UAV Special Effects Modules for Dynamic Show Repositioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Amusement parks face challenges in dynamically changing special effects locations, as traditional static effect assemblies restrict the ability to modify live shows and their corresponding special effects, limiting entertainment variety for repeat visitors.
Innovation Solution
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) system with communications circuitry and special effects modules, allowing for programmable flight paths and real-time activation of special effects materials such as water, scent, or smoke, enabling untethered and dynamic special effect delivery across various locations within an amusement park.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional static effect assemblies are used, then installation is simple and location is fixed, but the ability to modify live shows and special effects is constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static effect assemblies to mobile robots that can dynamically reposition special effects devices throughout the performance space. The robots enable real-time relocation of effects during shows, allowing flexible modification of entertainment content without permanent installations.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile robot platform serves multiple functions: it transports special effects materials, positions effects devices, and can be reprogrammed for different shows. This universal platform replaces multiple fixed installations, enabling a single system to deliver diverse entertainment experiences across various locations and time periods.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed location special effects are used, then infrastructure requirements are minimized, but entertainment variety for repeat visitors is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces permanent mechanical infrastructure (fixed mounts, structural attachments) with mobile robotic systems that navigate autonomously. This substitution eliminates the need for complex building modifications while enabling greater entertainment variety through programmable movement and repositioning of special effects.
3Speed
If special effects assemblies are attached to facilities, then stability of effect delivery is ensured, but mobility and repositioning capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile robots are self-propelled and autonomously navigate to desired locations without requiring external towing or manual handling. This self-service capability enables rapid repositioning while maintaining operational reliability through onboard navigation and control systems that ensure precise delivery of special effects to target locations.
Data Source
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AI summary
An amusement park special effects system comprises a ground controller (20), an unmanned aerial vehicle (18a - 18g), communications circuitry (34, 36) of the unmanned aerial vehicle (18a - 18g) configured to transmit signals to and receive signals from the ground controller (20), a vehicle controller (64) of the unmanned aerial vehicle (18a - 18g) configured to execute a flight plan, at least one special effects module (70a - 70d) of the unmanned aerial vehicle (18a - 18g), a release mechanism (80) of the at least one special effects module (70a - 70d), a special effects module controller (74) of the at least one special effects module (70a - 70d), the special effects module controller (74) configured to instruct the at least one special effects module (70a - 70d) to activate the release mechanism (80) in response to an activation signal from the ground controller (20) and a special effects material (76) disposed within the at least one special effects module (70a - 70d), wherein the release mechanism (80) is configured to release the special effects material (76) from the at least one special effects module (70a - 70d) when activated by the special effects module controller (74), and wherein the special effects material (76) is disseminated at release.