Disney Patents

The Walt Disney Company is an entertainment company focused on media networks, parks and resorts, studio entertainment, consumer products and interactive games. The company's media holdings include ESPN (partial ownership), the Disney channels, ABC Family and A&E Television Networks (partial ownership). The company also operates Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Aulani, the Disney Cruise Line, and has partial ownership interests in Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Shanghai Disney. Tokyo Disneyland is operated by an independent company that licenses Disney intellectual property and pays royalties based on revenues. Disney also produces live-action and animated motion pictures, direct-to-video content, musical recordings and live stage plays, and distributes Walt Disney Pictures, Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm and Touchstone films.

Disney Patents by Type
  • Disney Patents Granted: Disney patents that have been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
  • Disney Patent Applications: Disney patent applications that are pending before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
  • System and method for managing authentication cookie encryption keys
    Publication number: 20100017596
    Abstract: There is provided a system and method for managing authentication cookie encryption keys. The system comprises a computing device including a memory with authentication data having a key identifier and encrypted data with a session identifier. The key identifier references a key having a validity period, the key capable of decrypting the authentication data. A processor of the computing device can respond to user requests for information by retrieving the authentication data and transmitting it to a server. The server can then authenticate the user by verifying the encrypted session identifier using the referenced key. There is also provided a method by which a key server can manage encryption keys. The key server receives an encryption key having a validity period, receives a validity request, confirms or rejects the validity of the encryption key, and automatically invalidates the encryption key upon expiration of the validity period.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventor: Jeremiah Paul Schertzinger
  • VIDEO GAME CONTROLLER
    Publication number: 20100016077
    Abstract: One particular implementation of the present invention may take the form of a video game controller that provides multiple inputs to a video game system. The controller may be compatible with multiple video game systems and may interface with multiple video games. More particularly, the controller may include a flat tablet-like device and a stylus that allows the user to draw within the video game environment. The tablet may recognize pressure applied by the stylus or by the user's fingers to map the position of the pressure applied and provide that information to a video game console such that the user may interact with a video game. Other embodiments may include a series of overlays that cover the controller device. The overlay may be specific to a particular video game and provide the user with a interface to press certain areas on the tablet to interact with the video game correctly. The overlay may also allow the user to interact with a pre-existing video game system through the controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Holly G. Longdale
  • AUTOSTEREOSCOPIC PROJECTION SYSTEM
    Publication number: 20100014053
    Abstract: An apparatus projecting 3D autostereoscopic images viewers. The apparatus includes a projector array with projectors each receiving an input image such as digital video and projecting an image based on the input image. A beam splitter with first and second surfaces is positioned such that the projected images strike the first surface and a portion (e.g., 50 to 95 percent) is transmitted through the beam splitter toward a screen with a retroreflective surface. The retroreflective surface reflects the splitter-transmitted portion back along the same path but with increased brightness. The light reflected from the retroreflective surface strikes the second surface of the beam splitter and is reflected toward a display viewing zone provided at about the focal points of the reflected projectors. A 3D image is perceivable to a viewer who positions his eyes at or near any of two or more viewing locations proximate to the projection surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: THOMAS E. BRENTNALL, III, RICHARD B. TURNER
  • METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR USER-SELECTED MANIPULATION OF GAMEPLAY MECHANICS
    Publication number: 20100016076
    Abstract: One particular implementation of the present invention may take the form of a method and system for a user of a video game to alter game scenes, objects and models in real-time by drawing shapes within the video game environment during game play. The method may include artificial intelligent reactions by the gameplay mechanics to the user-selected alterations to the video game as the alterations are made. More particularly, one method for manipulating a video game may allow the user to alter the environment of the video game by using a drawing tool to draw shapes within the video game environment. The video game may recognize the shape drawn within the game and generate a rendered shape corresponding to the drawn shape. The user may also alter character models or sprites within the video game to stretch or shrink the model. Further, the above methods may occur within a two-dimensional or three-dimensional video game environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Holly G. Longdale
  • System and method for providing location-based data on a wireless portable device
    Publication number: 20100015994
