of the rail coupling system may be configured to supply AC power to a component coupled to the rail coupling system, and the component may be coupled to earth by another preferred connection. For example, at least one rail of the rail coupling system may be formed of a conductive material (e.g., metal), and at least one rail may be electrically coupled to earth. Thus, an earth connection to a component can be established by coupling the component to the earthed (single or double) rail of the rail coupling system. Furthermore, each electrical connector of the rail coupling system may be configured to provide a positive or negative DC power connection to a component coupled to the rail coupling system, and the component may be coupled to the opposite DC power connection by another preferred connection. For example, at least one rail of the rail coupling system may be formed of a conductive material (e.g., metal), and at least one rail may be electrically coupled to the opposite DC power connection (e.g., negative or positive). Thus, an opposite DC power connection to a component can be established by coupling the component to the corresponding (single or double) rail.

[0067] In the illustrated embodiment, each electrical connector 126 is formed on each tooth 128 of each rail. Each rail tooth 128 is configured to engage with each coupler of a component to connect the component to the rail coupling system 34. In the illustrated embodiment, each electrical connector 126 is formed on the inner surface 130 of each tooth 128, and the corresponding electrical connector on the coupler of the component is configured to contact the electrical connector 126 of the rail coupling system 34 to establish an electrical connection 90 between the surface-mounted vehicle and the component. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical connector 126 is formed on the inner surface of the tooth, but in other embodiments, at least one electrical connector can be formed on another preferred surface of each tooth (e.g., the outer surface of the tooth). In addition to or instead of this, multiple electrical connectors (e.g., having opposite polarity) can be formed on at least one tooth. Furthermore, in some embodiments, one or more electrical connectors (e.g., individually or in combination with one or more electrical connectors formed on teeth / teeth) can also be formed on another (single or multiple) preferred structure of at least one rail, such as on the base portion 132 of at least one rail (e.g., alone or in combination with one or more electrical connectors formed on teeth / teeth). In the illustrated embodiment, multiple electrical connectors 126 are arranged along the first rail 36 and the second rail 38, but in other embodiments, multiple electrical connectors may be arranged along only a single rail (e.g., the first rail 36 or the second rail 38), or a single electrical connector may be arranged along / on at least one rail (e.g., one electrical connector may be placed on the first rail and another on the second rail).

[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, a conductor 134 (e.g., a wire) extends from each electrical connector 126 to the respective part of the power system. For example, in some embodiments, the electrical connector 126 on the first rail 36 can be electrically coupled to the positive terminal of the power system, and the electrical connector 126 on the second rail 38 can be electrically coupled to the negative terminal of the power system. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the electrical connector 126 on the first rail 36 can be electrically coupled to the energized terminal of the power system, and the electrical connector 126 on the second rail 38 can be electrically coupled to the ground terminal of the power system. In other embodiments, each electrical connector can be electrically coupled to another preferred part of the power system via a conductor. As described above, the power system may include an induction receiver, a conductor, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, in some embodiments, at least one electrical connector can be electrically coupled to the (single or multiple) power system via a controller.

[0069] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the rail coupling system 34 includes one or more data connectors 136 arranged on / along at least one rail. The (single or multiple) data connectors are configured to facilitate control of a component by establishing a communication link 98 between a surface-mount vehicle (e.g., a controller for the surface-mount vehicle) and a component (e.g., a controller for the component). In the illustrated embodiment, each data connector 136 is formed on each tooth 128 of each rail. As described above, the teeth 128 of each rail are configured to engage with each coupler of a component to couple the component to the rail coupling system 34. In the illustrated embodiment, each data connector 136 is formed on the inner surface 130 of each tooth 128, and the corresponding data connector on the coupler of the component is configured to contact the data connector 136 of the rail coupling system 34 to establish a communication link 98 between the surface-mount vehicle and the component. In the illustrated embodiment, the data connectors 136 are formed on the inner surface of the teeth, but in other embodiments, at least one data connector can be formed on another preferred surface of each tooth (e.g., the outer surface of the tooth). In addition to or instead of this, multiple data connectors can be formed on at least one tooth. Also, in some embodiments, one or more data connectors and one or more electrical connectors can be formed on at least one tooth. The electrical connectors and / or data connectors can be arranged (e.g., in an alternating pattern, in groups, etc.) at any preferred (single or multiple) positions along each rail. Furthermore, in some embodiments, one or more data connectors can be formed (e.g., individually or in combination with one or more data connectors formed on one or more teeth) on another preferred structure (single or multiple) of at least one rail, such as on the base portion 132 of at least one rail.In the illustrated embodiment, multiple data connectors 136 are arranged along the first rail 36 and the second rail 38, but in other embodiments, data connectors (one or multiple) may be arranged along / only along a single rail (e.g., the first rail 36 or the second rail 38), and / or a single data connector may be arranged on at least one rail. Furthermore, in some embodiments (e.g., embodiments in which a wireless communication link is established between a component coupled to the rail coupling system and a surface-mounted vehicle and / or a remote control system), data connectors may be omitted from the rail coupling system.

