Simulates Aircraft Or Space Vehicle Or Simulates The Movement Thereof Patents (Class 472/130)
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Publication number: 20100028837Abstract: A flight motion simulator includes a pitch frame pivotably mounted, and nested for pitching in a roll frame. The roll frame is pivotally mounted to, and nested for rolling in, a base frame. The roll frame and pitch frame are rotatable in unison so as to simulate a roll of an aircraft relative to the base frame. The pitch frame is rotatable relative to the roll frame so as to simulate a pitch of the aircraft relative to the roll frame. A control stick is pivotably mounted to the base frame and pitch frame for controlling and actuating the pitch and roll. A first coupler having at least two degrees of freedom is rotatably mounted to the lower end of the control stick and to the pitch frame. A second coupler also having at least two degrees of freedom is rotatably mounted to the control stick at a lower mid-section thereof to an upper end of a post mounted to the base frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2007Publication date: February 4, 2010Inventor: George E. Holloway
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Patent number: 7597629Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for producing experiences, wherein a person (3) is brought, within boundaries (1, 4) to be the object of artificial climatological and/or seasonal conditions, wherein the person at the same time has the possibility to encounter different separate activities and/or meet different conditions or creations. Of these at least a part are based on artificially generated solid and/or semi-solid elements or structures (9, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 19, 19?) associated with refrigeration of water. The present invention also relates to an arrangement for generating experiences, where there is at least one space (2) which can be secluded. Said space includes arrangements (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 19?) which present different climates and/or seasons in real-time and at least partially three-dimensionally, by means of which certain artificial elements (9, 10, 11, 14, 15, 22) can be observed by the person (3) in order to form a comprehensive three-dimensional experience.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2006Date of Patent: October 6, 2009Inventor: Ritva Laijoki-Puska
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Publication number: 20090209357Abstract: A vehicle for simulating flight in a park ride having a rotating drive with supports or radial arms. The vehicle includes a body with seats and passenger restraints. A connection assembly is used to attach the body to a support. The connection assembly includes a linkage assembly allowing the body to radially pivot inward and outward relative to the drive assembly based on the angle of the support arm and rotation rate of the drive assembly. The linkage assembly translates radial movement of the body into rotation of the body about a pitch axis. The pitch axis extends through or proximal to the center of mass of the body, and the pivotal connector that supports the vehicle in a pendular manner is spaced apart and above the center of mass. The linkage assembly may include one or more four-bar linkages to provide two degrees of freedom of the body relative.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 19, 2008Publication date: August 20, 2009Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventors: David W. Crawford, Dana Scot Drake, Aidan John Bradley
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Patent number: 7572189Abstract: A structure used to raise persons by use of air jets (currents), includes several flight positions (3). Each flight position is associated with a device (1) that generates a vertical air flow, whose flow rate and intensity are constantly monitored from a control room (9) provided with an alphanumeric display. The device (1) includes a variable pitch propeller (6) driven by an electric motor whose rpm is adjusted using an inverter. An electric signal from a balance (7) is processed in order to determine what frequency the motor supply current should have to raise a participant of this weight up to a maximum height which is preferably about 2.5 to 3 meters.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2004Date of Patent: August 11, 2009Assignee: Free Flight S.r.l.Inventors: Francesco Gentile, Anita Galigani
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Patent number: 7465236Abstract: A flying arrangement, consisting of at least one flying unit (10) that is able to start vertically and that can accommodate at least one person for flying freely within at least a hall (100,200), the boundaries (2,3,4,5,6) of which prevent a flying unit (10) from leaving the hall (100,200,300).Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2003Date of Patent: December 16, 2008Assignee: Dieter WagelsInventor: Dieter Wagels
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Patent number: 7166032Abstract: A passenger restraint system for a vehicle having a plurality of seats, each seat having a seatbelt, a retractor from which the seatbelt is extendable, and a receiver used to latch the seatbelt. Each retractor includes a first pneumatic locking element and a second pneumatic locking element for limiting movement of the seatbelt and each receiver includes a receiver pneumatic locking element for locking the seatbelt within the receiver. A controller controls the operation of a plurality of first valves for supplying air to the first pneumatic locking element of a corresponding one of the plurality of retractors, a second valve for supplying air to each of the second pneumatic locking element of the plurality of retractors, and a plurality of third valves for supplying air to the receiver pneumatic locking element of a corresponding one of the plurality of receivers.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2004Date of Patent: January 23, 2007Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: John Douglas Smith, James Burgess, Joel Fritsche, Chris Hellsten, Tim Kelley, Michael Mathaisel, Mario Scarabino, Dave Wiedman
