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: An animatronics system uses a camera for detecting a person, and an enhanced interaction controller, operably connectable with an animatronics character, for providing entertainment to persons nearby. A tracking program utilizes human presence detection, via input from the camera, to detect and recognize the person for tracking the person and determining when the person enters a predetermined range. The enhanced control program performs, in response to the tracking program determining that the person entered within the predetermined range of the animatronic character, an entertainment routine directed to the person.

Abstract: An amusement ride system includes a ride vehicle configured to carry a passenger, one or more sensors configured to detect a face and a body of the passenger while the passenger is in the ride vehicle, and a display assembly configured to be viewable by the passenger while the passenger is in the ride vehicle. The amusement ride system also includes a controller configured to generate an animation based on signals received from the one or more sensors and to instruct display of the animation on the display assembly. The signals are indicative of movement of the face and the body of the passenger, and the animation mimics the movement of the face and the body of the passenger.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for physical exercises is provided. The apparatus may include at least one rigid cylinder of circular or polygonal shape. The apparatus is designed for functional training exercises, including but not limited to, dry-land, surf-specific training. The apparatus is versatile and may be used in any and all fitness programs, as well as physical and rehabilitation therapy. Corresponding methods for performing physical exercises on at least one rigid cylinder are also provided.

Abstract: A robotic animal puzzle is assembled from flat board pieces. The robotic animal includes a head portion. The head portion includes a neck group, a torso portion, including a holder 15 for an optional battery, multiple leg portions, and a tail portion. Those pieces and groups are connected using either interlocking mechanisms or flexible linkages to form the robotic animal-shaped puzzle. Movement and gestures may be controlled by an externally connected processor powered by an on-board battery pack. A pull and drag mechanism is provided to conveniently tune the center of mass. Slots allow the screw that connects the battery holder to slide.

Abstract: Devices and methods for generating and/or communicating using optically formatted image data are provided. One method includes receiving first gaming information from a first wager-based gaming device via a local area network. The method further includes receiving from the first wager-based gaming device a request to include the first gaming information in a machine readable optically formatted image data. The method further includes generating the machine readable optically formatted image data or instructions for creating the machine readable optically formatted image data. Data encoded in the machine readable optically formatted image data comprises a unique identifier and the first gaming information. The method further includes sending the generated machine readable optically formatted image data or the instructions for creating the machine readable optically formatted image data to the first wager-based gaming device. The machine readable optically formatted image data is output to a display device.

Abstract: A wind tunnel for stable sustained human flight for research or recreation, including a tunnel including first and second portions having first and second central axes, respectively, and a fan to create an air flow in the test section. The second portion is a test section. The first and second central axes are arranged at a first angle with respect to each other. The second central axis is at a second angle of 5°-85° with respect to a horizontal plane. A safety system for an inclined wind tunnel for stable sustained human flight is provided, including an inclined test section of the wind tunnel that is arranged at an angle of 5°-85° with respect to a horizontal plane, a fan to create an air flow in the test section directed from an upstream end towards a downstream end thereof, and a delimiting arrangement arranged at the test section for preventing a person using the test section from leaving it.

Abstract: A vertical wind tunnel for raising persons by use of air flow, comprising a flight platform (1), an air flow generating device (2) associated with the flight platform (1) and generating a vertical air flow through a channel (3) arranged in a middle of the flight platform (1). The flight platform (1) comprises a safety mattress (4) positioned around the channel (3); a net assembly (5) comprising a flexible net ring (6) and a net (7). The flexible net ring (6) is positioned around the channel (3) and above the safety mattress (4). The vertical wind tunnel further comprises an upholstery ring (8) arranged above the flexible net ring (6) for further absorption of impacts. The present invention increases a safety of its users effectively absorbing impacts of falling flyers.

Abstract: An amusement ride system includes a ride vehicle configured to carry a passenger, one or more sensors configured to detect a face and a body of the passenger while the passenger is in the ride vehicle, and a display assembly configured to be viewable by the passenger while the passenger is in the ride vehicle. The amusement ride system also includes a controller configured to generate an animation based on signals received from the one or more sensors and to instruct display of the animation on the display assembly. The signals are indicative of movement of the face and the body of the passenger, and the animation mimics the movement of the face and the body of the passenger.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing a multi-direction wind tunnel, or “windball,” are disclosed. The system can have a series of fans configured to provide air flow in a plurality of directions to enable accurate testing of aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and other vehicles capable of multi-dimensional flight. The system can comprise a spherical or polyhedral test chamber with a plurality of fans. The fans can be arranged in pairs, such that a first fan comprises an intake fan and a second fan comprises an exhaust fan. The direction of the air flow can be controlled by activating one or more pairs of fans, each pair of fan creating a portion of the air flow in a particular direction. The direction of the air flow can also be controlled by rotating one or more pairs of fans with respect to the test chamber on a gimbal device, or similar.

