Abstract: Apparatus for generating light effects comprising a liquid container having transparent top and bottom walls and filled partly with a transparent liquid, at least one light source mounted so that an emitted light beam will payy through the liquid container at the top and bottom walls thereof for imaging on a desired projection surface, and an actuator (16) including a control unit (26) and effectively coupled directly or through a transmission medium with said liquid container (12) and the movements of which, generated in a prescribable pattern, impart vibrations to liquid (18) in liquid container (18).

Abstract: In skiing ground facilities having a plurality of artificial snow manufacturing apparatuses of ice crushing type, this invention provides a system that is capable of precisely monitoring the respective artificial snow manufacturing apparatuses. This system comprises a monitoring apparatus, connected to the artificial snow manufacturing apparatus, for monitoring the operation state of each artificial snow manufacturing apparatus. This system has an outer monitoring apparatus, which is provided at an outer monitoring site positioned at a location away from the skiing ground, and is selectively connected to the monitoring apparatus provided at each skiing ground, whereby making it possible to monitor the operation state of each artificial manufacturing apparatus of each skiing ground.

Abstract: An image correction method of compensating for point of view image distortion in pictures includes the steps of obtaining an image at a first position within a predetermined frame, wherein at the first position the image is distorted due to point of view image distortion. The image obtained comprises an array of pixels. The distorted image is transformed into a compensated image by re-mapping the array of pixels of the distorted image using a predetermined transforming function that stretches the distorted image to fill the entire frame. The transformation function depends on the geometric orientation of the camera, projector, projecting surface, and viewer. The compensated image is projected at a second position different from the first position, wherein the projection of the compensated image substantially reduces point of view image distortion at the first position. This method can be employed for stationary and moving point of views.

Abstract: An object uses light transmitters to control the visible image of the object in order to camouflage the object or to otherwise deceive the vision of observers. The color and intensity of the light emitted from the object is determined by its background, which would otherwise provide a contrast with the object when viewed by an observer. Light sensors uptake the color and intensity of the object's background and pass that information to controllers that determine the color and intensity of light to be transmitted to achieve the desired camouflage effect, and pass the output color to the light transmitters on the opposite side of the object. Transmitters may be placed on the object at right angles to the surface of the object, thereby allowing for only a single color shading at any point on the object, and providing effective camouflage for the object only when viewed straight-on or against a background that does not vary when viewed from oblique viewing angles.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a new pinball simulator game system in which a view from a perspective of a pinball is displayed such that a player experiences a sensation as riding inside the pinball. The experience is further enhanced with a game console mounted on top of a motion base that moves the player inside the game console according the pinball's movement.

Abstract: A system for producing a visual effect at a surface of apparel worn by a performer including: a latent image projector which projects light comprising polarizer-encoded latent visual information, such as a color and/or an image, enabling the visual effect, the light being projected along a light path onto the apparel and reflected therefrom toward a viewer along the light path; an analyzer positioned so as to impinge upon the light path and be intercepted by the projected light no sooner in the travel of the light along the light path than substantially at the surface of the apparel; and a polarization maintaining reflective material positioned substantially at the surface of the apparel, whereby the polarizer-encoded latent visual information is resolved by the analyzer no earlier than substantially at the surface of apparel worn by the performer, so that the visual effect is perceived by the viewer at the surface of the apparel but not on other surfaces which do not comprise polarization maintaining reflect

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A simulated weapon is disclosed which uses a hologram, an electric lamp and various other optical components to produce holographic images resembling the rays or beams of ray guns or space guns as portrayed in motion pictures, television programs, video games, and comic books in that the rays extend into and occupy space in front of the device itself but are not tangible. Sound effects accompany the projection of holographic images. The device also provides ancillary visual effects prior to the display of holographic images. Sound effects accompany the ancillary visual effects. The toy is intended for floor use and can be mounted on toy tank treads or other conveyance means. The rays are visible to those sitting, kneeling, or standing in front of the device. The preferred embodiment of the device is powered by an electric storage battery.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to isolate the video image of an object, usually a human being, from its background for use in forming a composite image. The viewer's image, with its background, is captured in both visible light and infra-red. In the preferred embodiment, the visible light image is modified by replacing, from an independent visible image source, that area corresponding to the cold (non-viewer) areas of the infra-red image.

Abstract: A simulated soup bowl entertainment attraction, comprising: a bowl-shaped member having a top bounded by a top rim, a bottom permitting light transmission therethrough, and sidewalls connecting the top rim with the bottom; a fog generator producing a fog layer at the top of the bowl-shaped member; and an imaging device producing an image within the bowl-shaped member, the image viewable from a viewing position looking down into the top of the bowl-shaped member. Preferably, the bowl shaped entertainment attraction includes an image controlling apparatus coupled to the imaging device for changing the image viewable from the viewing position. Optionally, apparatus producing sound within the bowl-shaped member may be provided. The bowl shaped entertainment attraction may include a sound controlling apparatus coupled to a sound system for selectively changing the sound heard from within the bowl-shaped member.

