Interaction system and method equipped with a feedback device

Abstract

To provide interactive systems and methods that utilize a wearable device to provide feedback to a guest in an amusement park.SOLUTION: A wearable device includes a first radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, a second RFID tag, one or more feedback devices configured to provide feedback to a guest, and a microcontroller. The microcontroller is configured to: generate a first control signal that causes a first type of feedback via the one or more feedback devices in response to interaction between electromagnetic radiation having a first frequency and the first RFID tag; and generate a second control signal that causes a second type of feedback via the one or more feedback devices in response to interaction between electromagnetic radiation having a second frequency and the second RFID tag.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] [Cross - Reference to Related Applications] This application claims priority and the benefit thereof based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 617,506, entitled "INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS AND METHODS WITH FEEDBACK DEVICES", filed on January 15, 2018, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to interactive systems and methods. Specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to interactive systems and methods that utilize wearable devices to provide feedback to park visitors in amusement parks.

Background Art

[0003] Amusement parks and / or theme parks can include various entertainment attractions. Some existing attractions can provide immersive or interactive experiences to park visitors. For example, park visitors can visit areas with various features such as audio, video, and special effects. As the latest attractions become increasingly advanced and complex, there is a corresponding increase in expectations among park visitors in amusement parks and / or theme parks, and there is a need for improved and highly innovative attractions that include attractions that provide more interactive and personalized experiences.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] Some embodiments within the same scope as the subject matter of the original claims are summarized below. These embodiments do not limit the scope of the present disclosure, but rather merely show an overview of some of the disclosed embodiments. In fact, the present disclosure can include various forms similar to or different from the embodiments shown below.

[0005] In one embodiment, the wearable device includes a first radio identification (RFID) tag, a second RFID tag, one or more feedback devices configured to provide feedback to visitors, and a microcontroller configured to generate a first control signal that causes a first type of feedback via one or more feedback devices in response to the interaction between electromagnetic radiation having a first frequency and the first RFID tag, and to generate a second control signal that causes a second type of feedback via one or more feedback devices in response to the interaction between electromagnetic radiation having a second frequency and the second RFID tag.

[0006] In one embodiment, the system includes a wearable device having a first radio identification (RFID) tag, each containing a first memory for storing identification information. The system also includes a first reader configured to transmit electromagnetic radiation having a first frequency, which enables the first reader to read the identification information from the first memory and write the data to the first memory of the first RFID tag. The system further includes one or more light-emitting devices supported by the wearable device and a microcontroller supported by the wearable device. The microcontroller is configured to receive at least one of a first signal indicating that the transmitted electromagnetic radiation has been received by the first RFID tag and a second signal indicating that data has been written to the first memory, and is configured to generate a control signal to illuminate at least one of the one or more light-emitting devices based on the received first signal or the received second signal.

[0007] In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of transmitting electromagnetic radiation having a first frequency from a first reader, and transmitting identification information from a first radio identification (RFID) tag supported by a wearable device to the first reader in response to the transmission of electromagnetic radiation having the first frequency being received. The method also includes the step of receiving a first signal from the first RFID tag in a microcontroller supported by the wearable device, indicating that electromagnetic radiation having the first frequency has been received by the first RFID tag. The method further includes the step of generating a first control signal using the microcontroller in response to the microcontroller receiving the first signal, the first control signal causing one of several available types of illumination of one or more light-emitting elements supported by the wearable device.

[0008] Reading the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, which indicate the same parts by the same reference numerals throughout, will better convey these and other features, aspects and advantages of the disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the interaction system according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This figure shows the communication between a reader and a wearable device that can be used in the interaction system shown in Figure 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This figure shows communication between a reader and multiple wearable devices that can be used in the interaction system of Figure 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This diagram illustrates the team feedback that the interaction system shown in Figure 1 can provide according to an embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 5] This is a front view of a wearable device that can be used in the interaction system of Figure 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6]This is a flowchart illustrating the operation method of the interaction system shown in Figure 1, according to the aspects of this disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The following describes one or more specific embodiments of this disclosure. For the sake of brevity, this specification may not describe all the features of actual implementations. It should be understood that in developing any such actual implementation, as can be seen in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific objectives, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary depending on the implementation. Furthermore, while such development efforts can be complex and time-consuming, it should be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure as routine design, fabrication, and manufacturing activities.

[0011] Amusement parks attract visitors with a variety of entertainment options, including rides, shows, and games. These various types of entertainment can include features that enhance the visitor experience at the amusement park. For example, games can detect interactions between visitors and rendered images displayed on a screen. However, the experience provided by some interaction systems may be suboptimal due to a lack of feedback informing visitors that the interaction (recognized by the interaction system) is successful. Furthermore, some interaction systems may not identify the identity of visitors who interact with the interaction elements, and therefore may not accurately or efficiently track each visitor's points or other game statistics. Therefore, it is desirable to provide systems and methods that offer visitors feedback indicating that an interaction has actually been detected by the interaction system, and / or track each visitor's game statistics.

[0012] Accordingly, this disclosure relates to a system and method for providing feedback to park visitors based on their interaction with an interaction system using radio frequency identification (RFID). Specifically, this disclosure relates to an interaction system comprising one or more RFID readers and a plurality of wearable devices, each having one or more RFID tags and one or more feedback devices (e.g., lights) that work together to indicate successful interaction with an interaction element of an attraction. The components of the interaction system disclosed herein can also facilitate tracking of visitors' interactions and progress (e.g., game statistics) as visitors move between attractions.

