3D (3-D) Vision Interface Device

Abstract

An interface device is provided that is configured to enable viewing of three-dimensional (3-D) content when worn. In certain embodiments, a wearable visualization device can be removably coupled to the interface device. The wearable visualization device can provide additional visual functionality when in use, such as facilitating augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) viewing.

Description

【Technical Field】 【0001】 (Cross - reference to Related Applications) This application claims priority and the benefit thereof from U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 034,193, filed on June 3, 2020, entitled "INTERFACE DEVICE WITH THREE - DIMENSIONAL (3 - D)", which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. 【Background Art】 【0002】 This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of technologies that may be relevant to the various aspects of the present technology described and / or claimed below. The discussions here are thought to be helpful in providing the reader with background information that facilitates a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. It should thus be understood that these descriptions are not an admission of prior art and should be read in light of this perspective. 【0003】 Amusement parks and / or theme parks can include a variety of entertainment attractions, restaurants, and rides that are useful for providing enjoyment to park visitors. Areas of an amusement park can have different themes targeted at specific audiences. For example, one area can include themes traditionally of interest to children, and other areas can include themes traditionally of more interest to adult visitors. Generally, such themed areas can be referred to as attractions or themed attractions. It has been recognized that it is desirable to enhance the immersive experience for park visitors of such attractions, such as by reinforcing the theme with stereoscopic images that generate an illusion of 3 - dimensional (3 - D) images as well as virtual features. 【Summary of the Invention】 【0004】 The following outlines some of the specific embodiments disclosed herein. It should be understood that these embodiments are presented solely to provide the reader with an overview of these specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. In fact, this disclosure may encompass a variety of embodiments not described below. 【0005】 In one embodiment, the interface device for a wearable visualization device includes a head strap assembly configured to be worn on the head of a visitor during use to secure the interface device to the head, and an interface frame coupled to the head strap assembly. The interface device also includes a three-dimensional (3-D) visual component attached to the interface frame and configured to allow viewing of one or more coded two-dimensional (2-D) images as one or more decoded three-D features. The interface device also includes a mounting mechanism configured to detachably couple a separate wearable visualization device to the interface frame. The wearable visualization device comprises one or more displays for displaying virtual features during use. 【0006】 In one embodiment, a visual system combining three-dimensional (3-D) and augmented reality includes an interface device configured to be worn on the head of a visitor during use. The interface device includes an interface frame and 3-D visual components attached to the interface frame. The 3-D visual components are configured to allow viewing of projected or displayed 3-D images. The interface device also includes a first mounting mechanism configured to detachably connect a separate wearable visualization device to the interface frame. The visual system also includes a wearable visualization device including one or more transparent or translucent displays on which one or more virtual features are displayed during use. The wearable visualization device also includes a second mounting mechanism configured to detachably engage with the first mounting mechanism. 【0007】 In one embodiment, a visual system combining three-dimensional (3-D) and virtual reality includes an interface device configured to be worn on the head of a visitor during use. The interface device includes an interface frame and 3-D visual components attached to the interface frame. The 3-D visual components are configured to allow viewing of projected or displayed 3-D images. The interface device also includes a first mounting mechanism configured to detachably connect a separate wearable visualization device to the interface frame. The visual system also includes a wearable visualization device which includes one or more opaque displays on which one or more virtual features are displayed during use. The wearable visualization device also includes a second mounting mechanism configured to detachably engage with the first mounting mechanism. 【0008】 Various improvements to the features described above can be implemented in connection with various aspects of this disclosure. Similarly, further features can be incorporated into these various aspects. These improvements and additional features may exist individually or in any combination. 【0009】 These and other features, aspects, and advantages of this disclosure will be further understood by reading the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which similar reference numerals indicate similar elements throughout the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing] 【0010】 [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of one embodiment of a visitor interface device and a wearable visualization device in a separate configuration according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of separate embodiments of a visitor interface device and a wearable visualization device in a separate configuration according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the visitor interface device and wearable visualization device in a separate configuration according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a perspective view of one embodiment of a visitor interface device according to this embodiment, which includes a face mask portion and lenses for viewing 3-D content. [Figure 5] This is a front view of one embodiment of a visitor interface device according to this embodiment, which includes a face mask portion and lenses for viewing 3-D content. [Figure 6] This is a front view of another embodiment of the visitor interface device according to this embodiment, which includes a face mask portion and lenses for viewing 3-D content. [Figure 7] This is a front view of one embodiment of a single-component lens assembly that can be detachably attached to a visitor interface device according to this embodiment. [Figure 8] This diagram illustrates the method of using a visitor interface device and a wearable visualization device for viewing AR / VR content and 3-D content displayed in connection with passenger rides or attractions, according to this embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of the process for operating an AR / VR and 3-D visual system according to this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention] 【0011】 The following describes one or more specific embodiments. For the sake of brevity in describing these embodiments, not all features of the actual embodiments will be described in this specification. One or more specific embodiments of the Disclosure are described below. These described embodiments are merely examples of the technology of the Disclosure. In addition, not all features of the actual implementations may be described in this specification in order to provide a brevity in describing these embodiments. It should be understood that, as with any engineering or design project, in developing any such actual implementation, it will be necessary to make numerous implementation-specific decisions to achieve the specific goals of the developer, which may differ from implementation to implementation, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints. Furthermore, it should be understood that while such development efforts may be complex and time-consuming, they are routine design, fabrication, and manufacturing tasks for those skilled in the art who benefit from the Disclosure. 【0012】 When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present invention, the articles "a," "an," and "the" indicate the presence of one or more elements. The terms "equip," "include," and "have" are comprehensive and indicate that additional elements other than those described may exist. Furthermore, it should be understood that references to "one embodiment" or "one embodiment" of the present invention are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments incorporating similarly described features. 