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).
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Publication number: 20090113445Abstract: A system and method for managing localization workflow for video game development is disclosed. The method includes programmatically determining that a string has been added to or modified in an executable asset of a video game under development. The method further includes programmatically inspecting the executable asset to determine whether the string is to be visually displayed or audibly played during game play. The method further includes programmatically generating an electronic message for a translator based at least partly on a positive determination that there is a string to be translated, wherein the electronic message is intended to notify the translator of a translation task associated with at least the text to be translated.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 25, 2008Publication date: April 30, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Tadashi George Sakashita, Bruce Gifford, Jonathan C. Scholtz
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Publication number: 20090112577Abstract: A system and method for organizing localization content for video game development is disclosed. The method includes generating executable instructions for a video game being developed, wherein the video game is being developed for deployment in a plurality of natural languages, wherein text strings and/or multimedia data to be rendered during game play are referenced by the executable instructions. The method further includes identifiably storing the text strings and/or multimedia data in one or more dictionary files such that the text strings and/or multimedia data are identifiably referenced by references in the executable instructions and are identifiably referenced by a corresponding natural language.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 25, 2008Publication date: April 30, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Bruce Gifford, Tadashi George Sakashita, Jonathan C. Scholtz
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Publication number: 20090112575Abstract: A system and method for managing localization workflow for video game development is disclosed. The method includes determining that a string is to be translated. The method further includes associating a translator with the string. The method further includes providing video metadata to the translator, wherein the video metadata includes at least video information from game play of the video game being developed such that the translator is provided with context for the translation.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 25, 2008Publication date: April 30, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Tadashi George Sakashita, Bruce Gifford, Jonathan C. Scholtz
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Publication number: 20090111585Abstract: A system and method for translating a phrase for video game development for games to be made available in a plurality of natural languages is disclosed. The method includes determining that code for a video game being developed has been created or modified. The method further includes inspecting the code to determine whether a phrase to be displayed or to be spoken during game play is present therein, wherein the phrase comprises a plurality of words. The method further includes comparing the entire phrase to a collection of phrases for which one or more translations to another natural language are already available, and if an exact match is determined, then reusing the one or more available translations for one or more corresponding languages.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 25, 2008Publication date: April 30, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Tadashi George Sakashita, Bruce Gifford, Jonathan C. Scholtz
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Publication number: 20090093187Abstract: An apparatus for creating a flying effect. The apparatus includes a mounting assembly on a body and a wing assembly attached to the mounting assembly. The wing assembly includes right and left wings and a span member extending between the wings. A drive assembly is provided with a reciprocal drive shaft and a drive for reciprocating the shaft. A contact member extending from an end of the reciprocating shaft contacts the span member to apply a drive force at a drive frequency. The mounting assembly includes a recessed surface, and the span member is positioned over the recessed surface such that the span member is urged toward the recessed surface when the drive force is applied. The span member is formed of flexible material, and the wings move with the spring-like span member as it is urged toward the recessed surface and as it returns to its at-rest position.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 6, 2008Publication date: April 9, 2009Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventor: Gary W. Schnuckle
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Publication number: 20090092382Abstract: The present invention comprises a method and apparatus for playback of programs and other works recorded on random access storage media. One embodiment of the invention relates to random access storage media such as a DVD (“digital versatile disk” or “digital video disk”) used to distribute motion pictures and other audio/video programs or works. The invention involves a manner of utilizing secondary storage space of the storage media not used by the primary program being distributed to store secondary programs such as movie trailers and product advertisements, and to present the secondary programs to the user in a topical and interesting manner. In one embodiment, storage space, of a random access storage medium such as a DVD is allocated to a number of variously sized programs or program portions called “chapters.” In one embodiment, each primary and secondary program constitutes a separate chapter.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 5, 2008Publication date: April 9, 2009Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventors: Robert E. Lambert, W. Daniel Hillis
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Patent number: 7514008Abstract: The present disclosure provides for a system and method that intensely oxidizes water as it navigates through a system and accurately, controllably neutralizes the oxidation by-products before the water exits the system.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2006Date of Patent: April 7, 2009Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Ivey Burnes, Thoram Charanda, Thomas J. Nicodemo, Richard Davis, Janell Crowder
