Abstract: An entertainment system for a vehicle is disclosed. In one embodiment, the entertainment system includes an at least partially enclosed structure configured to receive an on-road vehicle, where the structure defines a path along which the on-road vehicle is configured to move autonomously; a content output system configured to generate content based on one or more characteristics of the on-road vehicle; and a guide system configured to guide the on-road vehicle along the path.

Abstract: An amusement ride for locating on a ground leading to a ledge of a drop off has a pair of rocking boom, an axle, spokes and a passenger carrier. The pair of rocking booms are pivotally mounted near the ledge of the drop off. The axle is carried between the ends of rocking booms and when the rocking booms are tilted outboard of the ledge, the axle is suspended out over the empty space past the drop off. The spokes extending radially away from the axle to connections with the carrier. The axle is driven by a drive system to swing the carrier, from large arcs to full 360° revolutions.

Abstract: An amusement park ride vehicle includes a chassis, a cabin, a slider, and a rotator. The chassis is configured to direct the ride vehicle along a ride path in a direction of travel. The cabin is configured to hold one or more passengers. The slider is configured to translate between a neutral position and a cantilevered position relative to the chassis in a direction substantially transverse to the direction of travel and to carry the rotator and the cabin along the direction substantially transverse to the direction of travel. The rotator is coupled between the slider and the cabin, and is configured to rotate the cabin relative to the slider.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes an amusement show system. The amusement show system includes guest seating, a background display, a conveyor, and a set piece disposed on the conveyor. The conveyor moves the set piece with respect to the guest seating between the guest seating and the background display. The amusement show system also includes a projection mapping system that includes one or more projectors configured to project images onto the set piece such that a first image is projected onto the set piece at a first point in time and a second image is projected onto the set piece at a second point in time.

Abstract: A ride vehicle includes a riding assembly configured to carry a rider, a base configured to couple to the riding assembly, and a control system configured to control the coordination of movements of the ride vehicle with movements of separate ride vehicles. The base includes a surface movement system configured to move the ride vehicle along a surface, a vertical movement system configured to move the riding assembly vertically relative to the base, and a roll system configured to move the riding assembly angularly relative to the base.

Abstract: A vehicle seat can be configured to selectively provide support to a vehicle occupant in conditions when lateral acceleration is experienced. An actuator can be located within the vehicle seat. When activated, the actuator cause a portion of the seat to morph into an activated configuration. The actuator can be activated based on vehicle speed, steering angle, and/or lateral acceleration. The actuator can include end members connected by a shape memory material connecting member. Actuator blocks with sliding surfaces can be located between the end members. The actuator can be configured such that, in response to an activation input, the shape memory material connecting member contracts, which draws the end members toward each other and causes corresponding sliding surfaces of the plurality of actuator blocks to engage and slide relative to each other. In this way, the actuator morphs into an activated configuration in which its overall height increases.

Abstract: A method of transporting a ride vehicle in an amusement park ride includes moving the ride vehicle vertically along a frame to a height using a motion base lift assembly, rotating, using a base, the ride vehicle around an attraction tower, in which the attraction tower comprising a plurality of rooms and the base is configured to rotate about the attraction tower and is attached to the frame. The method also includes extending the ride vehicle into a room of the plurality of rooms via the motion base lift assembly.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method of programming a monitor to process data from a new sensor having a selected location on a vehicle, where in the new sensor transmits a verification code and an identification code as well as said data. The subject monitor programming method basically comprises initiating a programming mode, entering the location of the new sensor, entering a subset of the new sensor's identification code; storing the location and subset, exiting the programming mode, initiating a verification mode, receiving the new sensor's verification code and identification code, recognizing the verification code, storing the identification code, exiting the verification mode, initiating a normal operation and display mode, comparing the new sensor's transmitted identification code with the stored identification code, and processing the data from the new sensor when the transmitted identification code matches the stored identification code.

Abstract: A capsule ride system includes a capsule, where the capsule includes a drum, which may include a curved annular wall that may define a chamber. The capsule also includes a platform that may fit within the chamber and that supports a restraint for a passenger. The system further includes a drive system capable of driving rotation of the capsule about a central axis of the capsule and driving forward and/or rearward movement of the capsule along a track.

Abstract: A device for increasing the safety of amusement rides, in particular carousels, roller coasters or the like, and comprising at least one mechatronic system, characterized in that the mechatronic system comprises means for taking over completely or at least partially the function, in particular the support function, of a mechanic component in the event of a defect thereof and to detect said taking over and to provide an error signal.

