Abstract: An image rendering method includes acquiring a water wave map corresponding to a target water body region, and acquiring a normal map corresponding to the target water body region in a next image frame based on the water wave map corresponding to the target water body region in the current image frame. The method further includes rendering a water wave effect on the target water body region in the next image frame based on the normal map. The method further includes performing attenuation processing on the water wave map corresponding to the target water body region where the dynamic object is located in the current image frame based on a water wave diffusion attenuation matrix corresponding to the dynamic object to obtain an attenuated water wave map when the dynamic object moves in water.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices relating to an electronic scented candle that is convenient to use and enables rapid generation and dissipation of scented materials are described. One electronic candle device includes a shell that has a through hole, a flame element protruding through the through hole, an installation lid including a locking base to allow removable coupling of a fragrance container, a scent chamber including a locking clip, a first channel, a second channel, a third channel, and a fourth channel. The scent chamber is removably coupled to the locking base by the locking clip, and an air pump provided to supply pressurized air.

Abstract: Aspects of this disclosure provide a method where a normal map corresponding to a target water body region where a dynamic object is located in a next image frame can be acquired based on a water wave map corresponding to the target water body region where the dynamic object is located in a current image frame, and a water wave effect on the target water body region where the dynamic object is located in the next image frame is rendered according to the normal map. On the one hand, through iterative rendering frame by frame, a realistic water wave animation effect can be simulated to make the water surface interaction very natural, providing users with immersive experience. Further, because the water wave rendering is performed only on the target water body region, the complexity is lowered, and the calculation amount is reduced, to better adapt to a mobile terminal application.

Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure involve a system comprising a computer-readable storage medium storing a program and a method for generating an avatar based on a weather condition. The program and method include determining a current location of a user device; retrieving a weather condition at the current location of the user device; automatically generating a weather-based avatar for a person associated with the user device, the weather-based avatar having a visual attribute corresponding to the weather condition; and, in response to a request from a requesting device, causing display on the requesting device of the weather-based avatar.

Abstract: Provided is a method and apparatus for modeling objects that may include detecting an adjacent area that shares modeled particles of a first object and modeled particles of a second object, calculating an action force between the first object and the second object in the adjacent area based on information stored for grid points of a grid defined with respect to the adjacent area, and modelling the first object and the second object based on the calculated action force.

Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed for a guidance application capable of coordinating the interior features of a vehicle (e.g., the heating/cooling system, automatic windows, automatic seats, automatic sunroof, seat heaters, etc.) to produce the current environmental conditions (e.g., sunshine, heat, wind, etc.) displayed in a media asset being accessed in the vehicle.

Abstract: The invention provides a flame simulating assembly having a simulated fuel bed, a light source, and a screen. The light source is operable to produce an image of flames appearing to be emitted from the simulated fuel bed. The screen has a front surface disposed behind the simulated fuel bed for transmitting the image of flames through the front surface. A pattern is included in the screen for simulating the appearance of firebrick to a viewer of the image of flames.

Abstract: Certain example embodiments relate to flaming wallets, and methods of making the same, with such flaming wallets typically being used for magic tricks, illusions, jokes, and/or general fun. In certain example embodiments, a flame mechanism may be substantially completely concealed by “fake money.” The flame mechanism of certain example embodiments may include an igniter that produces a spark for causing flammable material applied to flame retardant material to combust, with the flame retardant material being inserted into respective recesses of one or more flame retardant material holders located between the inner surface of the flaming wallet and the rear surface of the fake money. In certain example embodiments, a magnet mechanism may facilitate the closing of the wallet and/or the extinguishing of the flames produced by the flaming wallet. Advantageously, the flaming wallet of certain example embodiments does not necessarily require hidden compartments or areas, or sleight of hand.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to simulated flame effect fires which include an apertured bed, such as a simulated fuel bed, a vapour generating means such as an ultrasonic transducer and means for providing a rising current of air to carry the vapor through the apertured bed. Light sources are provided below the fuel bed to provide localized illumination.