【0013】 An amusement park may include an augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and / or mixed reality (AR and VR combination) system (AR / VR system) configured to enhance the visitor experience of the amusement park's attractions by providing visitors with an AR / VR experience (e.g., an AR experience, a VR experience, or both). In fact, a combination of specific hardware configurations, software configurations (e.g., algorithmic structures and / or modeled responses), and features of a particular attraction may be used to provide visitors with an AR / VR experience that may be customizable, personalized, and / or interactive. 【0014】 In a particular context, such attraction features may also include embodiments that incorporate three-dimensional (3-D) content distinct from AR and / or VR content using appropriate stereoscopic technology. With this in mind, references to 3-D technology or images herein also include any appropriate stereoscopic technique that provides a stereoscopic 3-D effect that enables visitors to perceive depth from two-dimensional (2-D), slightly offset, or 2-D coded images presented to each visitor's eye. The 3-D features are visualized from an electronic display device or projector screen via an optical filtering coating or element that enables each visitor's eye to receive two different images of the same object, which are optically combined into an identifiable or decodeable 3-D appearance. 【0015】 To understand this, such stereoscopic technology generally uses lenses or glasses worn by visitors to help perceive 3-D content. However, with the integration of head-mounted technology into specific attractions or rides within a theme park environment, it has become difficult or impractical for visitors to simultaneously wear conventional 3-D glasses along with headsets or glasses typically associated with displaying VR or AR content, respectively, in order to perceive 3-D content displayed or projected within the theme park environment. In consideration of this, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a wearable visualization device assembly or visual system having a multi-piece housing, one part of which facilitates viewing of 3-D content, and a second part of which facilitates viewing of VR or AR content generated for each respective attraction. 【0016】 With the foregoing in mind, Figure 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of such a multi-piece device in the form of a composite or augmented vision system 10 configured to allow visitors (e.g., users, amusement park employees, ride passengers) to experience (e.g., view, interact with) AR / VR scenes and stereoscopic 3-D images projected and / or displayed on a screen. The augmented vision system 10 includes a wearable visualization device 12 that provides AR / VR visual functionality and a visitor interface device 14 (e.g., an interface device) that provides 3-D visual functionality. As will be described later, the wearable visualization device 12 and the visitor interface device 14 are detachably coupled to each other so that visitors can switch between different visual functionalities as appropriate. 【0017】 With respect to Figure 1, the visitor interface device 14 is configured to be fixed to the visitor's head, thus allowing the visitor to comfortably wear the wearable visualization device 12 while going through various attractions or traversing a particular amusement park environment. For example, the visitor interface device 14 may include a head strap assembly 50 configured to be attached to a portion of the interface frame 18. When combined, the interface frame 18 and head strap assembly 50 shown hereby extend around the visitor's head. The head strap assembly 50 is configured to fasten (e.g., tighten) to the visitor's head. In this way, the head strap assembly 50 facilitates the fixing of the visitor interface device 14 to the visitor's head, and the visitor interface device 14 can be fixed to the visitor's head so that it is available to the visitor to hold the wearable visualization device 12 (for example, when the wearable visualization device 12 is in an engaged or worn configuration as described later). However, the head strap assembly 50 may be any suitable assembly that facilitates visitors holding the wearable visualization device 12. As discussed herein, the visitor interface device 14 allows visitors to efficiently connect and disconnect the wearable visualization device 12 from the visitor interface device 14, for example, without removing the visitor interface device 14 from the visitor's head. 【0018】 As is currently recognized, the visitor interface device 14 utilizes one or more suitable 3-D technologies to enable visitors to perceive 3-D features without relying on a separate wearable visualization device 12. Examples of such 3-D display technologies include 3-D visual components that enable visitors to perceive one or more coded two-dimensional (2-D) images as one or more decoded 3-D features. For example, a 3-D visual component can be embodied as a lens 52 that is provided on or can be attached to the visitor interface device 14. In such embodiments, the lens 52 may be provided as part of the visitor interface device 14 and may be formed as part of an interface frame 18 that is attached to or configured to receive the lens 52, or may be detachably attached to the interface frame 18. The lens 52 may be a passive 3-D lens assembly, coating, or filter (e.g., an anaglyph filter, polarizing filter, etc.) or an active 3-D lens assembly, coating, or filter (e.g., an active shutter lens assembly that may utilize a liquid crystal layer), or may be incorporated therein. 【0019】 For example, the lens 52 of the visitor interface device 14 may include a first filter as one of the lenses of the lens 52 or provided on it, and a second filter as the other lens or provided on it, each filter having different optical properties or qualities. When combined, these optical properties enable visitors to view 3-D images 36. For example, in some embodiments, the lens 52 is an optical filtering lens assembly or 3-D filtering layer including a first anaglyph lens or filter (e.g., a blue film) as the first lens and a second anaglyph lens or filter (e.g., a red film) as the second lens. In other embodiments, the lens 52 is an optical filtering lens assembly or 3D filtering layer including a first polarizing lens having a first polarization (e.g., clockwise, vertical) as the first lens and a second polarizing lens having a second inverse polarization (e.g., counterclockwise, horizontal) as the second lens. Accordingly, the lens 52 in these embodiments utilizes wavelength filtering or polarization filtering to adjust the 3-D image 36 for the visitor's vision. In further embodiments, the lens 52 is an active shutter lens having a first liquid crystal layer and a second liquid crystal layer, wherein by applying power to the lens 52, one layer becomes opaque and the other layer becomes semi-transparent. In any case, when the visitor is wearing the visitor interface device 14, the lens 52 provides a first viewpoint or portion of the 3-D image 36 to one of the visitor's eyes and a second, offset viewpoint or portion of the 3-D image 36 to the visitor's other eye. The relatively offset images provide a sense of depth to the visitor as they visualize the 3-D image 36 at a specified focal length that varies based on the magnitude of the offset between the offset images. 【0020】 The lens 52 can also include an anti-glare coating or filter disposed adjacent to or on the surface of the lens 52 facing the environment. The anti-glare coating can be any suitable translucent or light-blocking material that reduces the transmission of light from a strong light source that would otherwise obscure the virtual features 32 and the 3-D image 36 through the lens 52. In other embodiments, the anti-glare coating is omitted, and / or a brim 54 of a hat is provided as part of the visitor interface device 14 to reduce glare on the lens 52. Further, it will be understood that the coatings of the lens 52 can be arranged in any suitable order relative to each other, provided that the lens 52 is sufficiently transparent to light from the 3-D display system discussed herein to enable a visitor to appropriately visualize the 3-D image 36 and to enable a visitor to appropriately visualize the virtual features 32. 【0021】 With respect to viewing the virtual features 32, these features can be viewed by a visitor using a wearable visualization device 12 that is removably coupled to the visitor interface device 14. According to a first embodiment and with respect to FIG. 1, an augmented reality (AR) approach is first described. However, as discussed elsewhere in this specification, in other contexts, the wearable visualization device 12 can be configured to view virtual reality (VR) content (e.g., the wearable visualization device 12 can be a VR headset), which, when coupled to the visitor interface device 14, enables a visitor to view and / or interact with the virtual features 32, typically without reference to the real-world environment 30. 