Show Effect Connector Reset Using Cable Ejection and Guest Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing show effect systems in entertainment venues require manual resetting, which decreases guest throughput and operation efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A show effect system with a connector assembly that includes interactive components for guest interactions and ejector components for automated resetting, utilizing a slidable plate, pins, and an actuator to disconnect cables from coupling joints based on guest position data from a tracking system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual resetting is used, then system simplicity is maintained, but guest throughput and operation efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The show effect system automatically resets itself without requiring operator intervention. The controller monitors guest position data and autonomously activates the actuator to eject cables from coupling joints when guests are not present, enabling the system to service itself and eliminate manual resetting operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical resetting operations with an automated electromechanical system. The controller uses guest tracking data to trigger an actuator that mechanically ejects cables through pins, substituting human-operated mechanical resetting with an automated control system that integrates sensing, decision-making, and actuation
2Loss of time
If automated resetting is implemented, then reset time is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by monitoring guest position continuously and preparing for automatic resetting in advance. When the tracking system detects that guests have left the vicinity, the controller proactively activates the actuator to eject cables before the next guest group arrives, ensuring the system is ready for the next interaction without delay
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses guest tracking data as feedback to control the resetting process. The controller receives continuous position information from the tracking system and uses this feedback to determine when resetting should occur, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts its operation based on real-time guest presence information
3Productivity
If cables remain coupled after guest interaction, then connection reliability is maintained, but operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic resetting actions based on guest interaction cycles. After each guest group completes their interaction and leaves, the controller periodically activates the actuator to eject the cables, creating a rhythmic pattern of coupling during interaction and decoupling during idle periods, optimizing both reliability and operational efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
A show effect system may include one or more cables, a front panel coupled to one or more coupling joints configured to receive the one or more cables and provide a signal indicative of a connection between a first cable of the one or more cables and a first coupling joint of the one or more coupling joints, and a slidable plate coupled to one or more pins and an actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to drive the slidable plate to bring a first pin of the one or more pins into contact with the first cable to disconnect the first cable from the first coupling joint.