Mirror-Driven Volumetric Imagery for Perceived Depth Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing visual effects systems in venues like amusement parks lack the capability to create immersive and unique experiences by effectively manipulating perceived depth and volume of imagery, limiting guest engagement and enjoyment.

Innovation Solution

A visual effects system utilizing a mirror driven by a drive system to adjust the perceived depth of reflected image frames, generating volumetric imagery through coordinated movement and image frame presentation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a display presents image frames without depth manipulation, then the system structure remains simple, but the visual immersion and guest engagement are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisual immersion capabilityVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the Dynamics principle by making the mirror movable rather than fixed. The mirror is driven by a drive system that can adjust its position dynamically, allowing the perceived depth of reflected image frames to be modified. This dynamic adjustment transforms a static display system into one that can create immersive volumetric imagery by varying the mirror's position to change the optical path and perceived depth of the displayed content.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements the Dimensionality change principle by using a mirror to reflect image frames in a way that creates perceived depth and volumetric imagery. The mirror redirects light from the display to create a virtual image that appears to exist in three-dimensional space rather than on a flat screen, adding a depth dimension to the visual experience without requiring complex 3D display hardware.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Illumination intensity

If a mirror is added to reflect image frames and create volumetric imagery, then perceived depth and visual engagement are improved, but the system complexity and device cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisual effect qualityVSAvoidsystem components
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses the mirror as an intermediary element between the display and the guest. Rather than directly displaying volumetric imagery through complex hardware, the mirror acts as a mediator that reflects the displayed image frames to create the perception of depth and volume. This intermediary approach allows the system to achieve sophisticated visual effects using relatively simple components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs the Copying principle by using the mirror to create a virtual copy of the displayed image frames. The mirror reflects the light from the display to form a virtual image that appears to exist in three-dimensional space. This optical copying mechanism enables volumetric imagery without requiring physical three-dimensional objects or complex display hardware.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Adaptability or versatility

If the mirror is driven to adjust perceived depth of reflected images, then volumetric imagery and guest experience are enhanced, but the mechanical complexity and energy consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperceived depth adjustmentVSAvoiddrive system energy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the Partial action principle by using a drive system that adjusts the mirror to specific positions rather than requiring continuous or excessive movement. The mirror is driven to the extent necessary to create the desired perceived depth effects, avoiding unnecessary energy consumption from over-driving the system. The drive system provides just enough mechanical action to achieve the volumetric imagery effect.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables the creation of immersive volumetric imagery by adjusting perceived depth and size of virtual objects, enhancing guest experience with more realistic and engaging visual effects.

Implementation Method 1

a mirror positioned to reflect the series of image frames to generate reflected image frames

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS12554122B2Techniques for producing imagery in a visual effects system
Publication Date: 2026.02.17 UNIVERSAL CITY STUDIOS LLC
  • US12554122B2 patent drawing
  • US12554122B2 patent drawing
  • US12554122B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A visual effects system includes a display configured to present a series of image frames and a mirror positioned to reflect the series of image frames to generate reflected image frames. The visual effects system also includes a drive system coupled to the mirror, wherein the drive system is configured to drive movement of the mirror to adjust a perceived depth of the reflected image frames to produce volumetric imagery for visualization by a guest.