Abstract: A method of controlling a first figure configured to animate and a second figure configured to exhibit free motion in an amusement park ride includes determining when a field of view of a ride vehicle (RV) moving along a RV path of the ride is either directed away from a scene area of the ride or obstructed from the scene area, and responsive to such determination, causing a first mechanism associated with the first figure to move the first figure out of the scene area, and causing a second mechanism associated with the second figure to move the second figure into the scene area.

Abstract: A resistance control system for a passenger support of an amusement attraction includes a first foundation, a second foundation, and a support extending between the first foundation and the second foundation. The second foundation is pivotably coupled to the support at a pivot joint. The resistance control system also includes a motor and a linkage system coupled to the motor and to the second foundation such that the motor is configured to output a torque to adjust, via the linkage system, a resistance to movement of the second foundation about the pivot joint and relative to the first foundation.

Abstract: An actuatable surface system may include a plurality of actuatable assemblies. Each actuatable assembly may include a flexible membrane and a bracket at least partially sealing the flexible membrane within the bracket. A fluid conduit is configured to apply fluid to a rear side of the flexible membrane to cause the flexible membrane to form a raised structure relative to the bracket, which in turn causes a surface layer, e.g., a projection surface, to protrude to accommodate the raised structure. A controller is configured to address each individual actuatable assembly to cause the fluid source to apply the fluid to form the raised structure.

Abstract: An air amplifier utilizes a high-pressure input stream of air to accelerate a low-velocity input stream of air to provide a high-velocity, high-volume output stream of air. A coupled air amplifier array includes multiple air amplifiers which couple their respective output streams of air to one another to form a single collective output stream of air. Multiple coupled air amplifier arrays can be utilized to form coupled air amplifier array systems to provide multiple collective output streams of air which can be focused toward to an audience within a venue. The coupled air amplifier array system can be implemented within atmospheric effects systems to provide atmospheric effects, such as wind, scent, and/or temperature to provide some examples, relating to an event. These atmospheric effects systems can present these atmospheric effects to the audience to enhance the immersion of the audience as they are viewing the event.

Abstract: An air amplifier utilizes a high-pressure input stream of air to accelerate a low-velocity input stream of air to provide a high-velocity, high-volume output stream of air. A coupled air amplifier array includes multiple air amplifiers which couple their respective output streams of air to one another to form a single collective output stream of air. Multiple coupled air amplifier arrays can be utilized to form coupled air amplifier array systems to provide multiple collective output streams of air which can be focused toward to an audience within a venue. The coupled air amplifier array system can be implemented within atmospheric effects systems to provide atmospheric effects, such as wind, scent, and/or temperature to provide some examples, relating to an event. These atmospheric effects systems can present these atmospheric effects to the audience to enhance the immersion of the audience as they are viewing the event.

Abstract: An entertainment apparatus for a self-driving vehicle is configured to enable a passenger to playa game while viewing a game start image of a display installed in a seat in a state in which the passenger sits on the seat, where the game is executed and proceeds based on a signal that is obtained by detecting a distribution of human body pressure of the passenger by a body pressure sensor installed in the seat and a signal obtained by detecting touch pressure of the passenger by a touch pad installed in the seat, and thus the passenger is capable of playing various games related to body pressure and/or a touch signal while moving his or her body.

Abstract: A multi-platform vibro-kinetic system comprises a plurality of motion platforms each having actuators to be displaceable to produce vibro-kinetic effects. The system may obtain movements of one or more operator(s), interpret the movements of the operator and identifying from the movements an operator instruction for effect generation, and output a motion signal containing instructions for producing a vibro-kinetic effect on at least one of the motion platforms as a response to the operator instruction.

Abstract: A suspended theater system uses a seat moving machine comprising a passenger seat assembly disposed in between opposing seat supports which raise and lower the passenger seat assembly. One or more passenger seat beam rotators are operative to rotate the passenger seat assembly to change the pitch independently of the raising and lowering. In embodiments, rather that the seat rows being pivoted up with a rotating floor, a rotate function alters their mutual positions to one another while the lift function is taking place which brings the back seat rows up and over the front seat rows, allowing control over mutual row position during lift and in the show. Though no cables are involved, by combining the motions of lift and rotate and without any further equipment, an immersive theater system comprising the seat moving machine still employs seating that is suspended.