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Publication number: 20090086975Abstract: There is presented a method for providing a media content, one embodiment comprising recording a first version of a movie on a first content medium in a first format, encrypting one or more content supplement to the movie, each content supplement having a format different from the first format, embedding at least one encryption key in each content supplement, providing a retrieval code for key data enabling playback of the content supplement, and bundling the content supplement and the retrieval code for distribution with the first content medium. In one embodiment, a flexible format media bundle comprises a first content medium, a first version of a media content recorded on the first content medium in a first format, at least one content supplement having a different format, at least one encryption key, and a retrieval code enabling access to the content supplement.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2007Publication date: April 2, 2009Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventors: Arnaud Robert, Scott F. Watson
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Publication number: 20090089248Abstract: A system and method of filtering search results is provided. Certain embodiments provide an improved user experience in filtering large sets of data in a computer system through the use of multidimensional associative arrays which allow results to be filtered within a web interface without needing additional calls to web server or online database.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2007Publication date: April 2, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Matthew Walker Alexander, Katherine Mirescu
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Publication number: 20090089884Abstract: A method comprises receiving a first device ID request from user for registration of a first user device; generating a first unique identification number for the first user device; generating a first unique identification object based on a first DRM protocol, the first unique identification object including the first unique identification number; associating the user with the first user device, the first unique identification number and the first DRM protocol; receiving a second device ID request from user for registration of a second user device; generating a second unique identification number for the second user device; generating a second unique identification object based on a second DRM protocol, the second unique identification object including the second unique identification number, wherein the first DRM protocol and the second DRM protocol are incompatible; and associating the user with the second user device, the second unique identification number and the second DRM protocol.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2007Publication date: April 2, 2009Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventors: Scott F. Watson, Arnaud Robert
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Publication number: 20090088255Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide techniques for aiding users of game consoles in creating custom gameplay data for a music video game based on audio data (e.g., songs) stored on a portable media device. Specific embodiments provide a game console application that can receive a song at a game console from a portable media device, and receive user inputs to generate custom gameplay data associated with the song. The gameplay data may then be saved to the portable storage device and later accessed, either at the same or a different game console, to allow a user to play the music video game in accordance with the gameplay data and the audio data. In this manner, users can create and share custom gameplay content for a music video game based on songs stored on their portable media devices.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2008Publication date: April 2, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc., a Delaware CorporationInventors: Mark Meyers, Kendell T. Huntsman, Joe Barnes
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Publication number: 20090088259Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide techniques for establishing and reestablishing associations between users of game devices. In one embodiment, information about an association between a user of a first game device and a user of a second game device is stored in the nonvolatile memories of first and second game media, the first and second game media being communicatively coupled with the first and second game devices respectively. If the first game device loses track of the association (e.g., the user of the first game devices swaps out the first game medium for another one, or the memory resident on the first game medium is corrupted/erased), an association notification received at the first game device from the second game device may be used to reestablish the association at the first game device. In this manner, previously established associations between users of game devices may be automatically established/reestablished.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 10, 2008Publication date: April 2, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey Gosztyla, Martin Poulin, Daren Smith, Mark McArthur
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Publication number: 20090083631Abstract: The subject matter disclosed herein relates to distribution of media content.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 25, 2008Publication date: March 26, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Ariff Sidi, Skarpi Hedinsson, Giuseppe Manzari, Ely Liu
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Publication number: 20090076791Abstract: There is provided a method for converting a computer game into a real-life simulation environment comprising receiving metadata defining virtual features and a virtual layout, matching the virtual features to simulation features of the real-life simulation environment, mapping the virtual layout onto the real-life simulation environment, and compiling those results as data corresponding to a real-life simulation of the computer game.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 18, 2007Publication date: March 19, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Joshua Rhoades, Jeffrey Voris