Abstract: A play apparatus has plural types of elevated equipment, namely a ropes course and a zip coaster. Both types of elevated equipment have respective user safety supports that extend along the respective equipment and receive a safety harness worn by a user. The user need not change safety harnesses to use the different types of equipment. The entry and exit locations for the elevated equipment are in a common area elevated above the ground. A third type of equipment, namely an obstacle course, is located under and above the common area.

Abstract: A system and method of disinfecting an area using germicidal radiation. The system is configured to capture images of an environment, analyze the images to determine locations of a person or unprotected skin of a person in the environment, and control one or more germicidal radiation emitters to decontaminate the environment where the person or exposed skin of persons in the environment are not located. The system and method allow for safe decontamination of an environment using hazardous levels of germicidal radiation while occupied by a person who may not be fully protected from the radiation.

Abstract: An augmented reality system for an amusement ride includes a facial recognition sensor that detects a guest's face, a skeletal recognition sensor that detects a guest's body, a presence sensor that detects a guest's presence, and a controller. The controller includes a processor and a memory. The controller is configured to generate an augmented reality animation based on a first signal indicative of the guest's presence received from the presence sensor. In response to receiving a second signal indicative of the guest's body from the skeletal recognition sensor, the controller is configured to update the augmented reality animation based on the guest's body. Further, in response to receiving a third signal indicative of the guest's face from the facial recognition sensor, the controller is configured to update the augmented reality animation based on the guest's face.

Abstract: A vertical wind tunnel skydiving simulator including a flight chamber entrance that has a curved air deflector that extends into a waiting chamber, in which a convex surface of the curved air deflector faces across or towards the flight chamber entrance or into the flight chamber, and extends into the waiting chamber a sufficient distance to substantially reduce the flow of turbulent air into the waiting chamber. The curved surface is at the top of the entrance and can also be at the sides. The shape the curved surface takes is sufficient to minimize the flow of turbulent air into the waiting chamber; the effect is to make it more comfortable and less noisy for people in the waiting area. This also helps to preserves the laminar, non-turbulent flow of air in the flying chamber, even across the flight chamber entrance. This makes flying more comfortable and predictable.

Abstract: A body flight simulator of quick and efficient assembly and operation, includes the ability of having multi-flight areas to facilitate the teaching and skill building of novice users, as well as the ability for performances of experienced users. In addition, it includes easy viewing by observers, noise reduction and minimized environmental impacts. Finally, the modular nature of the components, allow for the assembly of modular arena stages, capable of having elongated/widened body flight areas.

Abstract: A mobile robot to which a shadow removal method and system for surveillance camera-based mobile robot control according to the present invention is applied acquires images from two closely installed surveillance cameras indoors and performs shadow removal at an improved speed compared to the conventional speed, to recognize the obstacle in the image to avoid it and travel. It is anticipated that through the mobile robot using the surveillance camera-based shadow removal method and system of the present invention, the practical use of an intelligent image surveillance system that can automatically analyze images and recognize a dangerous situation to take quick action may be accelerated.

Abstract: Provided is a pet toy filled with foam latex. The pet toy filled with foam latex has a light emitting device mounted in a latex outer shell of the pet toy. The latex outer shell has an opening. The light emitting device can emit light and the light can pass through the opening to illuminate the outer space of the latex outer shell.

Abstract: A vertical wind tunnel skydiving simulator including a flight chamber entrance that has a curved air deflector that extends into a waiting chamber, in which a convex surface of the curved air deflector faces across or towards the flight chamber entrance or into the flight chamber, and extends into the waiting chamber a sufficient distance to substantially reduce the flow of turbulent air into the waiting chamber. The curved surface is at the top of the entrance and can also be at the sides. The shape the curved surface takes is sufficient to minimize the flow of turbulent air into the waiting chamber; the effect is to make it more comfortable and less noisy for people in the waiting area. This also helps to preserves the laminar, non-turbulent flow of air in the flying chamber, even across the flight chamber entrance. This makes flying more comfortable and predictable.

