Abstract: A performer lift has abase portion (10) and an extension portion (12). The base portion (10) comprises a platform (16) and a lifting mechanism (18). The extension portion (12) is attachable to the base portion (10) to extend the height of the performer lift. The extension portion (12) allows a performer lift to be provided having a desired height. The performer lift can therefore be adapted to be used in different stage sets, by reusing the same base portion (10) and attaching different extension portions (12), having different heights.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and a method for automatically generating an output video of a presentation given by at least one presenter, comprising a displayed content, and performed in an environment, the system comprising a plurality of zones defined within the environment, at least one camera, wherein the camera is configured to capture image frames of the presentation given by the presenter in the environment, means to detect when the at least one presenter changes zone, a configuration associating to each zone, a set of filming parameters for controlling the at least one camera when the at least one presenter is in said zone, wherein the system if further configured to change the filming parameters when the at least one presenter changes zone based on the configuration associated to the zone in which the at least one presenter is so as to provide an output video to the user with different filming parameters.

Abstract: Enterprise communication display systems enable life-like images for videoconferencing and entertainment productions. Life-like images appear in a 3D environment where imaged people are visible through the use of specially configured see-through displays. Imaged people can also be viewed amongst a reflected foreground. A dual mode large high-resolution display is inventively configured for watching and working. Methods for enterprise wide deployments for corporate, healthcare, education, and government communications, including hotel properties and a property management system are shown. The invention further discloses an online production system for events. Further, a black void illusion is described and is applicable to numerous displays including event and live theater stages and movie theaters. Numerous inventive features are described enabling and advancing the black void illusion.

Abstract: A theatre construction comprises a seating area 120 for an audience, a circular support structure 134 surrounding the seating area and mounted above the seating area and a plurality of arcuate screens 135 suspended from the circular support structure. The screens 135 are mounted to the circular support structure 134 on rails for allowing movement of the screens about the seating area.

Abstract: Enterprise communication display systems enable life-like images for videoconferencing and entertainment productions. Life-like images appear in a 3D environment where imaged people are visible through the use of specially configured see-through displays. Imaged people can also be viewed amongst a reflected foreground. A dual mode large high-resolution display is inventively configured for watching and working. Methods for enterprise wide deployments for corporate, healthcare, education, and government communications, including hotel properties and a property management system are shown. The invention further discloses an online production system for events. Further, a black void illusion is described and is applicable to numerous displays including event and live theater stages and movie theaters. Numerous inventive features are described enabling and advancing the black void illusion.

Abstract: A motion simulator system includes a display screen and multiple rider motion apparatuses. Each rider motion apparatus supports at least one rider accommodation and is positionable in a ride position facing the display screen. The motion simulator system includes multiple motion bays with an open front end facing the display screen. Each motion bay encloses at least one of the rider motion apparatuses. Multiple motion bays can be stacked facing the same display screen. A subset of the rider motion apparatuses may be activated, even when one or more rider motion apparatuses are in an inactive state. A visual display can be provided on the display screen that is synchronized with motion of the active rider motion apparatuses.

Abstract: A venue includes a display screen, a performance stage, and an audience area. The display screen has (i) an inner periphery, (ii) an outer periphery, and (iii) at least one of a non-linear or a curved cross-sectional shape that is at least partially revolved around a center point. The performance stage (i) is positioned between the inner periphery and the outer periphery of the display screen and (ii) at least partially extends along at least one of the inner periphery or the outer periphery of the display screen. The audience area is positioned between the inner periphery and the outer periphery of the display screen.

Abstract: A system may produce a multimedia presentation that includes visual stimuli, auditory stimuli, olfactory stimuli, thermal stimuli and air currents that are perceptible to a human user. All or part of the system may be housed in or affixed to a table or desk. Sensors may monitor physiology or activities of the user and provide feedback regarding the user's response to the presentation. A user may input instructions for the system. Based on these instructions, the system may present a multimedia presentation which tends to produce a target physiological state of the user that is specified in the instructions or which tends to maintain a current physiological state of the user. The system may employ a control space to control the presentation. This control space may have axes that correspond to how a user perceives multimedia presentations.

Abstract: Enterprise communication display systems enable life-like images for videoconferencing and entertainment productions. Life-like images appear in a 3D environment where imaged people are visible through the use of specially configured see-through displays. Imaged people can also be viewed amongst a reflected foreground. A dual mode large high-resolution display is inventively configured for watching and working. Methods for enterprise wide deployments for corporate, healthcare, education, and government communications, including hotel properties and a property management system are shown. The invention further discloses an online production system for events. Further, a black void illusion is described and is applicable to numerous displays including event and live theater stages and movie theaters. Numerous inventive features are described enabling and advancing the black void illusion.