    Abstract: There is provided a wireless portable device for providing location-based data to a user in a defined geographical area including a plurality of points of interest, the wireless portable device comprising a wireless transmitter, a wireless receiver, and an expansion bay with an attached expansion cartridge. The wireless transmitter can transmit location information to a wireless server over a wireless network. The wireless receiver can receive location-based data relating to a point of interest from the wireless server periodically and automatically, based on the location of the wireless portable device. The expansion cartridge can receive location-based data while the wireless portable device is in a low power sleep state. There is also provided a method for a wireless server to provide location-based data to a wireless portable device after a pre-determined period of time, including an interactive game relating to a point of interest.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Greg Mcbride, Christopher Purvis
  • ROTATING RIDES WITH INTERACTIVE WATER FEATURES
    Publication number: 20100009767
    Abstract: A rotating ride for use in water parks and other settings to provide ride passengers or park guests with an interactive water experience. The ride includes a structural system with a drive that rotates a support structure such as a wheel frame about a central axis or hub. The ride includes a plurality of vehicles that each includes a body with seating for passengers and that is connected to the support structure and rotates with it. The vehicle assembly includes a water release mechanism that is passenger operable to release water from the vehicle as it is moved through the ride path. The vehicle body may include a water storage reservoir storing a volume of water that then can be selectively released by the passenger. The stored water may be caught as it pours over the vehicle or the vehicle may pass through a pool to scoop up the water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: David W. Crawford, Timothy J. Delaney
  • Method and system for dynamically generating a search result
    Publication number: 20100010984
    Abstract: There is provided a method for dynamically generating search results from a dataset. The method comprises receiving a first search keyword from a user and searching for a first content object that is identified by the first search keyword. The method further comprises building a metadata pool using metadata associated with the first content object. Furthermore, the method comprises selecting a second search keyword from the metadata pool, and searching for a second content object by substituting the second search keyword for the first search keyword. If a first content object is not identified by the first search keyword, then the method may terminate. In one embodiment, the selection of the second search keyword from the metadata pool comprises making a random selection of the second search keyword.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventor: Joven Michael Matias
  • System and/or method for class-based authorization
    Patent number: 7647625
    Abstract: The subject matter disclosed herein relates to authenticating an identity of users desiring access to an application program and determining whether an authenticated user is authorized to access one or more aspects of the application program.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Doron Grinstein
  • Content navigation module and method
    Publication number: 20100005137
    Abstract: There is provided a method for use by a content navigation module for managing delivery of content. The method comprising communicating an identifier contained in the content navigation module with a first computing device to enable the first computing device to receive a selected content from a presentation server over a network; receiving a delivery progress of the selected content from the first computing device periodically; storing the delivery progress of the selected content; losing communication with the first computing device after storing the delivery progress; and communicating the identifier contained in the content navigation module and the delivery progress of the selected content with a second computing device to enable the second computing device to resume receiving the selected content from the server over the network according to the delivery progress of the selected content stored in the content navigation module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Asa Kalama, Frank Mezzatesta, JR., William McArdle
  • User interface framework and method for utilizing same
    Publication number: 20100005407
    Abstract: There is presented a user interface (UI) framework and systems and methods for its use. Such a system comprises a content server and a rich media content generated by a compiling of a rich media source code, wherein the rich media content is hosted by the content server. The rich media content includes a first embedded graphics environment configured to present display assets of the rich media content, and a first UI framework ported to the first embedded graphics environment, the first UI framework configured to interact with the first embedded graphics environment to modify the display assets of the rich media content in response to data received from a UI layout feed. The first UI framework is configured to modify the display assets of the rich media content without requiring modifications to the rich media source code or recompiling of the rich media source code.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2008
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Chang Liu, Giuseppe Manzari
  • Irregular shaped baby bottle
    Patent number: 7637382
    Abstract: A container, such as a baby bottle, has an hourglass shape elongated wall substantially along its length. There is an indented portion in the hourglass shape for facilitating holding of the bottle. A rim at the top of the wall is for receiving a nipple locating closure, and the indented portion extends in height for less than half of an overall height of the bottle. The bottom of the bottle is curved and blends with wall of the bottle. The bottle has an angulated profile such that a top portion of the hourglass is arched relatively towards one side of a vertical axis extending from a bottom towards the top. The indented portion of the hourglass is angulated at a non-right angular configuration relatively to a vertical axis extending from a bottom towards the top. The inside of the bottle is formed to have a blended inside curved interface between the inside of the bottom and the inside of the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephanie Kraus, Randal Ouye
