Reaction-Controlled Animated Figures for Multi-Axis Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing entertainment equipment in amusement parks limits the range and variety of movements for animated figures due to mechanical constraints, such as fixed positioning and heavy components, restricting animations to a particular area and distance from guests.
Innovation Solution
A reaction controlled system utilizing propellers, drones, and trolley systems with rails and cables to provide a wide range of movements and mobility for animated figures, allowing them to move in multiple axes and interact with guests dynamically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional mechanical equipment is used to animate figures, then the equipment structure is simple and easy to implement, but the range of movement and animation variety is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the animation control into multiple independent components: a base platform for positional movement, separate propeller assemblies for rotational and translational control, and individual reaction control elements for attitude adjustment. This segmentation allows each component to handle specific movement functions independently, expanding the overall range of motion while keeping individual components relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static mechanical linkages to dynamic control using reaction-controlled propellers and drones that can adjust their orientation and thrust vectors in real-time. This dynamic control enables complex three-dimensional movements and animations that would be impossible with fixed mechanical structures, significantly improving adaptability without requiring equally complex mechanical linkages.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed positioning equipment is used, then installation is simple and stable, but the animation distance and guest interaction range are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system adds vertical and three-dimensional movement capabilities to traditional horizontal positioning equipment. By incorporating propellers and drones that can move in multiple dimensions (up/down, forward/backward, left/right, and rotation), the animation range extends beyond the original fixed plane, allowing figures to approach guests from various angles and heights while maintaining relatively simple installation on the ride structure.
3Speed
If heavy mechanical components are used, then structural strength is sufficient, but the movement speed and animation responsiveness are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces heavy mechanical drive systems with reaction-controlled propellers and drones that use aerodynamic and electromagnetic forces. This substitution eliminates the need for bulky mechanical linkages and heavy counterweights, significantly reducing the overall mass while maintaining structural strength through the inherent rigidity of the platform and the efficient force transmission of the reaction-controlled components.
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 animated figures to perform complex and dynamic animations, including flying, floating, and rotating, beyond traditional limitations, enhancing guest engagement and animation variety.
Implementation Method 1
A reaction controlled system may include one or more propellers
Implementation Method 2
reaction controlled system utilizing propellers, drones, and trolley systems
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 5
AI summary
A reaction controlled system 102 includes a track, a trolley 104 that travels along the track, an animated figure 106 coupled to the trolley 104, at least one reaction control element 108 coupled to a portion of the animated figure 106 (e.g., on the features, limbs, and/or body of the animated figure 106), and a controller 110. The controller 110 detects presence of a ride vehicle or a guest. The controller 110 also controls the trolley 104 to position the animated figure 106 based on the presence of the ride vehicle or the guest. The controller 110 also controls animation of the animated figure 106 by operating the reaction control element 108.