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Patent number: 7115039Abstract: A contents distribution system for a simulation ride system has a seat rocking unit, a video unit, an acoustic unit, and a simulation ride control apparatus. The simulation ride control apparatus has the simulation ride system controlling operations of the seat rocking unit, the video unit, and the acoustic unit by using content data, and a distribution apparatus for a ride contents administration center. The distribution apparatus for the ride contents administration center distributes the content data and the simulation ride control apparatus receives the distributed content data.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2001Date of Patent: October 3, 2006Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Hitachi Keiyo Engineering Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yuji Matsuda, Tsukasa Shiina, Masayuki Oshiro, Kazuhide Ebine, Kenjiro Fujii, Katsumasa Nagai
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Patent number: 7094157Abstract: A pneumatic motion platform is disclosed, adapted to allow an open center to handle shear stress without the need for a central support. In an embodiment, the platform comprises a deck; a base; a plurality of inflatable actuators, each actuator attached to the deck at a predetermined location intermediate the base and the deck, the plurality of inflatable actuators adapted for use as an active motive force with respect to the deck in a plurality of planes; a plurality of compliant stabilizers disposed intermediate the deck and the base, at least one portion of each stabilizer disposed proximate a predetermined one of the plurality of inflatable actuators; a fluid controller in fluid communication with the plurality of inflatable actuators; and a source of fluid in fluid communication with the fluid controller. A ride vehicle may comprise a cabin attached to a deck attached to the motion platform attached to a rotator such as a turntable.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2004Date of Patent: August 22, 2006Assignee: Oceaneering International, Inc.Inventors: Stephen F. Fromyer, Samuel T. Foster, Eric A. King, Clifford A. Jennings, Brian M. Welsh
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Patent number: 6910971Abstract: The current invention is an apparatus for and a method of producing a virtual reality effect of changing acceleration direction and magnitude by rotating a subject relative to a center axis to produce a centrifugal force, rotating the subject relative to a second axis perpendicular to centrifugal force and rotating the subject relative to a third axis perpendicular to the axis perpendicular to centrifugal force, and changing the magnitude of the centrifugal force. As a consequence the subject will perceive the acceleration upon his center of mass as changing in magnitude and angle. It is further enhanced by projecting a simulated image on a screen which is rotating in the same frame of reference as the subject.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2004Date of Patent: June 28, 2005Inventor: Richard H. Alsenz
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Patent number: 6902488Abstract: To provide a lateral steady acceleration simulation system for railway vehicle, which is capable of simulating a situation in which lateral steady acceleration is applied to a railway vehicle for a long period of time, while having a compact structure. In a riding quality simulation system of the invention, a control unit activates each of actuators (40), thereby making a simulated passenger room (10) roll. Then, the simulated passenger room (10) is gradually inclined, while a component force, along an inclined plane, of gravitational acceleration g, that is, a first reproductive acceleration G1 is generated depending on an angle of inclination ?. In this manner, a person riding on the simulated passenger room (10) bodily senses the first reproductive acceleration G1 by the roll. At the same time, the control unit moves the simulated passenger room 10, by means of a laterally moving device, in either of the left or right direction with acceleration G.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2001Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Assignee: Central Japan Railway CompanyInventors: Atsushi Hashimoto, Hitoshi Okabe, Eiichi Morimoto
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Patent number: 6875115Abstract: An amusement ride and fall apparatus includes a track having a discharge point below which there is a substantial drop. A passenger is propelled along the track to the discharge point and discharged therefrom with a horizontal component of motion. The passenger then free falls. An elastic tie having a second first end and free second end connected directly or indirectly to the passenger limits the free fall and, together with the horizontal component of motion imparted to the passenger, causes the passenger to swing and bounce for a period of time at the end of the free fall. At the end of the ride and fall the passenger is released safely. The invention therefore provides a trill similar to that of a bungee jump but with enhancements.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2001Date of Patent: April 5, 2005Assignee: Queenstown Property LimitedInventor: David Bruce Fea