  • Method and system for enabling client-side initiated delivery of dynamic secondary content
    Publication number: 20090319636
    Abstract: There is provided a method of enabling client-side initiated delivery of dynamic secondary content to a host page comprising running a dynamic secondary content delivery application, requesting a secondary content update to one or more items of existing secondary content rendered on the host page during page load, downloading the secondary content update to the client system, parsing the secondary content update by the dynamic secondary content delivery application, and rendering the secondary content update on the host page, resulting in the client-side initiated delivery of the dynamic secondary content to the host page. In one embodiment, the method is executed by a client system in response to instructions comprising the dynamic secondary content delivery application stored on a computer-readable medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2008
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventor: Roland Katsuaki Tokumi
  • METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR MANAGING ASSETS STORED IN LOCAL MEMORY OF AN OPTICAL DISC PLAYER DEVICE
    Publication number: 20090307723
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are provided, which may be implemented for use in managing data assets stored in local memory of the optical disc player device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2008
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Kyle Prestenback, Evan Tahler, Evan Acosta
  • EVENT STATE MONITORING FOR MULTIPLE PLATFORMS ASSOCIATED WITH A USER ACCOUNT
    Publication number: 20090304344
    Abstract: Subject matter disclosed herein may relate to monitoring state information for one or more events across one or more platforms associated with a user account, and providing event information appropriate for an electronic device to a the electronic device for display to a user associated with the user account. The user may provide inputs related to one or more of the events via the electronic device, and the inputs may be transmitted to one or more platforms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Kyle Prestenback, Evan Tahler
  • USER INPUT HANDLING FOR DIGITAL VIDEO PLAYBACK DEVICE
    Publication number: 20090303186
    Abstract: Subject matter disclosed herein may relate to providing user inputs, such as, for example, text from a keyboard, to an application executed on a digital video object playback device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Kyle Prestenback, Evan Tahler, David Jessen, Brian Kwan
  • METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR USE WITH A DATA ACCESS DEVICE AND AN OPTICAL DISC IN AN ELECTRONIC ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM
    Publication number: 20090304365
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are provided, which may be implemented using an optical disc and a data access device such as, e.g., an optical disc player device. The optical disc may include content information, such as, video data, audio data, and advertisement data. The advertisement data may be associated with at least one product and/or service that is not adapted for use by the optical disc player device. The optical disc may include instructional information to adapt the optical disc player device to access user input data identifying user contact information and at least one advertisement selection, and to initiate transmission of an information request associated with at least one product and/or service associated with advertisement selection and/or advertisement data. The information request may include user contact information and may be adapted for use by at least one information delivery system which may initiate subsequent user contact without using the optical disc player device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Kyle Prestenback, Evan Tahler, Brian Kwan, Evan Acosta
  • Digital repeater module and method for relaying digital data
    Publication number: 20090304046
    Abstract: There is provided a digital repeater module and method for relaying digital data. The digital repeater module comprises a data reception unit configured to receive digital data from several broadcast devices concurrently, a data transmission unit configured to transmit digital data using a multiple transmission protocols concurrently, and a routing application. The routing application can receive digital data through the data reception unit, identify available data paths for relaying the digital data to desired destinations, and determine transmission metrics for each of the available data paths for relaying the digital data to the desired destinations. The routing application can also select data paths for transmission based on the determined transmission metrics, and transmit the digital data using the selected data paths through the data transmission unit. There is also provided a method for resolving assignment of limited broadcast frequencies using the digital repeater module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Gary J. Nadler, Peter Doherty, Steve Schwartz
  • MESSAGING WITH USER GENERATED CONTENT RELATED TO VIDEO OBJECT TIMECODE
    Publication number: 20090304346
    Abstract: Subject matter disclosed herein may relate to messaging techniques with user generated content related to video object timecode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Kyle Prestenback, Evan Tahler, Brian Kwan, Allison Crow, Aaron Daly
  • METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR COMBINING AND DISTRIBUTING USER ENHANCED VIDEO/AUDIO CONTENT
    Publication number: 20090307227
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are provided, which may be implemented to combine and distribute user enhanced video and/or audio content.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Kyle Prestenback, Evan Tahler, Brian Kwan, David Jessen
  • MOVING MIRROR PROJECTION AND ANIMATION SYSTEM