Abstract: A structure capable of generating a virtual polyhedral space includes a plurality of walls, each having a first side edge, a second side edge, and a reflective surface. The walls are disposed adjacent one another, with the first side edge of each wall adjacent the second side edge of an adjacent wall, each wall lying in an associated one of a plurality of planes intersecting at a common apex, thus forming a pyramid shaped structure. So disposed, the walls define an interior space of the structure, with the reflective surfaces of the walls facing the interior space. Each wall further includes a base edge. Together, the base edges of the reflective walls define a base opening of the structure, which provides access to the interior space. The images of optional base coverings form coherent images of a virtual polyhedron in the reflective surfaces of the walls. Three-sided, four-sided, and five-sided embodiments are described.

Abstract: An architectural structure capable of generating a virtual polyhedral space includes a plurality of walls, each having a first side edge, a second side edge, and a reflective surface. The walls are disposed adjacent one another, with the first side edge of each wall adjacent the second side edge of an adjacent wall, each wall lying in an associated one of a plurality of planes intersecting at a common apex, thus forming a pyramid shaped structure. So disposed, the walls define an interior space of the architectural structure, with the reflective surfaces of the walls facing the interior space. Each wall further includes a base edge. Together, the base edges of the reflective walls form a support base for supporting the architectural structure on a floor surface. The images of the floor surface in the reflective surfaces of the walls forms a coherent image of a virtual polyhedron. Three-sided, four-sided, and five-sided embodiments are described.

Abstract: The present invention is an air circulating fan which creates optical displays. The fan comprises a housing in a generally circular configuration with a central axis. Also provided is a propeller formed of a plurality of blades mounted for rotational movement within the housing about an axis of rotation coincident with the central axis of the housing, the blades have exposed surfaces with fluorescent paint thereon. A light source is located within the housing in operative proximity to the blades disseminating light from the blades. Further included is a drive mechanism to rotate the blades and a power source to illuminate the light source.

Abstract: A curved container structure has an interior curved reflective surface for reflecting varied and distorted images of objects placed therein or within the near focal range of the reflective surface. A rigid curved structure is metalized on the interior or on the exterior of a transparent structure. A reflective flexible disc has a radial slit with the two sides of the slit overlapping and held together by a temporary binder to form an adjustable cone. A protective cover over the reflective surface is transparent when used on the interior of the container. Objects on a holder are inserted into the curved structure through a main viewing opening or an opposite apex opening. A collar on the holder secures a cord for moving objects hanging therefrom. A rod within a tube may adjustably secure a cord therebetween. One or more cords, such as elasticized cords, may be stretched across or dangled into the viewing opening. A cover, with an attached cord for dangling the object, may be placed over the viewing opening.

Abstract: An elevator for moving passengers from a first, outside level to a second, inside level at a theme park, and for providing themed special effects during the journey is provided. The elevator includes an elevator car divided into a passenger compartment and a special effects equipment compartment. The passenger compartment appears to the unsuspecting passenger to be a conventional elevator. However, at least one partition in the passenger compartment is opaque when the passenger compartment is illuminated and becomes transparent to reveal illuminated special effects when the lighting in the passenger compartment is extinguished. Special effects equipment can include a pair of video projectors for creating a virtual image which appears to be located outside of the elevator car, along with audio speakers for generating appropriate sound to accompany a video sequence for creating an active visual and audio presentation which can be appropriately themed.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A theater includes an audience seating area, a stage and at least three projection screens. Multiple film projectors simultaneously project a three dimensional film onto the three projection screens. Three dimensional film elements appear to move seamlessly from one projection screen to the next. In a live action show, actors, stage sets and show action equipment appear to interact with the three dimensional film. The filmed set blends with the stage sets to give dimension and a feeling of depth to the viewing audience. The audience cannot easily distinguish between the real elements and filmed elements thereby intensifying the theater experience.

Abstract: A falling amusement ride which is capable of letting a player enjoy a thrill of dropping to the same extent as in a conventional equipment in spite of its height restrained low is provided. The falling amusement ride has a seat supported so as to go up and down to be dropped, and illusion giving device for giving an illusion regarding a sense of height to the player sitting on the seat.