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Patent number: 6796908Abstract: The invention provides an interactive dark ride configured and designed to stimulate the development of creative thinking and problem solving abilities and to encourage group cooperation and team work. A dark ride vehicle is also provided having inward-facing seating adapted to facilitate socializing and group gaming activities among ride participants during the ride sequence. Various interactive effects are provided along a defined ride path and/or along various associated ride cueing areas. The interactive effects are configured and arranged such that ride participants selectively actuate the various effects by successfully completing various requested tasks. Some or all of the interactive effects require the cooperation of multiple ride participants (either on the same vehicle, other vehicles and/or in adjacent queuing areas) in order to actuate the desired effect(s).Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2002Date of Patent: September 28, 2004Assignee: Creative Kingdoms, LLCInventor: Denise Chapman Weston
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Patent number: 6776722Abstract: An amusement ride includes an output member having an anthropomorphic robot arm adapted for six degrees of movement. The ride further includes a passenger station in moveable engagement with said output member, a platform, and optionally a ticket reader.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2002Date of Patent: August 17, 2004Assignees: Robocoaster Limited, Kuka Roboter GmbHInventor: Gino Daniel De-Gol
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Patent number: 6733293Abstract: A reliable, cost effective motion simulator system wherein a motion platform controlled by three inexpensive fractional horsepower induction AC motors to provide n-axis of motion where n is two, three, four, five or six. A dynamic boost is applied to maintain the position of the motion platform at low speed or zero speed and to handle transient motion demands without use of an encoder. The personal simulator motion base includes a support structure for positioning a rider coupled to the motion platform. A support pedestal and a plurality of linkages support the motion platform. A plurality of motor assemblies 114 is coupled to the motion plate by the linkages. A control algorithm enables the use of low cost power electronics to drive the AC motor-linkage assemblies. The personal simulator may be controlled in response to user-initiated commands, remote-user initiated commands or by commands embedded in game software or the audio track of a video stream.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2002Date of Patent: May 11, 2004Assignee: Provision Entertainment, Inc.Inventors: Edward-Bruce Baker, Michael K. Forster, Jeffrey L. Vrachan, Curtis L. Thornton
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Patent number: 6719563Abstract: The invention relates to a driving simulator, particularly for simulating the movements of earthbound vehicles. To take into account the special features of the movements of earthbound vehicles, the proposed driving simulator has a carrier unit that has a rigid floor platform, on which a test vehicle can be mounted. The carrier unit also includes at least one projection surface and at least one projector, and at least three movement modules, each of which has a wheel that rolls on a floor surface. The wheel can be steered, relative to the axis extending perpendicular to the floor, via a first drive, and can be driven by a respectively associated second drive.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2002Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventor: Edmund Donges
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Patent number: 6695291Abstract: Drums 56 wind and unwind cables 18 connected to a passenger carriage 14 of an amusement ride 12 in response to winding and unwinding of tethers 48 about an axle 46. The tethers 48 are connected to elastic members 44 that store energy, and a lock 32 is releasable to permit the carriage 14 to travel under the force of the stored energy. The drums 56 have a diameter that is greater than a diameter of the axle, thereby providing a mechanical advantage to launch and accelerate the carriage 14 to a high velocity and/or to provide a dampening effect on the motion of the carriage. Alternative embodiments include ramps with loops, corkscrew sections, and/or inclined sections for carrying the carriage, safety cables strung through attachment members connected to the tethers, and telescopic spring devices with concentric coil springs.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2002Date of Patent: February 24, 2004Inventors: Mark Kleimeyer, Michael J. Mehrman
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Patent number: 6641485Abstract: A space ride simulator allows a user to experience space travel l, the weightlessness of being in space, and the reduced gravitational effects experienced while walking on a celestial body that is smaller than the earth. A 3-D simulator is used to create the various sights and sounds and movements of space travel, while a weightlessness room allows the user to experience weightlessness, and a weight reduced room allows a user to experience reduced gravitational effects while walking on a celestial body. The weightlessness room and the weight reduced room each have magnets embedded within the floor and a user dons a vest having a magnet thereattached, of the same polarity as the magnets within the floors. The magnets within the floors are of sufficient strength so as to completely or partially repel the user from the floor.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2002Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Inventor: Sanjay Chauhan