[0013] The term "user" used below can refer to a user of an interaction system, and the user can be a visitor to an amusement park. For example, a user may wear or carry a wearable device with one or more feedback devices when moving between attractions. Attractions can have various interaction elements, which may be any of the following images or objects (e.g., rendered images presented on a display screen, virtual or graphic elements, physical targets, mascot characters). To experience an attraction, a user can interact with the interaction elements, for example, by touching a physical target or approaching a mascot character.

[0014] One or more RFID readers of the interaction system can be placed at various locations around the attraction and / or near some interaction elements. During operation, one or more RFID readers communicate with one or more RFID tags in the user's wearable device. Communication between one or more RFID readers and one or more RFID tags can trigger a feedback response via one or more feedback devices in the wearable device (e.g., turning on a light), thereby providing feedback to the user, for example, that the interaction system has detected interaction between the user and / or interaction elements within the attraction. Communication between one or more RFID readers and one or more RFID tags can also enable the interaction system to track the user's progress (e.g., game statistics) as the user moves between attractions. For example, the interaction system can detect and track the number of targets the user has touched and / or the number of mascot characters the user has encountered.

[0015] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the interaction system can provide feedback indicating the user's status (e.g., in-game level) via one or more feedback devices in the wearable device. For example, when a certain number of points or a higher level is reached in the game, one or more RFID readers can write data to one or more RFID tags in the wearable device that triggers a feedback response via one or more feedback devices (e.g., lighting up multiple lights). Thus, the interaction system can provide substantially immediate feedback when the user interacts with the interactive elements of an attraction and / or when the user reaches a certain level (e.g., a milestone or achievement). Moreover, the interaction system can enable the user to receive such feedback without needing to refer to an external device such as a mobile phone or kiosk, thereby providing a highly immersive and enjoyable experience.

[0016] Referring here to the drawings, Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an interaction system 10 including a reader system 12 (e.g., a radio-frequency identification [RFID] reader system) and a wearable device 14. In one embodiment, the wearable device 14 is a wearable or portable device such as a bracelet, necklace, ornament, pin, or toy that the user can wear or carry as they move between attractions. As will be described in more detail below, the reader system 12 can communicate with the wearable device 14 via electromagnetic radiation, which enables tracking of the user's progress as they move between attractions (e.g., the number of rides completed, areas visited, interaction elements touched, mascot characters encountered, virtual achievements earned). This communication also enables the wearable device 14 to provide the user with feedback indicating progress and / or various interactions via feedback responses (e.g., light, sound, or touch) that it outputs.

[0017] As shown in Figure 1, one embodiment of the reader system 12 includes a first reader 16 and a second reader 18 that are communicatively coupled to a computer system 20 (having memory 54 and a processor 56) that accesses information stored in one or more databases 22 (e.g., a cloud-based storage system). Generally, the first reader 16 and the second reader 18 transmit electromagnetic radiation (e.g., signals) to the wearable device 14. In one embodiment, the first reader 16 transmits a signal 24 of one frequency (e.g., a range), and the second reader 18 transmits a signal 26 of another frequency (e.g., a range) different from the first frequency. In addition to transmitting signals 24 and 26, the first reader 16 and the second reader 18 can also receive signals such as signals returned from the wearable device 14 and signals from the computer system 20. In one embodiment, a computer system 20 instructs readers (e.g., a first reader 16 and a second reader 18) to transmit signals 24, 26 to a wearable device 14 based on information stored in data encoded in one or more databases 22. Thus, it should be understood that the first reader 16 and the second reader 18 can be transceivers capable of both transmitting and receiving signals.

[0018] As shown in Figure 1, one embodiment of the wearable device 14 includes a first RFID tag 28, a second RFID tag 30, a microcontroller 32, one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 34a, 34b, 34c, 34d, and a power circuit 36, which cooperate to enable the wearable device 14 of the interaction system 10 to function as disclosed. As shown in the figure, the wearable device 14 has four LEDs 34, but it should be understood that it may have fewer or more LEDs 34. Each of the first RFID tag 28 and the second RFID tag 30 includes an antenna 38 for transmitting and receiving signals, a memory 40 for storing information (e.g., a unique identification code), a microchip 42, and an integrated circuit 44 for supplying power to the microchip 42. The integrated circuit 44 also supplies power to the power circuit 36 ​​which supplies power to the microcontroller 32. In one embodiment, the power circuit 36 ​​may include an energy storage device (e.g., a capacitor, supercapacitor, or battery) configured to store power. As shown in the figure, the microcontroller 32 of the wearable device 14 includes a memory 46 and a processor 48. The memory 46 stores computer-readable instructions that the processor 48 executes to control the operation of the microcontroller 32.

[0019] Generally, the antenna 38 of the first RFID tag 28 is designed to receive a signal 24 from the first reader 16 of the reader system 12, and the antenna 28 of the second RFID tag 30 is designed to receive a signal 26 from the second reader 18. The microcontroller 32 identifies the interaction between the tags 28, 30 and the readers 16, 18 and transmits a signal (e.g., a control signal) to one or more of the LEDs 34 to provide feedback to the user. In one embodiment, the wearable device 14 of the interaction system 10 may include further or other feedback devices, such as an audio device configured to emit sound, or haptics configured to provide tactile output (e.g., vibration). In addition to or separately from this, the first RFID tag 28 and / or the second RFID tag 30 emit backscatter indicating a unique identification code, which is utilized by a computer system to track the user's progress (e.g., game statistics) as the user moves between attractions.