Abstract: A seat moving machine comprises a passenger seat assembly disposed in between opposing seat supports which raise and lower the passenger seat assembly. One or more passenger seat beam rotators are operative to rotate the passenger seat assembly to change the pitch independently of the raising and lowering. In embodiments, rather that the seat rows being pivoted up with a rotating floor, a rotate function alters their mutual positions to one another while the lift function is taking place which brings the back seat rows up and over the front seat rows, allowing control over mutual row position during lift and in the show. Though no cables are involved, by combining the motions of lift and rotate and without any further equipment, an immersive theater system comprising the seat moving machine still employs seating that is suspended.

Abstract: A visitor compartment equipped with a system of screens, an audio system, a lighting system, a controller, a control console, a video monitoring system and a payment system, the compartment is made in the form of an elevator car having sliding doors and connected to a pneumatic cylinder and compressor for moving, a wall or walls, the ceiling has cells with animatronic objects connected to movement mechanisms and moving panels, the car is equipped with a water-spray device, a device for the supply of directed air flows, a photo camera and/or video camera, a safety and emergency stop system of the amusement ride. The elevator car is equipped with a steam generator and/or smoke machine, a forced air ventilation system, a soap bubble generator, a spark generator. The system of screens is equipped with a holographic projector.

Abstract: A ride vibration system includes a rider support feature coupled to a ride vehicle and accessible to a rider positioned in the ride vehicle. The system includes a vibrator with a motor that rotates an eccentric mass to generate vibrations. The vibrator is at least partially integrated with the rider support feature and transfers the vibrations to the rider support feature. An input device receives a vibration intensity selection. A controller couples to the vibrator and to the input device. The controller receives the vibration intensity selection and controls the motor to control an intensity of the vibrations.

Abstract: A user motion apparatus has a track. A motion assembly is movably mounted to the track. A drive member drives the motion assembly along the track. A tolerance accommodation member has a first connector portion fixedly mounted to the motion assembly, a second connector portion fixedly mounted to the drive member, and a third connector portion that extends between the first connector portion and the second connector portion. The third connector portion is movably mounted to a first end of the first connector portion and separately movably mounted to a first end of the second connector portion whereby the first connector portion and the second connector portion are movable relative to one another allowing a distance between the first end of the first connector portion and the first end of the second connector portion to vary thereby accommodating a range of manufacturing tolerances in the track.

Abstract: A method for operating an entertainment attraction includes receiving an input selection from a guest relating to a characteristic of the attraction. The guest creates their guest profile, or by accesses their previously created profile stored in a memory. The profile may be changed by the current input selection made by the guest, with the changed profile stored for the guest's next use of the attraction. If the attraction is a ride, the guest is assigned to a viewing position, an active prop, a seat, or a vehicle of the attraction. The attraction is then operated with the input selection and/or the guest's profile influencing a characteristic of the attraction as perceived by the guest. A mobile application gameplay may unlock specified game features to change the attraction experience. The attraction may alternatively be a theater or game arcade type of attraction.

Abstract: A ride system includes ride vehicles. Each ride vehicle includes a rider support configured to carry a rider, a support actuator coupled to the rider support and a base of the ride vehicle and configured to move the rider support relative to the base, and a ride vehicle movement system integrated with the base and configured to move the ride vehicle relative to a ride area. The ride system also includes a controller configured to control the support actuator and the ride vehicle movement system of each ride vehicle individually based on a choreographed routine and an input received from a selected ride vehicle. The input is indicative of an adjustment to the support actuator, the ride vehicle movement system, or both, of each ride vehicle. The input is based on a correlative adjustment to the support actuator, the ride vehicle movement system, or both, of the selected ride vehicle.

Abstract: A lighted gaming furniture system including a piece of furniture, at least one light, a power source, a sensor, a controller and a gaming system. The gaming system operably linked to the controller. The at least one light is attached to the piece of furniture. The sensor is capable of receiving sound emitted by the gaming system. The controller is operably attaching the power source, the sensor and the at least one light to control illumination of the at least one light.

Abstract: A restraint system for a ride vehicle includes a soft restraint configured to extend across a passenger to secure the passenger within a seat of the ride vehicle. The soft restraint includes a pliable material configured to conform to a substantial portion of a torso of the passenger, and a sensory stimulation system integrated with the soft restraint. The sensory stimulation system is configured to generate sensory effects and impart the sensory forces to the torso of the passenger. The soft restraint also includes an inflatable bladder system integrated with the soft restraint and the inflatable bladder system is configured to inflate with a gas to increase contact between the soft restraint and the torso of the passenger.