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Patent number: 6641399Abstract: In a VR motion producing apparatus and an apparatus, comprising: a reception unit for receiving a presently projected picture frame No. from a picture apparatus; a detection unit for detecting a frame No. of operation data of a motion base presently executed by a motion base; a difference unit for comparing the picture frame No. with the motion frame No. to calculate a difference between them; a calculation unit for calculating an operation velocity of a motion base so as to correct this difference value; and a synchronization unit for reducing the difference between the picture frame No. and the motion frame No.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2002Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Hitachi Keiyo Engineering Co. Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tsukasa Shiina, Minoru Katoh, Masayuki Oshiro, Takayuki Kamiya, Hiroshi Sakairi, Masami Otomo, Kenji Seino
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Patent number: 6629896Abstract: A motion machine comprised of a lightweight spherical capsule (40) with locations for occupants. The capsule floats on a cushion of compressed air. Drive wheels (46) are positioned around the capsule's circumference controlling capsule pitch and roll. The drive wheels themselves are mounted in a rotatable drive assembly (49) controlling capsule yaw. The activation of drive wheels while in rotation about the capsule provides unlimited rotation of capsule in any direction.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2001Date of Patent: October 7, 2003Inventor: Steven Jones
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Patent number: 6619960Abstract: A flight simulator control loading system (10A) comprises a compression assembly (18a), a tension assembly (18b), and a motor (30) which rotates a shaft (78). The compression assembly (18a) and the tension assembly (18b) each include a fixed actuator (50a,50b) fixedly secured to an outer housing (46a,46b), and an adjustable actuator (52a,52b) slidably mounted within a guide housing (48a,48b). Springs (54a,54b,56a,56b) are located between and push against the actuators (50a,50b,52a,52b). As the shaft (78) is rotated in an increase direction, each adjustable actuator (52a,52b) slides toward the respective fixed actuator (50a,50b), compressing the springs (54a,54b,56a,56b) and increasing control load. As the shaft (78) is rotated in a decrease direction, each adjustable actuator (52a,52b) slides away from the respective fixed actuator (50a,50b), relieving compression on the springs (54a,54b,56a,56b) and decreasing control load.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2002Date of Patent: September 16, 2003Assignee: Aviation Simulation Trainers, Inc.Inventor: David Horn
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Patent number: 6533670Abstract: An amusement ride includes a motion base having multiple degrees of freedom. An audience platform is eccentrically pivotable on top of the motion base about a pivot point that is eccentrically offset from a central region of the audience platform. A motor disposed on either the motion base or the audience platform is used to pivot the audience platform via a shaft. A projection screen is located either on board or off board and is used to display images or a motion picture. The amusement ride simulates fishtailing, slide out, and similar movements experienced as a vehicle turns.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2000Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Assignee: Universal City Studio, Inc.Inventor: Nicholas H Drobnis
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Publication number: 20020185569Abstract: An airplane training or amusement device for traveling along a fixed track comprises airplanes forcibly guided along a driving rail supported above the ground on track supports, and driven by the pilot at various speeds. The airplane track is associated with leisure use, but it can also be associated with the use of individual personal transport.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2002Publication date: December 12, 2002Inventor: Kurt Henne
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Patent number: 6463876Abstract: An apparatus for automated milking of animals which comprises a milking compartment and a milking robot that is provided with teat cups and a mechanism for connecting the teat cups to the animals being milking in milking compartment. A carrier element for the teat cups is disclosed which is movable in three dimensions while being supported and moved by three sets of controlled piston and cylinder elements, each set of said elements having one end on ends thereof connected to the milking compartment and the other end thereof connected to the carrier element, the connections to the carrier element (as seen in plan) not being aligned. Each set of controlled piston and cylinder elements consists of two controlled piston and elements which are in “V” configurations so that there are three non-aligned connections of each set to the carrier element and six non-aligned connections to the milking compartment.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2001Date of Patent: October 15, 2002Assignee: Lely Research Holding A.G.Inventors: Alexander van der Lely, Karel van den Berg, Renatus Ignatius Josephus Fransen