[0020] Specifically, the first reader 16 of the reader system 12 continuously transmits a signal 24. The antenna 38 of the first RFID tag 28 is configured to receive electromagnetic radiation (e.g., signal 24) from the first reader 16 and transmit a signal 50 to the first reader 16. The integrated circuit 44 converts the electromagnetic radiation received by the antenna 38 into electricity and supplies power to the microchip 42, which generates backscatter (e.g., signal 50). This backscatter contains information (e.g., a unique identification code) stored in the memory 40 of the first RFID tag 28. The first reader 16 can receive this backscatter (e.g., signal 50) and transmit a signal to the computer system 20. The computer system 20 can process this signal to identify the user's identity associated with the wearable device 14 (for example, the user can register the wearable device 14 before experiencing an attraction to associate it with the user), and / or update information about the wearable device 14 (e.g., game statistics) in one or more databases 22. In this way, the interaction system 10 can track the user's progress (e.g., game statistics) as the user moves between attractions.

[0021] Furthermore, when power is supplied to the microcontroller 32, the processor 48 of the microcontroller 32 can also receive and process a signal from the first RFID tag 28 indicating that the signal 24 from the first reader 16 has been received at the first RFID tag 28. Thereafter, the processor 48 of the microcontroller 32 can execute an instruction stored in the memory 46 of the microcontroller 32 to turn on one or more of the LEDs 34a, 34b, 34c, 34d to provide feedback to the user. In one embodiment, the microcontroller 32 can be programmed to provide a specific type of illumination (e.g., number of lights, color, blinking pattern, time) in response to a signal indicating that the signal 24 from the first reader 16 has been received at the first RFID tag 28. For example, when the first RFID tag 28 receives the signal 24 from the first RFID reader 16, the microcontroller 32 can turn on the first LED 34a. In one embodiment, the signal 24 transmitted by the first reader 16 is an ultra-high frequency (UHF) signal (e.g., having a frequency of about 300 megahertz to 3 gigahertz). Accordingly, the first RFID tag 28 can receive the signal 24 from the first reader 16 when located at a relatively far distance (e.g., up to about 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 meters or more) from the first reader 16.

[0022] The second reader 18 can also continuously transmit the signal 26. The antenna 38 of the second RFID tag 30 is configured to receive electromagnetic radiation (e.g., signal 26) from the second reader 18. The integrated circuit 44 converts the radiation received by the antenna 38 into electricity and supplies power to the microchip 42, which generates backscatter (e.g., signal 52). This backscatter includes information (e.g., a unique identification code) stored in the memory 40 of the second RFID tag 30. In some embodiments, the information stored in the respective memories 40 of the first RFID tag 28 and the second RFID tag 30 can be linked (for example, the backscatter generated in response to the reception of signal 26 in the second RFID tag 30 may include the information stored in the memory 40 of the first RFID tag 28), or the first RFID tag 28 and the second RFID tag 30 can share a single memory 40 (for example, these tags can be dual RFID tags capable of receiving signals of different frequencies). The second reader 18 can receive this backscatter (e.g., signal 52) and transmit the signal to the computer system 20. The computer system 20 can process this signal to identify the user identity associated with the wearable device 14 and / or update information for the wearable device 14 (e.g., game statistics) in one or more databases 22. Since the first RFID reader 16 can be associated with a specific area of ​​the attraction (e.g., a room) and the second RFID reader 18 can be associated with a specific interaction element of the attraction (e.g., a target), the computer system 20 can track both the user's approximate location and the user's interaction with the interaction elements. In this way, the interaction system 10 can track the user's progress (e.g., game statistics) as the user moves between attractions.

[0023] Furthermore, once power is supplied to the microcontroller 32, the processor 48 of the microcontroller 32 can also receive and process a signal from the second RFID tag 30 indicating that the signal 26 from the second reader 18 has been received by the second RFID tag 30. Subsequently, the processor 48 of the microcontroller 32 can execute a command stored in the memory 46 of the microcontroller 32 to provide feedback to the user by illuminating one or more of the LEDs 34a, 34b, 34c, and 34d. In one embodiment, the microcontroller 32 can be programmed to provide a specific type of illumination (e.g., number of lights, color, flashing pattern, duration) in response to a signal indicating that the signal 26 from the second reader 18 has been received by the second RFID tag 30. For example, when the second RFID tag 30 receives the signal 26 from the second RFID reader 18, the microcontroller 32 can illuminate the first LED 34b. In one embodiment, the signal 26 transmitted by the second reader 16 is a Near Field Communication (NFC) signal (for example, having a frequency of about 10-20 megahertz). Thus, the second RFID tag 30 can receive the signal 26 from the second reader 18 when it is located at a relatively close distance (for example, about 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 centimeters) from the first reader 16. Since the first RFID reader 16 may be associated with a specific area of ​​the attraction (e.g., a room) and the second RFID reader 18 may be associated with a specific interaction element of the attraction (e.g., a target), the lighting (or other feedback such as audio or tactile) on the wearable device 14 can provide the user with multiple types of feedback. For example, the illumination of the first LED 34a in response to the reception of a signal 24 from the first RFID reader 16 can notify the user that the interaction system 10 has detected the user within a specific area of ​​the attraction, while the illumination of the second LED 34b in response to the reception of a signal 26 from the second RFID reader 18 can notify the user that the interaction system 10 has detected an interaction between the user and a specific interaction element.