【0022】 With the above introduction in mind, an exemplary embodiment suitable for viewing AR content is depicted in FIG. 1. In this and other embodiments, the wearable visualization device 12 can include or incorporate an electronic device package suitable for presenting AR and / or VR content when coupled to the visitor interface device 14. For example, the wearable visualization device 12 can include electronic glasses 16 through which the wearer can simultaneously view AR content (e.g., virtual feature 32) displayed on the electronic glasses 16 superimposed on the real-world environment 30. The lenses or optical features of the wearable visualization device 12 can be polarized to match (or otherwise optically correspond to) the polarization of any of the lenses 52 of the visitor interface device 14 to allow sufficient or maximum light transmission through the coupled optical system. In fact, adjusting the optical features of the wearable visualization device 12 to further integrate with the lenses 52 of the visitor interface device 14 can provide enhanced or more realistic viewing of 3-D content. 【0023】 Such AR-related electronic glasses 16 may include one or more displays 22 (e.g., transparent, translucent, etc.) on which specific virtual features 32 can be displayed or overlaid. In a non-limiting example, the displays 20 may include transparent (e.g., see-through) light-emitting diode (LED) displays or transparent (e.g., see-through) organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays. That is, the electronic glasses 16 can at least partially control the visitor's field of view by superimposing the virtual features 32 onto the visitor's line of sight. Thus, the wearable visualization device 12 can enable the visitor to visualize and recognize a hyperreal environment 40 having specific virtual features 32 (e.g., AR features) superimposed on a physical reality environment 30 (e.g., physical structures within an attraction) that the visitor can see through the displays 22. Furthermore, the electronic glasses 16 may operate at an increased brightness level compared to the brightness level of electronic glasses not integrated with the lenses 52, thereby enabling the perception of the virtual features 32 through the lenses 52 despite potential dimming due to the polarization of the lenses 52 or other embodiments. 【0024】 As described herein, in certain embodiments, the visitor interface device 14 includes a lens 52 or other suitable viewing structure (e.g., a polarizing lens or other lens suitable for enabling stereoscopic viewing) and is capable of allowing a visitor wearing the visitor interface device 14 to view a 3-D image 36 when the wearable visualization device 12 is removed, or, in AR-related contexts, when the wearable visualization device 12 is coupled to the visitor interface device. As an example of the latter AR-related context (illustrated in Figure 1), the AR functionality provided by the electronic glasses 16 can be performed on or otherwise utilized on the 3-D image 36 that can be displayed using the visitor interface device 14, so that augmented reality content (i.e., virtual features 32) displayed on the electronic glasses 16 can be recognized as being associated with different depths or focal planes (e.g., multiple independent focal planes) associated with the 3-D image 36. 【0025】 While the aforementioned examples primarily relate to AR implementation, as mentioned above, the wearable visualization device 12 can also be used to view VR content. As an example in this VR context, the wearable visualization device 12 could be a VR headset that controls or restricts the visitor's field of view (e.g., using an opaque viewing surface), such as an opaque or non-transparent display configured to show the visitor virtual features 32 (e.g., VR features). Thus, the hyperreal environment 40 viewable by the visitor could be, for example, a real-time video containing, electronically, a fusion of a real-world image of the physical real-world environment 30 with one or more virtual features 32. Therefore, when wearing the wearable visualization device 12 in a VR context, the visitor can feel completely enveloped by the hyperreal environment 40 and recognize the hyperreal environment 40 as the real-world environment 30 containing specific virtual features 32. 【0026】 With the foregoing in mind, it should be understood that the hyperreal environment 40 may include AR experiences, VR experiences, mixed reality experiences, computer-mediated reality experiences, combinations thereof, or separate appropriate hyperreal environments. Furthermore, it should be understood that the wearable visualization device 12 may be used alone or in combination with 3-D content that can be displayed using the visitor interface device 14 to create the hyperreal environment 40. In fact, visitors may wear the visitor interface device 14 at any time, whether or not the wearable visualization device 12 is attached, throughout all or part of the duration of amusement park rides, such as during games, in specific areas or attractions of the amusement park, while riding to a hotel associated with the amusement park, or at the hotel. In some embodiments, when implemented in an amusement park setting, the wearable visualization device 12 may be physically coupled to a structure (e.g., a ride in an amusement park) (e.g., tethered via a cable) and / or electronically coupled to a computing system (e.g., a computer graphics generation system) (e.g., via a cable) to prevent the wearable visualization device 12 from being separated from the structure, thereby facilitating the operation of the wearable visualization device 12 (e.g., displaying virtual features 32). 【0027】 As discussed herein, the wearable visualization device 12 is detachably connectable to the visitor interface device 14 (such as the interface frame 18) (e.g., connectable without tools; connectable without screw fasteners such as bolts; detachable without tools, connectable without damaging components of the wearable visualization device 12 or the visitor interface device 14) so ​​that it can quickly transition between an engaged configuration in which the wearable visualization device 12 is connected to the visitor interface device 14 and a disengaged or detached configuration. Figures 2 and 3, described later, illustrate the transition between the engaged and disengaged configurations. Looking at Figures 2 and 3, these figures are perspective views of embodiments of the wearable visualization device 12 and the visitor interface device 14, which are discussed together below. Furthermore, since various different structures for the visitor interface device 14 are assumed herein, it should be noted that Figures 2 and 3 illustrate different structures for the visitor interface device 14 (e.g., a helmet compared to the visor in Figure 1). Furthermore, Figure 3 shows different structures for the wearable visualization device 12 (e.g., a VR headset compared to the electronic eyeglasses 16 in Figures 1 and 2), so that both AR and VR embodiments of the wearable visualization device 12 are assumed herein. It should be understood that in practice any combination of these embodiments (e.g., a visor and electronic glasses, a helmet and electronic glasses, a visor and a VR headset, a helmet and a VR headset, etc.) can be implemented, and this embodiment is not intended to be limiting, but rather to provide selective, meaningful, and exemplary examples for illustrative purposes. 【0028】 With this in mind, looking at Figures 2 and 3, in these embodiments, the wearable visualization device 12 may include one or more primary magnets 80 disposed on or inside the wearable visualization device 12. One or more primary magnets 80 may be positioned or configured to interface (e.g., magnetically attach) with corresponding primary magnets 84 disposed on or inside the visitor interface device 14, such as within the interface frame 18. In this way, when the wearable visualization device 12 is brought close to the visitor interface device 14, the primary magnets 80, 84 can be magnetically coupled to one another. 【0029】 In the illustrated example, the wearable visualization device 12 is also shown to include one or more secondary magnets 88 positioned on the side or periphery of the wearable visualization device 12. The one or more secondary magnets 88 may be positioned or configured to interface (e.g., magnetically attach) with corresponding secondary magnets 90 positioned on or on the corresponding lateral positions of the visitor interface device 14, such as on each part of the interface frame 18. The secondary magnets 88, 90 may be provided in addition to or in place of the primary magnets 80, 84 and function similarly. That is, the secondary magnets 88, 90 can magnetically couple with each other when brought in close proximity. 【0030】 With the foregoing in mind, in order to connect the wearable visualization device 12 to the visitor interface device 14, visitors can translate the wearable visualization device 12 toward the visitor interface device 14 to engage the devices together. In one embodiment, support ribs 94 that engage with corresponding support grooves 98 of the wearable visualization device 12 can be provided on the visitor interface device 14, such as on the interface frame 18. As part of engaging the wearable visualization device 12 with the visitor interface device 14, visitors can translate the wearable visualization device 12 along the support ribs 94, thereby bringing the respective primary magnets 80, 84 and / or secondary magnets 88, 90 closer together and aligning them. In this way, the primary magnets 80, 84 and / or secondary magnets 88, 90 can align with their respective counterparts and be magnetically coupled. 