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Patent number: 6431989Abstract: In order to display distortion-free and high-precision images which give a three-dimensional appearance to many crews in a ride simulation system, there is provided a ride simulation system comprising a ride casing which is in shape of a capsule and can accept one or more people and a driving mechanism for driving this ride casing, wherein a horizontally long, curve screen is provided at the front of the interior of the ride casing, a plurality of projectors are provided at the rear of the interior of the ride casing, and because of projection on each corresponding divided area of the curve screen by means of the plurality of projectors, one picture is displayed on the curve screen.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 1999Date of Patent: August 13, 2002Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Atsushi Katayama, Nobuhiko Matsukuma, Yoshihiro Iwama, Atsuhiko Nishikawa, Douglas Trumbull, Eric A. Wilson, Brahm Rhodes, Steven D. Bronson, Joshua D. Minges, Erich A. Greenebaum
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Patent number: 6428419Abstract: An amusement ride or theater attraction has a moveable floor for guest loading and unloading. A screen displays images. A motion base moves guests in at least one degree of freedom. The moveable floor that has a cutout for the motion base. The moveable floor is positioned to a raised position during guest loading and unloading. The moveable floor is lowered to a lowered position during ride operation, with the motion base passing through the cutout. Loading and unloading of passengers is simplified, without limiting motion base movement during operation of the ride.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2000Date of Patent: August 6, 2002Assignee: Universal City Studios, Inc.Inventor: Benjamin L. Sheldon
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Patent number: 6413090Abstract: A simulation rider transporting apparatus includes a seat having means for constraining an attitude of a rider mounted on a first base and having a second base positioned under the first base. Elevation means for elevating the first base include two cranks which are arranged opposite to each other between the first and the second base. Each of the cranks has crank arms with each crank arm having one end coupled to the second base. A crank rod is provided for coupling the other end of each crank arm to the first base. Drive means are provided for changing a relative angle between the two crank arms to a predetermined value and for holding the changed relative angle.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 1999Date of Patent: July 2, 2002Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Hitachi Keiyo Engineering Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tsukasa Shiina, Minoru Katoh, Masayuki Oshiro, Takayuki Kamiya, Hiroshi Sakairi, Masami Otomo, Kenji Seino
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Patent number: 6406299Abstract: A six-degree-of-freedom travelling system, wherein a solid is driven by eight suspending lines in six degrees of freedom. The six-degree-of-freedom travelling system can be provided as a bodily sensing machine comprising a human-riding cage: eight suspending lines in connection with the cage; eight actuators hauling and veering the respective lines for vary the position and attitude of the cage, and a controller controlling the eight actuators for constantly holding the eight lines under proper tensions, wherein the cage is travelled in six degrees of freedom.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2000Date of Patent: June 18, 2002Assignee: Taiyo Ltd.Inventors: Yoshio Murao, Kenji Koubuchi, Satoshi Tadokoro
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Patent number: 6402625Abstract: A motion translating apparatus which may be used in a motion simulator or in a motion controlling device has an x axis, a y axis and a z axis, each of which axes is perpendicular to each other.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2000Date of Patent: June 11, 2002Inventor: Martin Armstrong
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Patent number: 6386984Abstract: Amusement facilities for providing predetermined images to passengers inside a vehicle for amusement on the basis of a scenario while the vehicle (ride)(1) is moving in a predetermined course, wherein the course includes bright areas and dark areas, and acceleration/deceleration of the ride (1) is done at the boundaries of these areas. A video camera (11) provides images outside the vehicle to the passengers in the bright areas and images of a video disk player (34) are provided to the passengers in the dark areas. Further, sways are imparted by a motor (23) for rolling and a motor (24) for pitching to the ride (1) in accordance with scenarios. These images, acceleration/deceleration and sway give the passengers an illusion as if they had moved over a longer distance than an actual distance in the dark areas.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 1999Date of Patent: May 14, 2002Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Sega EnterprisesInventors: Yoshiteru Hara, Kenichiro Hayashi, Kazuhide Arai, Tatsuya Kono, Hiroshi Uemura, Hiroki Ito
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Patent number: 6336811Abstract: A VR motion producing apparatus includes a reception unit for receiving a presently projected picture frame No. from a picture apparatus; a detection unit for detecting a frame No. of operation data of a motion base presently executed by a motion base; a difference unit for comparing the picture frame No. with the motion frame No. to calculate a difference between them; a calculation unit for calculating an operation velocity of a motion base so as to correct this difference value; and a synchronization unit for reducing the difference between the picture frame No. and the motion frame No. for operating the motion base from the calculated velocity.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2001Date of Patent: January 8, 2002Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Hitachi Keiyo Engineering Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tsukasa Shiina, Minoru Katoh, Masayuki Oshiro, Takayuki Kamiya, Hiroshi Sakairi, Masami Otomo, Kenji Seino