Abstract: The present invention concerns an opto-mechanical system and method for obtaining scenographic and decorative effects on surfaces suitable as screens. The system includes a container of liquid, such as water and a movable planar element placed inside said container. An actuator is provided for variably displacing the movable planar element relative to the liquid to generate a variety of movements of waves above the upper face of the movable planar element, while a light source is placed relative to the container to project the movements of the waves onto the surfaces. The movable planar element can also be displaced manually. The system permits the creation of a great variety of wave design patterns due to the displacements of the movable planar element inside the container of liquid.

Abstract: In an illusion apparatus for self viewing, a specific element (usually a dark region) of a display is positioned on or about the line connecting the viewer and the center of curvature of a partially reflective partially transparent, convex mirror. The specific element thus appears in a relatively constant relationship to the viewer's image even as the viewer changes position in relation to the mirror and display.

Abstract: A virtual reality system provides effective exposure treatment for psychiatric patients suffering from a particular anxiety disorder. The system is characterized by a video screen disposed in front of the patient to display an image of a specific graphical environment that is intended to trigger anxiety within the patient as a result of the particular patient phobia. A headset is worn by the patient, and has sensors disposed to detect movement and positioning of the patient's head. A computer program controls the operation of the system, and is designed to control the display of the graphical environment on the video screen, monitor the headset sensors and determine the position of the patient's head, and controllably manipulate the graphical environment displayed on the video screen to reflect the movement and position of the patient's head.

Abstract: A novelty device and method of using it, include at least three lamp sockets, and at least three lamps, which are each capable of producing at least three different colored lights, such as red, green and orange light. The lamps are housed in opaque translucent enclosures or housings, to prevent their colors from being known until they are illuminated by a set of at least three corresponding manually operable switches. When the switches are actuated, the lamps each emit a different colored light to provide the appearance that each lamp is of a different color. A control device in the form of a microprocessor secretly enables the user to cause the lamps to emit the desired color even after the lamps are removed from the sockets, mixed, and then re-inserted.

Abstract: This optical illusion device is of the type which has a sculpted or relief image-forming surface resembling in shape a negative of the object whose image is to appear when the image-forming surface is viewed. The device is improved to yield a more attractive image by providing altered shading to the negative image-forming surface. The contour of the image forming surface is exposed or unframed to provide a free standing contour. The relief of the image-forming surface is altered to control shadowing when illuminated from a predetermined illumination angle. The substrate on which the image-forming surface is provided is similarly sculpted in detail on an opposite side to provide both a visually appealing sculpture as well as a good image providing surface on the negative, and the substrate is mounted for viewing from either side.

Abstract: A motor is secured in the interior of an enclosed housing. The motor shaft extends outside of the housing. A turntable is connected to the motor shaft on the outside of the housing. The turntable is located in a recess in the housing. An illusionary disk is held on the turntable. A potentiometer controls the speed of the motor and thus the speed of the turntable to produce different optical illusions from the illusionary disk. A light is located in the housing near the turntable. The light flashes through openings in the illusionary disk to produce additional optical illusions as the illusionary disk rotates.

Abstract: An immersive cyberspace system is presented which provides visual, audible, and vibrational inputs to a subject remaining in neutral immersion, and also provides for subject control input. The immersive cyberspace system includes a relaxation chair and a neutral immersion display hood. The relaxation chair supports a subject positioned thereupon, and places the subject in position which merges a neutral body position, the position a body naturally assumes in zero gravity, with a savasana yoga position. The display hood, which covers the subject's head, is configured to produce light images and sounds. An image projection subsystem provides either external or internal image projection. The display hood includes a projection screen moveably attached to an opaque shroud. A motion base supports the relaxation chair and produces vibrational inputs over a range of about 0-30 Hz. The motion base also produces limited translation and rotational movements of the relaxation chair.

Abstract: Method and display for training and other uses, which may be in the form of a special video, diorama, or print format. The preferred embodiment shows a bright visual image against a dark background. This invention is particularly useful in the Illusion Apparatus of U.S. Pat. No. 4,971,312 and in an electronic system also disclosed.

Abstract: A modular assembly of theater seats aligned in a row. Each of the seats in the row moves with an identical motion in response to a coordinated sequence to create seat motions which can complement a scene being protrayed on a movie screen. Three or more rotatable shafts run along the row under the seats. The shafts are caused to rotate by hydraulic cylinders coupled to the shafts through bell cranks. Each seat is supported by three legs which are also coupled to the shafts by bell cranks. Rotation of the shafts causes vertical motion of the legs, and by coordinating the motions of the individual legs, in the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, the seats can be made to move with linear vertical motion, or to rotate either side to side or fore and aft in the vertical plane. Linear fore and aft motion of the seats may be provided by a fourth rotatable shaft running along the row under the seats.