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Publication number: 20090076652Abstract: A method for controlling movement of movable object having a plurality of movable subcomponents comprises receiving an instruction configured to generate a defined movement of a selected subcomponent of the movable object between a first state and a second state. The method further comprises determining whether execution of the defined movement results in the selected subcomponent leaving a motion space associated with the selected subcomponent. The motion space is defined by a motion space boundary. The method further comprises producing a modified instruction configured to generate a modified movement of the selected subcomponent between the first state and the second state. Execution of the modified movement results in the selected subcomponent remaining within the motion space. At least a portion of the modified movement deviates from the defined movement.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2007Publication date: March 19, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises, IncInventor: Alexis Paul Wieland
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Publication number: 20090069935Abstract: A system and method of distributed control of an interactive animatronic show is disclosed. The system includes a plurality of animatronic actors, at least one of the actors comprising a processor and one or more motors controlled by the processor. The system also includes a network interconnecting each of the actors, and a plurality of sensors providing messages to the network, where the messages are indicative of processed information. Each processor executes software that schedules and/or coordinates an action of the actor corresponding to the processor in accordance with the sensor messages representative of attributes of an audience viewing the show and the readiness of the corresponding actor. Actions of the corresponding actor can comprise animation movements of the actor, responding to another actor and/or responding to a member of the audience. The actions can result in movement of at least a component of the actor caused by control of the motor.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2007Publication date: March 12, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Alexis Paul Wieland
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Publication number: 20090058683Abstract: There is disclosed a system and method for providing location-based entertainment. In one embodiment, a device capable of providing location-based entertainment comprises a navigational interface module configured to receive navigational data, an entertainment selection module configured to utilize the navigational data to generate location-based entertainment content for a user, and a presentation module configured to present the location-based content to the user. The system may also include a position finding module and a routing module.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2007Publication date: March 5, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises,Inc.Inventor: Emily Becker
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Publication number: 20090063421Abstract: There is provided a method for making a rich web application searchable, one embodiment comprising providing companion content in a format searchable by a web search engine, loading the companion content in a web browser, calling a rich web application using the companion content, loading the rich web application in the web browser, and launching a data bridge interfacing the rich web application and the companion content. The method may further comprise retrieving a data feed for the rich web application, located in the companion content. In one embodiment, a system configured to make a rich web application searchable comprises a content storage, companion content in a format searchable by a web search engine, a data feed for the rich web application included in the companion content, and a data bridge interfacing the rich web application with the companion content.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2007Publication date: March 5, 2009Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES,INC.Inventors: Robert Jeffrey Burson, Dexter Lee, Michael Scott Weksler
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Patent number: 7496277Abstract: A media playback device capable of displaying multiple streams simultaneously and with expanded picture-in-picture capabilities is provided. The placement, size, aspect ratio, cropping, scale, transparency, tint, contrast, and cropping of the media can be set or adjusted arbitrarily. Furthermore, the audio may be mixed between separate tracks accompanying the video streams and may also be set or adjusted arbitrarily. Each variable can be dynamically changed during playback through either automated or user-initiated means. A system and method are provided for simultaneously displaying a first video stream and at least a second video stream on a display comprising the steps of feeding the video streams into a video player; providing control of the display of the video streams; displaying a first video stream substantially across the display; and displaying the other video streams in a secondary display.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2004Date of Patent: February 24, 2009Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Jonathan Ackley, Christopher T. Carey, Bennet S. Carr, Kathleen S. Poole
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Publication number: 20090046258Abstract: An apparatus for displaying images from a video projector. The apparatus includes a virtual projector screen assembly with an elongate screen element, such as a rod, that is mounted at one end to a base. The base is adapted for pivoting about its axis, arid a driver mechanism pivots the, base at high frequencies. During operation, the screen element oscillates between two edge positions with images projected from the projector being displayed on a side of the screen element facing or proximate to the projector. The two edge positions can be thought of as intersecting at the base and define a sweep angle (e.g., the angular difference between the two outer travel points of the screen element that is typically less than about 90 degrees). The driver may include a motor with an oscillating output shaft that pivots the base such as with a belt attached to the base.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2007Publication date: February 19, 2009Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventors: GARY W. SCHNUCKLE, LANNY S. SMOOT