[0070] As described above, each rail includes a base portion 132 and a plurality of teeth 128 extending from the base portion 132. In the illustrated embodiment, each tooth 128 includes a lateral projection 138 configured to engage with a corresponding lateral recess of a mounting portion of the component (e.g., a coupler). For example, in some embodiments, the component may include one or more couplers (e.g., one or more couplers per rail), each coupler may include opposing lateral recesses configured to receive each lateral projection 138 of the teeth 128. In such embodiments, each coupler of the component can be engaged with its respective rail by aligning the lateral recess of the coupler with the lateral projection of the respective rail and then translating the coupler of the component toward the rail (e.g., moving the component toward the rail coupling system). Once the lateral projection of each rail engages with the lateral recess of the respective coupler, the component can be moved to a desired position along the rail (one or multiple). The coupler of the component can then be secured in the desired position along its respective rail using one or more fasteners. A rail coupling system can support the load (e.g., weight) of a component while a surface-mounted vehicle is coupled to any suitable surface (e.g., a wall, ceiling, stage, etc.). For example, a rail coupling system can enable a surface-mounted vehicle to support a component when moving between suitable surfaces (e.g., (single or double) walls, ceilings, stages, etc.) and while the surface-mounted vehicle is positioned on a suitable surface.

[0071] In the illustrated embodiment, the lateral projections 138 are formed on the teeth 128 of each rail, but in other embodiments, at least one lateral projection of at least one rail may be formed on another preferred structure of the rail (e.g., the base portion). Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the rail coupling system includes lateral projections on each rail configured to engage with lateral recesses in each corresponding coupler of the component, but in other embodiments, the lateral recesses may be formed in at least one rail, and (one or multiple) lateral projections may extend from each of at least one couplers of the component. In addition to or instead of the above, at least one rail of the rail coupling system may also include any other suitable structure configured to couple the component to a surface-mount vehicle (for example, alone or in combination with the protrusions), such as a magnetic coupling assembly, a slot configured to receive the protrusions of each (single or double) coupler, an (single or double) inward protrusion configured to engage with the (single or double) outward recess of each (single or double) coupler, an (single or double) inward recess configured to engage with the (single or double) outward protrusion of each (single or double) coupler, another suitable (single or double) structure, or a combination thereof.

[0072] In the illustrated embodiment, each rail of the rail coupling system 34 is coupled to the respective mount 140 of the surface-mount vehicle. In some embodiments, each mount 140 can be coupled to the body 30 of the surface-mount vehicle. As shown, each mount 140 includes a tongue 142 configured to engage with a groove 144. Each groove 144 is formed by the respective rail and the respective engaging member 146 coupled to the respective rail by a fastener 148. To couple each rail to its respective mount 140, the engaging member 146 can be loosely coupled to the rail by the fastener 148, and the groove 144 formed by the engaging member 146 and the rail can be aligned with the tongue 142 of the respective mount 140. The rail / engaging member can then be moved toward the mount so that the tongue 142 engages with the groove 144. The fastener 148 can be tightened to fix the rail in the target position along the mount 140. In the illustrated embodiment, each rail is connected to its respective mount by a tongue-and-groove connection; however, in other embodiments, at least one rail can be fixed to its respective mount and / or another suitable structure of the surface-mount vehicle (for example, alone or in combination with a tongue-and-groove connection) by any other suitable type of connection, such as welded connections, adhesive connections, connections established by fasteners, other suitable connections (single or double), or a combination thereof.

