Abstract: Supervised machine learning using neural networks is applied to denoising images rendered by MC path tracing. Specialization of neural networks may be achieved by using a modular design that allows reusing trained components in different networks and facilitates easy debugging and incremental building of complex structures. Specialization may also be achieved by using progressive neural networks. In some embodiments, training of a neural-network based denoiser may use importance sampling, where more challenging patches or patches including areas of particular interests within a training dataset are selected with higher probabilities than others. In some other embodiments, generative adversarial networks (GANs) may be used for training a machine-learning based denoiser as an alternative to using pre-defined loss functions.

Abstract: A RF tag reader may use spatial averaging to compensate for the limitations of performing multi-frequency continuous-wave ranging (MFCW) in a bandwidth-limited environment. Although MFCW provides an estimate of the separation distance between a RF tag and the tag reader with errors that vary widely, the error values form a pattern based on the separation distance. That is, as the separation distance increases or decreases, the error values oscillate between maximum and minimum values centered on the correct separation distance. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the receiver uses spatial averaging to average out this oscillating error (e.g., the maximum errors are counter-balanced by the minimum errors). The more accurate, spatially-averaged MFCW estimate may then be used to resolve the cycle ambiguity in continuous-wave ranging to identify the separation distance between the RF tag and the tag reader.

Abstract: One particular implementation of the present invention may take the form of a mobile set configured to include one or more projection devices to display a media presentation to a viewer. The mobile set may be configured to follow a fixed path or may move through autonomous navigation. In one embodiment, the mobile set may be included as part of an amusement park ride to interact with the ride patrons and provide them with a greater entertainment experience. For example, the mobile projected set may be synchronized to move with a carrier vehicle carrying the ride patrons and project a presentation or display to the ride patrons during the ride. Placing the projected scene on a mobile set allows the patrons to interact with the projected scene for a longer period of time then if the projected scene was stationary. Further, the mobile sets may be used to configure and control sightlines through the ride to provide a more dynamic environment for the amusement park ride.

Abstract: A ride system provides guest compartment(s) with a roll degree of freedom through a pivoting connection. The guest compartment is attached to a track via a chassis, the chassis being attached to the track such that the guest compartment rides substantially above the track but has a roll degree of freedom relative to the chassis.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide systems and methods for creating physical and virtual design models. Embodiments of the invention provide methods for creating physical design models and rendering the physical design models as virtual models in design programs. Virtual indicia (smart nodes) provided by embodiments of the invention provide customizable virtual representations of modeled physical design elements of tangible models and can have metadata associated therewith, allowing attribution of any of a wide variety of design characteristics to the smart nodes.

Abstract: Methods and arrangements for replacing segments or portions of a media file that was received via adaptive streaming or other transfer mechanism, to obtain a media file for local storage and further playback as if it came from a download. This maximizes the experience of both instant viewing and delayed viewing, and additionally provides a capability to extend the viewing experience to in-home streaming and copying to other devices. Accordingly, there is provided herein a capability to take advantage of adaptive streaming to provide a highly reliable mechanism for consumers to view media in real-time transmission, and also to obtain a resultant, locally stored media file of high quality. There is further provided herein a capability to obtain complete copies of media at different quality levels. Moreover, embodiments of the present invention facilitate adaptive streaming and copying within the home environment.

Abstract: Various embodiments of the invention provide a control framework for robots such that a robot can use all joints simultaneously to track motion capture data and maintain balance. Embodiments of the invention provide a framework enabling complex reference movements to be automatically tracked, for example reference movements derived from a motion capture data system.