Abstract: A ride or show control apparatus using visual recognition to provide a more interactive experience to guests or participants. The apparatus is adapted for operating a ride or show element, such as a robotic character. The apparatus includes a mechanized or robotic element with movable components positioned near a guest traffic area. The apparatus includes an imaging assembly capturing images of the traffic area and outputting digital image data. A controller is provided that includes a processor using an object recognition module to process the image data to determine whether an object is in the traffic area. In response to the object recognition, the control system operates movable components of the mechanized element such as to cause it to speak or move in the direction of the recognized object such as a visitor's face or a badge, hat, or other item worn or carried by a guest or participant.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus for providing multi-directional training of the body of a user is disclosed. The exercise apparatus allows the a user to exercise the mid-section, hips, legs, ankles and connective tissues joining all the muscles in these areas. the apparatus comprises a support structure, two elongate foot platforms and hanging members for attaching the foot platforms to the support in such a manner that they can move in a substantially horizontal X-Y plane with two degrees of freedom. The foot platforms can be hung so that they are either arranged in parallel or have one of their ends closer together than their opposite ends. At least one substantially horizontal connecting member may be provided to interconnect the two foot platforms, either in front, in the middle or in the rear. The support structure is designed to be free standing or to be mounted onto other supporting structures.

Abstract: An amusement ride apparatus comprising: a free fall tower having a proximal end hingedly attached to a base platform and a distal end; a lifting assembly connected to the base platform and the free fall tower so that the free fall tower can transition between a loading position and a free fall position; a trolley slideably attached to the free fall tower; a trolley securing assembly attached to the trolley and releasably attached to the distal end of the tower for securing the trolley to the distal end prior to the free fall tower transitioning from the loading position to the free fall position so that the trolley is held at the distal end when the tower is in the free fall position; a braking assembly carried by the base platform for slowing the downward movement of the trolley when the trolley securing member is released; and, a passenger carriage pivotably carried by the trolley allowing the passenger carriage to pivot to maintain a generally upright orientation as the free fall tower transitions from the

Abstract: An amusement ride has a retaining structure and at least one platform that is connected in an articulated manner to retaining elements which hold the at least one platform on the retaining structure. The retaining elements are cables which are under tensile stress during operation of the amusement ride. The cables have an effective length and the effective length of the cables is variable. Cable winches disposed on the retaining structure are provided that wind the cables.

Abstract: The amusement apparatus comprising a housing, a frame and an interior space, and a door allowing entry of a player having arms into interior space. An air circulation system fluidly connected to interior space of housing. An engagement system located within interior space. Engagement system, control system, signaling system and an air circulation system are cooperatively interconnected. A player area is located within the interior space and positioned proximate the engagement system wherein contact by player with engagement system initiates a sequence of instructions from the control system to initiate the delivery of air into interior space by air circulation system for circulation of prizes within interior space. A signal to player is sent via signaling system to discontinue player contact with engagement system so player may interact with the prizes circulating in the interior space for the purpose of removing the prizes from the housing via the interior space.

Abstract: A reciprocating device for holding an infant carrier that is expandable to accommodate carriers of various sizes. The device includes a base member that is stationary with respect to a support surface and a platform that reciprocates above the base member. The reciprocation is executed by an actuator. The reciprocation of the platform on the base member is linear. The platform can include expansion trays which extend outward, increasing its usable surface area, it can be foldable between folded and unfolded positions, or it can be foldable and include expansion trays.

Abstract: An interactive activity system is disclosed. One embodiment includes a generator configured to produce electrical power based on physical interaction with a human being, a storage component configured to store the electrical power, and at least one play-oriented application configured to utilize a portion of the electrical power for operation. In one embodiment, the interactive activity system is implemented in a traditional, non-electronic playground environment.

Abstract: A ride system for moving a passenger vehicle through a dynamically-defined work space. The system includes a track structure that guides one or more motorized or driven carriers on the track structure. The system includes winches on the carrier(s) that are independently operable to set lengths of the vehicle supporting cables, which extend outward from the winches to the vehicle. During operation, the winch systems provide upper anchor points for suspending the passenger vehicle such that these anchor points are selectively positioned. The winches may be independently operated as the carrier(s) travels from a first position to a second position, such that the vehicle body pitches, rolls, or yaws and moves transversely relative to the track. The winches may be operated concurrently to drop or raise the vehicle to define the work space for the vehicle in the vertical direction. Passenger input may interactively control motion of the vehicle.

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 ratcheting fastener assembly is operable to be secured to an object and includes a rotatable threaded fastener and a ratchet element. The rotatable threaded fastener includes a serrated ratchet head and a threaded fastener body extending axially from the ratchet head. The ratchet element is in ratcheting engagement with the head and includes an annular element frame and at least one tooth operable to engage the object to restrict element rotation. The ratchet element also includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced pawls. The pawls and corresponding serrations rotatably ratchet relative to each other when the fastener is rotated in a tightening direction and engage each other when the head is rotated in a loosening direction.