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Publication number: 20090033662Abstract: A computer system comprises a memory configured to store a geometric description of an object, wherein the memory is configured to store a first set of parameters associated with a first artistic look, and wherein the memory is configured to store a second set of parameters associated with a second artistic look, and a processor coupled to the memory, wherein the processor is configured to determine a first set of rendered data in response to the first set of parameters and to the geometric description of the object, wherein the processor is configured to determine a second set of rendered data in response to the second set of parameters and to the geometric description of the object, and wherein the processor is configured to determine a visual representation for the object in response to the first set of rendered data and in response to the second set of rendered data.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2007Publication date: February 5, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises, IncorporatedInventors: John T. Murrah, Henry Allen Driskill, Colin Eckart, Donald Adolph Lusinsky, Sean D. Jenkins, Patrick Dalton
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Publication number: 20090033674Abstract: A surface normal map of an object can be interactively modified to create brushstroke-like textures. In one embodiment, surface normal components along the x, y, and z axes (in object coordinate space) are mapped onto red, green, and blue color components. The object's surface is displayed in an editing interface (e.g., a painting program) with colors indicating the surface normals. The user can then modify the surface normals to achieve a desired look for the object. The modified surface normals are stored with the object-model data and are used in rendering the object, helping to create a painted appearance.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2008Publication date: February 5, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: John T. Murrah, Donald Adolph Lusinsky, Henry Allen Driskill, Sean D. Jenkins, Colin Eckart, Andrew Kinney
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Publication number: 20090033673Abstract: Shadows are rendered automatically with a hand-painted appearance. The shadow region is divided into a core and a penumbra. A core perturbation zone is defined between the core and penumbra and a penumbra perturbation zone is defined between the penumbra and an unshadowed region. Within each perturbation zone, a texture is applied to each pixel to map the pixel as being inside or outside the core or penumbra boundary, thereby defining a displaced core boundary and a displaced penumbra boundary. The displaced boundaries can be non-linear and discontinuous. When shadows are rendered using the displaced boundaries, a hand-painted appearance can result. An additional texture can be applied in the penumbra to further enhance the painted appearance.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 8, 2008Publication date: February 5, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Lewis N. Siegel, Christopher Daniel Springfield, Robert L. Miles, Donald Adolph Lusinsky
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Publication number: 20090033663Abstract: Objects are modeled and rendered using multiple surfaces to provide attributes used in rendering. In some embodiments, a reference surface for an object is defined, e.g., using conventional modeling techniques. One or more auxiliary surfaces are associated with portions of the reference surface. Some of the surface attributes (e.g., color, surface normal, texture, lighting) are associated with the reference surface, while other attributes (e.g., transparency) are associated with the cards. To render an image, a ray associated with a pixel is traced to its intersection with the reference surface and to its intersection with one of the auxiliary surfaces. The attributes associated with the reference surface are determined based on the intersection point of the ray with the reference surface, and the attributes associated with the auxiliary surface are determined based on the intersection point of the ray with the auxiliary surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2008Publication date: February 5, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: John T. Murrah, Donald Adolph Lusinsky, Henry Allen Driskill, Sean D. Jenkins, Ernest Petti, Lewis N. Siegel
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Patent number: 7485025Abstract: An assembly is provided for simulating the dilating and constricting of a pupil of an eye. The assembly includes a shell that is at least translucent to light and a dilation mechanism with a deformable member positionable to contact an inner surface of the shell. An actuator is provided in the dilation mechanism to move the deformable member toward and away from the inner surface, which causes the size of a contact area between the inner surface and a lip of the deformable member to vary over a preset range. The assembly includes a light source directing light onto the inner surface of the shell. The deformable member dynamically blocks light from reaching the inner surface, creating a pupil or dark hole. The light may be an ultraviolet light and the deformable member contacts a pattern or artwork on the inner surface including portions that glow in ultraviolet light.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2006Date of Patent: February 3, 2009Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Gary Schnuckle
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Publication number: 20090027391Abstract: A method for a computer system includes receiving a plurality of values for an illumination parameter associated with an illumination source for a scene, determining a plurality illumination contributions for a surface of an object within the scene, in response to the plurality of values, determining a plurality of texture maps associated with the surface of the object in response to the plurality of illumination contributions, wherein each of the plurality of texture maps is associated with each of the plurality of values for the illumination parameter, receiving a value for the illumination parameter at render time from a user, determining a texture map associated with the surface of the object, in response to the value for the illumination parameter and in response to the plurality of texture maps, rendering the surface of the object using the texture map to form an image, and displaying the image to the user.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2008Publication date: January 29, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Brent Burley, Charles Tappan, Daniel Teece
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Publication number: 20090027412Abstract: Textures are transferred between different object models using a point cloud. In a first phase, a point cloud in 3-D space is created to represent a texture map as applied to a first, or “source,” object model. In a second phase, a value for a target texel of a texture map associated with a second, or “target,” object model, is determined by identifying the 3-D location on a surface defined by the target object model that maps to the location of the target texel and assigning a value based on the nearest point (or points) to that location in the 3-D point cloud. To the extent that differences between the source and target object models are minor, the texture transfer can be accomplished without loss of information or manual cleanup.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 22, 2008Publication date: January 29, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Brent Burley, Charles Tappan, Daniel Teece