Abstract: A variable vehicle ride switch in accordance with present embodiments includes a base configured to rotate with respect to a ride surface. The variable vehicle ride switch also includes a conveyor positioned on the base that can actuate relative to the base to move a ride vehicle towards or away from an outer edge of the base and to change an angle or orientation of the at least one conveyor within the base, e.g., to rotate within the base. The variable vehicle ride switch also includes a controller configured to receive an activation signal to cause the base to rotate and to actuate the conveyor.

Abstract: Disclosed is an entertainment-oriented multi-mode experience system featuring a closed rail and a riding vehicle traveling along the closed rail. A screen rail is provided at the side of the closed rail. A screen synchronous moving mechanism corresponding to the riding vehicle and capable of traveling is provided on the screen rail. The screen synchronous moving mechanism includes a rotary support device and a traveling device. A screen is installed on the top of the rotary support device and is capable of performing a 180° pitching motion via a pitch axis, and the rotary support device is installed on the traveling device and is capable of performing a 360° rotation in a horizontal plane. The traveling device can travel along with the riding vehicle synchronously on the screen rail.

Abstract: An amusement ride (1) and a method for its operation are disclosed. The amusement ride comprises a track (10) along which at least one vehicle (50) is movable, and at least one station (2) for the embarkation and/or disembarkation of passengers. The station comprises at least one platform (3) arranged above a portion of said track (10) in correspondence of the station (2), and the platform comprises an opening (S) for the transit of the vehicle (50) in the station. At least one floor element (20a, 20b, 20c) is arranged in at least one first position in which said floor element closes the opening (S) and is movable from the at least one first position to at least one second position to allow the transit of said vehicle (50) in the station (2). Returning means (25) are configured to move the at least one floor element (20a, 20b, 20c) from the at least one second position back to the at least one first position in which said floor element closes the opening (S).

Abstract: Method and system of determining if a predetermined amount of time has passed since dispatch of a first one of the plurality of trackless vehicles onto one of a predefined plurality of intersecting paths. If the predetermined amount of time has passed, determining if a second one of the plurality of trackless vehicles was available for dispatch onto the predefined path or another predefined path. If the second trackless vehicle was available for dispatch, dispatching the second trackless vehicle, and if the second trackless vehicle was not available for dispatch, dispatching a third one of the trackless vehicles onto the predefined path or another predefined path. The predetermined amount of time may be calculated based on a time interval on which the trackless vehicles are dispatched onto the predefined plurality of paths.

Abstract: A ride control system includes a plurality of ride vehicles positioned within a course and configured to travel within the course. Each of the plurality of ride vehicles includes a vehicle controller configured to control movement of a respective one of the plurality of ride vehicles. Each of the plurality of ride vehicles also includes a position tracking system configured to facilitate identification of a location of the respective one of the plurality of ride vehicles within the course. Each of the plurality of ride vehicles further includes a vehicle transceiver in communication with the vehicle controller. The ride control system also includes a primary controller and a primary transceiver in communication with the primary controller. The ride control system further includes a primary wireless network formed by the vehicle transceiver and the primary transceiver to include at least the primary controller and the vehicle controller of each of the plurality of ride vehicles.

Abstract: A waterslide attraction configured to display illuminated visualizations to a rider traveling thereon via one or more lights or LEDs. The waterslide attraction utilizes a slide for supporting a rider, either with a ride vehicle or without. The ride vehicle may be a mat, tube, or board with interactive elements, such as buttons, that allows the rider thereon to manipulate the interactive elements for providing rider input while on the slide. Upon manipulating an element, a signal may be transmitted, the illuminated visualizations being modified in response to such manipulations. Colors, shapes, and/or patterns may be displayed that animate or appear to shift or move in position along the waterslide. Gaming features, such as manipulating the interactive elements that corresponds to one or more displayed illumination visualizations may cause rewards or penalties, for example, based on position of the rider, as the rider travels on the slide.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a passenger compartment and at least one seat located in the passenger compartment. The seat can be moved from a front-facing position to a rear-facing position for when the vehicle is operating in an autonomous mode. The vehicle may further include autonomous driving sensors and an autonomous controller that receives signals generated by the autonomous driving sensors and controls at least one vehicle subsystems according to the signals received.