    Publication number: 20090303447
    Abstract: A projection assembly and projection method for accurately reproducing animated and live characters, objects, and effects. The projection assembly uses a high precision robotic mirror system to achieve very high levels of image resolution, brightness, and contrast. The assembly includes a projector receiving an input image stream, and a mirror assembly is positioned proximate to the projector outlet. The mirror assembly uses positionable mirrors to reflect the projected images onto a display surface at positions that define an animation pattern on the display surface for the projected image or character. The assembly includes a motor controller assembly positioning the mirrors based on position data defining the animation pattern. The projected images may be provided in a projection area that is a fraction of the size of the display surface, such that the resolution and output light of the projector are concentrated on the display surface within this projection area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: RICHARD B. TURNER, DAVID F. BARNETT, THOMAS E. BRENTNALL, III
  • Three-axis robotic joint with human-based form factors
    Patent number: 7628093
    Abstract: A robotic joint configured as a 3-axis joint configured with a shoulder or other human joint form factor. The joint includes a first link made up of a block attaching to a torso and a stationary electric actuator assembly mounted to the block. A second link is connected to the first link to rotate about a first axis and be driven by the actuator assembly. A third link is attached to the second link to rotate about a second axis orthogonal to the first axis when the third link is driven by the actuator assembly. A fourth link is connected to the third link to rotate about a third axis orthogonal to the second axis when the fourth link is driven by the actuator assembly. The actuator assembly includes three electric motors with threaded drive capstans driving pulleys in the links while being spaced apart from the rotating links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Akhil J. Madhani, Bryan S. Tye
  • INTERACTIVE DOCUMENT READER
    Publication number: 20090298586
    Abstract: The subject matter disclosed herein relates to systems for providing an interactive document reader.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan Ackley, Amber Samdahl, Amy K. Van Gilder, Lanny S. Smoot, Shelley Short
  • OPERATING SHOW OR RIDE ELEMENTS IN RESPONSE TO VISUAL OBJECT RECOGNITION AND TRACKING
    Publication number: 20090298603
    Abstract: A ride or show control apparatus using visual recognition to provide a more interactive experience to guests or participants. The apparatus is adapted for operating a ride or show element, such as a robotic character. The apparatus includes a mechanized or robotic element with movable components positioned near a guest traffic area. The apparatus includes an imaging assembly capturing images of the traffic area and outputting digital image data. A controller is provided that includes a processor using an object recognition module to process the image data to determine whether an object is in the traffic area In response to the object recognition, the control system operates movable components of the mechanized element such as to cause it to speak or move in the direction of the recognized object such as a visitor's face or a badge, hat, or other item worn or carried by a guest or participant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc
    Inventor: David W. Crawford
  • Method and system for synchronizing an online application and a portable device
    Publication number: 20090292640
    Abstract: There is provided a method of synchronizing a portable device with an online user account.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2008
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventor: Christopher Heatherly
  • REAR PROJECTED EXPRESSIVE HEAD
    Publication number: 20090292614
    Abstract: The subject matter disclosed herein relates to systems and methods for providing image projection and entertainment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Mark A. Reichow, Thomas Frasier LaDuke, Steve Kosakura, R. Christopher Biggs
  • FABRICATING MULTI-COMPONENT SKIN SYSTEMS FOR ROBOTICS AND OTHER APPLICATIONS
    Publication number: 20090289391
    Abstract: A method for fabricating a product, such as an amimatronic character, with artificial skin. The method includes providing data defining an exterior surface geometry of the product. A base geometry model of the product is generated based on the exterior surface geometry data, which in turn is used to fabricate a prototype of the product. Then, an exterior skin mold is formed using the product prototype mounted on an alignment block. The method includes fabricating an inner support structure based on the base geometry model having an exterior geometry smaller than the 3D base geometry model by the thickness of the exterior skin. The inner support structure is positioned within the mold with the inner support structure mounted upon the alignment block, which is received in the mold. The product is formed by pouring material for an exterior skin layer into the mold and over the inner support structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2008
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Bryan S. Tye, Philip John Jackson
  • Method and system for server location tracking
    Publication number: 20090282140
    Abstract: There is provided a method of locating a first server coupled to a network of servers in a data center having a plurality of servers including the first server, the network including a data center management computer. The method comprises obtaining, by a first server, an identification data from a locator coupled to the server, wherein the identification data can be utilized to determine a location of the locator in the data center; storing the identification data in a memory of the first server; and providing, by the first server, an information based on the identification data to the data center management computer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Christopher White, William Hunter