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Publication number: 20090021522Abstract: A method for a computer system including receiving a file comprising textures including a first and a second texture, and metadata, wherein the first texture need not have a predetermined geometric relationship to the second texture, wherein the metadata includes identifiers associated with textures and includes adjacency data, associating the first texture with a first location on an object in response to an identifier associated with the first texture, associating the second texture with a second location on the object in response to an identifier associated with the second texture, determining an edge of the first texture is adjacent to an edge of the second texture in response to the adjacency data, and performing a rendering operation with respect to the first and the second surface on the object to determine rendering data in response to the first texture and to the second texture.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2008Publication date: January 22, 2009Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Brent D. Burley, J. Dylan Lacewell
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Patent number: 7480422Abstract: A method is provided for delivering information content relating to an object. A first image of a pattern on the object is received. An outer border of the first image is detected, and a second image framed by the outer border is located. The second image is decoded to determine a digital identifier. Information content relating to the digital identifier is delivered.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2005Date of Patent: January 20, 2009Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Jonathan M. Ackley, Jason Dubin, Nuria E. Romero, Amy K. Van Gilder, Jay D. Williams, Oren R. Aviv, Alexis P. Wieland
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Patent number: 7474834Abstract: The present invention comprises a method and apparatus for playback of programs and other works recorded on random access storage media. One embodiment of the invention relates to random access storage media such as a DVD (“digital versatile disk” or “digital video disk”) used to distribute motion pictures and other audio/video programs or works. The invention involves a manner of utilizing secondary storage space of the storage media not used by the primary program being distributed to store secondary programs such as movie trailers and product advertisements, and to present the secondary programs to the user in a topical and interesting manner. In one embodiment, storage space of a random access storage medium such as a DVD is allocated to a number of variously sized programs or program portions called “chapters.” In one embodiment, each primary and secondary program constitutes a separate chapter.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2005Date of Patent: January 6, 2009Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Robert E. Lambert, W. Daniel Hillis
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Patent number: 7473046Abstract: A cleaning utensil for cleaning a container comprises a first cleaning unit and a second cleaning unit is axially movable relative to the mounting for the first unit. The second unit is for location axially within an axial aperture of the first unit. Each cleaning unit includes a brush with relatively outwardly extending bristles. The first cleaning unit includes a sponge which is relatively outwardly extending. There is a closable cavity in the handle for containing cleaning fluid, and the cavity is connected with the first cleaning unit or second cleaning unit. Cleaning fluid can be expelled from the container through one of the units to facilitate the cleaning of the bottle. The first cleaning unit effectively cleans a portion of an inside of a baby bottle, and the second cleaning unit effectively cleans a second portion of an inside of the baby bottle.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2005Date of Patent: January 6, 2009Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Stephanie Kraus, Randal Ouye
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Publication number: 20080316031Abstract: Embodiments include systems and methods of accessing multimedia content. One embodiment includes a system for accessing multimedia data. The system includes a tangible object comprising at least one proximity device embedded within the tangible object. The tangible object is configured to provide identification information of the tangible object. The system further includes a reader configured to wirelessly detect the tangible object based upon the proximity device and receive the identification information. The system further includes a device configured to receive a signal from the reader in response to detecting the tangible object and configured to access multimedia data based upon the provided identification information.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2007Publication date: December 25, 2008Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Asa Kalama, Holger Irmler, Frank Mezzatesta, Clifford Wong
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Patent number: 7469346Abstract: A software computing based environment for providing secured authentication of media downloaded from a network or loaded from a media player includes two peer-mode operating virtual machines. The low-level virtual machine provides decoding and decryption functions whereas the high-level virtual machine provides application level functions such as user interface, input/output.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2004Date of Patent: December 23, 2008Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Scott F. Watson
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Patent number: 7466228Abstract: Cable crash barrier apparatus precludes unwanted ingress and egress and electronically monitors breaches. Substantial thickness of the cable provides mechanical integrity resistant to, for example, a 400 lb. vehicle traveling at speeds up to at least about 52 miles per hour, while flexibility protects a central conducting member effective for forming a low-voltage circuit, the cable being supported by a plurality of anchoring members and not detracting from overall aesthetic of the area being circumnavigated.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2006Date of Patent: December 16, 2008Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: William Ah-Min Wong