[0024] Generally, the second reader 18 operates similarly to the first reader 16, but the first reader 16 communicates with the first RFID tag 28 (and does not communicate with the second RFID tag 30), and the second reader 18 communicates with the second RFID tag 30 (and does not communicate with the first RFID tag 28). The wearable device 14 includes at least two RFID tags 28, 30 configured to communicate with respective readers 16, 18 that transmit signals 24, 26 propagating at different distances. The first RFID tag 28 and the first reader 16 that perform communication over a relatively long distance enable tracking of the approximate position of the wearable device 14 and charging of the wearable device 14, while the second RFID tag 30 and the second reader 18 that perform communication over a relatively short distance enable monitoring of interactions based on the contact (or proximity) between the user and the interaction elements within the attraction.

[0025] In one embodiment, the interaction system 10 can include a plurality of first readers 16 at different locations within the attraction. As the user moves between attractions, the user's position is updated in the database 22 based on which first reader 16 is currently communicating with the wearable device 14. In one embodiment, feedback can be provided to the user based on each respective interaction with each of the first readers 16. For example, one first reader 16 can be placed at the entrance of the attraction and another first reader 16 can be placed inside or within an area of the attraction. In this case, the wearable device 14 notifies the user that it has been detected by the interaction system 10 by providing feedback (e.g., lighting of the first LED 34a) when the user enters the attraction. Then, when the user enters the room or area, the wearable device 14 notifies the user that it has been detected as being present within the new area by providing another feedback (e.g., the same feedback or different feedback such as lighting of the second LED 34b).

[0026] In one embodiment, one or more first readers 16 and one or more second readers 18 can cooperate to enhance the user's immersive experience. For example, a user can enter an area containing one or more first readers 16. This area may contain one or more targets, each associated with or adjacent to one or more second readers 18. As described above, when the wearable device 14 enters the range (e.g., a relatively long range) of one of the first readers 16 in the area, it can communicate with this first reader 16, update the database 22, and provide feedback to the user that it has been detected in the area. Furthermore, when the wearable device 14 enters the range (e.g., a relatively short range) of one second reader 18 (for example, by the user reaching, touching, or walking near a target associated with one second reader 18), it can communicate with this second reader 16, update the database 22, and provide feedback to the user that it has successfully interacted with the target (e.g., points have been assigned).

[0027] As described above, the microcontroller 32 can be programmed to provide some feedback to the user based on the interaction between the RFID tags 28, 30 of the wearable device 14 and the readers 16, 18. In addition to this, or separately, the wearable device 14 can also be made to provide other feedback, such as feedback indicating the user's progress (e.g., in-game level) or waiting time, by updating the memory 40 of the wearable device 14 (for example, one or more of the readers 16, 18 write to the memory 40 of one or more RFID tags 28, 30). For example, when the computer system 20 detects the first interaction between the user and the second reader 18, it can instruct the first reader 16 to write data to the memory 40 of each of the first RFID tags 28 that will cause the first LED 34a to light up (for example, if the microcontroller 32 receives and processes it). On the other hand, when the computer system 20 determines (for example, based on communication between the second RFID tag 30 associated with the target and the second reader 18) that the user has completed a predetermined number of successful interactions with the target, it can instruct the microcontroller 32 to write data to the respective memories 40 of the first RFID tag 28 that will illuminate multiple LEDs (e.g., LEDs 34a-d or any combination thereof), and / or data that will trigger a feedback response via a speaker or haptics. Thus, feedback is provided based on information stored in the database 22. For example, the database 22 may contain information about the user's progress based on interactions between the user and one or more first readers 16 and second readers 18 throughout the attraction, and can provide feedback when certain conditions are met (e.g., when a level or point is achieved). In this way, the wearable device 14 can provide feedback indicating the user's overall progress or achievements.

[0028] In one embodiment, a user can prompt or request feedback by entering a specific area (e.g., a status update area) having one or more first readers 16. When communication occurs between one of these first readers 16 and the first RFID tag 28 of the wearable device 14, the computer system 20 can instruct the first reader 16 to write data to the respective memory 40 of the first RFID tag 28 to provide feedback indicating the user's progress. In one embodiment, each time the first RFID tag 28 communicates with one of the first readers 16 and / or one of the second readers 18, the user can receive such feedback indicating the user's progress. Thus, as the user moves between attractions, the user can be repeatedly updated regarding their progress.

[0029] In one embodiment, LEDs 34a to d can be used to indicate an estimate of the wait time for an attraction. For example, when the computer system 20 detects that a user is approaching an attraction (for example, based on communication between a first reader 16 located near the entrance of the attraction and a first RFID tag 28), it can instruct the first reader 16 to write data to the respective memory 40 of the first RFID tag 28 to the microcontroller 32 to light up the LEDs 34a to d in a way that indicates the wait time or whether a specific wait time threshold has been met (if the microcontroller 32 receives and processes the data). For example, at least one LED 34 could be multicolored (for example, configured to emit red, yellow, and green light), with each color indicating an approximate wait time (for example, the first color indicating a wait time of more than 15 minutes, the second color indicating a wait time of less than 5 minutes, and the third color indicating no wait time). Multiple first readers 16 can be placed throughout the attraction or the entire amusement park so that users can continue to receive feedback on wait times even after they have left the area of ​​a first reader 16 near the entrance of the attraction (for example, other first readers 16 can write data to the respective memories 40 of the first RFID tags 28). In one embodiment, each LED 34 can represent an approximate wait time (e.g., 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes) such that the number of lit LEDs 34 indicates a wait time of 60 minutes or more, 3 LEDs indicate a wait time of 45 minutes or more, 2 LEDs indicate a wait time of 30 minutes or more, and 1 LED indicates a wait time of 15 minutes or more). In one embodiment, the LED 34 can represent a countdown timer. For example, when it is detected that a user is approaching an attraction, all LEDs 34a to d light up first, and then turn off sequentially as the countdown timer decreases.