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Patent number: 6319140Abstract: An amusement device, such as a sling-shot machine, for successively propelling and retarding a rider to cause the rider to undergo a vertically oscillatory motion. The amusement device comprises cables (31, 32) one end of each of which is connected to a carrier (19) for supporting one or more riders. A releasable anchoring means is provided for releasably anchoring the carrier (19) at a launch site (17). An elastic structure (71) has opposed ends between which the elastic structure can undergo extension and contraction. One end of the elastic structure (71) is connected to a first support means (57). Each cable (31, 32) passes around a support tower (11) and has a section thereof winding back and forth between first and second guide means (83, 85). The first guide means (83) is connected to the other end of the elastic structure (71) and the second guide means (85) is connected to a second support means (47).Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 1999Date of Patent: November 20, 2001Inventors: Brian Mirfin, Walter Pondorfer
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Patent number: 6315673Abstract: In one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a motion simulator for a video game. The motion simulator includes a base and a platform supported on the base. The platform has first and second sides. First and second motors drive respective first and second shafts. First and second cams are mounted to the respective first and second shafts. First and second cam followers are connected to the platform proximate the respective first and second sides. The first and second cam followers rest on the respective first and second cams such that rotation of either the first or second shaft causes vertical movement of the platform.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 1999Date of Patent: November 13, 2001Assignee: Midway Amusement Games LLCInventors: Thomas M. Kopera, Thomas P. Anderson, Patrick E. Goschy, Christopher T. Bobrowski
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Publication number: 20010036868Abstract: The system produces movements in a home entertainment chair. It has a motor controller and a plurality of movement generator units for generating small amplitude and low frequency movements in the viewers chair according to desired effects. A synchronization is achieved using an audio/video stream.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2001Publication date: November 1, 2001Inventors: Philippe Roy, Michel Berube, Michel Jacques
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Patent number: 6280341Abstract: The present invention provide an establishment for viewing an image that the Spectators can see the image projected on the sceen from the seat while they move so that the spectators can experience a big change for visual sense, various visual experience as well as a non-daily-physical sense.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 1998Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Inventor: Masahiko Hayashi
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Patent number: 6220171Abstract: A roller coaster includes a plurality of ride vehicles that ride along a track. Each vehicle provides seating for at least one passenger. The track is elevated off the ground and includes a variety of hills, curves, loops, rolls, drops, inversions and the like. The vehicles are totally enclosed and preferably designed to represent a space capsule. Sight line controls and a yaw mechanism are used at the load platform to prevent passengers from seeing the other ride vehicles. In addition, the track at the load platform is angled upwards to allow for easy access to the ride vehicles. Portals in the cabin are designed to control sight lines to focus the passengers' attention on show elements that are placed along the track. An on-board audio system enhances the realism of the ride experience. Adjustable restraint systems are provided in each vehicle to keep the passengers in their seats and inside the vehicle during the ride.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 1999Date of Patent: April 24, 2001Assignee: Universal City StudiosInventors: Philip D. Hettema, Cecil D. Magpuri, Aidan J. Bradley, Kevin T. Parent, Edward S. Newquist
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Patent number: 6210164Abstract: A motion simulator comprises a cabin (10) which is supported on the ground (14) by at least three feet (12). Each of the feet can swivel about an essentially horizontal axis, the cabin (10) having a swivel drive (26) for each foot. Each foot (12) bears a wheel (30) by which it rolls along the floor (14).Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1999Date of Patent: April 3, 2001Inventor: Stefan Otto
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Patent number: 6162058Abstract: A motion base device for simulators is disclosed. In the motion base device, an upper plate is positioned above a base plate with a simulating cabin being carried on the upper plate. Three cylinder actuators are positioned between the base and upper plates so as to heave, pitch and/or roll the upper plate relative to the base plate. Of the three cylinder actuators being respectively placed at apexes of a regular triangle, the first one is fixedly mounted to the base plate and is jointed to the upper plate using a universal joint. Each of the second and third cylinder actuators is jointed to the base and upper plates using a universal joint and a joint block. A hydraulic pressure supply unit supplies pressurized oil to the three cylinder actuators so as to allow the three cylinder actuators to be independently operated.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 1998Date of Patent: December 19, 2000Assignee: Kumyang Co., Ltd.Inventor: Gi Chool Yang