Abstract: An apparatus for entertaining multiple guests includes a device that selectively generates a flame and a barrier interposed between each guest and the flame. The barrier is configured to remain transparent throughout multiple repetitions of use of the device for generating a flame. A method of entertaining guests is also presented.

Abstract: A fluid display includes a fluid source, a gas source, and a light source. The fluid source coherently emits fluid along a first trajectory. The gas source emits gas along a second trajectory that intersects the first trajectory. The light source is directed toward the intersection of the first trajectory and the second trajectory. The second trajectory may intersect the first trajectory at an oblique angle. The fluid source and/or the gas source may emit intermittently. The fluid source may emit a laminar jet or spherical fluid globules. The gas source may intermittently emit a gas vortex. The gas may be a flammable gas. The fluid may be water and the gas may be air. The fluid display may provide a “water sparkler” effect.

Abstract: The present invention relates to apparatus for producing an optical effect, and in particular to an apparatus for producing an optical effect resembling flames and smoke. More especially, the invention relates to flame effect electric fires, such as for domestic use, which may or may not include means for space heating and which include and optical effect to resemble burning solid fuel.

Abstract: A dioramic apparatus includes a vessel having an inferior portion and a superior portion. The vessel includes a shell and defines an interior space. The interior space is partially filled by a liquid medium. At least one dioramic scene is disposed in the interior space. A reservoir is in fluid communication with the interior space. The reservoir includes a flow plate defining at least one liquid intake and at least one liquid output port. The at least one liquid intake is configured and arranged for receiving at least a portion of the liquid medium from the interior space when the dioramic apparatus is at least partially inverted. The at least one liquid output port is configured and arranged to output at least a portion of the liquid medium from the reservoir when the vessel is placed in an upright position.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to simulated flame effect fires which include an apertured bed, such as a simulated fuel bed, a vapour generating means such as an ultrasonic transducer and means for providing a rising current of air to carry the vapour through the apertured bed. Light sources are provided below the fuel bed to provide localised illumination.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to simulated flame effect fires which include an apertured bed, such as a simulated fuel bed, a vapor generating means such as an ultrasonic transducer and means for providing a rising current of air to carry the vapor through the apertured bed. Light sources are provided below the fuel bed to provide localized illumination.

Abstract: An apparatus for entertaining multiple guests includes a device that selectively generates a flame and a barrier interposed between each guest and the flame. The barrier is configured to remain transparent throughout multiple repetitions of use of the device for generating a flame. A method of entertaining guests is also presented.

Abstract: The invention is directed toward an electro-mechanical simulated aquarium. It includes a novel combination of a planetary gear train driving two endless loops of transparent material in counter-rotating directions. Depictions of marine life are applied to the loops and the entire arrangement is housed in an aquarium-like enclosure in order to maximize its realism.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device for producing a fire special facilitates a more compact device. In one embodiment, the device comprises a steam curtain generator for directing received steam to an outlet slot that directs the steam into the ambient atmosphere such that the steam is flowing in a substantially a first direction to produce a curtain of steam, fan that is oriented so as to produce a flow of air in a direction that is substantially parallel to the flow of a steam curtain, a deflector for redirecting the flow of air produced by the fan towards the steam curtain, an adjustable agitator for causing turbulent flow in the stream of air directed towards a steam curtain, and an LED light for producing light that is projected onto a steam curtain.

Abstract: Certain example embodiments relate to flaming wallets, and methods of making the same, with such flaming wallets typically being used for magic tricks, illusions, jokes, and/or general fun. In certain example embodiments, a flame mechanism may be substantially completely concealed by “fake money.” The flame mechanism of certain example embodiments may include an igniter that produces a spark for causing flammable material applied to flame retardant material to combust, with the flame retardant material being inserted into respective recesses of one or more flame retardant material holders located between the inner surface of the flaming wallet and the rear surface of the fake money. In certain example embodiments, a magnet mechanism may facilitate the closing of the wallet and/or the extinguishing of the flames produced by the flaming wallet. Advantageously, the flaming wallet of certain example embodiments does not necessarily require hidden compartments or areas, or sleight of hand.