Abstract: A method and system are used to control a virtual reality attraction that allows a user to experience virtual reality on the basis of the movements of a machine component onto which a user is boarding and image data displayed through an image component to a user. The method includes generating real image contents including real image data photographed by a user's mobile terminal, and metadata including time data and positional data at the time of photographing the real image data. The real image contents are received by the virtual reality attraction as control contents. The virtual reality attraction is controlled to drive the movement of the machine component on the basis of the metadata and at the same time synchronously display the real image data on the image component on the basis of the metadata.

Abstract: A hotel or motel room incorporates special effects in accordance with a particular theme (e.g., haunted room). A control room provides a concealed area for personnel and/or automated systems to trigger the special effects which may include, but are limited to shaking, rattling, rumbling, pepper ghosts, water fixtures being activated, thunder and lightning, swapping tiles with digital graphics, turning on a TV, clock or light, etc. Heat sensors, weight sensors, floor mats and/or other sensors determine positions of guests in the hotel and hotel rooms thereby allowing the automatic or manual triggering of the special effects.

Abstract: A multi-axis manipulator in the form of a robotic arm includes a safety disc (41) and safety collar (42) at one or more of the pivoting joints (14, 17, 19, 21, 23) thereof. The disc and collar define a small running clearance in normal use, but make contact in the event of excessive wear or failure of the rotary bearing at the respective joint. An inspection window (48) permits the running clearance to be checked, and the collar may comprise a caliper brake.

Abstract: A motion simulation system includes actuators having a planetary gearbox engaged with and driven by a servomotor engaged with a crank. A connector rod is engaged with the crank of each actuator, and engaged with a platform configured to attach to a vehicle. A control system is operable with each electric servo motor of each actuator for delivering control for providing a simulated motion to the top plate. Control data is sent to the servomotors using a msec data send and receive rate, with internal processing within the nano-second range. Such update rates coupled with a real time, dynamically responsive motion controller results in a desirably smooth and accurate simulator motion. The control system includes a washout filter for transforming input forces and rotational movements. One to six degrees of freedom systems having smooth performance with high payload capability are provided.

Abstract: There is provided a method for converting a computer game into a real-life simulation environment comprising receiving metadata defining virtual features and a virtual layout, matching the virtual features to simulation features of the real-life simulation environment, mapping the virtual layout onto the real-life simulation environment, and compiling those results as data corresponding to a real-life simulation of the computer game.

Abstract: An open chamber of predetermined size and shape is positioned within a pool bed so as to contain interconnected clusters of interconnected telescopic modules which occupy the chamber area. Each of the telescopic modules is independently extended and retracted in length vertically by the increase or decrease of the volume of water contained within a bellows, establishing in selected telescopic modules a specific reef size, shape, and orientation. When kinetic-energy is introduced upstream from a source, the kinetic-energy within the water passes over the reef, and generates a wave having specific features resulting from the properties of the specific reef configuration.

Abstract: A people moving system having a people pod and a cable support system attached to the people pod. The cable support system supports the people pod in the air and includes cables that are each connected at one end to the people pod and each connected to their own respective motor/winch system at the other ends. A computer control system is in signal communication with the motor/winch systems and allows the same to move the people pod in three (3) dimensions.

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 suspended flying rig system including a plurality of cables attached to a load support. In response to retraction and/or deployment of at least one of the plurality of cables, motion is provided generally within a three-dimensional working space to the load support. The motion includes at least six degrees of freedom.

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: A seat assembly comprises a plurality of stabilizing members mounted to a base. A passenger support member is moveably mounted along the plurality of stabilizing members. A plurality of spaced apart inflatable actuators are drivingly connected to the passenger support member.

Abstract: A robot for virtual reality experience, in which a settling body for a user is moved in multidirectional according to operation states of first and second moving units and first and second crank motors. The settling body creates various moving directions according to the operation states of the first and second moving units and the first and second crank motors, and each magnitude of forces applied to each moving direction is changed, thereby forming the various waveforms.

Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed for a guidance application capable of coordinating the interior features of a vehicle (e.g., the heating/cooling system, automatic windows, automatic seats, automatic sunroof, seat heaters, etc.) to produce the current environmental conditions (e.g., sunshine, heat, wind, etc.) displayed in a media asset being accessed in the vehicle.

Abstract: An infant care apparatus includes a base; a drive mechanism disposed on the base; a controller electronically coupled to the drive mechanism; and a support device coupled to the drive mechanism. The support device is configured to be moved in both a horizontal and vertical direction relative to the base by the drive mechanism. The drive mechanism is controlled by the controller to move the support device in a plurality of motion profiles relative to the base.

