Abstract: An amusement attraction may have a laser input device where a user may wave several fingers or make repeated motions to break a laser beam in a predefined pattern. The pattern may be recognized by a controller to perform a specific function. In one embodiment, a maintenance technician may use the input device to turn on or off certain lasers in a laser maze attraction. In another embodiment, a game player may use the input device to configure the game, change conditions of the game, or perform some other function.

Abstract: Amusement attractions are entertaining and sometimes challenging games that are designed to excite patrons. Attractions may be constructed inside portable, pre-constructed containers designed to be moved over short or long distances. Portability allows attractions to be constructed off-site, moved between a plurality of sites, or moved into different locations at a single site.

Abstract: Light beam detection is used in a wide variety of applications, including manufacturing, security, transportation, scientific research, and amusement products. A system for detecting a moving light beam is comprised of a light beam detector, a moving light system, and a controller. A light beam detector may include a light receiver and a light sensor. A moving light system may include a focused light source and a light movement system. A controller may monitor the light detector for the presence or absence of a light beam and may control light beam movement and other aspects of the system.

Abstract: A laser controller may operate a laser at a high power level, such as Class 3R, Class 3B, or higher, but may have safety interlocks to limit exposure to a safe level and may, as a system, be classified as Class 1. The laser controller may control a laser that transmits a light beam to a sensor, and may operate the laser in a high power mode when the sensor senses the light beam. While a laser is transmitting and the laser beam is not sensed, the laser may be operated within Class 1 power levels. When the light beam is broken, the laser controller may turn off the laser or change the power level to a safe level such that a person would not be exposed to any more energy than a Class 1 level. The laser controller may use various mechanisms to set a detection threshold and may use an ambient light sensor to determine when detection may be impossible.