Abstract: A prefabricated wall (100) being modular is described, comprising at least one module (1) comprising at least one sheet layer (2) adapted to mount at least one panel (5) by means of fixing means (6) and a supporting frame (3), which supports said at least one module (1), said supporting frame (3) is a frame delimiting a through opening (30) which mounts said at least one sheet layer (2) which is a plate sheet comprising a multiplicity of through openings (20) and a multiplicity of through slots (25) adapted to be traversed by a fixing mean (6) up to an engagement position of said fixing mean (6) with said at least one sheet layer (2) in order to mount said at least one panel (5).

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to an entrance to a theater of the type normally used to show motion pictures. The motion picture theater entrance has distinctive outer walls separating a vestibule from a lobby. The vestibule has a curved image projection wall located inside said vestibule and is connected to a viewing area by a curved walkway. The entrance also may include border lighting along the upper and or lower edges of its walls.

Abstract: A ride attraction system utilizes a robotic actuation system to move a curved door of a curved enclosure wall between a first position and a second position via a compound trajectory. In the first position, the door is mated with the wall, and in the second position, the door leaves an opening in the wall. The door and the wall may both include display surfaces that enable images to be displayed to occupants of a ride moving toward the wall and through the opening.

Abstract: A vehicle for performances comprises a roof, a floor, and a roof lifting member that is disposed in an orthogonal direction between the floor and the roof. Also, roof extension panels are pivotably coupled to both sides of the upper end of the roof, and floor extension panels are pivotably disposed at both sides of the floor. In this case, the roof extension panels are spread, and then the roof is lifted up. Thereafter, the floor extension panels are spread, and then folding-type auxiliary panels are spread to both sides and fixed by supports. Next, flying speaker supporting trusses are pivoted to the outside by a certain angle to install flying speakers. Next, the visual equipment supporting trusses are spread to both sides, and then visual equipment is spread. Thereafter, an installation into a performance state is completed by shortening the length of a fixing cable.

Abstract: A theater area includes audience seating that faces outwardly in an “inverted-theater-in-the-round” arrangement towards a ring-shaped performance stage. The performance stage is designed to rotate around the audience area so that each section of the audience can see each part of the stage at different times.

Abstract: A fixed support includes an elevated foot platform and one or more handles allowing a live person to stand on the elevated foot platform, and a background member configured to receive a portion of the fixed support and support a cutout image of a person substantially orthogonal to the live person standing on the foot platform. A picture of the live person standing on the foot platform along with the background creates the illusion in the photograph that the cutout image of the person is levitating the live person standing on the foot platform.

Abstract: An assembly adapted for visually disguising drive or support features of an amusement park ride or a display system using a drive to move a show element about a space. The assembly includes a platform and a drive mechanism for selectively moving a support member. The assembly also includes an object supported upon an end of the support member spaced apart from the drive mechanism, and the support member extends through a slot in the platform. The assembly also includes a canopy positioned between the supported object and a surface of the platform facing the supported object. The canopy blocks an observer from seeing the slot in the platform. The canopy includes a plurality of camouflaging elements positioned between the slot in the platform and the supported object, and the camouflaging elements are arranged in two or more layers.

Abstract: An entertainment venue can include one or more theaters, including a toroidal or other immersive display screen (which immerses the audience in a contiguous projection surface), a moving stage, and an audience area. Audience seating in the theater faces outwardly in an “inverted-theater-in-the-round” arrangement.

Abstract: An assembly adapted for visually disguising drive or support features of an amusement park ride or a display system using a drive to move a show element about a space. The assembly includes a platform and a drive mechanism for selectively moving a support member. The assembly also includes an object supported upon an end of the support member spaced apart from the drive mechanism, and the support member extends through a slot in the platform. The assembly also includes a canopy positioned between the supported object and a surface of the platform facing the supported object. The canopy blocks an observer from seeing the slot in the platform. The canopy includes a plurality of camouflaging elements positioned between the slot in the platform and the supported object, and the camouflaging elements are arranged in two or more layers.

Abstract: An entertainment venue can include one or more theaters, including a toroidal or other immersive display screen (which immerses the audience in a contiguous projection surface), a moving stage, and an audience area. Audience seating in the theater faces outwardly in an “inverted-theater-in-the-round” arrangement.

Abstract: A frame structure for stage erection comprises a plurality of support frames and a bridge. The support frames are disposed parallel to each other, and respectively have rail recesses formed in the length direction in facing locations. The bridge connects across the support frames so as to maintain a mutually parallel state, and has a rail-joining part for fastening to and separating from the rail recesses in at least one of the two end locations.

Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for expanding the apparent range of movement of actors during a stage performance, from a stage platform to a background display, or from a background display to a stage platform. The appearance of the live actors on the stage platform and images of the live actors on the background display is the same. Timing, location and movement of the live actors on the stage platform is integrated with images of the actors on the background display. The integration of the live actors and images appears to an audience that an actor has moved from stage platform to the background display, or from the background display to the stage platform.

Abstract: An effective expression unit positioned on the stages used in education, performance and rehabilitation centres having at least one sound broadcasting element that provides sound broadcasting. At least one odour emission element provides emission of desired odour to the stage and the surroundings. An image transfer element provides formation of an image visible from the stage. At least one lighting element provides formation of desired lighting on the stage. At least one sound recording element provides recording the sounds on the stage and the surroundings. At least one air-conditioning element provides air-conditioning of the air on the stage and the surroundings. A management element compiles data received from the sound recording element and provides automatic operation of the desired ones among the elements according to the sound data gathered, without human intervention, through the control element.

Abstract: An entertainment venue can include one or more theaters, including a toroidal or other immersive display screen (which immerses the audience in a contiguous projection surface), a moving stage, and an audience area. Audience seating in the theater faces outwardly in an “inverted-theater-in-the-round” arrangement.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a primary stage unit configured for transport on a standard semi-truck trailer including a plurality of lateral supports that engage the ground and lift the primary stage unit off of the trailer, a pair of wheel units that engage the ground and move the primary stage unit to a desired location, a main stage floor that pivots from a substantially vertical stowed position to a substantially horizontal in-use position and moves vertically to a desired height, a roof assembly including a pair of support columns that extend telescopically from a stowed position to an in-use position, and a plurality of roof joists supporting a corresponding plurality of roof panels.

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 method for changing a theme associated with a given space (e.g., restaurant). A wall system includes a wall panel having multiple themes depicted thereon or multiple wall panels each having a theme depicted thereon. Using a series of winches, chain drives, cables and pulleys or the like, the wall panels are moved to change the theme of the space. A ceiling system includes two ceiling panels movable via a series of winches, chain drives, cables and pulleys. Once separated the ceiling panels expose a theme different than that depicted while closed. Audio and/or visual cues may be provided to alert patrons to a theme change.

Abstract: A frame structure for stage erection comprises a plurality of support frames and a bridge. The support frames are disposed parallel to each other, and respectively have rail recesses formed in the length direction in facing locations. The bridge connects across the support frames so as to maintain a mutually parallel state, and has a rail-joining part for fastening to and separating from the rail recesses in at least one of the two end locations.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a primary stage unit configured for transport on a standard semi-truck trailer including a plurality of lateral supports that engage the ground and lift the primary stage unit off of the trailer, a pair of wheel units that engage the ground and move the primary stage unit to a desired location, a main stage floor that pivots from a substantially vertical stowed position to a substantially horizontal in-use position and moves vertically to a desired height, a roof assembly including a pair of support columns that extend telescopically from a stowed position to an in-use position, and a plurality of roof joists supporting a corresponding plurality of roof panels.

Abstract: A demountable stage includes a substantially cylindrical central hub, which has a vertically extending central axis and is adapted to support a vertically extending pole, a plurality of radially outwardly extending support members mounted to the hub and a stage platform. The stage platform comprises a plurality of segments that are adapted to be supported on the support members.

Abstract: The present invention provides a picture-showing facility, including a plurality of special effect devices, motion seat assemblies, and a control unit capable of controlling the special effect devices and the motion seat assemblies. The special effect devices include a fog generation device and a fan, and further include at least one selected from a group consisting of a bubble generation device, a laser generation device, a strobe generation device, and a scent generation device. Further, the present invention provides a method of showing a picture in the picture-showing facility. Accordingly, the present invention can provide a picture-showing facility equipped with special effect devices, which can maximize the audience's bodily sensation without interfering with the immersion of the audience in pictures, and provide motion seat assemblies enabling motions capable of reducing a motional burden placed on feeble persons.

Abstract: A system and method for changing a theme associated with a given space (e.g., restaurant). A wall system includes a wall panel having multiple themes depicted thereon or multiple wall panels each having a theme depicted thereon. Using a series of winches, chain drives, cables and pulleys or the like, the wall panels are moved to change the theme of the space. A ceiling system includes two ceiling panels movable via a series of winches, chain drives, cables and pulleys. Once separated the ceiling panels expose a theme different than that depicted while closed. Audio and/or visual cues may be provided to alert patrons to a theme change.