Abstract: An apparatus for simulating flames using fabric flame sheets or elements. The apparatus includes a fan or blower for producing a volume of air flow and two or more flame elements positioned in the fan air flow. First and second light sources, such as high powered light emitting diodes (LEDs), are provided to produce light beams having two differing colors such as an amber beam and an orange/red beam. The light beams are directed so as to mix or cross on or near the flame elements when the flame elements extend outward from their mounting location into the fan air flow. Each of the LEDs has a brightness level that can be tuned or adjusted by a controller, which may be manual or may be automated to modify the brightness level of at least one of the LEDs and typically both LEDs during the operation of the flame simulator.

Abstract: An apparatus for simulating flames includes a light source, a viewing screen capable of diffusing and transmitting light, a rear reflector disposed behind the viewing screen, and a light producer for producing moving beams of light. The light source is disposed below the reflector and behind the viewing screen. The light producer is disposed in front of the light source and below the screen and light from the light source is reflected by the light producer onto the reflector and is reflected by the reflector onto the screen to produce a perceptible image viewable on the screen.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for producing experiences, wherein a person (3) is brought, within boundaries (1, 4) to be the object of artificial climatological and/or seasonal conditions, wherein the person at the same time has the possibility to encounter different separate activities and/or meet different conditions or creations. Of these at least a part are based on artificially generated solid and/or semi-solid elements or structures (9, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 19, 19?) associated with refrigeration of water. The present invention also relates to an arrangement for generating experiences, where there is at least one space (2) which can be secluded. Said space includes arrangements (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 19?) which present different climates and/or seasons in real-time and at least partially three-dimensionally, by means of which certain artificial elements (9, 10, 11, 14, 15, 22) can be observed by the person (3) in order to form a comprehensive three-dimensional experience.

Abstract: A device and method for generating a visible vortex for display or educational purposes. A container houses a two-phase fluidic system of a primary fluid, such as water, and a secondary fluid such as silicone fluid carrying a powder which has no affinity for the primary fluid. The two-phase fluidic system may be stirred using a stir bar or pump to generate the vortex.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to simulated flame effect fires which include an apertured bed, such as a simulated fuel bed, a vapour generating means such as an ultrasonic transducer and means for providing a rising current of air to carry the vapour through the apertured bed. Light sources are provided below the fuel bed to provide localised illumination.

Abstract: A flame simulating assembly for providing an image of flames and simulating one or more actual fuel elements in a fire. The flame simulating assembly includes one or more light sources, a screen adapted for transmission of the image of flames therethrough, and a simulated fuel bed. The simulated fuel bed includes a simulated ember bed and one or more simulated fuel elements positioned on an upper surface of the simulated ember bed. Each simulated fuel element includes a base surface with a light-transmitting portion and an exposed surface which is at least partially viewable. The base surface is positioned proximal to the upper surface of the simulated ember bed. The exposed surface includes one or more uncovered portions through which light from the light source is transmittable.

Abstract: A contrivance (30) simulates smoke and flames emanating from an intense burning simulated log stack fire (13). The visual effect is provided by unrestricted fluctuating light reflected off spaced apart sunburst formation bunches (41) of colored rotating metallic strips(9) of different length that transmit uneven flashes of colored light and shadow through a bronze tinted tempered glass diffusing screen(16)(39) simulating images of smoke and flames when viewed from the front, simultaneously the simulated log stack bed (13) adjacent the lower area of the screen(17)(40) is illuminated providing a glowing surface and a intense flickering flame effect is transmitted and viewed through the plurality of openings(14) in between the individual protruding angle backward log configuration of the log stack bed(13) creating the overall images of smoke and flames emanating from out of a real log stack burning fire with intense burning core simulating a natural roaring log fire.

