Walking Character Illusion via Projected Video on Moving Cart
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current special effects systems in theme and amusement parks face challenges in creating a believable and repeatable illusion of a walking character without relying on complex and expensive robotic figures, which are difficult to design and maintain.
Innovation Solution
A special effects system that uses a cart with a drive mechanism and a vertical screen, combined with a video projector to project images of a walking character, along with a moving prop assembly and lighting effects to create the illusion of a 3D character walking towards the observer, without the need for complex robotic figures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If robotic figures are used to create a walking character effect, then the believability of the illusion is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a two-dimensional video recording of a character walking, which is then projected onto a transparent screen. This copying approach creates the illusion of a three-dimensional walking character without requiring complex robotic figures, thereby maintaining believability while significantly reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical robotic system with an optical projection system. Instead of using motors, actuators, and mechanical joints to create walking motion, the system uses video projection to display the walking character, eliminating the need for complex mechanical components
2Ease of manufacture
If robotic figures are used to create a walking character effect, then the character can physically interact with the environment, but the manufacturing cost and maintenance expense increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a pre-recorded video of a character walking, which captures the natural walking motion and physical interactions. This video copy is then projected to create the illusion of a physical character, achieving high-quality walking effects without the need for expensive robotic fabrication and maintenance
3Reliability
If a vertical screen is used to project the walking character, then the 3D illusion is enhanced, but the cost of the projection system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a thin, transparent vertical screen (such as a transparent sheet or film) for projection. This transparent screen allows the projected image to appear as if the character is physically present in three-dimensional space, enhancing the illusion while keeping the projection system relatively simple and cost-effective
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
The system effectively creates a believable illusion of a walking character that is less expensive to implement and maintain, providing a high-quality, repeatable experience for observers without the use of complex robotics.
Implementation Method 1
a video projector mounted on the support platform, and the video projector, during the operating time, projects images of a character that is walking onto the projection surface
Data Source
AI summary
A special effects system for creating a unique walking character effect or illusion. The character appears to the observer to be a physical character or to have dimensionality rather than being two dimensional. The illusion or effect is achieved by mounting a projector and a thin, vertical, flat screen onto an automated cart or sled. The cart is adapted to roll on a track positioned to run from a backdrop or backwall toward a viewing space in which one or more observers or viewers may be located during system operations. The media (or video file) of the character walking is projected on the projection surface of the screen element with the projector. The sled or cart is triggered to roll forward toward the viewing space as the media is playing so that the projected image appears to be moving and getting closer to the viewer.