[0073] In some embodiments, multiple surface-mounted vehicles can collectively support a component within the performance environment. For example, the weight of a component, and in some embodiments, the expected maximum load supported by the component, may exceed the force provided by the mounting system (e.g., while the surface-mounted vehicles are positioned on the ceiling) that connects the surface-mounted vehicles to the surface assembly. Therefore, by connecting a component to multiple surface-mounted vehicles (e.g., two, three, four, five, six, or seven or more), the combined force provided by the mounting system can be made to exceed the weight of the component / the expected maximum load supported by the component. For example, a component may include a large light, a large speaker, a winch configured to lift other objects, or another suitable component. A component can be connected to multiple surface-mounted vehicles by having spaced couplers that engage with one or more rails on each surface-mounted vehicle. One or more of the surface-mounted vehicles can establish power connections and / or communication links. Furthermore, the surface-mounted vehicles connected to the component can be controlled together to control the movement of the component within the performance environment. While the above discloses the coupling of heavy components with multiple surface-mount vehicles, in some embodiments, multiple surface-mount vehicles can also be coupled to a component (e.g., a lightweight component) to provide additional power to that component. For example, a component (e.g., a light, a speaker, etc.) may utilize more power than a single surface-mount vehicle can supply. Therefore, multiple surface-mount vehicles can be coupled to a component to provide sufficient power to that component.

[0074] In some embodiments, the surface assembly may include a maintenance section located outside the performance environment. In such embodiments, the surface-mounted vehicle may be configured to move to the maintenance section (e.g., in response to receiving signals from a remote control system, commands stored in the controller's memory, etc.), and an operator may access the surface-mounted vehicle while it is in the maintenance section. For example, the operator may remove one component from the surface-mounted vehicle and install a different component. The operator may also perform maintenance operations on the surface-mounted vehicle while it is in the maintenance section. In addition to or instead of this, the surface-mounted vehicle may also receive data and / or charge its battery while located in the maintenance section of the surface assembly. For example, in some embodiments, the maintenance section may include (one or multiple) conductors configured to facilitate the transmission of power to the surface-mounted vehicle and / or establish a communication link between the remote control system and the surface-mounted vehicle. Furthermore, in some embodiments, maintenance and / or reconfiguration operations may be performed automatically by a mechanical system (e.g., a robot). For example, the mechanical system can remove a surface-mounted vehicle from the surface assembly, perform maintenance operations on the surface-mounted vehicle, and / or remove and replace components attached to the surface-mounted vehicle. In some embodiments, the mechanical system can perform (one or more) maintenance and / or reconfiguration operations while the surface-mounted vehicle is attached to the surface assembly. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the maintenance area can be movable. For example, the maintenance area can be moved to a location suitable for (one or more) maintenance and / or reconfiguration operations on the surface-mounted vehicle after it has been received.

[0075] While only a few features have been illustrated and described in this specification, many modifications and changes will come to mind for those skilled in the art. Therefore, the attached claims should be understood to include all such modifications and changes that constitute the actual spirit of this disclosure.

[0076] The claimed technologies described herein refer to and apply to tangible objects and specific examples of a practical nature that are not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical, but which certainly improve the art. Furthermore, if any of the claims appended to the end of this specification contain one or more elements designated as "...means for performing [function]" or "...steps for performing [function]," such elements should be interpreted in accordance with 112(f) of the United States Patent Act. On the other hand, any claim containing elements designated in any other form should not be interpreted in accordance with 112(f) of the United States Patent Act. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0077] 12. Theater Production System 14 Surface-mounted vehicles 20 Ceiling 24 Lights 28 Surface Assembly 30 Main Unit 32 Installation System 34 Rail coupling system 36. The first rail 38 The second rail 42 First conductor 44 Second conductor 46 Data Conductors

Claims

1. Surface-mounted vehicle, The main unit and A mounting system configured to magnetically connect the surface-mounted vehicle to a surface assembly via magnets, A propulsion system configured to rotate at least one of the following, which is rotatably coupled to the main body and configured to engage with the surface assembly: one or more motors, one or more wheels, one or more actuators, or a combination thereof, to move the surface-mounted vehicle along the surface assembly; Rail coupling system, The rail coupling system is equipped with, At least one rail, which is coupled to the main body and configured to engage and connect the component to the surface-mounted vehicle, A plurality of electrical connectors arranged along the at least one rail and configured to be electrically coupled to the component and to supply power to the component, including, Surface-mounted vehicle.

2. The rail coupling system includes at least two rails, the at least two rails including a first rail and a second rail that are substantially parallel to each other. A surface-mounted vehicle according to claim 1.

3. The plurality of electrical connectors include a first set of one or more electrical connectors arranged along the first rail and a second set of one or more electrical connectors arranged along the second rail, wherein the first set of one or more electrical connectors and the second set of one or more electrical connectors are configured to have opposite polarities. A surface-mounted vehicle according to claim 2.