【0031】 Furthermore, at least a portion of the wearable visualization device 12 can be configured to translate relative to the structure of the visitor interface device 14 so that the primary magnet 80 can align with the corresponding primary magnet 84 of the visitor interface device 14 and magnetically couple. For this purpose, the mechanical engagement between the support rib 94 and the support groove 98 can support substantially all of the weight of the wearable visualization device 12 (e.g., when coupled to the visitor interface device 14), while the magnetic engagement between the primary magnets 80, 84 and the secondary magnets 88, 90 helps to prevent the wearable visualization device 12 from detaching from the visitor interface device 14 (e.g., slipping off). In fact, when transitioning the wearable visualization device 12 from an engaged configuration to a disengaged configuration, the forces used to magnetically detach the primary magnets 80, 84 and the forces used to magnetically detach the secondary magnets 88, 90 should be understood to be greater than the forces acting on the wearable visualization device 12 due to gravity, shaking or rotating the visitor's head, or other inadvertent contact with the wearable visualization device 12. Accordingly, the magnets 80, 84, 88, 90 can be configured, in conjunction with the support ribs 94 and support grooves 98, to hold the wearable visualization device 12 in an engaged configuration on the visitor interface device 14 until the visitor manually removes the wearable visualization device 12 from the visitor interface device 14. In other embodiments, coupling can be achieved using other structural features in addition to or in addition to magnets, such as snap-on extensions or user-releaseable latches. 【0032】 To remove the wearable visualization device 12 from the visitor interface device 14, the visitor can translate the wearable visualization device 12 away from the visitor interface device 14 so as to magnetically disconnect the primary magnets 80, 84 and / or secondary magnets 88, 90. The visitor can continue to translate the wearable visualization device 12 away from the visitor interface device 14 to separate (e.g., detach) the wearable visualization device 12 from the visitor interface device 14, thereby maintaining the visitor's ability to perceive 3-D content through the lenses 52. In other embodiments, the visitor can facilitate the removal of the wearable visualization device 12 from the visitor interface device 14 by releasing a structural latch or disengaging a snap-on extension. 【0033】 It should be understood that in certain embodiments, one of the primary magnets 80 of the wearable visualization device or the primary magnet 84 of the visitor interface device may be replaced with a suitable reactive material (e.g., a metal plate). Similarly, one of the secondary magnets 88 of the wearable visualization device or the secondary magnet 90 of the visitor interface device may be replaced with such a reactive material. Thus, in these embodiments, the primary magnets 80 and / or 84, or the secondary magnets 88 or 90, can be configured to attract the corresponding reactive material instead of a separate magnet. 【0034】 Furthermore, in certain embodiments, any of the magnets 80, 84, 88, and / or 90 may be replaced with a suitable electromagnet powered via a wired or wireless power source (e.g., a battery). In such cases, the electromagnet can be deactivated to allow the wearable visualization device 12 to be separated from the visitor interface device 14 at specific times, such as during the disembarking process when visitors are being unloaded from amusement park rides. Similarly, the electromagnet can be activated to facilitate the attachment of the wearable visualization device 12 to the visitor interface device 14 at specific times, such as during the loading process when visitors are being loaded onto amusement park rides. 【0035】 Rather than directly attaching the wearable visualization device 12 to the visitor's head, direct physical contact between the wearable visualization device 12 and the visitor's head can be substantially avoided by allowing the visitor to attach or detach the wearable visualization device 12 to or from the visitor interface device 14. Furthermore, as discussed herein, since the visitor interface device is equipped with a lens 52 (or other 3-D visualization structure), if the wearable visualization device 12 is not attached, the visitor interface device 14 can be used to view 3-D images 36 projected or displayed as part of the attraction. However, as stated herein, 3-D content viewable using the visitor interface device 14 can also be viewable when the wearable visualization device 12 is coupled to the visitor interface device 14 in AR-related contexts where the wearable visualization device 12 enables the viewing of such external content. 【0036】 Further examples illustrating various embodiments and configurations of the visitor interface device 14 and its respective 3-D viewing optical system (e.g., lens 52) are shown in Figures 4 to 6. Figure 4 shows one embodiment of the visitor interface device 14, which includes a 3-D viewing optical system as discussed herein, either as part of the visitor interface device 14 or in the form of a lens 52 attached to the visitor interface device 14. In the example shown, the visitor interface device 14 includes a face mask portion 120 (including a nose guard 122) configured to fit the face of a visitor wearing the visitor interface device. Such a face mask portion 120 can help position and / or align the visitor interface device 14 to the visitor's face. In practice, the visitor interface device (and the corresponding face mask portion) may be offered in different sizes to accommodate differences in visitor size and anatomical structure. 【0037】 Figures 5 and 6 show two alternative styles for the face mask portion 120. In both examples, each lens 52 is illustrated as having different polarizations (e.g., vertical polarization, inverse polarization) for the left lens 52A and the right lens 52B respectively, to facilitate the display of 3-D images 36 using the visitor interface device 14. Such different polarizations can be achieved using passive or active polarization techniques, as discussed herein. In the example of Figure 5, each lens 52 is depicted to have a limited area relative to the opening 130 of the face mask portion 120, leaving open space for airflow while providing 3-D viewing capability to the wearer of the visitor interface device 14. Conversely, in Figure 6, the depicted embodiment of the visitor interface device 14 includes each lens 52 that substantially or completely fill the opening 130, which can be useful in producing a more immersive experience or providing a wider field of view that allows viewing of 3-D content using the visitor interface device 14. 【0038】 In some embodiments, the lens 52 can be detachable or otherwise separated from the rest of the visitor interface device 14. An example of such a separable lens element is shown in Figure 7, where the separable lens 52 is illustrated in the form of a detachable visor. To make it clear, in this example the lens 52 is provided as a single visor, but different polarizations, liquid crystal layers, or anaglyph colors can still be present on the two halves of the visor to facilitate the display of the three-dimensional image 36. That is, in such embodiments the lens 52 may be formed from a single continuous material, and a first lens region having a first optical property can be aligned with the visitor's first eye (e.g., left eye), and a second lens region having a different, second optical property can be aligned with the visitor's second eye (e.g., right eye). In other embodiments the lens 52 can be a multi-piece lens assembly formed from two or more separate lenses joined together. 【0039】 In this example, the lens 52 may be fastened to the visitor interface device 14 via one or more magnetic structures 142 (e.g., magnets or metal plates), clip-on or other mechanical fastener structures, or alternatively, it may slide into a slot or groove structure provided in the face mask portion 120 of the visitor interface device 14. Thus, different lenses 52 may be replaced or swapped on demand with respect to the visitor interface device 14, and vice versa. In fact, such duplication can facilitate efficient cleaning of the lens 52 and / or user selection of a lens 52 specific to the user's characteristics (e.g., adult, child, wearer of prescription glasses). 