[0030] As described above, in one embodiment, the antenna 38 of the first RFID tag 28 can receive only UHF waves, and the antenna 38 of the second RFID tag 30 can receive only NFC waves. For example, the first RFID tag 28 can communicate (e.g., receive or transmit) using only UHF waves, and the second RFID tag 30 can communicate using only NFC waves. Since UHF signals propagate over longer distances, the first RFID tag 28 can frequently or continuously receive UHF signals emitted by the first reader 16 as the user moves between attractions, while the second RFID tag 30 can only receive NFC signals emitted by the second reader 18 when the user places the wearable device 14 near the second reader 18. Thus, in one embodiment, UHF signals can be used to power or charge the wearable device 14 (e.g., via power harvesting by the integrated circuit 44 and power circuit 36). However, NFC signals can also be used to power or charge the wearable device 14.

[0031] Furthermore, it should be understood that the interaction system 10 can track multiple users and provide feedback to multiple wearable devices 14. For example, each of the multiple users may wear their own wearable device 14 configured to communicate with multiple first readers 16 and second readers 18 located at different locations within the attraction. Also, in one embodiment, it should be understood that the wearable device 14 of the interaction system 10 may include a single RFID tag (e.g., a dual-frequency RFID tag) capable of communicating with signals of a first frequency (e.g., a certain frequency range) and signals of a second frequency (e.g., another frequency range) to facilitate the technology disclosed herein.

[0032] Figure 2 is a diagram of one embodiment of the interaction system 10. As shown, the interaction system 10 includes two first readers 16a and 16b, a second reader 18 positioned within or near the target 58, and a wearable device 14 worn by a user 60. The first readers 16a and 16b and the second reader 18 are communicatively coupled to a computer system 20 and a database 22. The first readers 16a continuously emit a signal 24a that can be received by a first RFID tag 28 of the wearable device 14 within a first area 62a (e.g., an attraction zone or room), and similarly, the first reader 16b continuously emits a signal 24b that can be received by the first RFID tag 28 of the wearable device 14 when the user 60 enters a second area 62b. Accordingly, the wearable device 14 can communicate with either or both of the first reader 16a in the first area 62a or the first reader 16b in the second area 62b, depending on the user 60's location (e.g., receive signals / electromagnetic radiation, backscatter information). The computer system 20 determines the user 60's location based on which of the first readers (e.g., 16a or 16b) communicates with the wearable device 14 and updates the database 22 with data indicating the user 60's location. Also, when the user 60's wearable device 14 communicates with the first reader 16a or the first reader 16b, power is harvested and supplied to the microcontroller 32. Accordingly, the microcontroller 32 begins processing the signals received from the first RFID tag 28 and / or reading the data written to the memory 40 of the first RFID tag 28. For example, the microcontroller 32 may receive a signal from the first RFID tag 28 indicating that it has communicated with one of the first readers 16, and provide a corresponding feedback response (e.g., by lighting up one or more LEDs). As described above, the first RFID tag 28 may receive a signal from the first reader 16 that writes data to the memory 40 of the first RFID tag 28, prompting the microcontroller 32 to provide a specific feedback response.

[0033] As shown in Figure 2, the second reader 18 is positioned within or near the target 58. The target 58 can be any of the various objects or features within the attraction. In one embodiment, the target 58 is a stationary object, but the target 58 can also be a virtual object (e.g., an image on a display screen, a virtual element, a graphic element), or a movable object such as a mascot character moving around the attraction. The second reader 18 emits a signal 26 that can be received within area 64. When in operation, when a user 60 brings the wearable device 14 into area 64, the wearable device 14 communicates with the second reader 18. As a result, the second RFID tag 30 on the wearable device 14 emits backscatter containing information that identifies the user. The second reader 18 transmits this information to the computer system 20 to indicate that the user 60 has been detected by the second reader 18 and therefore has interacted with the target 58. Furthermore, the microcontroller 32 can receive a signal from the second RFID tag 30 indicating that it has communicated with the second reader 18, and provide a corresponding feedback response (for example, by lighting up one or more LEDs).

[0034] It should be understood that the microcontroller 32 can be configured to generate a first control signal that triggers a first feedback response in response to receiving a signal from the first RFID tag 28 indicating that the first RFID tag 28 has communicated with one of the first readers 16; generate a second control signal that triggers a second feedback response in response to receiving a signal from the second RFID tag 30 indicating that the second RFID tag 30 has communicated with the second reader 18; and generate a third control signal that triggers a third feedback response in response to receiving signals that both the first RFID tag 28 and the second RFID tag 30 have communicated with their respective readers (i.e., the first reader 16 and the second reader 18). The first, second, and third feedback responses can be different types of feedback responses, such as the type of lighting (e.g., number of lights, color, flashing pattern, duration), the type of sound (e.g., volume, tone, beep pattern, duration), or the type of touch (e.g., intensity, duration).