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Patent number: 6152828Abstract: Three driving means for rocking a rocking object are provided, each of the foregoing driving means has a motor and an arm which rotates with one end thereof as an axis by the rotation of the motor, the other end of the foregoing arm is rotatably mounted to the front central portion and the rear both side portions of the foregoing rocking object, and each of the foregoing driving means is drivingly controlled to thereby pitch, roll and heave the foregoing rocking object. Such a rocking device capable of performing complicated operations with simple structure will be provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1999Date of Patent: November 28, 2000Assignee: Sony CorporationInventors: Seijiro Tomita, Ichiro Katagiri
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Patent number: 6126552Abstract: A powered ride apparatus for swinging a rider attached to a craft through the air for excitement, comprises a support means such as a cable extending between at least two anchor points positioned substantially opposite each other at a height above the ground, and a swing cable suspended from the support means, and a craft adapted to carry a rider during a ride, attached to the lower end of the swing cable and comprising an on-board propulsion system comprising a motor driving a propeller and a steering system operable by the rider during the ride, enabling the rider to steer the craft during the ride as the craft swings on the swing cable.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 1999Date of Patent: October 3, 2000Inventor: Neil Horace Harrap
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Patent number: 6113500Abstract: A 3-D simulator amusement ride is disclosed. The ride includes a motion base formed in a hexagonal pattern with up to six degrees of freedom of movement, a passenger enclosure supported upon the motion base, a 3-D video image system attached to the enclosure and a computerized control system which functions to synchronize the movement of the enclosure to a viewed 3-D video.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 1999Date of Patent: September 5, 2000Assignee: Cinema Ride, Inc.Inventors: Mitchell J. Francis, Gary H. Packman
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Patent number: 6077078Abstract: The disclosed motion device comprises a triangular platform supporting a load, for example a simulator cabin. This platform is supported at all three corners by hinged arms driven by cranks that are moved by an actuator. There is provided a load compensation device facilitating the work of the actuators. Thus the load can be moved in pitch and roll as well as vertically.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 1997Date of Patent: June 20, 2000Assignee: Thomson-CSFInventors: Robert Alet, Roland Jezequel
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Patent number: 6027342Abstract: A motion platform assembly having at least three degrees of freedom for providing simulated motion in a flight or vehicle simulator. The motion platform assembly includes a base frame, mounting pedestal and a stabilized platform. The simulator is powered by actuators that independently effect movement with respect to the base frame by extending to increase and decrease a length. Stabilizers stabilize the motion platform assembly by restricting movement of the stabilized platform while only permitting vertical translation of the stabilized platform relative to the mounting pedestal in both directions. In one embodiment, the stabilizers are unpowered linear bearings extendable to increase and decrease a length thereof between the mounting pedestal and the stabilized platform. The linear bearings resist the shear forces acting upon the stabilized platform when the stabilized platform is vertically extended from the mounting pedestal.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 1998Date of Patent: February 22, 2000Assignee: Stricor, Inc.Inventor: Jeff R. Brown
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Patent number: 6017276Abstract: An entertainment device is based on a sphere that moves in coordination with visual and auditory stimuli. Audience members are seated inside the sphere in one hemisphere while an image is displayed on the inside of the opposite hemisphere. The sphere is driven by actuators to roll, pitch and yaw without limit in synchrony with the images displayed. An audio system works in synchrony with the motion to further enhance the experience. Pure horizontal or vertical motion effects may be obtained by adding one or more linear motion stages which translate the entire sphere assembly horizontally or vertically. The audience members may interact with the ride using actuators. Multiple spheres may interact with each other.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 1998Date of Patent: January 25, 2000Inventors: Matthew Elson, Eric A. Holmberg