Abstract: A flame simulating assembly for providing an image of flames. The flame simulating assembly has a light source for producing the image of flames, a screen, and a simulated interior fireplace wall positioned behind the screen. The screen has a front surface and is positioned in a path of light from the light source. The screen is adapted to transmit the image of flames through the front surface. The front surface of the screen includes an observation region, which is adapted to permit observation of part of the simulated interior fireplace wall.

Abstract: A flame simulating assembly for providing one or more images of flames. The flame simulating assembly has a light source, a first screen, and a second screen. Each of the first and second screens is positioned in a path of light from the light source. Also, each of the first and second screens is adapted to receive light from the light source to form one or more images of flames transmittable through the screens respectively.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention provides a device for producing a fire special effect that is suitable for applications in which the viewers of the simulated flame are able inspect the device from relatively close range and/or from a number of perspectives. For example, the device can be used as a torchiere or wall sconce.

Abstract: A flame simulating apparatus to simulate flames emanating from a wood or fossil fuel burning fire. The flame simulating apparatus includes a light source, a light reflecting element, and a fire simulation screen. The light reflecting element produces a moving and generally random pattern of reflected light when light is cast upon it by the light source. The fire simulation screen has the image of a fire thereon and is positioned so that reflected light from the light reflecting element is cast upon its rear surface. The fire simulation screen includes at least one portion that is at least partially translucent such that light cast upon the partially translucent portion by the light reflecting element is diffused and at least partially passes through the translucent portion to present a moving flame image when viewed from a position in front of the fire simulation screen.

Abstract: An improved novelty item is disclosed. The novelty item has a container that receives a solid piece of carbon dioxide when the solid carbon dioxide contacts water vapor in the container a fog is created. As the solid carbon dioxide sublimates, the water vapor is emitted from the container as a visible fog. The container may be in the shape of any number of designs for which the visible fog streaming from the container creates a pleasing illusion.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device for producing a fire special effect using a curtain of theatrical smoke. In one embodiment, the device comprises a theatrical smoke console for producing a curtain of theatrical smoke, an air modulator for providing a varying current of air that modulates the curtain of theatrical smoke produced by the console, and a lighting assembly that produces a flood of colored light that is projected onto the modulated curtain of theatrical smoke produced by the console and air modulator.

Abstract: Pellets which may, for example, simulate snow are brought to a position such as the top of a tree from where they are dispensed. After falling to the bottom. the pellets are collected and re dispensed. The pellets are blown through a venturi tube and from there to a tube which runs to the position at where the pellets are dispersed. An adjustable flap is provided in the venturi tube, this flap functioning both to contribute to the venturi action controlling the fluid pressure and as a valve to control the rate of flow of pellets for optimum operation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device for producing a fire special effect using a steam curtain. In one embodiment, the device comprises a steam console for producing a curtain of steam/fog, an air modulator for providing a varying current of air that modulates the curtain of steam produced by the console, and a lighting assembly that produces a flood of colored light that is projected onto the modulated curtain of steam produced by the console and air modulator.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device for producing a fire special effect using a steam curtain. In one embodiment, the device comprises a steam console for producing a curtain of steam/fog, an air modulator for providing a varying current of air that modulates the curtain of steam produced by the console, and a lighting assembly that produces a flood of colored light that is projected onto the modulated curtain of steam produced by the console and air modulator.

Abstract: An apparatus for generating light effects comprising a liquid container having transparent top and bottom walls, partially filled with a transparent liquid. At least one light source is mounted so that an emitted light beam will pass through the liquid container at the top and bottom walls thereof to project an image on a desired surface. An actuator including a control unit is effectively coupled directly or though a transmission medium with the liquid container such that the movements generated in a given pattern impart vibrations to the liquid in the liquid container.

