Modular Sensory Platform with Lift Actuation and Synchronized Effects
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a gap in the art between low-cost, humdrum event enhancements and expensive, highly impactful sensory experiences, particularly in venues with varying floor areas, requiring custom designs with long lead times and limited accessibility.
Innovation Solution
A modular sensory platform comprising standardized deck modules with lift actuators and sensory stimuli, controlled by a platform controller, to create adjustable and synchronized experiences for virtual, augmented, or real environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If custom virtual reality sets with motion platforms and special effects are used, then the guest experience is highly impactful, but the cost becomes prohibitively expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the sensory platform into modular deck modules that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each deck module contains standardized components (frame, standing surface, lift actuator, sensory stimuli) that can be produced separately and then combined to create the complete experience platform, reducing overall manufacturing cost while maintaining experience quality
Solution Approach 2:
The deck modules are designed with universal interfaces and standardized configurations that allow them to be used across multiple different venue sizes and experience types. The same basic module can be deployed in various arrangements to create different motion envelopes and sensory experiences, eliminating the need for custom designs for each installation
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom designs are created for each venue, then the platform fits specific floor areas, but the lead time becomes very long
Solution Approach 1:
The platform is segmented into standardized deck modules that can be pre-manufactured and then rapidly deployed. This modular approach allows venues to be configured quickly by assembling pre-built modules rather than waiting for custom fabrication, significantly reducing lead time while maintaining adaptability to different floor areas
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamically configurable deck module arrangements that can be adapted to different venue layouts. The standardized modules can be arranged in various patterns and configurations to match different floor areas, providing flexibility without requiring custom design and manufacturing for each venue
3Reliability
If elaborate sensory effects are implemented, then the guest experience is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sensory functions (lift actuation, vibration, audio, visual effects, fog generation) are merged into integrated deck modules. Each module combines these different sensory stimuli in a unified structure, reducing overall system complexity by eliminating the need for separate control systems for each function and simplifying installation and maintenance
Solution Approach 2:
The deck modules are designed as multi-functional units that can provide various sensory effects through standardized interfaces. The same basic module structure supports different combinations of sensory stimuli, reducing the need for multiple specialized systems and thereby reducing overall device complexity
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
Provides cost-effective, customizable, and scalable sensory enhancements that amplify guest experiences across different venues, offering a range of motion and sensory effects without the need for custom designs.
Implementation Method 1
a lift actuator positioned near multiple frame corners in the array for changing an actuating distance between the event floor and the standing surface according to a lift signal for each of the lift actuators
Implementation Method 2
One or more articulating joints may attach to the side edges corresponding to the predefined deck gap and thereby stabilize the deck gap while allowing the vertical travel
Implementation Method 3
The stimuli may include one or more of a vibration buzzer, a low-frequency transducer, a smoke effects unit, a heater, a water spritzer, air blast and scent supply lines, an air blaster and scent emitter, a haptic device
Implementation Method 4
The stimuli may include one or more of a vibration buzzer, a low-frequency transducer
Implementation Method 5
The stimuli may include one or more of a vibration buzzer, a low-frequency transducer, a smoke effects unit, a heater
Implementation Method 6
The stimuli may include one or more of a vibration buzzer, a low-frequency transducer, a smoke effects unit, a heater, a water spritzer, air blast and scent supply lines, an air blaster and scent emitter, a haptic device, fiber optic lighting, LED lighting
Data Source
AI summary
There is disclosed a modular sensory platform for generating an experience for a guest on the platform located on an event floor of a venue. At least one deck module may each include a frame with a bottom side for mounting to the event floor, a side edge bordering the frame, and a standing surface opposite the bottom for supporting the guest. Lift actuators may be positioned along the side edge or under the deck for changing a distance between the event floor and the standing surface according to a lift signal. One or more sensory stimuli each receivable of a stimulus signal may be mounted to the frame and include at least one of a vibration buzzer, a low-frequency transducer, smoke effects, a heater, a water spritzer, air and scent lines, an air blaster and scent emission, a haptic device, fiber optic lighting, LED lighting, and a fog unit.