Abstract: A selective illumination system for use with amusement park rides and other attractions. The system includes a first light source illuminating a first set of items in a physical set and also includes a second light source illuminating a second set of items in the physical set. The system further includes a first set of optical filters operating in time synchronization with the first light source to pass light from the illuminated first set of items and also includes a second set of optical filters operating in time synchronization with the second light source to pass light from the illuminated first set of items. The optical filters of the first and second sets may be shutter glasses or other filters that are operated at high rates to selectively pass received light, and the first and second light sources are operated in a time multiplexed manner synchronized with the optical filters.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a passenger compartment and at least one seat located in the passenger compartment. The seat can be moved from a front-facing position to a rear-facing position for when the vehicle is operating in an autonomous mode. The vehicle may further include autonomous driving sensors and an autonomous controller that receives signals generated by the autonomous driving sensors and controls at least one vehicle subsystems according to the signals received.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a steering wheel located in a passenger compartment. The steering wheel is configured to be moved from an operational position to a stowed position. In the event of a collision, a first airbag is configured to deploy when the steering wheel is in the operational position and a second airbag is configured to deploy when the steering wheel is in the stowed position.

Abstract: An assembly adapted for visually disguising drive or support features of an amusement park ride or a display system using a drive to move a show element about a space. The assembly includes a platform and a drive mechanism for selectively moving a support member. The assembly also includes an object supported upon an end of the support member spaced apart from the drive mechanism, and the support member extends through a slot in the platform. The assembly also includes a canopy positioned between the supported object and a surface of the platform facing the supported object. The canopy blocks an observer from seeing the slot in the platform. The canopy includes a plurality of camouflaging elements positioned between the slot in the platform and the supported object, and the camouflaging elements are arranged in two or more layers.

Abstract: Described herein is an amusement ride that includes an object that supports a passenger, a carriage that releasably supports the object, a propulsion mechanism that accelerates the carriage and the object releasably supported by the carriage up to a desired velocity, and a braking mechanism that decelerates the carriage to release the object from the carriage at the desired velocity.

Abstract: A method utilizes reduced operational time and motion paths with consequently reduced manufacturing, operational, and maintenance costs relative to roller coasters, motion simulators, and other similar thrills rides currently in use. This method is accomplished by an Aggressive Linear Acceleration System (A.L.A.S.) maneuver, which is defined as 1) moving a passenger vehicle (107) at a constant angular speed (A) about one central axis of rotation (105), 2) moving passenger vehicle (107) at constant angular speed (A) about central axis of rotation (105), and away from central axis of rotation (105) at an increasing speed by a negative driven acceleration C, and 3) moving passenger vehicle (107) at constant angular speed (A) about central axis of rotation (105), and away from central axis of rotation (105) at a decreasing speed by a positive driven acceleration E. Consequently, the A.L.A.S.

Abstract: A roadside personalized entertainment system will be inside a building that may be positioned on major highways or Interstates, or other areas of high vehicular traffic. The system will provide short audio-visual entertainment for travelers while they remain in their vehicle.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a motion ride for creating an illusion of teleportation on a multiple of passengers in a ride vehicle. Multiple embodiments of varying apparatus are presented for completing four steps of the method. Passengers observe motion of the passenger vehicle over several environments creating an anticipated location for a perceived final destination of the passenger vehicle following motion through an enclosing structure. The enclosing structure has motion distinct from motion of the passenger vehicle over a predetermined amount of time creating a separation between the actual final destination of the passenger vehicle and the perceived final destination anticipated by passengers. Revealing the actual final destination of the passenger vehicle to passengers creates the effect of the passenger vehicle appearing in a different and unanticipated location instantaneously. The effect can be used for complimenting a story-telling teleportation event of a motion ride.

Abstract: The attraction systems include underground or underwater tunnels having a visitor transportation system with ride vehicles and multiple audio and video systems for providing an experience of three-dimensional (3D) or four-dimensional (4D) video installations. In addition, the attraction systems may have various special effects devices to enhance visitors' experiences. These underground or underwater tunnels may be built in cities, and especially, in historic city centers.

Abstract: An intersecting path ride providing close vehicle interaction without risk of collision. The ride includes a track assembly defining first and second linear, open channels bisecting at a vehicle path intersection point. The ride includes first and second vehicle guides movable within the channels. The ride includes first and second vehicle subassemblies supported by the guides, and the vehicle subassemblies move or reciprocate with the guides along linear paths defined by the channels. The ride includes a vehicle positioning assembly that concurrently reciprocates the guides back and forth along the linear channels through the intersection point. The vehicle positioning assembly includes a connection link pivotally coupled to the guides, a drive motor with an output shaft, and a crank arm rigidly coupled to the output shaft at one end and pivotally coupled to the connection link at another end moving the midpoint of the link through a circular drive path.

Abstract: A system for patron movement and entertainment comprising a track, and at least one vehicle engaged with and positioned below the track, capable of carrying at least one patron in a passenger portion and moving along the track. Each vehicle preferably includes a motion base between the track and the passenger portion, and a turntable between the track and the motion base for rotating the passenger portion in the yaw direction, and particularly for directing the patron's viewpoint toward desired show elements.