  • INTERACTIVE INTERFACE MOUNTING ASSEMBLY FOR AMUSEMENT AND THEME PARK RIDES
    Publication number: 20090277295
    Abstract: A ride vehicle for use in amusement park rides with interactive game or show equipment. A vehicle body is included with a passenger seat and an interactive device operable by a passenger to interact with the interactive game. A mounting assembly is provided in or on vehicle body and is configured for pivotally mounting the interactive device on the vehicle body. The mounting assembly may be adapted such as with a cam or guide plate to rotate or otherwise position the interactive device through a range of positions at varying distances from the seat. Further, A passenger restraint assembly is provided and is used to determine a size of the passenger in the seat. The passenger restraint is linked to the mounting assembly to drive the mounting assembly so as to place the interactive device at a passenger-use position that is selected based on the defined size of the passenger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2008
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: SUSAN M. BRYAN, GREGORY A. WILZBACH, JAMES STEPHEN FRANKENBERGER
  • MAGICAL IMAGE CUPS AND CONTAINERS WITH 3D DISPLAYS
    Publication number: 20090272015
    Abstract: An optical illusion device such as a drinking glass/cup for providing a multi-dimensional visual display. The device includes a body with tubular sidewalls extending from an opening at a first end to an opening at a second end. A base assembly is provided at the second end. The base assembly includes a top wall, a bottom wall, and a sidewall that together form or define an inner chamber. A visual display assembly is provided with a mirror element with a convex reflective surface or mirror positioned within the chamber with the reflective surface facing the top wall of the base assembly. A primary image element is provided proximate to the reflective surface such that the primary image and mirror element can be observed via the opening in the body. A framing element is included proximate to the top wall of the base assembly including background images facing the reflective surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventor: GARY W. SCHNUCKLE
  • AMUSEMENT PARK RIDE WITH VEHICLES PIVOTING ABOUT A COMMON CHASSIS TO PROVIDE RACING AND OTHER EFFECTS
    Publication number: 20090272289
    Abstract: A ride system is provided that allows selective relative positioning of vehicles in an amusement or theme park ride to simulate racing or other effects. The ride system includes a chassis that is adapted to be supported by and to travel on or along a length of track of a particular ride. A support is attached to the chassis and moves with the chassis during operation of the ride. The ride system includes first and second passenger vehicles that are spaced apart on and supported by the support. A drive assembly is linked to the support and configured to rotate the support about its central axis. During support rotation, the first and second vehicles are moved concurrently relative to the track to alter their relative positioning. The vehicles are each rotated about an axis that extends parallel to the rotation axis, and the rotation may be independent or concurrent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: PAUL E. BAKER, MARK W. SUMNER, DEREK HOWARD, DAVID A. DURHAM, CHRISTOPHER J. ROSE, DAVID W. CRAWFORD
  • Illuminated balloon with an externally mounted, rear projector
    Patent number: 7611396
    Abstract: An illuminated balloon assembly. The assembly includes a balloon having a front wall and a transparent rear wall or a rear wall including a transparent area. A projector is mounted on an exterior surface of the rear wall. The projector has a housing with an outlet proximate to the transparent area of the rear wall and a light source directing light toward the housing outlet. A light filter element is positioned within the housing such that light is selectively filtered to cause a display image to project on the balloon front wall. The housing has upper and lower shells, with the upper shell rigidly attached to the rear wall and supporting the light source. The lower shell is pivotally mounted on the upper shell. The filter is a two piece construction with portions provided on the upper and lower shells to cause the display to animated by projector movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary W. Schnuckle
  • Method and system for adaptive data transfer over packet networks
    Publication number: 20090271513
    Abstract: There is provided a method for adaptive data transfer over packet networks. The method comprises selecting a first communication path for transferring the data to the second computer, starting to transfer the data over the first communication path to the second computer, monitoring transfer characteristics of the first communication path related to the data transfer, storing the transfer characteristics associated with the first communication path in a database, comparing the transfer characteristics against one or more previously stored transfer characteristics related to one or more prior data transfers, and determining whether to alter a transfer algorithm being utilized for transferring the data to the second computer based on the comparing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Howard Liu, Ken Long, Sheldon Shen
  • CABLE TOW WHIP RIDE WITH INSIDE CURVES
    Publication number: 20090266266
    Abstract: A whip ride is provided for amusement parks. A platform is provided with a guide slot extending through the platform. A drive assembly is positioned beneath the platform and includes a drive member (e.g., drive cable) moving on a constrained path. A track follows a path horizontally offset from the drive path. The drive assembly includes a bogie or drive truck mounted on the track and pivotably linked to the drive member to be driven by the drive member. A passenger whip vehicle is provided on the platform upper surface and pivotably attached via a connector extending through the guide slot to the bogie. The bogie path includes inside and outside curves, and the bogie track is vertically offset from the drive member such that its path may crossover the drive member to vary the horizontal offset and to locate the bogie track on either side of the drive member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Michael G. Kilbert, Larry S. McAfee, David W. Crawford, James H. Shull
  • COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING METALLIC AND REFLECTIVE QUALITIES TO AN OBJECT ILLUMINATED WITH ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT
    Publication number: 20090269518
    Abstract: Compositions and methods related to providing an object with metallic and reflective qualities when illuminated with ultraviolet light are provided herein. Such compositions generally comprise reflective metal flakes and ultraviolet-luminescent pigments. Also provided are methods for making compositions comprising reflective metal flakes and ultraviolet-luminescent pigments and for applying a composition comprising reflective metal flakes and ultraviolet-luminescent pigments to an object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Susan Dain
  • VEHICLE TRANSFER DURING OPERATION OF AN OMNIMOVER RIDE
    Publication number: 20090269175
    Abstract: An assembly for transferring passenger-carrying vehicles to and from an amusement park ride conveying a train of vehicles without stopping for passenger loading. The assembly includes a transfer vehicle and a vehicle receiver positioned in the vehicle train. The vehicle receiver includes a connection mechanism, such as an electromagnet selectively operable to capture and release the transfer vehicle. A turntable is positioned adjacent to the track and selectively rotates at a rotation rate. The turntable includes an engagement mechanism, such as an electromagnet, on its periphery operable to capture and release the transfer vehicle (e.g., to capture when the vehicle receiver releases and vice versa). The rotation rate and the ride speed synchronize turntable rotation with travel of the train to mesh placement of the turntable engagement mechanism proximate to the connection mechanism of the vehicle receiver to facilitate hand off of the transfer vehicle without stopping the vehicle train.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Rose, David W. Crawford
  • Method and system enabling identification of information content having enhanced desirability to a user
    Publication number: 20090265359
    Abstract: There is provided a method of enabling identification of information content having enhanced desirability to a user comprising collecting content into an information database, updating the collected content according to one or more updating schedules, s filtering the updated content by reference to at least one theme, associating each of the filtered content items with a respective visual representation, and labeling the respective visual representations with one or more visual cues corresponding to one or more discrimination criteria. A system for enabling same comprises an information database configured to store collected content and accessible via a content server, an aggregator configured to update the collected content, an interactive content selection application configured to provide a user interface enabling filtering of the updated collected content, and a visualization module configured to associate the filtered content items with a visual representation and label each with one or more visual cues.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2008
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Jonathan David Barsook, Khai T. Tran, Marykate Haley, Arun Ramagopal, David Ehlers, Jonathon Ruppel, Russell Armand, Miles Kemp, Sean Porter, Shashank Khetan
  • System and method enabling sampling and preview of a digital multimedia presentation
    Publication number: 20090259943
    Abstract: There is presented a system and method enabling sampling and preview of a digital multimedia presentation. The system comprises a presentation server and a presentation content database configured to store a plurality of digital content including the digital multimedia presentation, accessible through the presentation server. The system also comprises a presentation sampling and preview application configured to determine a time duration of the digital multimedia presentation, designate sampling intervals of the digital multimedia presentation according to the time duration, associate a digital content sample with each designated sampling interval, and assign the digital content samples to respective locations on a presentation timeline. The system is configured to provide the digital content sample assigned to a selected location on the presentation timeline, thereby enabling sampling and preview of the digital multimedia presentation. In one embodiment, the system further comprises a client computer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Jonathan David Barsook, Ariff Sidi, Matthew Paul Bice, Marieke Iwema Watson
  • System and method for enabling review of a digital multimedia presentation and redirection therefrom
    Publication number: 20090259956
    Abstract: There is presented a system for providing a digital multimedia presentation. The system comprises a presentation server; a presentation content database accessible through the presentation server, the presentation content database configured to store a plurality of contents including the digital multimedia presentation, a plurality of digital media contents and a plurality of advertising contents; and a review and redirection application configured to determine at least one of the plurality of digital multimedia contents as an alternative to the digital multimedia presentation, and provide a review and redirection pane integrated with a contextual background corresponding to the digital multimedia presentation; the review and redirection pane configured to enable play of the digital multimedia presentation, redirection to the at least one of the plurality of digital multimedia contents, and selection of at least one of the plurality of advertising contents associated with the digital multimedia presentation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Jonathan David Barsook, Ariff Sidi, Skarphedinn Hedinsson