【0040】 In the depicted embodiment, a raised spacer 140 is also shown, provided on the environment-facing surface of the lens 52. Such a spacer 140 can be formed from a foam material, rubber material, plastic material, or other suitable material. Where present, the spacer 140 helps maintain a gap or predetermined distance between the surface of the lens 52 and the facing surface of the wearable visualization device 12, thereby blocking contact between them in a desired manner. It should be understood that the spacer 140 can take any suitable form, such as the spacer material being concentrated or provided primarily on the lateral edge portions of the lens 52 (e.g., areas of expected or likely contact). 【0041】 With the foregoing in mind, in operation, a visitor (e.g., a user) may be provided with a dedicated visitor interface device 14 that can be worn by that particular visitor for a certain period of time, such as throughout the entire amusement park (e.g., multiple different attractions in the amusement park) or throughout the duration of an amusement park attraction (e.g., on a single ride), (e.g., when entering the amusement park and / or while waiting in line for an amusement park attraction). For example, before boarding an attraction, a visitor can wear the visitor interface device 14 on their head in accordance with the technology described above. While on an attraction, a visitor can combine a wearable visualization device 12 with the visitor interface device 14. In this way, visitors can enjoy the experience provided by the attraction, including not only AR / VR content but also projected or displayed 3-D content, where available. 【0042】 When disembarking from an attraction, visitors can detach the wearable visualization device 12 from the visitor interface device 14. In some embodiments, after disembarking from an attraction, visitors can then dispose of the visitor interface device 14 in an appropriate location (e.g., a recycling bin). Alternatively, as described above, visitors can wear the visitor interface device 14 on multiple different rides or between multiple different attractions. For example, visitors can carry the visitor interface device 14 from ride to ride, connecting the visitor interface device 14 to the wearable visualization device 12 in each vehicle of each ride, and enjoy the AR / VR experience unique to each ride. In such implementations, and as discussed herein, visitors wearing the visitor interface device 14 can continue to view 3-D content (e.g., 3-D images 36) provided for viewing as part of an attraction(s) before and after removing the wearable visualization device 12 (or while wearing the wearable visualization device 12 in relation to AR). 【0043】 As an example of a ride-based implementation including dimensional and virtual content, Figure 8 shows three visitors 150 in an amusement park 160, two of whom are wearing wearable visualization devices 12, such as those coupled to their respective visitor interface devices 14, while the third visitor's wearable visualization device 12 is not coupled to their respective visitor interface device 14. As discussed herein, each of the wearable visualization devices 12 includes one or more displays suitable for displaying virtual features 32 in either AR or VR related contexts. The visitor interface device 14 includes lenses 52 or other optical features suitable for viewing 3-D images, as shown in the preceding figures and examples. 【0044】 In the illustrated example, visitors 150 are in a passenger vehicle 162 that can move along a ride path 164 (e.g., a track) of a thrill ride 166, such as a roller coaster or a dark ride. In the illustrated embodiment, the ride path 164 may be provided through the surrounding physical environment, within sight of additional amusement attractions (e.g., a Ferris wheel), a mall of park facilities (e.g., a game area, a hotel, restaurants, souvenir shops), and other elements of the physical environment. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the ride path 164 may be omitted, and the thrill ride 166 may be a nearly stationary ride or attraction. 【0045】 The 3-D display (e.g., electronic display device 172) can be positioned in the physical environment so as to be within the field of view of the ride vehicle 162 and visible from the ride path 164. That is, the electronic display device 172 can be seen from the passenger ride vehicle 162 for all or part of the ride. Furthermore, in some embodiments, it will be understood that a projector screen and projector may be used in addition to or as an alternative to the electronic display device 172 to present 3-D images 36 to visitors 150. 【0046】 By including one or more such electronic display devices 172 (or 3-D projectors), visitors 150 wearing the visitor interface device 14 can perceive the displayed 3-D images 36 throughout part or all of the thrill ride. For example, in AR-related cases, visitors 150 can perceive the 3-D images 36 displayed on the electronic display device 172 when both the visitor interface device 14 and the wearable visualization device 12 are worn. In VR-related cases, visitors 150 may also perceive the 3-D images 36 displayed on the electronic display device 172 when the visitor interface device 14 is worn but the wearable visualization device 12 is not attached, such as during boarding and / or removal. 【0047】 Regarding other embodiments of the content display system shown in Figure 8, the monitoring system 180 is communicatively coupled to the computer graphics generation system 190 and can be used to identify the appropriate position, location, orientation, etc., of any of the visitors 150 (or more visitors). In certain embodiments, the monitoring system 180 (e.g., one or more cameras) can be used to determine whether a visitor 150 is currently wearing a wearable visualization device 12 (for viewing VR content, e.g., virtual features 32) coupled to the visitor interface device 14 (for viewing 3-D images 36). Such information can be used to determine whether the display or projection of the 3-D images 36 can be interrupted, for example, if all visitors in a position to view the 3-D images 36 are wearing wearable visualization devices 12 in the form of VR headsets and therefore cannot view the 3-D images 36. Conversely, if it is determined that at least one visitor 150 does not have a wearable visualization device 12 coupled to the visitor interface device 14, the 3D image 36 may continue to be displayed, as at least one visitor may be able to see such an image. In fact, such embodiments can conserve power and improve operational efficiency by saving the display of the 3-D image 36 to instances that visitors can see. In further embodiments, if a number of visitors below a threshold are wearing a wearable visualization device 12 and / or a prompt has already been given, the 3-D image 36 may provide further prompts to encourage coupling of the wearable visualization device 12. 【0048】 The 3-D display system (e.g., electronic display device 172) can be communicatively coupled to a monitoring system 180, a computer graphics generation system 190, and a master controller 200 along a wireless network. The wireless network may include a wireless local area network (WLAN), a wireless wide area network (WWAN), near-field communication (NFC), a mesh network, and the like. In fact, in embodiments of a wireless network having a mesh network, the various displayable content discussed herein can be localized reflectively or automatically to the current state or conditions of the AR / VR and the electronic display device 172 and / or the visitors 150. In this embodiment, the wireless network communicatively couples each component of the AR / VR and 3-D visual system (e.g., electronic display device 172), but in other embodiments, one or more components of the AR / VR and 3-D visual system may be communicatively coupled by a wired connection. Accordingly, the monitoring system 180, the electronic display device 172, the computer graphics generation system 190, and the master controller 200 each include communication functions 210, 212, 214, and 216, respectively, so that the 3-D display system (e.g., the electronic display device 172), the monitoring system 180, the computer graphics generation system 190, and the master controller 200 can transfer data and / or control signals over a wireless network. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8, each of the monitoring system 180, the electronic display device 172, the computer graphics generation system 190, and the master controller 200 can use their respective processing components 220, 222, 224, and 226, as well as memory components 230, 232, 234, and 236 in combination to execute routines or other executable code to provide the respective functionality of these devices and systems. 【0049】 In certain embodiments, the computer graphics generation system 190 for AR / VR and 3-D display systems is responsible for generating AR / VR images (e.g., virtual features 32) presented to visitors 150 via wearable visualization devices 12, and 3-D images 36 viewable by visitors 150 wearing visitor interface devices 14. For example, the computer graphics generation system 190 in this embodiment is a server or game controller placed within the amusement park to generate AR / VR content (e.g., virtual features 32) based on various factors related to the visitors 150. Thus, the computer graphics generation system 190 is generally a system with significant processing power that renders AR / VR and / or 3-D content based on specific inputs received via a wireless or wired network. For example, in some embodiments, the computer graphics generation system 190 processes real-time video data (e.g., live video), orientation and position data, viewpoint data, or any combination thereof, received from wearable visualization devices 12 and / or a monitoring system 180. 