4. The rail coupling system includes at least two rails, and the plurality of electrical connectors includes a plurality of electrical connectors arranged along each of the at least two rails. A surface-mounted vehicle according to claim 1.

5. The system comprises at least one data connector located on the at least one rail, A surface-mounted vehicle according to claim 1.

6. The battery is electrically coupled to the plurality of electrical connectors and configured to supply power to the components, A surface-mounted vehicle according to claim 1.

7. The system includes an inductive power system configured to receive power from an inductive power source and output the power to the components via the plurality of electrical connectors, A surface-mounted vehicle according to claim 1.

8. A controller including memory and a processor is provided, the controller being communicatively coupled to the propulsion system and configured to control the movement of the surface-mounted vehicle, A surface-mounted vehicle according to claim 1.

9. The controller is provided with a communication system that is communicatively coupled to it, and the communication system is configured to receive commands indicating control of the surface-mounted vehicle. The surface-mounted vehicle according to claim 8.

10. It is a theatrical production system, Surface assembly and, Surface-mounted vehicles and The surface-mounted vehicle is equipped with, The main unit and A mounting system configured to magnetically connect the surface-mounted vehicle to the surface assembly via magnets, A propulsion system configured to rotate at least one of the following, which is rotatably coupled to the main body and configured to engage with the surface assembly: one or more motors, one or more wheels, one or more actuators, or a combination thereof, to move the surface-mounted vehicle along the surface assembly; Rail coupling system, The rail coupling system includes, At least one rail, which is coupled to the main body and configured to engage and connect the component to the surface-mounted vehicle, A plurality of electrical connectors arranged along the at least one rail and configured to be electrically coupled to the component and to supply power to the component, including, Theater production system.

11. The surface assembly includes a first conductor extending along the surface assembly, the surface-mounted vehicle includes a third conductor configured to contact the first conductor, and the first and third conductors are configured to transmit the power from the first conductor through the third conductor to at least some of the plurality of electrical connectors. The theater production system according to claim 10.

12. The surface assembly includes an induction transmitter, the surface-mounted vehicle includes an induction receiver, the induction receiver is configured to receive power from the induction transmitter and output the power to the component via the plurality of electrical connectors. The theater production system according to claim 10.

13. The surface assembly, the mounting system for the surface-mounted vehicle, or a combination thereof, includes at least one magnet configured to connect the surface-mounted vehicle to the surface assembly. The theater production system according to claim 10.

14. The surface-mounted vehicle includes a first portion located on a first side of the surface assembly and a second portion located on a second side of the surface assembly opposite to the first side, wherein the first portion includes the propulsion system, and the second portion includes the main body and the rail coupling system, and the mounting system is located between the first and second portions and magnetically couples the surface-mounted vehicle to the surface assembly via the magnets. The theater production system according to claim 10.

15. The rail coupling system includes at least two rails, the at least two rails including a first rail and a second rail that are substantially parallel to each other. The theater production system according to claim 10.

16. The plurality of electrical connectors include a first set of one or more electrical connectors arranged along the first rail and a second set of one or more electrical connectors arranged along the second rail, wherein the first set of one or more electrical connectors and the second set of one or more electrical connectors are configured to have opposite polarities. The theater production system according to claim 15.

17. Surface-mounted vehicle, The main unit and A magnetic mounting system comprising at least one magnet configured to magnetically bond the surface-mounted vehicle to a surface assembly, A plurality of wheels are rotatably coupled to the main body and configured to engage with the surface assembly, A propulsion system configured to rotate at least one of the plurality of wheels to move the vehicle along the surface assembly, Rail coupling system, The rail coupling system is equipped with, At least one rail, which is coupled to the main body and configured to engage and connect to the surface-mounted vehicle, A plurality of electrical connectors arranged along the at least one rail and configured to be electrically coupled to the component and to supply power to the component, including, Surface-mounted vehicle.

18. A controller including memory and a processor is provided, the controller being communicatively coupled to the propulsion system and configured to control the movement of the surface-mounted vehicle, The surface-mounted vehicle according to claim 17.

19. The rail coupling system includes at least two rails, the at least two rails including a first rail and a second rail substantially parallel to each other, the plurality of electrical connectors include a first set of one or more electrical connectors arranged along the first rail and a second set of one or more electrical connectors arranged along the second rail, the first set of one or more electrical connectors and the second set of one or more electrical connectors are configured to have opposite polarities. The surface-mounted vehicle according to claim 17.

20. The system comprises at least one data connector located on the at least one rail, The surface-mounted vehicle according to claim 17.

Images