Abstract: Ride systems providing guest compartment(s) with a roll degree of freedom through radial mount(s) are described. The guest compartment of the vehicles is attached to a track via a chassis. The guest compartment and the chassis are configured such that the guest compartment has a roll degree of freedom relative to the chassis.

Abstract: An amusement ride system includes: a shooting device adapted to shoot a projectile; an aiming facility operable by a user to aim the shooting device; and a triggering device operable by the user to fire the shooting device. The user rides the vehicle, aims the shooting device, and fires the device to shoot the projectile. A method for a ride includes: providing a shooting device; providing a plurality of projectiles; and aiming and shooting the projectiles utilizing the shooting device.

Abstract: An amusement ride system includes: a shooting device adapted to shoot a projectile; an aiming facility operable by a user to aim the shooting device; and a triggering device operable by the user to fire the shooting device. The user rides the vehicle, aims the shooting device, and fires the device to shoot the projectile. A method for a ride includes: providing a shooting device; providing a plurality of projectiles; and aiming and shooting the projectiles utilizing the shooting device.

Abstract: A ride system for rotating vehicles through a vertical plane or ride space about a common horizontal axis. The ride system includes an elongated support member with a longitudinal axis. The system includes a housing with a base and a frame supporting the elongated support member with the longitudinal axis spaced apart a distance from the base and such that the longitudinal axis is substantially horizontal. The system also includes a plurality of vehicle support assemblies hanging from the elongated support member. Each of the vehicle support assemblies includes an extension arm supporting a passenger vehicle at one end and attached to the elongated support member at a second end via a support coupling assembly. The support coupling assembly is configured to rotate the extension arm about the longitudinal axis, whereby the passenger vehicle is moved through a vertical plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: An amusement ride includes at least one passenger carrier, an amusement ride guide structure and a launch system adapted to accelerate the at least one passenger carrier from a starting position. The launch system includes a launch guide structure having a curvature, a launch arm rotatable about a rotation axis, an engagement device for providing a temporary connection between the launch arm and the at least one passenger carrier during the launch, and a launch drive providing the launch arm with an angular velocity. In the launch system, the radial distance between the engagement device and the launch arm support is variable such that portions of the launch guide structure have a deviating radius, or the distance in axial direction between the engagement device and the launch arm support is variable such that portions of the launch guide structure have curvatures perpendicular to the surface of rotation.

Abstract: An amusement ride system includes: a shooting device adapted to shoot a projectile; an aiming facility operable by a user to aim the shooting device; and a triggering device operable by the user to fire the shooting device. The user rides the vehicle, aims the shooting device, and fires the device to shoot the projectile. A method for a ride includes: providing a shooting device; providing a plurality of projectiles; and aiming and shooting the projectiles utilizing the shooting device.

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

Abstract: A system for patron movement and entertainment comprising a track, and at least one vehicle engaged with and positioned below the track, capable of carrying at least one patron in a passenger portion and moving along the track. Each vehicle preferably includes a motion base between the track and the passenger portion, and a turntable between the track and the motion base for rotating the passenger portion in the yaw direction, and particularly for directing the patron's viewpoint toward desired show elements.

Abstract: An intersecting path ride providing close vehicle interaction without risk of collision. The ride includes a track assembly defining first and second linear, open channels bisecting at a vehicle path intersection point. The ride includes first and second vehicle guides movable within the channels. The ride includes first and second vehicle subassemblies supported by the guides, and the vehicle subassemblies move or reciprocate with the guides along linear paths defined by the channels. The ride includes a vehicle positioning assembly that concurrently reciprocates the guides back and forth along the linear channels through the intersection point. The vehicle positioning assembly includes a connection link pivotally coupled to the guides, a drive motor with an output shaft, and a crank arm rigidly coupled to the output shaft at one end and pivotally coupled to the connection link at another end moving the midpoint of the link through a circular drive path.

Abstract: A spectator venue having a performance area and spectator area is disclosed. The spectator area is generally divided into to portions, a stationary seating area and a dynamic seating area, both of which overlook the performance area. In the performance area, a spectator event occurs, such as a sports game or music concert. In the dynamic seating area, a plurality of seats are provided on a series of dynamic seating platforms. The dynamic seating platforms move along a track to various viewing locations during the course of the spectator event to provide multiple vantage points of the performance area from each seat. The distance and timing of movement of the dynamic seating platforms is based on various criteria, including occurrences during the spectator event.