【0050】 For example, in the context of AR, the computer graphics generation system 190 can use this data to generate a reference frame to register the AR image (e.g., virtual features 32) to a physical environment, e.g., a real-world environment 30 and / or a 3-D image 36 that can be displayed by a visitor 150 via a visitor interface device 14. Using the reference frame generated based on orientation data, position data, viewpoint data, motion tracking data, etc., the computer graphics generation system 190 can then render a view of the AR image in a temporally and spatially corresponding manner to what the visitor 150 would perceive without a wearable visualization device 12. The computer graphics generation system 190 can continuously update the rendering of the AR image (e.g., virtual features 32) (e.g., in real time) to reflect changes in the orientation, position, and / or movement of each visitor 150. Furthermore, some embodiments of the computer graphics generation system 190 can update the 3-D image 36 based on the current virtual features, the visitor 150's actions, etc. 【0051】 Conversely, in the context of VR, the computer graphics generation system 190 can use this data to trigger the display of virtual features in a perceived position or orientation that prevents visitors 150 from inadvertently interacting with real-world structures or features, including other visitors 150. Using a reference frame generated based on orientation data, position data, viewpoint data, motion tracking data, etc., the computer graphics generation system 190 can then render a view of the virtual feature 32 in a temporally and spatially corresponding manner to what visitors 150 are supposed to perceive, and in a position and orientation that does not pose a risk of accidental contact with real-world objects. The computer graphics generation system 190 can continuously update the rendering of the virtual feature 32 (e.g., in real time) to reflect changes in the orientation, position, and / or movement of each visitor 150. 【0052】 The master controller 200 (e.g., show controller, amusement park controller) of the AR / VR and 3-D visual system of this embodiment coordinates the operation of the components of the AR / VR and 3-D visual system disclosed herein. For example, in embodiments in which the wearable visualization device includes a wireless communication circuit, the master controller 200 provides control signals via a wireless network to the computer graphics generation system 190, the 3-D display system (e.g., an electronic display device 172), and the wearable visualization device 12. Generally, the master controller 200 of this embodiment instructs the computer graphics generation system 190 to generate virtual features 32 and provide them to the wearable visualization device 12. In some embodiments, the master controller 200 instructs the computer graphics generation system 190 to generate a 3-D image 36 and provide it to the 3-D display system (e.g., an electronic display device 172). Furthermore, the master controller instructs the wearable visualization device 12 to present virtual features 32 to the visitors 150, and the electronic display device 172 to present 3-D images 36 to the visitors 150 in a controlled, relevant, and / or individual manner. 【0053】 With the foregoing in mind, Figure 9 shows an example process flow diagram of one embodiment of a process for providing AR / VR and 3-D enhancements to amusement park visitors 150. The process can be useful for creating and displaying VR content and 3-D experiences during amusement park experiences such as thrill rides or other attractions. The process can be stored in a non-transient computer-readable medium (e.g., one or more of memories 230, 232, 234, 236) and can represent executable code or instructions executed by, for example, the processor of the wearable visualization device 12, the processor 224 of the computer graphics generation system 190, the processor 222 of the electronic display device 172, and / or the processor 226 of the master controller 200. Processors 222, 224, and 226 are communicably coupled over a network such as a wireless network and can receive and transmit the instructions described below. 【0054】 In particular, the described process can be useful in contexts where VR content is displayed during a portion of the attraction, and 3-D content is displayed for different parts of the attraction (i.e., the display of VR and 3-D content does not overlap). In other contexts where virtual features exist in AR format, the decision points and / or actions may differ based on the AR context, although similar, such as instructing the wearable visualization device 12 to display an AR image when it is determined that the wearable visualization device 14 is attached, while continuing to display 3-D content. 【0055】 In the illustrated example of the process, the process can be initiated by instructing a 3-D display system, which may include an electronic display device 172, to display 3-D images 36 (step 250). These 3-D images 36 can be viewed by visitors 150 wearing a visitor interface device 14, as discussed herein, which includes a 3-D visual optics system (e.g., lens 52). In the illustrated example, a decision can be made (step 256) that some or all of the visitors 150 participating in the attraction have attached their respective wearable visualization devices 12 to the visitor interface device 14, for example, based on a signal received from a monitoring system 180 (step 254). For example, this may occur in a set part of a ride or attraction, for example, based on a prompt provided to the visitors 150 (e.g., via the electronic display device 172). In this way, visitors 150 can enjoy 3D images 36 of a portion of the attraction (or the area in front of the attraction), and when prompted, they can equip VR headsets to enjoy VR content about other parts of the attraction or ride. 【0056】 In step 256, once it is determined that the wearable visualization devices 12 of the monitored visitors are attached to the respective visitor interface devices 14, the wearable visualization devices 12 can be instructed to display VR content (e.g., virtual features 32) to the visitors 150 individually or collectively (step 258). As described above, the computer graphics generation system 190 generates the virtual features 32, but in other embodiments, the virtual features 32 can be generated by the processor of the wearable visualization device 12 or the processor 226 of the master controller 200. In some embodiments, the virtual features 32 generated by the computer graphics generation system 190 are individualized or customized for the visitors 150. For example, based on the group associated with the visitors 150, the location of the visitors 150 along the ride path 164, the orientation of the visitors 150, or any other appropriate sensor data associated with the visitors 150, the computer graphics generation system 190, in some embodiments, specifically generates virtual features 32 for individual display to the visitors 150. During or after the generation of the virtual features 32, the computer graphics generation system 190 transmits the virtual features 32 to the wearable visualization device 12 via a wireless network. 【0057】 In the illustrated example, if, in step 256, it is determined that all monitored visitors 150 within each group or area of ​​the attraction are viewing the VR content, the electronic display device 172 or projector may be instructed to stop displaying the 3D image 36 (step 260). In this way, processing power can be reduced and operational efficiency can be improved by limiting or eliminating the display or presentation of content that is not being viewed by any of the visitors 150. Conversely, if the electronic display device 172 is notified that a visitor 150 is within its field of view and is not wearing the wearable visualization device 12, the display of the 3-D image can be restored or resumed. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, a prompt may be presented via the electronic display device 172 instructing the visitor 150 to reattach their wearable visualization device 12. 【0058】 As described above, embodiments of the present disclosure can provide one or more useful technical effects for incorporating 3-D visual functionality into a head-mounted device (e.g., an interface device) to which another device can be coupled to provide VR or AR functionality. The device providing VR or AR visual functionality can be detachably coupled to an interface component providing 3-D visual functionality. Thus, as recognized herein, amusement park visitors can view 3-D content when the AR or VR functionality is detached, while simultaneously being able to view AR or VR content by attaching a device (e.g., a VR headset or electronic glasses) when desired or prompted. 