[0035] User 60 may not be present in either area 62a or 62b at a given time and therefore may not receive signals 24a and 24b from the first readers 16a and 16b. In one embodiment, the wearable device 14 can continue to supply power (for example, for 5 seconds, 15 seconds, 30 seconds, 60 seconds or longer) using the power stored in the power circuit 36, even while the user is outside areas 62a and 62b. Thus, the wearable device 14 can increase the time the user is aware of the feedback response by providing feedback (for example, by lighting up an LED to indicate progress or waiting time) even while the user is outside areas 62a and 62b. In one embodiment, if user 60 moves away from area 62a, which is defined by the signal 24a emitted from the first reader 16a, the feedback response (for example, lighting up an LED) can be stopped.

[0036] Figure 3 shows one embodiment of an interaction system 10 including a first user 60a, a second user 60b, a second reader 18 positioned within or near the target 58, and a first reader 16. The second reader 18 and the first reader 16 are communicatively coupled to a computer system 20 and a database 22. The second reader 18 also emits a signal 26 throughout area 64. The first user 60a wears a first wearable device 14a including one or more LEDs 34, and the second user 60b wears a second wearable device 14b including one or more LEDs 34. In one embodiment, the second reader 18 has a relatively short communication range and therefore communicates with the wearable device 14 when the user physically touches the target 58 including the second reader 18, or when the wearable device 14 is otherwise brought into area 64. Furthermore, the first leader 16 has a relatively long communication range and is therefore constantly communicating with the wearable devices 14a and 14b via electromagnetic radiation.

[0037] During operation, when the first user 60a makes contact with (e.g., touches or reaches) the target 58, which includes the second reader 18, the wearable device 14 provides feedback 66 through the illumination of one or more LEDs 34. Specifically, when the first user 60a makes contact with the second reader 18, the first wearable device 14a (specifically, the second RFID tag 30 of the first wearable device 14a) is brought within range of the second reader 18. The second user 60b is at a distance 68 outside the range of the second reader 18 and therefore does not receive feedback from one or more LEDs 34 of the second wearable device 14b. In some embodiments, both the first user 60a and the second user 60b may be within range of the second reader 18 (e.g., by simultaneously touching the target 58). In such cases, the LEDs 34 of both the first wearable device 14 and the second wearable device 14b produce suitable feedback.

[0038] Figure 4 shows an embodiment of the interaction system 10 that provides team feedback (e.g., feedback to multiple users designated or assigned to a team). As shown in Figure 4, there is a first user 60a, a second user 60b, a third user 60c, a second leader 18, and a first leader 16. The second leader 18 and the first leader 16 are electronically connected to the computer system 20 and the database 22. The first user 60a, the second user 60b, and the third user 60c each have a first wearable device 14a, a second wearable device 14b, and a third wearable device 14c, respectively, each having one or more LEDs 34. The first user 60a and the third user 60c are part of a team and can therefore wear a team indicator 70 that distinguishes them from the second user 60b. In one embodiment, the team indicator may be a physical characteristic of the wearable device 14 (e.g., color, shape, pattern). In one embodiment, the computer system 20 may form or determine teams based on information stored in the database 22 (e.g., family or other users connected by characteristics such as last name, age, group that entered the attraction at the same time, game level, characteristics of the wearable device 14, and team selection or assignment requests entered by the user). Thus, the first user 60a and the third user 60c belong to the first team (e.g., Team A), and the second user belongs to the second team (e.g., Team B).

[0039] As shown in Figure 4, the first wearable device 14a worn by the first user 60a is located within area 64 and interacts with the signal 26 emitted by the second reader 18. As described above, the second reader 18 receives information from the memory 40 of the second RFID tag 30 of the first wearable device 14a by backscatter. This information is transmitted to the computer system 20, which identifies the first user 60a based on this information. The computer system 20 also determines, based on the information stored in the database 22, that the first user 60a belongs to team A. As a result, the computer system 20 transmits a signal (e.g., a control signal) to the first reader 16 instructing it to transmit electromagnetic radiation to the wearable devices 14a and 14c of the first and third users 60a and 60c to write data to the memory 40 of their respective first RFID tags 28. Each of the wearable devices 14a and 14c's respective microcontrollers 32 reads the data written to the memory 40 of their respective first RFID tags 28. The updated memory 40 contains data that, when read by the microcontroller 32, causes the microcontroller 32 to initiate a specific feedback response.

[0040] As shown in the figure, the feedback response is provided via the illumination of the LEDs 34 of the first wearable device 14a and the third wearable device 14c. Thus, when one user (e.g., the first user 60a) interacts with the target 58 once, all users belonging to the team can receive feedback as a result of this interaction. In one embodiment, all first leaders 16 can be communicably coupled to the computer system 20 so that users on the same team can receive feedback even if they are located in different areas (e.g., not receiving signals from the same first leader 16). In one embodiment, feedback is provided only to users who receive signals 24 from the same leader 16. In one embodiment, all users on the same team receive feedback regardless of which first leader 16 they receive signals 24 from.

[0041] Figure 5 shows a wearable device 14 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Although the wearable device 14 is shown having a lanyard 71 (e.g., rope or string) coupled to a housing 73, it should be understood that the wearable device 14 can have any preferred form. For example, the wearable device 14 may include a strap (e.g., for securing the housing 73 to the user's wrist), or it may be an ornament or toy carried by the user. As shown, the wearable device 14 includes a first LED display 72, a second LED display 74, an audio device 76 (e.g., a speaker), and a haptics 78 (e.g., a vibration device). Any combination of the LEDs 34, haptics 78, audio device 76, or other feedback devices may be activated to provide feedback to the user. It should be understood that the wearable device 14 may include only one of these feedback devices, or any combination of these feedback devices.

