Puppet Control System Concealing Performer Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing character control systems limit the movement and realism of puppets due to visible performer control and limited movement capabilities, which detract from the illusion of the puppet being alive.
Innovation Solution
A character control system featuring removable straps with integrated control assemblies and actuators, allowing performers to control puppet movements and audio outputs without visible external controls, and enabling interchangeable use with various puppets and costumes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a performer directly controls a puppet through visible mechanical actuators, then the puppet can move and perform actions, but the audience notices the performer controlling the actuators, thereby reducing the sense of realness of the puppet
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control features from the performer's body and places them within a prop (such as a backpack or costume element) that the performer wears or holds. This separation allows the performer to control the puppet while the control interface is concealed from the audience, maintaining the illusion of realism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a prop as an intermediary between the performer and the puppet control system. The control features are embedded within this prop, serving as a mediator that conceals the control mechanism from view while still allowing the performer to operate the puppet effectively.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a performer manually controls puppet movements, then the puppet can be operated, but the movement of the puppet is limited by the ability of the performer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the prop to contain multiple control features that can operate various aspects of the puppet (movement, sound, lighting, etc.). This multi-functional approach allows a single prop to control multiple puppet functions, increasing versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple control functions (movement control, audio control, lighting control) into a single integrated prop. By merging these controls into one unit worn or held by the performer, the system achieves greater puppet capability while managing complexity through consolidation.
3Reliability
If control features are integrated into a prop worn by the performer, then the performer can control the puppet without visible external controls, but the prop must be designed to conceal the controls from the audience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the control features within the prop structure, placing them inside compartments or recesses that are concealed from the audience's view. The controls are embedded within the prop's design, allowing the performer to access them while the audience only sees the external appearance of the prop.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different design qualities to different parts of the prop: the external surfaces are designed to be aesthetically pleasing and concealing, while internal compartments provide access to control features. This local differentiation allows the prop to serve both cosmetic and functional purposes.
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided herein is a character control system (8) that includes a strap (12, 14) configured to removably couple to a prop (18) configured to be transported by a performer (10). A controls assembly (30, 32) is disposed within a portion of the strap (12, 14). The controls assembly (30, 32) includes a plurality of control features (34, 40, 36, 38, 42, 44). A controller (46, 48, 50) is configured to couple to the controls assembly (30, 32) and an actuator (102) of a puppet (16). The controller (46, 48, 50) is configured to control the actuator (102) to move a part of the puppet (16) in response to actuation of a control feature (34, 40, 36, 38, 42, 44) of the plurality of control features (34, 40, 36, 38, 42, 44) by the performer.