【0059】 While the embodiments described herein are subject to various modifications and substitutions, specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that this disclosure is not intended to be limited to any specific embodiment disclosed. This disclosure is protected by all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the spirit and scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims. 【0060】 The technologies presented and claimed herein are applied with reference to tangible objects and specific examples of a practical nature that clearly improve the art of the invention, and are therefore not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Furthermore, if any of the claims appended to the end of this specification include one or more elements designated as "means for performing the function" or "steps for performing the function," such elements are intended to be construed under Section 112(f) of the United States Patent Act. However, with respect to any claim that includes elements designated in any other form, such elements are not intended to be construed under Section 112(f) of the United States Patent Act. [Explanation of symbols] 【0061】 10. Composite or augmented vision systems 12 Wearable Visualization Devices 14. Visitor Interface Devices 18 Interface Frames 30 Real-world environment 32 Virtual Features 36 3-D images 40 Hyperrealistic Environments 50 Head Strap Assembly 52 lenses

Claims

[Claim 1] An interface device for a separate wearable augmented reality (AR) device, A head strap assembly configured to be worn on the head of a visitor during use and to secure the interface device to the head, The interface frame attached to the head strap assembly, A three-dimensional (3D) visual component, coupled to the interface frame and configured to enable viewing of one or more coded two-dimensional (2-D) images as one or more decoded three-dimensional (3D) features, A mounting mechanism configured to detachably connect the separate wearable AR device to the interface frame, wherein the separate wearable AR device includes one or more transparent or translucent displays for displaying virtual features superimposed on a real-world environment that visitors can see when in use; An interface device equipped with the following features. [Claim 2] The interface device according to claim 1, wherein the 3-D visual component includes one or more lenses. [Claim 3] The interface device according to claim 2, wherein the interface device is configured to allow visitors to view the one or more decoded 3-D features through the lenses of the one or more 3-D visual components and the one or more transparent or translucent displays of the separate wearable AR device. [Claim 4] The interface device according to claim 1, wherein the 3-D visual component is removable from the interface frame without tools. [Claim 5] The interface device according to claim 1, wherein the 3-D visual component includes a passive 3-D lens assembly. [Claim 6] The interface device according to claim 1, wherein the 3-D visual component includes an active 3-D lens assembly. [Claim 7] The interface device according to claim 1, wherein the 3-D visual component includes a first lens having a first polarization and a second lens having a second polarization different from the first polarization. [Claim 8] The interface device according to claim 7, wherein the separate wearable AR device, when attached to the mounting mechanism, includes a lens having a polarization that matches or corresponds to the first polarization of the first lens and a lens having a polarization that matches or corresponds to the second polarization of the second lens. [Claim 9] The interface device according to claim 1, wherein the mounting mechanism includes one or more magnets configured to magnetically engage with a corresponding magnet or metal mounting structure provided on the separate wearable AR device when in use. [Claim 10] The interface device according to claim 1, wherein the mounting mechanism includes one or more support ribs configured to engage with the separate wearable AR device when in use. [Claim 11] The aforementioned controlled device, It is operable in both the separated and mounted configurations. In the wearing configuration, the separate wearable AR device is coupled with the interface frame and configured to display virtual features superimposed on the real-world environment visible to the park visitor. In the separate configuration, the separate wearable AR device is not coupled to the interface frame. In both the separate and attached configurations, the 3-D visual component enables viewing of the decoded 3-D features. The interface device according to claim 1. [Claim 12] A visual system that combines three-dimensional (3-D) and augmented reality (AR), It is equipped with an interface device that is designed to be worn on the head of a visitor when in use. The aforementioned controlled device, Interface frame and A 3D visual component connected to the interface frame and configured to enable viewing of projected or displayed 3D images, A first mounting mechanism configured to detachably connect a separate wearable AR device to the interface frame, Includes, The aforementioned separate wearable AR device is One or more transparent or translucent displays overlay one or more virtual features onto the real-world environment that visitors can see when using the park, A second mounting mechanism configured to removably engage with the first mounting mechanism, A visual system, including. [Claim 13] The visual system according to claim 12, wherein the 3-D visual component includes one or more lenses that are not removable from the interface frame. [Claim 14] The visual system according to claim 11, wherein the 3-D visual component includes a first lens having a first polarization and a second lens having a second polarization different from the first polarization. [Claim 15] The visual system according to claim 12, wherein the first mounting mechanism includes a first magnet, and the second mounting mechanism includes a second magnet. [Claim 16] The visual system according to claim 12, wherein the separate wearable AR device comprises electronic glasses including one or more transparent or translucent displays on which one or more virtual features are displayed when in use so that a real-world environment including a projected or displayed 3-D image can be viewed simultaneously with the virtual features. [Claim 17] A visual system that combines three-dimensional (3-D) and augmented reality (AR), A projector or electronic display device configured to project or display 3-D images in a physical environment, An interface device configured to be worn on the head of a visitor during use, Equipped with, The aforementioned controlled device, Interface frame and A 3D visual component attached to the interface frame and configured to enable viewing of the projected or displayed 3D image, A separate wearable AR device configured to be detachably coupled with the interface device, Includes, The aforementioned separate wearable AR device is One or more transparent or translucent displays that display one or more virtual features when in use, such that the physical environment including the 3D image is visible simultaneously with the virtual features. A visual system, including. [Claim 18] The 3-D visual component includes one or more polarizing lenses and The one or more polarizing lenses are positioned between the visitor's eyes and one or more transparent or translucent displays along the visitor's line of sight when the separate wearable AR device is coupled with the interface device. The visual system according to claim 17. [Claim 19] The visual system according to claim 17, wherein the 3-D visual component includes an active shutter lens assembly. [Claim 20] The amusement park controller is configured to instruct the projector or electronic display device to display a 3D image. The 3-D image includes a prompt for attaching the separate wearable AR device to the interface frame. The visual system according to claim 19. [Claim 21] A visual system that combines three-dimensional (3-D) and virtual reality, augmented reality, and / or mixed reality, An interface device, A head strap assembly configured to be worn on the user's head and to secure the interface device to the head, The interface frame attached to the head strap assembly, A 3D visual component coupled to the interface frame to form a three-dimensional (3-D) visual assembly, configured to enable viewing of one or more coded two-dimensional (2-D) images as one or more decoded 3D features, A mounting mechanism configured to detachably connect a wearable visualization device to the 3-D visual assembly, An interface device equipped with, The wearable visualization device is configured to be tethered to a vehicle, and includes one or more displays configured to encompass the user's entire field of view. A visual