Abstract: A helmet mounting device which allows a helmet to be securely mounted to a user's head in a desired alignment, without irritating chin straps, is provided. The device includes a frame and a liner with a retention band that can be uniformly tightened about the user's head and that aligns with cranial features such as the indentation in the occipital area at the base of the skull. A plurality of these devices can be given out in advance to users waiting on line for a virtual reality amusement attraction, who can don them in advance. When a user reaches the attraction, he or she can easily slip onto the device a helmet having shape complementary to the device for quick alignment. When the user is finished, the device can easily be cleaned before being given to the next user.

Abstract: An amusement device passing within a tube is made into a device which is safe in operation while passing within a dark tube, giving a mild and fantastic mood to a sight feeling of a rider to enable the rider to enjoy modern leisure characteristics or joyfulness and then a picture drawn on the inner wall surface with fluorescent substance and an illuminating device for radiating ultraviolet rays to the picture are arranged so as to cause a rider to play in the amusement device and to enable a stereoscopic light emitting image to be attained on the inner wall surface of the tube.

Abstract: A negative bust illusion is formed of a surface (representing a negative of an object) that presents a concave side to viewers to generate an illusion that the object always gazes at viewers as they move within an enlarged field of view. The negative bust is analogous to a mold of the object, with its depth flattened to impart a wider effective range the illusion. The rigid shell has a cavity that defines the bust and is formed of a thin, translucent styrene material such that rear projection is readily imparted to the convex side for imparting animation to the gaze effect.

Abstract: A black magician's wand with white tips with a built in flash at one end and a triggering means contained therein. The method of triggering the flash is concealed. In one version of the wand, the flash is triggered by means of a push button switch. In another version of the invention, the flash is triggered by means of a mercury tilt switch within the wand. Manipulation of the wand through a horizontal plane causes the switch to activate the flash.

Abstract: A game apparatus includes a game stage formed by a three-dimensional model and a plurality of image synthesizing scopes disposed radially toward the game stage.Each of the image synthesizing scopes is adapted to synthesize and display the scene of the game stage superimposed on a video scene. The video scene is formed as a panorama scene which is displayed superimposing over substantially the entire area of the game stage. Each of the image synthesizing scopes is adapted to scrollingly display the window scene to be viewed through the viewing window while being superimposed on the actually viewed scene of the game stage, within the extent of the panorama scene.

Abstract: The Cloaking System is designed to operate in the visible light spectrum, utilizes optoelectronics and/or photonic components to conceal an object within it, and employs analog or digital control feedback resulting in camouflage adaptable to a changing background. The system effectively conceals either a still or moving object from view by the interposing of a shield between an observer and the object and recreating a full color synthetic image of the background on the shield for viewing by observer, thus creating the illusion of transparency of both the object and the Cloaking System. This system consists of four major elements: a sensor; a signal processor; a shield; and a means of interconnecting, supporting, and safely enclosing the aforementioned elements along with the concealed object.

Abstract: An apparatus for creating an illusion in which a setting is superimposed around a real image rather a reflected image being superimposed into the middle of the setting as is traditionally the case. More particularly, rather than images being superimposed into a setting by using a beam splitter in the traditional manner, a real, not a reflected image, is used and the setting is superimposed around the real image. In the apparatus of the invention, there are no dead or hidden areas and set proportions are not dictated by the angle of a beam splitter. Additionally, viewing angles do not dictate audience position and, so long as the audience can see inside the setting, the illusion can be created.

Abstract: A visual effects producer employing a source of black light and a patterned rotating blade apparatus subject to fluorescence. The black light source and blade apparatus include variable intensity and speed controls whereby novel effects are provided.

Abstract: A ride attraction has a stationary domed projection screen and a stationary projector, a plurality of motion bases with each supporting a viewer platform or vehicle. An elevator is provided for lifting the vehicle out of a staging room to a viewing position. The motion bases are mutually arranged with respect to each other such that a passenger in any vehicle can view substantially the entire screen but not any other vehicle within the theatre. Actuators beneath each vehicle move the vehicle in three dimensions in coordination with the projected motion picture.

Abstract: A simulated laser weapon using a halogen bulb, parabolic reflecting mirror, bulb cap, rotating aperture, air jet, barrel, and shroud to produce a pulsed envelope of substantially parallel, non-coherent light rays simulating the discharge from a high energy laser weapon being fired by and in the presence of a participant. An amusement application for a simulated laser weapon involving several participants in an air- or spacecraft combat situation wherein each participant is seated at a station which travels circularly compared to a fixed reference point, rotates, rises and falls, and tilts, and wherein each participant's simulated laser weapon is sequentially activated and deactivated while each participant attempts to aim and fire his simulated laser weapon at targets suspended above his head.