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

Abstract: A seat for amusement apparatus including a support and means for immobilizing the user on the support. The immobilizing means comprise at least one support in front of the user and opposing means suitable for acting on the user's back. The opposing means comprises an arm which can move between a lowered position in which the user can sit down on the support and a raised position in which one end of the arm abuts against the user's back. The seat may optionally have a motorcycle shape and include handlebars and retractable leg extensions projecting from each side of the seat for maintaining a user's legs in a crouched motorcycle riding position.

Abstract: An amusement apparatus has a platform with a slot that follows a continuous course including both clockwise and counterclockwise turns, a plurality of cars each supported by respective wheels that ride on the platform, an elongate flexible drive member that translates along a path corresponding to the slot, a plurality of couplers corresponding to the plurality of cars, each respective coupler including a member which couples a corresponding car to the drive member with the couplers allowing the corresponding cars to move away from the slot in opposite directions in response to whipping forces resulting from translational movement of the drive member in clockwise and counterclockwise turns of the path, and springs for the cars that act on the cars to move the cars toward the slot in order to counteract the movement of the car away from the slot as caused by the whipping forces.

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

Abstract: A train is driven by drive stations positioned along a track for frictionally contacting side plates on the train. The drive speed is controlled in response to sensors located at each drive station sensing a position of a wheel and a side plate for confirming a presence of the train. A start command is transmitted from the drive station driving the train to a second drive station downstream when a lead car is within a preselected distance from the second drive station. The drive station at the second drive station is quickly accelerated to a target speed for synchronizing the first drive station with the second drive station. After receiving the train, the second drive station then transmits a stop command to the first drive station for fast decelerating the drive station to a stop.

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

Abstract: Ride systems providing guest compartment(s) with a roll degree of freedom through radial mount(s) are described. The guest compartment of the vehicles is attached to a track via a chassis. The guest compartment and the chassis are configured such that the guest compartment has a roll degree of freedom relative to the chassis.

Abstract: An amusement park attraction comprises an array of cells, the array including cells being arranged at various horizontal positions and various vertical positions. A movable passenger assembly, preferably a seat assembly, is provided for one or more passengers, which passenger assembly is at least movable in vertical direction. The passenger assembly and/or the array of cells is movable in horizontal direction. A cell is defined by a boundary and has a viewing opening. Mmultiple cells of said array each contain a discrete scene to be viewed by the one or more passengers. A programmable actuating system is provided, which actuating system provides a programmed route of said passenger assembly along the viewing openings of said scene containing cells, so that the one or more passengers are presented a predetermined sequence of scenes and at least experience a vertical motion along said route.

Abstract: A ride vehicle for use in amusement park rides with interactive game or show equipment. A vehicle body is included with a passenger seat and an interactive device operable by a passenger to interact with the interactive game. A mounting assembly is provided in or on vehicle body and is configured for pivotally mounting the interactive device on the vehicle body. The mounting assembly may be adapted such as with a cam or guide plate to rotate or otherwise position the interactive device through a range of positions at varying distances from the seat. Further, A passenger restraint assembly is provided and is used to determine a size of the passenger in the seat. The passenger restraint is linked to the mounting assembly to drive the mounting assembly so as to place the interactive device at a passenger-use position that is selected based on the defined size of the passenger.

Abstract: An amusement ride system includes: a shooting device adapted to shoot a projectile; an aiming facility operable by a user to aim the shooting device; and a triggering device operable by the user to fire the shooting device. The user rides the vehicle, aims the shooting device, and fires the device to shoot the projectile. A method for a ride includes: providing a shooting device; providing a plurality of projectiles; and aiming and shooting the projectiles utilizing the shooting device.

Abstract: A car 1 for amusement devices comprises a frame (not shown), which is connected to a person-receiving apparatus 10. A running gear 30 is arranged on the frame. Arranged on the running gear 30 and spaced at a distance from the frame and from the person-receiving apparatus 10 are rotatable wheels with coils and illumination elements 33 integrated therein. Between the wheels 31 and the running gear 30 is arranged in each case at least one magnet 32, such that electric current is induced in the coil by rotation of the wheels 31 for feeding the illumination elements 33.

Abstract: A motion simulator has a motive device suspended in midair and having a base, a moving panel, twelve universal joints mounted on the base and the moving panel and six actuators connected to the universal joints and being retractable. A seat assembly is hung on the moving panel. Therefore, as the actuators retract, the seat assembly is moved in six degrees of freedom such as heave, sway, surge, pitch, roll and yaw. Audiences sitting on the seat assembly are hung with their feet hanging in the air and therefore feel excited and experience vivid virtual reality. Moreover, the actuators bear axial force such as drag force and thrust force and are endurable and safety.