Abstract: A playset is operable to be erected on a site and includes a slide and an adjustable-height slide base. The slide base includes an adapter that attaches below the slide and at least one standoff that attaches below the adapter.

Abstract: An amusement ride has guides and at least one carriage movable along the guides. At least three first arms each having a first end and a second end are provided, wherein the first ends are connected pivotably to the at least one carriage. First drives are provided that each are movable along one of the guides, respectively, independently from one another. The at least three first arms are pivotably connected with the second ends to the first drives so that the at least one carriage and the first drives are pivotably connected to one another.

Abstract: An extreme sports component having a support and at least a first member defining a maneuvering surface. The support and at least first member are operatively joined through at least one member on each of the support and at least first member that cooperate with each other so as to maintain the support and at least first member in a predetermined operative relationship. The support and at least first member are maintained in the predetermined operative relationship without requiring that any anchoring element be directed through the maneuvering surface.

Abstract: In waterslide amusement devices one or more water jets can be directed along the waterslide surface and used to apply a force to riders using the amusement device. In the present approach the operation of such water jet assemblies is adjusted based on the weight of each rider, so that riders of different weights can negotiate the waterslide amusement device safely and with an appropriate degree of excitement. The rider weight is conveniently measured on the waterslide amusement device, for example, using a load cell assembly, and a signal is sent to a controller to adjust the output of one or more downstream water jet assemblies based on the measured rider weight.

Abstract: The present invention is a system for recreational purposes. The system includes a vessel rotatably mounted, a support stand, and a drive system. The vessel has a wall that defines an internal cavity, sufficient for at least one occupant to be received wherein the occupant is in contact with the wall, and a tunnel for accessing the internal cavity. The wall has dampens the contact between the occupant and the vessel. The support stand has two connectors carried by elevated members on opposing sides of the vessel for supporting the vessel. A drive system that includes a motor mechanically connected to at least one of the connectors for rotating the vessel and the occupant within the internal cavity.

Abstract: An apparatus comprising a bowl having an opening. The opening includes a plurality of movable members movable between a first position and a second position. The first position is a closed position in which the movable members are connected and support items in the bowl. The second position is an open position and allows a hand to enter the opening. The apparatus includes a circuit that includes a switch operably connected to said moveable members such that a light turns on upon said moveable members being in a second position.

Abstract: A motion simulator has a motive device 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 retractable. A seat assembly is mounted 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 feel excited and experience a real virtual reality. Moreover, the actuators bear axial force such as drag force and thrust force and are endurable and safety.

Abstract: A seat for amusement apparatus, unusually suitable for allowing the user to adopt a new position on the apparatus, comprising a support and means for immobilising the user on the support. The immobilising 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.

Abstract: A wind tunnel is provided usable for training of sportsmen-parachutists and entertainment purposes. The tunnel comprises a channel, including sequentially arranged and interconnected components: an input confusor, a first working zone, an intermediate confusor, and a second working zone. The working zones are shaped as diffusers, having different longitudinal flow speed gradients, so that the working zone having the lesser longitudinal speed gradient is shorter, whereas the working zone having the greater longitudinal speed gradient is longer. A honeycomb is arranged between the working zones. The entrances and exits of the working zones are equipped with safety nets. The structural design of the tunnel makes it possible to simultaneously train parachutists for team acrobatics and artistic types of parachuting under conditions, maximally adapted to a given type of training, thereby improving a training quality and substantially increasing the tunnel's cost effectiveness.

Abstract: An amusement item comprising a container filled with compressed air from a geographic location of interest. Compressed air from a geographic region is collected and transported to a manufacturing facility for the production of novelty containers containing the compressed air. Containers are labeled with the region/location from which the compressed air is obtained. Certification and quality is maintained by obtaining records of the chemical make-up of the air at the source and comparing that electronic record to cylinders of air from the geographic location to ensure accuracy of labeling and filling. The amusement items are sold as souvenirs.

Abstract: A simulator of free-fall containing air power generators (1) and appreciably cylindrical aerodynamic vein (2), in which evolve the persons (6) in state of free-fall, the wall (24) of which is realized by means of a film of flexible material stretched only by means of two frames (28) (29) fixed at the extremities of the aerodynamic vein (2) and to the superstructure (5) maintaining the aerodynamic vein (2). In particular the film of flexible material forming the wall (24) of the aerodynamic vein (2) is translucent and serves as screen to display from the outside of the vein (2) real or simulated images intended to be seen from inside of the aforementioned vein (2). In a particular mode of realization the air power generators (1) are arranged in a container for transport (74) and the superstructure (5) of the simulator can be disassembled so that the simulator is easily transported.