[0042] As shown in the figures, the wearable device 14 may include a plurality of LED displays (e.g., a first LED display 72 and a second LED display 74), each LED display capable of providing various types of feedback. For example, the first LED display 72 may provide feedback indicating interaction with one or more first readers 16 and / or one or more second readers 18, while the second LED display 72 may provide feedback indicating the wait time for an attraction. As shown in Figure 5, the first LED display 72 and the second LED display 74 each include three LEDs (34a-c and 34d-f, respectively). In one embodiment, the wearable device 14 may include any number of LED displays (e.g., one, two, or three or more LED displays, each containing any number of LEDs). In one embodiment, a single LED display (e.g., LED display 72) may provide some or all of the various types of feedback disclosed herein.

[0043] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of the operation process 80 of the wearable device 14 according to the present technology. It should be understood that the steps described herein are illustrative only, and some steps may be omitted or added, or the steps may be performed in a different order. In one embodiment, a first RFID tag 28 and / or a second RFID tag 30 cooperating with the microcontroller 32 of the wearable device 14 can perform the process 80.

[0044] Process 80 begins with the antennas 38 of the first RFID tag 28 and / or the second RFID tag 30 receiving electromagnetic radiation from the respective first reader 16 or second reader 18 (block 82). As described above, after receiving the electromagnetic radiation, the antennas 38 send back the backscatter containing information stored in the memory 40 of the RFID tags 28 and 30 to the respective readers 16 and 18. In one embodiment, this information may include an identification number specific to the wearable device 14 and thus identifying the user (e.g., the user using the wearable device 14). In one embodiment, the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the first reader 16 propagates over a relatively long distance, and the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the second reader 18 propagates over a relatively short distance. The first RFID tag 28 can communicate with the first reader 16, and the second RFID tag 30 can communicate with the second reader 18.

[0045] When the wearable device 14 receives electromagnetic radiation, it captures power from the electromagnetic radiation (block 84). As described above, the first RFID tag 28 and the second RFID tag 30 may each include an integrated circuit 44 that supplies power to the microchip 42. The integrated circuit 44 also supplies power to a power circuit 36, which in turn supplies power to the microcontroller 32 (block 86) and other components of the wearable device (e.g., a feedback device). In one embodiment, the power circuit 36 ​​may include an energy storage device (e.g., a capacitor, supercapacitor, or battery) that is electrically coupled to a receiving coil and stores power when the wearable device 14 receives signals from the first reader 16 and / or the second reader 18.

[0046] When power is supplied to the microcontroller 32, the processor 48 executes commands stored in memory 46 to receive and / or process signals from the first RFID tag 28 and / or the second RFID tag 30 (block 88). In one embodiment, the microcontroller 32 can be programmed to continuously or periodically query the first RFID tag 28 and / or the second RFID tag 30 when power is received.

[0047] Next, the microcontroller 32 outputs a signal (e.g., a control signal) to one or more feedback devices (block 90). In one embodiment, this control signal can trigger the operation of one or more of the LEDs 34 and / or other feedback devices (e.g., audio devices, haptics). In one embodiment, this control signal is a variable voltage applied to one LED 34 to change the intensity of the LED 34. In one embodiment, this signal is an oscillating voltage signal that causes the LED 34 to blink.

[0048] Feedback devices (e.g., LEDs, haptics, audio devices) provide feedback responses to the user (block 92). Feedback responses can be provided in response to interactions between the wearable device 14 and the reader system 12 located within the attraction. For example, a feedback response may include illuminating an LED 34 to notify the user that the user has entered the zone of the first reader 16 (e.g., the user's wearable device 14 is successfully communicating with the first reader 16), or that the user has successfully interacted with an interaction element such as a target 58.

[0049] As described above, the first reader 16 and / or the second reader 18 can write to the memory 40 of the first RFID tag 28 and / or the second RFID tag 30. Thus, the user can receive a feedback response when they achieve a goal based on information tracked in the database 22 (e.g., level up, high score achieved). In one embodiment, the feedback response may be generated when different users (e.g., these users belong to the same team) successfully achieve a goal. In one embodiment, the feedback response may include one or more LEDs 34 indicating time (e.g., wait time or remaining time in the attraction area). In one embodiment, the feedback response may include a sound from the audio device 76 of the wearable device 14 indicating that the user needs to take action (e.g., start a race, move to the next zone, join a game, etc.). In one embodiment, it may be indicated, for example, that the user is progressing towards a goal in the attraction by increasing the volume from the audio device 76, the intensity of the LED lighting, or the intensity of the haptics 78.

[0050] Accordingly, this disclosure relates to an interaction system comprising a reader system and a wearable device, wherein the wearable device issues a feedback response based on communication between the RFID tag of the wearable device and the readers of the reader system. Specifically, the reader system includes readers (e.g., one or more first readers 16 and one or more second readers 18) that communicate (e.g., send and receive signals) with a first RFID and a second RFID of the wearable device through electromagnetic radiation during operation. The readers continuously emit electromagnetic radiation within a range (e.g., a communication range) and communicate with the wearable device when the wearable device enters that range. For example, one reader (e.g., a first reader) may have a larger communication range than another reader (e.g., a second reader). Thus, the first reader communicates with the first RFID of the wearable device more frequently and / or at different times than the second reader generally communicates with the second RFID. Readers that communicate with RFID tags periodically or over extended periods are more suitable for powering power capture devices and thus more suitable for enabling the inclusion of feedback devices (e.g., audio devices, haptics, one or more LEDs) in wearable devices that may require more power for operation. In one embodiment, the RFID reader is placed within a stationary target that visitors can interact with (e.g., touch or reach). In one embodiment, the RFID reader is placed within a moving target (e.g., within a character costume in an amusement park). While the embodiments disclosed herein include two RFID readers having two different communication ranges, it should be understood that any number of readers (e.g., one, two, three, four, five or six or more readers) configured to have any number of different communication ranges (e.g., one, two, three, four, five or six or more different communication ranges) can be provided within the system. Furthermore, the wearable device may include any number of RFID tags (e.g., one, two, three, four, five, or six or more RFID tags) configured to communicate with various readers and provide the functions disclosed herein.