Abstract: A portable puppet theater, stage or playhouse comprises hanging wall structure for hanging the puppet theater or playhouse from a door or other vertical surface, enclosure structure for suspending from the hanging wall structure, the enclosure structure being shaped to form an enclosure, and shaping means associated with the enclosure structure for extending the enclosure structure away from a door or other vertical surface. The shaping structure within the enclosure structure may be disposed to be pivotable between a first position extending the enclosure structure away from the door or other vertical surface, and a second position maintaining the enclosure structure substantially flush against the door or other vertical surface.

Abstract: A portable light-emitting stage component including a deck supported by a support portion comprising at least one light-producing element, a first side, a second side substantially parallel the first side, a first end connected to the first side and the second side, and a second end substantially parallel the first end, the second end connected to the first side and the second side. The at least one light-producing element directs light through the deck. The first side includes a first rotatable latch member comprising a first hook. The first side and the axis of rotation of the first rotatable latch member are substantially coplanar or parallel. The second side includes a first receiving member comprising a first post. The support portion includes a protrusion protruding from a side or end selected from the group consisting of the first side, the second side, the first end, and the second end.

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 demountable stage includes a substantially cylindrical central hub, which has a vertically extending central axis and is adapted to support a vertically extending pole, a plurality of radially outwardly extending support members mounted to the hub and a stage platform. The stage platform comprises a plurality of segments that are adapted to be supported on the support members.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for use in connection with a theatrical stage presentation for rendering an actor or object located on the stage visible or invisible at will. The apparatus used to create the illusion includes a strategically located, selectively transparent screen and a large, generally vertically extending mirror. In carrying out the method of the invention, the mirror is controllably moved across the stage at a location intermediate a rear wall and the selectively transparent screen from a first position out of sight of the audience to a second position wherein the mirror is disposed between the rear wall and the selectively transparent screen.

Abstract: A portable light emitting stage component and portable stage system. The stage components having a deck supported by a support portion. The support portion includes at least one light producing element arranged and disposed to direct light through the deck. The support portion further includes at least one connector having at least one of a latch member and a receiving member. The latch member has features that clampingly secure stage components together when engaged with features of a receiving member to form a substantially planar surface made up of a plurality of decks.

Abstract: Action toys and methods of assembling and using the toys. A first aspect the invention includes assembleable sectioned portions of background play scenes that are easily assembleable and rearrangeable into virtually endless diorama-like arrangements using a specialized connection system that allows any base and backdrop to be connected in multiple orientations. A second aspect of the invention includes specially designed and constructed figures usable with the background scenes. The figures include central body portions from which flexible limbs and head extend and features that allow the figures to free stand and to hold objects.

Abstract: A small animal restraining device for the veterinarian treatment of small animals provides an enclosure having an opaque integrated front panel having a plurality of access panels, a rear panel, a floor panel and a cover lid forming a rectangular box defining an interior cavity, a first door panel attached to the rear panel and a second door attached to the rear panel, each door having a head engaging apparatus within a head opening, and a central interior squeeze panel pivotally and adjustably anchored within the interior cavity to the floor panel, the central interior squeeze panel urged towards the front panel to secure a body portion of the small animal between the central interior panel and the front panel while securing a head portion of the small animal within the head opening of either the first door or the second door, the head openings of the first door and second door providing the only light to the interior cavity, except for when one or more of the access panels are open to access the body portio

Abstract: The present invention advantageously provides an enhanced event-based theater going experience. In particular, one embodiment of the present invention enables pre-recorded videos of live performances, such as concerts, to be reproduced with great realism and encourages theater attendees to act or feel more as participants and less as passive viewers. The theater optionally comprises a projection screen, a projection room, seating, a dance area, an MC (master of ceremonies) station, changeable scenic designs, special effects equipment, food services and/or a bar.

Abstract: A method for securing a counterweight guiding system in performance rigging in places of entertainment. An elongate guide rail has a cross-section which interlocks with a clip, the clip extending transversely beyond the guide. The guide rail is secured to a support by fastening the clip to the support, the guide itself not requiring any specific fastening points.

Abstract: The proposed system comprises an auditorium, lighting facilities and a stage appearing as a container. The interior space of the container holds a liquid medium adapted for playing a theatrical performance therein, and a side transparent wall of the container serves as a stage mirror. Visual perception of each spectator is directed deep in the liquid medium through the stage mirror. The proposed stage comprises a container wherein the liquid medium is held. At least one side wall is transparent. The proposed method consists in that the stage appears as a container wherein a liquid medium is held suitable for human vital functions; at least one container wall is optically transparent, the surface of the liquid medium is isolated from the audience perception which is directed through the optically transparent wall deep in the container, and a theatrical performance is played in the liquid medium by at least one player.