Abstract: A flame simulating assembly (10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710) is provided having a simulated fuel bed (12, 112), a light source (14, 414), and a reflector (18, 518). The reflector (18, 518) is disposed in front of the simulated fuel bed (12, 112) and has a reflective surface (22, 522). The reflective surface (22, 522) is positioned for reflecting light from the light source (14, 414) onto the simulated fuel bed (12, 112) to simulate burning embers.

Abstract: More reality is given to weather phenomena reflected on an image displayed on a screen of a display unit and an operability of an operatable object. A global weather deciding part 901 decides weather in each global area obtained by dividing the whole map of a virtual world into a plurality of global areas. The weather in the global a area in question is decided at intervals of a first time, in accordance with a preset behavior model and considering area information of each global area in advance. A local weather deciding part 902 decides weather in each local area obtained by dividing each global area into a plurality of local areas. The weather in the local area in question is decided at intervals of a second time, which is shorter than the first time, in accordance with the weather of the global area concerned decided by the global weather deciding part 901, and considering area information of each local area.

Abstract: The invention provides a flame simulating assembly for providing an image of flames transmitted in a fluctuating light. The flame simulating assembly has a simulated fuel bed, a light source, a screen disposed behind the simulated fuel bed for diffusing and transmitting light, and a flicker element for creating the fluctuating light, the flicker element being positioned in a path of light from the light source. The simulated fuel bed defines a profile viewable by an observer. In addition, the screen includes a curved portion which is curved in a vertical direction and in a horizontal direction to correspond to the profile of the simulated fuel bed. Also, the curved portion of the screen is positioned adjacent to the simulated fuel bed. The fluctuating light transmitted through the screen is attenuated and a three-dimensional image of flames appears to curve around the profile of the simulated fuel bed.

Abstract: More reality is given to weather phenomena reflected on an image displayed on a screen of a display unit and on operability of an operatable object. A global weather deciding part 901 decides weather in each global area obtained by dividing the whole map of a virtual world into a plurality of global areas. The weather in the global area in question is decided at intervals of a first time, in accordance with a preset behavior model and considering area information of each global area in advance. A local weather deciding part 902 decides weather in each local area obtained by dividing each global area into a plurality of local areas. The weather in the local area in question is decided at intervals of a second time, which is shorter than the first time, in accordance with the weather of the global area concerned decided by the global weather deciding part 901, and considering area information of each local area.

Abstract: A device is provided for enhancing the realistic appearance of flames produced by a simulated fireplace (gas or electric) by providing additional ambient lighting effects in response to sensed light intensity within the fireplace. The device includes a photosensor, a control circuit, and display lighting. The photosensor senses the level of light intensity produced by a simulated flame source and changes its resistive value accordingly. The control circuit has circuit parameters which uses the resistive value of the photosensor to determine whether to apply operational power to the display lighting. The display lighting consists of at least one lamp positioned above the simulated fuel bed. When simulated fireplace is operational, the display lighting of the device produces a “flickering” effect that is synchronized with the changes in light intensity occurring within the fireplace.

Abstract: Pellets which may, for example, simulate snow are brought to a position such as the top of a tree from where they are dispensed. After falling to the bottom. the pellets are collected and re dispensed. The pellets are blown through venturi tube and from there to a tube which runs to the position at where the pellets are dispersed. An adjustable flap is provided in the venturi tube, this flap functioning both to contribute to the venturi action controlling the fluid pressure and as a valve to control the rate of flow of pellets for optimum operation.

Abstract: An apparatus for a space study generates visually impressive fluffy frost effects from the controlled freezing of water. This apparatus has transparent side walls and contains thermal elements and electrodes that can be either round or planar. The thermal elements can be Peltiers. Applying a DC voltage across the electrodes controls the generation of the artful frost effects. The apparatus can also contain, displays, illuminators and other components for enhancing the visual effect.