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Publication number: 20080303260Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring operation of a ratchet-based locking mechanism. The apparatus includes a ratchet and a pawl with a protrusion for engaging the ratchet during contact between the pawl and the ratchet teeth. The apparatus includes an elongated member or amplification arm extending from the pawl. The elongated member includes a base linked to the pawl and a tip spaced apart from the base. The elongated member is linked to the pawl to move when the pawl is displaced relative to the ratchet. The apparatus includes a sensor sensing displacement of the tip of the elongated member, which is greater than the pawl displacement, and the apparatus includes a processor monitoring displacement of the elongated member to indirectly monitor movement of the pawl protrusion during forward motion of the ratchet to verify the locking mechanism is working properly and the pawl will engage the ratchet to block reverse motion.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2007Publication date: December 11, 2008Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventors: JAMES K. JASKOL, JASON C. TOMLIN, KRISTIN LYNN ATHANS, KWOK WAH JAMES WONG
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Publication number: 20080296233Abstract: The present disclosure provides for a system and method that intensely oxidizes water as it navigates through a system and accurately, controllably neutralizes the oxidation by-products before the water exits the system.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2008Publication date: December 4, 2008Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Ivey Burns, Thoram Charanda, Thomas J. Nicodemo, Richard Davis, Janell Crowder
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Publication number: 20080297328Abstract: An apparatus for providing tactile feedback to an operator. The apparatus includes first and second magnetic assemblies having first and second magnets, respectively. The apparatus further includes a user input device, such as a trigger, a knob, a release cord, or a joystick, that is connected to at least one of the two assemblies and positions the first magnet proximate to the second magnet such that interaction occurs between the magnetic fields to generate a force that is exerted on the input device. The force may be an opposing, resisting, or attractive force that creates movement of the user input such as resisting a triggering or releasing action in an interactive video game when the poles are of like polarity. The first magnetic assembly may be stationary, and the second magnetic assembly may be connected to the user input device to be positioned relative to the first magnet assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 31, 2007Publication date: December 4, 2008Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventors: DAVID W. CRAWFORD, SUSAN M. BRYAN, JAMES STEPHEN FRANKENBERGER
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Patent number: 7459075Abstract: The present disclosure provides for a system and method that intensely oxidizes water as it navigates through a system and accurately, controllably neutralizes the oxidation by-products before the water exits the system.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2005Date of Patent: December 2, 2008Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Ivey Burns, Thoram Charanda, Thomas J. Nicodemo, Richard Davis, Janell Crowder
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Patent number: 7452095Abstract: There is provided a liquid droplet illumination device, which includes at least one liquid droplet traveling on a first surface. The liquid droplet can be distilled water and the first surface can be a ribbon of translucent material. The liquid droplet illumination device further includes at least one light beam that is offset from the first surface. For example, the at least one light beam can be a coherent beam of light, such as a laser beam. The at least one light beam interacts with the at least one liquid droplet as it travels on the first surface, thereby illuminating the at least one liquid droplet.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2006Date of Patent: November 18, 2008Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Gary W. Schnuckle
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Publication number: 20080280680Abstract: An interactive computerized game system including a visual display, one or more user input devices, and a processor executing software that interacts with the display and input device(s) is disclosed. The software displays images of musical targets on the visual display, the musical targets possibly corresponding to a pre-recorded source of music. At least one of the user input devices is a touchscreen arranged to simulate a portion of a musical instrument. During gameplay, the gameplayer must touch the touchscreen at the appropriate time and/or in the appropriate location in response to the displayed images of musical targets. The system provides a positive indication if the player's input matches the attributes of the displayed musical targets.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 8, 2007Publication date: November 13, 2008Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Derek T. Dutilly, Jonathan Browne, Nikolaus Paul Ingeneri, Shannon Richard Monroe
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Publication number: 20080216596Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2007Publication date: September 11, 2008Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventors: Akhil J. Madhani, Bryan S. Tye
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Publication number: 20080221998Abstract: A system of interaction between an electronic theme park experience and live theme park interaction and activity earns rewards. The interaction permits for rewards earned in the electronic theme park experience to be redeemed in the live theme park experience and vice versa. The electronic theme park and live activity are interactive in real or delayed time through an Internet connection. Activities on one or both of the live and electronic formats are designed to drive increased player visiting of the live and/or electronic versions. The Virtual Magic Kingdom in some embodiments includes a virtual version of one or more of theme parks such as the “Magic Kingdom” portion of Disney, Inc.'s theme parks.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2008Publication date: September 11, 2008Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventors: SETH MENDELSOHN, TERRY M. DOBSON, ROGER S. HOLZBERG, JEFF VORIS, EDMOND J. HARO, EDWARD KUMMER, JASON GUENTHER, PAUL YANOVER