Abstract: A ride or show control apparatus using visual recognition to provide a more interactive experience to guests or participants. The apparatus is adapted for operating a ride or show element, such as a robotic character. The apparatus includes a mechanized or robotic element with movable components positioned near a guest traffic area. The apparatus includes an imaging assembly capturing images of the traffic area and outputting digital image data. A controller is provided that includes a processor using an object recognition module to process the image data to determine whether an object is in the traffic area In response to the object recognition, the control system operates movable components of the mechanized element such as to cause it to speak or move in the direction of the recognized object such as a visitor's face or a badge, hat, or other item worn or carried by a guest or participant.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An amusement ride has guides and at least one carriage movable along the guides. At least three first arms each having a first end and a second end are provided, wherein the first ends are connected pivotably to the at least one carriage. First drives are provided that each are movable along one of the guides, respectively, independently from one another. The at least three first arms are pivotably connected with the second ends to the first drives so that the at least one carriage and the first drives are pivotably connected to one another.

Abstract: The invention refers to a wind tunnel designed to operate in its vertical section that is to say, air currents generated by appropriate means meeting in a vertical area at the end of which the air current is capable of lifting objects in this vertical area. At the same time this lifting effect may be seen on the outside as it has been built from translucent materials. The viewing and lifting of bodies in this device allows both their display and measurements to be taken.

Abstract: A money display vault has at least one of a transparent tube display and a transparent chamber display to allow cash reserves of an establishment to be displayed to the public, yet remained secured from possible theft. A device is coupled to the at least one of a transparent tube display and a transparent chamber display to move the money around the at least one of a transparent tube display and a transparent chamber display.

Abstract: An amusement item comprising a container filled with compressed air from a geographic location of interest. Compressed air from a geographic region is collected and transported to a manufacturing facility for the production of novelty containers containing the compressed air. Containers are labeled with the region/location from which the compressed air is obtained. Certification and quality is maintained by obtaining records of the chemical make-up of the air at the source and comparing that electronic record to cylinders of air from the geographic location to ensure accuracy of labeling and filling. The amusement items are sold as souvenirs.

Abstract: The amusement apparatus comprising a housing, a frame and an interior space, and a door allowing entry of a player having arms into interior space. An air circulation system fluidly connected to interior space of housing. An engagement system located within interior space. Engagement system, control system, signaling system and an air circulation system are cooperatively interconnected. A player area is located within the interior space and positioned proximate the engagement system wherein contact by player with engagement system initiates a sequence of instructions from the control system to initiate the delivery of air into interior space by air circulation system for circulation of prizes within interior space. A signal to player is sent via signaling system to discontinue player contact with engagement system so player may interact with the prizes circulating in the interior space for the purpose of removing the prizes from the housing via the interior space.

Abstract: Entertainment multimedia, including articles of manufacture, methods for entertaining, and systems for entertaining using the idea of female sperm as a plot element are described. Exemplary embodiments of the invention include television shows, movies, theatrical plays and media containing recordings of such.

Abstract: A vertical wind tunnel flight simulator comprises a flight chamber wherein a flier may experience a freefall simulation. Airflow to support the flier is induced by fans connected above the flight chamber through a duct. A staging area having openings to the flight chamber is adjacent to the flight chamber. One or two return air ducts are used to return air from the fans outlet to the fans inlet. Opposed louvers are included on at least one duct segment thereby regulating the temperature via forcing ambient air into the simulator. The use of many duct segments having diverging walls adds commercial value to the system by lowering the height. Mounting components on the roof and behind walls creates a spectacular pedestrian viewing scene of people in flight.

Abstract: An interactive water attraction and system of game play is provided wherein the gaming is carried out within a pool, water park or water attraction. The game utilizes electronically identifiable objects, cards, bands, tags and/or the like, to provide an interactive game play experience generally simulative of a computer adventure game experience. Play participants are challenged to work and cooperate with other play participants to find identified objects, clues or other information and to use the objects, clues or information to solve various puzzles or problems that present encumbrances inhibiting players' advancement in the game. Each play participant possesses a unique RFID band, card or the like, that electronically identifies the play participant and enables the play system to award and track points or other rewards to successful play participants individually or working with other play participants as a team.

Abstract: The juggling torch has a torch body (1) with a wick (3) for fuel that is absorbed by the wick (3) and a fuel container (7) that is connected to the wick (3) via one or many channels (15).