system equipped with [the following features]. [Claim 22] The 3-D visual component includes a first lens having a first polarization and a second lens having a second polarization different from the first polarization, and the one or more displays of the wearable visualization device include, when coupled to the mounting mechanism, a lens having a polarization that matches or corresponds to the first polarization of the first lens and a lens having a polarization that matches or corresponds to the second polarization of the second lens, the visual system according to claim 21. [Claim 23] A processing system comprising one or more processors, A non-transient computer-readable medium, which includes processor-executable instructions that can be executed by the processing system to cause the processing system to perform a procedure, Includes, The above procedure is, To determine whether the wearable visualization device is attached to the 3-D visual assembly, In response to determining that the wearable visualization device is coupled to the 3-D visual assembly, the wearable visualization device is instructed to display the VR environment on the one or more displays so that the user can see the VR environment on the one or more displays through the lenses of the 3-D visual component. The visual system according to claim 21, including the following: [Claim 24] The visual system according to claim 21, wherein one or more of the displays are opaque. [Claim 25] The visual system according to claim 21, wherein the 3-D visual component includes a first anagly lens and a second anagly lens of a different color from the first anagly lens. [Claim 26] The 3-D visual component includes an active shutter lens containing a first liquid crystal layer and a second liquid crystal layer. The first liquid crystal layer is configured to become opaque in response to the application of power to the active shutter lens, and the second liquid crystal layer is configured to become semi-transparent in response to the application of power to the active shutter lens. The visual system according to claim 21. [Claim 27] The vision system according to claim 21, wherein the mounting mechanism includes one or more electromagnets configured to be selectively activated to magnetically engage with a corresponding magnet or metal mounting structure provided on the wearable visualization device. [Claim 28] A visual system that combines three-dimensional (3-D) vision with virtual reality, augmented reality, and / or mixed reality, A projector or electronic display device configured to project or display a 3-D image onto the surface of a display in a physical environment, A wearable visualization device comprising one or more displays and configured to encompass the user's entire field of view, wherein the one or more displays are physically separated from the surface of the displays in the physical environment, An interface device configured to be worn on the user's head, Includes, The aforementioned controlled device, A 3D visual assembly comprising an interface frame and 3D visual components coupled to the interface frame, wherein the 3D visual components are configured to enable viewing of the projection or displayed 3D image on the surface of the display in the physical environment, A mounting mechanism configured to detachably connect the wearable visualization device to the 3-D visual assembly, A visual system, including. [Claim 29] A processing system comprising one or more processors, A non-transient computer-readable medium, which includes processor-executable instructions that can be executed by the processing system to cause the processing system to perform a procedure, Includes, The above procedure is, To instruct the projector or electronic display device to project or display the projected or displayed 3D image, The visual system according to claim 28, including the visual system according to claim 28. [Claim 30] The visual system according to claim 29, wherein the projected or displayed 3-D image includes prompts for coupling the wearable visualization device to the 3-D visual assembly. [Claim 31] A processing system including one or more processors, A non-transient computer-readable medium, which includes processor-executable instructions that can be executed by the processing system to cause the processing system to perform a procedure, Includes, The above procedure is, To determine whether the wearable visualization device is attached to the 3-D visual assembly, In response to determining that the wearable visualization device is coupled to the 3-D visual assembly, the wearable visualization device is instructed to display a virtual environment on the one or more displays. The visual system according to claim 28, including the visual system according to claim 28. [Claim 32] The visual system according to claim 31, wherein the procedure includes instructing the projector or the electronic display device to display the projected or displayed 3D image in response to determining that the wearable visualization device is not coupled to the 3-D visual assembly. [Claim 33] A visual system that combines three-dimensional (3-D) vision with virtual reality, augmented reality, and / or mixed reality, A projector or electronic display device configured to project or display a 3-D image onto the surface of a display in a physical environment, Multiple wearable visualization devices, wherein each of the multiple wearable visualization devices includes one or more displays, is configured to encompass the user's entire field of view, and the one or more displays are physically separated from the physical environment; A plurality of interface devices, wherein each of the plurality of interface devices is An interface frame configured to be attached to the user's head, A 3D visual component coupled to the interface frame to form a 3D visual assembly, configured to enable viewing of the projection or displayed 3D image on the surface of the display in the physical environment, A mounting mechanism configured to detachably connect one of the wearable visualization devices among the plurality of wearable visualization devices to the 3-D visual assembly, Multiple interface devices, including, A visual system, including. [Claim 34] A processing system comprising one or more processors, A non-transient computer-readable medium, which includes processor-executable instructions that can be executed by the processing system to cause the processing system to perform a procedure, Includes, The above procedure is, To determine whether at least one of the plurality of wearable visualization devices is coupled to at least one corresponding interface device among the plurality of interface devices, In response to determining that at least one wearable visualization device is coupled to at least one corresponding interface device, the at least one wearable visualization device is instructed to display a VR environment on one or more of the displays of the at least one wearable visualization device, The visual system according to claim 33, including the visual system according to claim 33. [Claim 35] The visual system according to claim 34, wherein the procedure includes instructing the projector or the electronic display device to display the projected or displayed 3-D image in response to determining that at least one of the wearable visualization devices of the plurality of wearable visualization devices is not coupled to the at least one corresponding interface. [Claim 36] The visual system according to claim 35, wherein the procedure includes instructing the projector or the electronic display device to stop displaying the projected or displayed 3-D image in response to determining that at least one of the wearable visualization devices of the plurality of wearable visualization devices is coupled to at least one corresponding interface. [Claim 37] The visual system according to claim 33, wherein each of the wearable visualization devices is configured to display a VR environment based on the position of each user relative to the vehicle's route. [Claim 38] The visual system according to claim 37, wherein each of the wearable visualization devices is tethered to a vehicle configured to move along the vehicle's route. [Claim 39] The vision system according to claim 21, wherein the mounting mechanism comprises a plurality of mounting structures, the wearable visualization device is configured to be detachably coupled to a first side of the 3-D visual assembly via a first mounting structure of the plurality of mounting structures, and the wearable visualization device is configured to be detachably coupled to a second side of the 3-D visual assembly via a second mounting structure of the plurality of mounting structures. [Claim 40] The visual system according to claim 21, wherein the wearable visualization device is configured to be tethered to the vehicle via a cable that electrically connects the wearable visualization device to a computer graphics generation system that generates a VR environment for display on one or more displays.

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