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Patent number: 7420732Abstract: A process for making a real image of an object appear or disappear to an observer is disclosed. A real image projection system displays a real image of an object. A first polarizer and a second polarizer are utilized to control the appearance and the disappearance of the real image of the object to an observer. By changing the relative angular relationship between a first transmissive axis of the first polarizer and a first transmissive axis of the second polarizer, a real image of an object appears and disappears. In another aspect, a privacy film may be utilized to control the appearance and the disappearance of the real image of the object to an observer. An observer by traveling around the privacy film or the privacy film is rotated; a real image of the object appears and disappears to an observer.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2004Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Mark Huber
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Publication number: 20080207084Abstract: An apparatus hovering winged objects. The apparatus includes an elongate support and a driver with an output shaft that supports a first end of the support. The driver imparts an oscillating displacement to the first end of the support. A body is mounted at a second end of the support and wings are attached to the support at an offset distance from the body. The body is positioned near the second end to swivel or pivot in response to vibration of the support. The driver vibrates the first end at a frequency that shapes the support as a wave, and the frequency is selected or tuned such that the wings are displaced more than the body such by imparting a harmonic frequency on the support. The output shaft is positioned by the driver in angular positions to move the first end of the support and the body and wings.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 27, 2007Publication date: August 28, 2008Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventor: Gary Schnuckle
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Publication number: 20080207083Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: February 27, 2007Publication date: August 28, 2008Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventor: Gary W. Schnuckle
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Patent number: 7412898Abstract: A fastener or other structural component for wireless sensing of applied tensile load. The fastener includes an elongate body with a bore that extends within the body. A grounding pin is positioned within the bore and attached to the body within the bore. The fastener includes a wireless transponder, such as a radio frequency identification (RFID) transponder or tag, that is mounted on a head provided at the end of the body and exposed to the bore, such as by positioning the RFID tag in a recessed surface of the head or extending the bore through the head. The transponder generates a response signal with a unique identifier in response to a radio frequency signal from a transmitter. The grounding pin contacts and grounds the transponder to block transmittal of the response signal when a tensile load applied to the fastener is less than a minimum tensile load value.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2006Date of Patent: August 19, 2008Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: J. Douglas Smith, Stephen G. Pothier
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Patent number: 7400932Abstract: A system and method of wirelessly managing the loading of patrons to an attraction in an entertainment environment is disclosed. A patron can register with the entertainment environment utilizing a wireless device owned by the patron. An electronic entry ticket for the attraction is allocated to the patron through the wireless device, the electronic entry ticket includes a time and a patron identifier in short messaging service format. The electronic entry ticket can also be provided in multimedia messaging service format. The patron can be provided with promotional information through the wireless device, wherein the promotional information can be related to the attraction. Finally, the patron can redeem the entry ticket at the time provided for the allocated entry ticket and allow the patron to enter the attraction utilizing the patron identifier.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2006Date of Patent: July 15, 2008Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Jonathan Ackley, Gregory B Hale, Kenneth W Schweizer
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Publication number: 20080168485Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method system for providing group interactivity. The system includes a module that determines a size of an audience in an image provided by an image acquisition device and a module that controls interaction in a small audience environment. In addition, the system includes a module that controls interaction in a large audience environment. The present invention can also be viewed as a method for providing group interactivity. The method operates by determining size of an audience in a image, interacting in a small audience environment and interacting in a large audience environment.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Ernie Martin, Peter Stepniewicz
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Patent number: 7396281Abstract: A system of interaction between an electronic theme park experience and live theme park interaction and activity earns rewards. The interaction permits for rewards earned in the electronic theme park experience to be redeemed in the live theme park experience and vice versa. The electronic theme park and live activity are interactive in real or delayed time through an Internet connection. Activities on one or both of the live and electronic formats are designed to drive increased player visiting of the live and/or electronic versions. The Virtual Magic Kingdom is a virtual version of Disney's theme parks, specifically the “Magic Kingdom” portion of the theme parks.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2005Date of Patent: July 8, 2008Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Seth Mendelsohn, Terry M. Dobson, Roger S. Holzberg, Jeff Voris, Edmond J. Haro, Edward Kummer, Jason Guenther, Paul Yanover
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Patent number: D576158Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Po Yi Ng, Chris Heatherly