[0051] While this specification illustrates and describes only a few features of the present disclosure, many modifications and changes will come to mind for those skilled in the art. Therefore, it should be understood that the appended claims are intended to include all such modifications and changes in accordance with the exact spirit of this disclosure. Furthermore, it should be understood that any of the features illustrated or described with respect to Figures 1 to 6 can be combined in any suitable way.

[0052] 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]

[0053] 10 Interaction Systems 12 Leader System 14 Wearable devices 16. First Leader 18. Second Leader 20 Computer Systems 22 Databases 24 signals 26 signals 28. First RFID tag 30. Second RFID tag 32 Microcontrollers 34A~D Light-emitting diode (LED) 36 Power circuit 38 Antennas 40 memory 42 microchips 44 Integrated Circuits 46 memory 48 processors 50 signals 52 signal 54 memory 56 processors

Claims

1. The first wearable device, A first radio identification (RFID) tag associated with the first user of the first team, A microcontroller configured to receive electromagnetic radiation having data associated with the interaction between an interaction element and a second wearable device of a second user of a second team, and to update the memory of the first wireless identification tag with the data, Equipped with, The first wearable device.

2. The first team and the second team are the same, The electromagnetic radiation is received based on the fact that the first user is on the same team as the second user. The first wearable device according to claim 1.

3. The electromagnetic radiation is received from a first reader associated with the first area. The interaction element is associated with a second leader associated with a second area. The first wearable device according to claim 1.

4. The first area does not overlap with the second area. The first wearable device according to claim 3.

5. The microcontroller is further configured to provide feedback based on the interaction between the interaction element and the second wearable device. The first wearable device according to claim 1.

6. The system further comprises one or more feedback devices, The microcontroller is configured to provide feedback via the one or more feedback devices. The feedback includes at least an audible output, haptic feedback, and optical feedback. The first wearable device according to claim 5.

7. A method performed by a first wearable device, Receiving electromagnetic radiation having data associated with the interaction between an interaction element and a second wearable device of a second user of a second team, via a first wireless identification tag associated with a first user of a first team, The memory of the first wireless identification tag is updated with the data via the microcontroller. including, method.

8. The first team and the second team are the same, The electromagnetic radiation is received based on the fact that the first user is on the same team as the second user. The method according to claim 7.

9. The electromagnetic radiation is received from a first reader associated with the first area. The interaction element is associated with a second leader associated with a second area. The method according to claim 7.

10. The first area does not overlap with the second area. The method according to claim 9.

11. To provide feedback based on the interaction between the interaction element and the second wearable device. This also includes, The method according to claim 7.

12. The further includes providing feedback via one or more feedback devices, The feedback includes at least an audible output, haptic feedback, and optical feedback. The method according to claim 11.

13. The first leader is located in the first area, Located in the second area, the second leader is associated with the interaction element, A first wearable device associated with a first user, A second wearable device associated with a second user, A computer system is configured to receive a first signal from the second reader indicating the interaction between the interaction element and the second wearable device associated with the second user, to determine that the first user associated with the first wearable device is teaming up with the second user associated with the second wearable device, to send a second signal to the first reader instructing it to send a third signal to the first wearable device associated with the first user, the third signal indicating the interaction between the interaction element and the second user's second wearable device, Equipped with, Feedback system.

14. The aforementioned computer system further, The system is configured to determine that a third user associated with a third wearable device is on a different team than the second user associated with the second wearable device, and to decide not to send a fourth signal to the first leader that instructs the first leader to send a fifth signal to the third wearable device associated with the third user, based on the determination that the third user is on a different team than the second user. The feedback system according to claim 13.

15. The first area and the second area do not overlap. The feedback system according to claim 13.

16. The first wearable device associated with the first user is One or more feedback devices, A microcontroller configured to receive the third signal from the first reader and to provide feedback to the first user via the one or more feedback devices based on the third signal received from the first reader, It also has, The feedback system according to claim 13.

17. The feedback includes at least an audible output, tactile feedback, and optical feedback. The feedback system according to claim 16.

18. The aforementioned computer system further, The system is configured to track the location of the second user associated with the second wearable device based on a first type of reader having a first communication range, and to track the number of interactions the second user has had with multiple interaction elements based on a second type of reader having a second communication range. The feedback system according to claim 13.

19. The first wearable device further comprises a power capture circuit configured to utilize the power of electromagnetic radiation from the first type of reader, The first communication range is larger than the second communication range. The feedback system according to claim 18.

20. The first wearable device further comprises one or more feedback devices powered by the power capture circuit, The one or more feedback devices are configured to provide feedback based on the interaction between the interaction element and the second user's second wearable device. The feedback system according to claim 19.

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