  • System and method for providing digital multimedia presentations
    Publication number: 20090259955
    Abstract: There is presented a system and method for providing a digital multimedia presentation. The system comprises a presentation server and a presentation content database configured to store a plurality of digital multimedia content items, accessible through the presentation server. The system also comprises a presentation control application configured to enable identification of a digital multimedia content item for presentation from among the plurality of digital multimedia content items.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Jonathan David Barsook, Matthew Paul Bice, Marieke Iwema Watson
  • Method and system for creating a collaborative work over a digital network
    Patent number: 7603626
    Abstract: A system and method for having a plurality of participants author and submit segment candidates to create a collaborative work over a computer network. The plurality of participants receive segment instructions for authoring the segment candidates. The candidates are submitted to the system and at least a subset of the submitted segment candidates are distributed to a voting audience over the computer network. In response the system receives votes for a favored segment candidate from the voting audience. Next, a winning segment candidate is selected from the submitted segment candidates for inclusion in the collaborative work based on the votes. This process is repeated by the system until the collaborative work is complete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: David B. Williams, Craig Singer, Christopher Williams
  • Method and system for enabling a consumer of a media content to communicate with a producer
    Publication number: 20090254604
    Abstract: There is provided a method of enabling a consumer of a media content to communicate with a producer of the media content, comprising receiving an originating message concerning the media content from the consumer, assigning metadata to the originating message based on the media content or the content of the originating message, determining the producer based on the media content or the content of the originating message, forwarding the originating message through a message support network for distribution to the producer, retrieving a responsive message provided by the producer from among message updates stored on a message database, and associating the responsive message with one or more content subsets of the content according to the metadata assigned to the originating message. In one embodiment, media content and instructions comprising an interactive communication control application are stored on a computer readable medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Christopher Purvis, Kyle Presetenback
  • FOUNTAIN WITH FOG-FILLED, ILLUMINATED WATER DOMES
    Publication number: 20090250528
    Abstract: A fountain system for creating unique water displays or water attractions. The fountain system includes a pump providing water at a flow rate and a plurality of fountain assemblies connected to the pimp outlet. Each of the fountain assemblies includes a nozzle such as a bell or dome nozzle that receives the water from the pump and discharges the water from its outlet in the form of an enclosed dome about the nozzle outlet. The fountain assembly includes a fog generator or fogger such as an ultrasonic transducer, positioned proximate to the nozzle discharging fog into the dome where it is trapped by the laminar flow water in the dome wall. Each fountain assembly includes a light source transmitting light into the dome to illuminate and color the captured fog. The flow rate may be changed to alter the shape and size of the domes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventor: Gary W. Schnuckle
  • SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MESH DISTANCE BASED GEOMETRY DEFORMATION
    Publication number: 20090251462
    Abstract: A method of manipulating at least a portion of a character model into a pose involving a library data having a plurality of deformations, where each deformation is associated with index values of one or more distance measurement nodes. One or more distance measurement nodes are defined for the portion of the character model, wherein each distance measurement node comprises a number of points on a surface defined by the geometry of the character model, wherein the points are separated by a distance value. A particular pose is selected for the character model portion to establish an initial model by selecting values for the pose controls. For the particular pose, a value of the distance measurement nodes is determined. At least one deformation is selected from the library data based in the value of the distance measurement nodes and applied to the initial model to generate a deformed model.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Clay Kaytis, John Edgar Park, Gene Lee, Philippe Brochu, Hidetaka Yosumi
  • DIGITAL CAMERA-PROJECTOR HYBRID
    Publication number: 20090251585
    Abstract: A camera-projector assembly for viewing captured images in a near-view mode and in a distal-view projection mode. The assembly includes a camera housing and an image capture assembly within the housing collecting image data. The camera-projector assembly includes a projection assembly mounted on the camera housing that includes a projection lens and a projection light source. A transmissive display such as an LCD is provided external to the camera housing and adapted to be positionable in a first position proximate to the camera housing and in a second position between the projection lens and light source. The transmissive display is positionable against an external surface of the camera housing when it is in the first position and at least partially spaced apart from the external surface in the second position. The transmissive display maybe rotated or slid from the first to the second position on the camera housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventor: Daniel M. Joseph
  • Method and system for pairing a medium to a user account
    Publication number: 20090248838