Abstract: A method for securing a counterweight guiding system in performance rigging in places of entertainment. An elongate guide rail has a cross-section which interlocks with a clip, the clip extending transversely beyond the guide. The guide rail is secured to a support by fastening the clip to the support, the guide itself not requiring any specific fastening points.

Abstract: The present invention is a process of staging a live or pre-recorded performance that follows a schedule, optionally before a mass audience. The performance involves electronic and/or mechanical media that is computer controlled, preferably so as to create a virtual reality of one or more events. In the course of the performance, when an action that is not normal to the schedule occurs, the timing, speed, or sequence of one or more electronic and/or mechanical media activities are adjusted, whereby to compensate for the action so that the action does not adversely affect the continuity and totality of the performance to the audience. The present invention also encompasses an apparatus that comprises a sensory stimuli device(s), a mass audience area substantially within a space for reception of the sensory stimuli device(s), and computer hardware and software.

Abstract: The appearance of fire and flames is simulated using lighting, air pipes, fans, and fog manifolds. Water and air is sprayed into a display area to form a wall of mist which reflects light and light patterns. Air from the air pipes blows the wall of mist upwards. Fans generate a curtain of turbulent, upwardly flowing air that holds up the wall of mist, and makes it appear to flicker. Thematic lighting is projected onto the flickering wall of mist, to color the mist and simulate the flames.

Abstract: A portable stage, transportable in a stacked configuration on a conventional truck trailer, has two modular units manually or vehicularly positionable side-by-side to define the platform of the stage. The platform of one unit is laterally and angularly relocatable relative to the supporting frame to position it contactingly adjacent the platform of the other unit. A plurality of carts, nestable as pairs intermediate the stacked units during transport, are deployed to convey the equipment used on the stage from a source or depot to the assembled stage and return. A pair of ramps serve multiple functions of loading and unloading the units and the carts and are configured to be anchored to different load bearing receiving elements. A specifically configured detachably attached yoke permits turning of pivotally mounted paired wheel trucks while positioning a unit to assemble or disassemble the stage.

Abstract: In a live-action theater, a catapult launches a prop which achieves free flight in the theater. The catapult and prop are concealed until the moment of launch, whereupon the prop suddenly hurtles into an audience's view, and lands in front of the audience. The audience views the launch from a seating area or from a vehicle moved through the theater. The prop is for example, a seaplane or a jetski. The prop is then retrieved from the landing area using a crane or other lifter and returned to the catapult for a subsequent launch. By launching a prop in a theater with a catapult, the audience sees true free flight, rather than an illusion of flight. The audience sees no supports or other devices which can diminish the effect. A catapult allows a prop to be launched directly at the audience at a realistic or full speed, creating a more dramatic effect than if a prop is moved about some distant stage area using cables or a boom.

Abstract: A performance or show production system and method allows a performer to control and interact with an on-stage display or screen. The on-stage screen is used to create a virtual extension of the stage. Images displayed on the screen may include video playback and real-time generated, texture mapped graphics. The system includes a media production system for producing visual images, a display system for displaying the visual images, a tracking system for tracking the position of the performer on the stage and for producing a position indication, and a control system for controlling the production of visual images by the media system as a function of the position of the entertainer on the stage.

Abstract: This invention relates to a sensory interactive multi media entertainment theater for presenting innovative, sensory oriented interactive productions combining live theater and motion picture technology in a 360.degree. visual effects theater building. The present invention relates to a theater comprising a circular arena having a 360 degree media surface and tiered seating on preferably hydraulic platforms that can be raised or lowered automatically. Seats may rotate by sections and follow the action of the show to ensure that the audience witnesses every aspect of the production. The individual seats may rotate via automated control and preferably include surround-sound speakers built into the headrests. Appliances built into the seats, armrests and nearby flooring can create a changing thematic environment to complete the sensory experience. A center stage along with stage runners may be hydraulically raised or lowered depending upon the production.

Abstract: A magic set comprises a valise containing a set of props, cue sheets and a series of illustrated sheets pivotally bound together. The case can be opened to support the sheets as an elevated, horizontally extending stack to form a stage. Successively uppermost illustrated sheets of scenery can be turned over by a magician to hang vertically from the front of the stage interacting with the illustrated sheet next uppermost to provide different scenes of a continuous magic show. Indicia marked on the illustrated sheets interact and interfit with props in the performance of tricks.