Abstract: A smoke generation system for use in model toys. The system includes a reservoir for holding smoke fluid, a heating element for converting the smoke fluid into smoke, a pump unit for delivering smoke fluid from the reservoir to the heating element, and a controller coupled to the pump unit. The controller functions to govern the operation of the pump unit so as to control the delivery of smoke fluid to the heating element, thereby controlling the density, volume and output rate of the smoke generated by the system.

Abstract: A simulated fireplace assembly is provided having a simulated fuel bed and a screen for transmitting an image of a flame. The simulated fuel bed is located adjacent to the screen. The screen has a first region that is sufficiently reflective to reflect the fuel bed and a second region that is sufficiently non-reflective to avoid reflection of ambient subject matter that is not associated with the fireplace assembly.

Abstract: An amusement attraction is housed within a building. The building contains several different settings. Each setting contains a variety of scenic elements. One setting acts as a pre-show and includes an audio-visual presentation. A second setting is designed to resemble a tornado-damaged building. A third setting contains various scenic elements designed to resemble an outdoor scene. In the third setting, a special effects show takes place that includes a man-made tornado. Other special effects are used to simulate the effect of the tornado on the scenic elements in the outdoor scene. Guests can safely view the man-made tornado from a guest viewing area.

Abstract: A simulated soup bowl entertainment attraction, comprising: a bowl-shaped member having a top bounded by a top rim, a bottom permitting light transmission therethrough, and sidewalls connecting the top rim with the bottom; a fog generator producing a fog layer at the top of the bowl-shaped member; and an imaging device producing an image within the bowl-shaped member, the image viewable from a viewing position looking down into the top of the bowl-shaped member. Preferably, the bowl shaped entertainment attraction includes an image controlling apparatus coupled to the imaging device for changing the image viewable from the viewing position. Optionally, apparatus producing sound within the bowl-shaped member may be provided. The bowl shaped entertainment attraction may include a sound controlling apparatus coupled to a sound system for selectively changing the sound heard from within the bowl-shaped member.

Abstract: A device and a process for producing effects of waterfall, rain, garden, mountains, desert, animals, kitchen and river scenes while viewing a picture, an advertisement or playing amusement games in a cinema hall/open theater/TV is disclosed. The device includes a movie film/video tape/disc with coded signals for producing effects of waterfall, rain, garden, mountain, desert, animals, kitchen and river scenes or advertisements either recorded separately or embedded on the sound signals; an electronic decoder for decoding the coded signals when the film is moving and particular scene appears; the output of the electronic decoder is connected to an actuating device that releases gas/perfumes or energizes a heating/cooling device to produce the desired effects corresponding to the scene appearing on the screen.

Abstract: A device for propelling confetti or theatrical snow comprising two compartments. One compartment houses a vacuum device having an intake in communication with the other compartment and an exhaust in communication with the exterior of the device. The second compartment holds the confetti or theatrical snow. Only material which is able to be airborne is able to enter the vacuum device and be expelled through the vacuum device. Confetti can be reintroduced into the second compartment without fear of foreign objects mixed with the confetti becoming dangerous projectiles.

Abstract: A snowfall simulator which houses and dispenses artificial snow from a box-like housing 20 using agitation. The housing or dispenser has openings 32 uniformly placed on the bottom horizontal plane. Thin shredded white plastic flakes, used for snow, are placed inside and the machine which is mounted directly over the desired area. A small motor 14 is attached to the housing. A light-weight reticulated agitation plate 24, fastened to a support rod 25, resting on the inside bottom horizontal plane of housing, is pivotally connected by gear 16 and shaft 18 to motor. A series of rods 29 and paddles 31 are pivotally attached to rod 25. A series of slats are fastened to the sides of housing, just above, and perpendicular to, the agitation plate 24 and rod 25. The linear motion of the grid 24, rod 25, and push rods 29 and paddles 31, works to slowly agitate the snow flake material out of the housing through the exit holes and onto the window display, theatrical stage, display case, or event.