    Abstract: There is provided a system for pairing a medium with a user account comprising a media player configured to retrieve a medium identifier from the medium and a player identifier from a memory of the media player. The media player is further configured to transmit the medium identifier and the player identifier to a server. Additionally, the media player is further configured to receive a key associated with the medium identifier and the player identifier from the server. The server is configured to receive the key and the user account for pairing the user account with the medium associated with the key. A computer may be utilized to transmit the key and the user account to the server, after the key has been provided to a user by the media player. The media player and the computer may communicate with the server via the Internet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Kyle Presetenback, Evan Tahler
  • Method and system for multimedia captures with remote triggering
    Publication number: 20090239577
    Abstract: There is provided a system for triggering a multimedia unit to capture multimedia. The system comprises a multimedia unit configured to capture multimedia, which may be images, video, or other sensory information. The system may further comprise a wireless device, such as a cell phone, configured to send a triggering signal, such as an SMS message, wherein the triggering signal includes an identifier for the wireless device. The system may further comprise a wireless network, such as a cellular network, configured to carry the triggering signal and configured to carry the multimedia. The system may further comprise a multimedia host configured to receive the multimedia via a system network and to present the multimedia to a user of the system for capturing multimedia via a built-in multimedia display or to a client computer via the Internet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2008
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISE, INC.
    Inventors: Michael Holton, Clifford Wong, Jonathan M. Ackley
  • Method and system for providing interactivity based on sensor measurements
    Publication number: 20090234666
    Abstract: There is provided a system for providing interactivity to a guest of an experiential venue, based on sensor measurement of the guest. The system comprises a sensor configured to sense a guest variable of the guest, where the sensor may be a biometric sensor, a facial recognition sensor, a voice stress analysis sensor, a gesture recognition sensor, a motion tracking sensor, or an eye tracking sensor, and may sense heart rate or another guest variable. The system also comprises a control system, which may be implemented as a computer, in communication with the sensor. The control system is configured to determine a guest state from the guest variable, and to modify a venue variable, for example by selecting a path a theme park ride follows. The control system modifies the venue variable according to the guest state to provide increased satisfaction to the guest of the experiential venue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: David Crawford, David Durham, Jon Georges
  • Method and system for producing a mood guided media playlist
    Publication number: 20090234888
    Abstract: There is provided a method of providing a mood guided media playlist. The method comprises identifying a mood rating of media assets stored in a media assets database; labeling the media assets with metatags corresponding to the mood rating; identifying a mood theme according to an input received from a client computer; designating mood associated media assets corresponding to the mood theme from the labeled media assets; determining a media playlist length corresponding to the mood theme; assembling a media playlist having the media playlist length corresponding to the mood theme, from the mood associated media assets; and providing the media playlist for displaying. The method may comprise providing a mood selection virtual tool enabling a user of the client computer to recognize and select a desired mood theme, wherein the mood selection virtual tool can display a spectrum of colors corresponding to a plurality of user selectable mood themes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Sunny Holmes, Chris Heatherly, Randal Ouye
  • System and method for managing distribution of rich media content
    Publication number: 20090234935
    Abstract: There is provided a system for managing distribution of rich media content. The system comprises a communications server accessible by a mobile device; a local services network interactively connected to the communications server; a rich media control application resident on the communications server, the rich media control application configured to manage rich media distribution for a user of the mobile device in response to receipt of a valid rich media access code from the mobile device, by requesting a rich media content corresponding to the rich media access code from the local services network; receiving the rich media content from the local services network; and sending a notification message to the mobile device for enabling the user of the mobile device to access the rich media content.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Scott Watson, Armando Santana, Orrin J. Shively, Robert Swirsky, Jonathan Gilbert, Ben Brown
  • System and method for providing a rich media visitor log
    Publication number: 20090233543
    Abstract: Presented is a system for providing a rich media visitor log comprising a communications server accessible by members of a group, a local services network interactively connected to the communications server, a group management application resident on the communications server, and a visitor log host application. The group management application is configured to activate a group session, manage communications among group members and the local services network during the group session, and expire activation of the group session after a predetermined time interval.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Scott Watson, Armando Santana, Orrin J. Shively, Robert Swirsky, Jonathan Gilbert, Ben Brown