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Patent number: 5993216Abstract: A fixed or portable multi-functional enclosure that is card-operated, climate controlled, and provides a quiet work place for use by students or businessmen. The enclosure has a generally semi-oval shaped housing comprising a front portion including a front cowling, a central portion with a curved door, and a rear portion with a lower section and a rear lid. The enclosure housing includes three magnetic card readers located on the opaque front cowling, the curved door, and the rear lid. The central portion includes an ergonomically designed seat or chair and a curved console containing a computer monitor. The ergonomically designed seat or chair is tiltable and is dimensionally adjustable up, down, forward, and backward. The console includes a fiber optic camera, a computer monitor, a computer printer, a modem, a facsimile machine, and a phone speaker. Positioned on the console are connection ports for a VOX head phone set and a virtual reality head set.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 1997Date of Patent: November 30, 1999Inventor: Robert B. Stogner
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Patent number: 5975907Abstract: A motion simulator comprises a deck supported by a number of length-adjustable legs. The legs are connected to a baseplate which is, in turn, supported by a number of swivel arms which support the baseplate relative to a ground plate. The configuration of legs and swivel arms allows the deck five degree of freedom relative to the baseplate.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 1998Date of Patent: November 2, 1999Assignee: Technische Universiteit DelftInventor: Sunjoo Kan Advani
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Patent number: 5931739Abstract: A fail-safe ride simulator (10) broadly includes a base (11), a platform (13) mounted for movement relative to the base, an actuation mechanism (14) operatively arranged between the platform and an actuation mechanism operatively arranged between the platform and the base. The actuation mechanism includes a plurality of electro-mechanical servoactuators (23) acting between the platform and base for causing relative movement therebetween. A fail-safe circuit (34) is operatively arranged to continuously monitor the condition of the actuation mechanism, and to cause the platform to move automatically toward a predetermined position relative to the base in the event of an unsafe condition in the actuation mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 1993Date of Patent: August 3, 1999Assignee: Moog Inc.Inventors: John Christian Layer, Gregory Joseph Guzewich, Larry D. Hall
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Patent number: 5857917Abstract: A 3-D simulator amusement ride dimensioned to fit within existing buildings having 12 to 15 foot high ceilings. The ride includes a motion base formed in a hexagonal pattern with up to six degrees of freedom of movement, a passenger enclosure supported upon the motion base, a 3-D video image system attached to the enclosure and a computerized control system which functions to synchronize the movement of the enclosure to a projected 3-D video.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 1994Date of Patent: January 12, 1999Inventors: Mitchell J. Francis, Gary H. Packman
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Patent number: 5853330Abstract: The present invention provides a system and a method for interactively experiencing a recording. At least one seat is provided which moves in a plane simultaneously either through active participation of the viewer through movement of a joystick or passively by a signal recorded on the recording medium. The recording medium includes a motion signal provided to a controller for actuating release and supply of air to pneumatic cylinders moving the at least one seat simultaneously in the same plane in a maximum degree of movement. The recording medium may also include video and/or audio signals for displaying an image on a screen which moves in the same plane as the seat.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 1996Date of Patent: December 29, 1998Inventor: Brad Engstrand
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Patent number: 5846134Abstract: A method for immersion of a user into virtual reality consisting in that a closed shell limiting a real closed space is formed and the shell is arranged on a support means with the possibility of rotation about its center. A user who has the possibility for free movement along the inner surface of the shell is placed in the shell. Wherein the shell turns in a direction opposite to the direction of movement of the user due to the effect of the moment of force produced when the center of gravity of the user is displaced relative to a vertical passing through the center of the shell. Then a virtual space is formed in which objects appear and move in a predetermined and random manner. This formed virtual space is displayed to the user. Continuous conversion of the virtual space is carried out in accordance with real physical hand, foot and head movements of the user in the real space, taking into account interaction with the objects in virtual space.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 1996Date of Patent: December 8, 1998Inventor: Nurakhmed Nurislamovich Latypov
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Patent number: 5791903Abstract: A flight simulator for amusement rides simulating aircraft or space flight with visual presentations and motion having an operator station attached to a structural support frame through an articulating member providing unlimited angular rotation about a roll axis and limited angular rotation about a pitch axis. An electrical coupling concentric with a drive axle is rotatable through at least 360.degree. about the roll axis.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 1997Date of Patent: August 11, 1998Assignee: Fir Ride & Show Engineering, Inc.Inventors: Eduard Feuer, Ronald L. Brown, Banyat Somwong