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 present document describes a device and method for synchronizing a motion signal corresponding to a media content with a media signal for the media content, the motion signal being for controlling a motion feedback system. The method comprises: receiving a portion of the media signal; obtaining a fingerprint corresponding to the received portion of the media signal; from reference fingerprints associated with time positions of at least one reference media content, identifying a reference time position of the media content corresponding to the obtained fingerprint; obtaining the motion signal associated with the identified reference time position of the media content; and outputting the motion signal synchronized with the media signal using the identified reference time position of the media content for controlling the motion feedback system.

Abstract: A dynamic simulator includes a carrying platform, a movable platform, a load carrying seat, a first actuator pivotally coupled to carrying platform, and a second actuator pivotally coupled to movable platform, and an included angle is formed between the first actuator and the carrying platform, and an included angle is formed between the second actuator and the load carrying seat, and an included angle is formed between the second actuator and the first actuator, so as to simplify the dynamic simulator.

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: This new invented mechanism is geometrically defined by two concentric tetrahedrons. Four motors are mounted onto the four vertexes of an outer tetrahedron frame. Four outer arc-links which are driven by these motors are pivotally connected with another four inner arc-links which are pivoted by four vertexes of an inner tetrahedron frame. This mechanism not only extends the range in pitch, roll and yaw three rotational DoF for enlarging the limits of Stewart 6-axis motion platform but also increases two translational DoF for improving the shortage of gimbals type multi-ring mechanism. This mechanism can simulate high maneuvering motion (ex. Barrel roll or fast spin) as high-speed vehicles (ex. fighter or roller coaster) can to stimulate passengers with virtual-but-real and shocked-but-exciting sensation. This mechanism will be chosen as a motion platform or a space orientating mechanism for a theme park game machine or a military fighter trainer.

Abstract: The combination of a truly realistic three dimensional real image in color and a second device to produce a repetitive passage of a solid object through the real image creates the illusion of one solid body passing through another. A simple method of accomplishing this is to mount a clock with a pendulum over or under the image and allow a pendulum end to pass periodically through the real image. Other means such as a device running on a circular track could accomplish the same illusory effect. The pendulum end or the device can take various forms as can the real image. In principle the designs are not limited in size. The invention creates an exciting visual and illusory moment of a second object passing through an apparently solid object.

Abstract: A lateral dynamic simulation device includes a positioning platform (1), a motor mechanism (2) and a carriage (3). The positioning platform (1) has an upright positioned arm (10). The motor mechanism (2) has multiple degrees of freedom and comprises a base (20), a platform (21) and a plurality of stretchable bars (22) to join the base (20) and the platform (21) by the universal joints (220). The carriage (3) has a space (30) at the frontal portion for carrying passengers and a back portion (31) at the rear portion. The base (20) of the motor mechanism (2) is fixed to the arm (10) of the positioning platform (1) and the platform (21) of the motor mechanism (2) is fixed to the back portion (31) of the carriage (3).

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 current application describes a motion ride method for producing a quick and powerful linear acceleration of a passenger vehicle within a confined space. This solves a current problem in fields of roller coasters, motion simulators, and similar thrill rides, of which there is a contending requisite of spatial and temporal resources that limits motion and simulator parameters. The 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.

Abstract: A seat assembly comprises a plurality of stabilizing members mounted to a base. A passenger support member is moveably mounted along the plurality of stabilizing members. A plurality of spaced apart inflatable actuators are drivingly connected to the passenger support member.

Abstract: A lateral dynamic simulation device includes a positioning platform (1), a motor mechanism (2) and a carriage (3). The positioning platform (1) has an upright positioned arm (10). The motor mechanism (2) has multiple degrees of freedom and comprises a base (20), a platform (21) and a plurality of stretchable bars (22) to join the base (20) and the platform (21) by the universal joints (220). The carriage (3) has a space (30) at the frontal portion for carrying passengers and a back portion (31) at the rear portion. The base (20) of the motor mechanism (2) is fixed to the arm (10) of the positioning platform (1) and the platform (21) of the motor mechanism (2) is fixed to the back portion (31) of the carriage (3).

Abstract: The present invention is a mechanical ride that simulates riding an actual rodeo bull. simulator, which provides a rider a simulation of an rodeo bull ride. The ride includes a track, a sled to move the ride along the track, and a mechanical body affixed to the sled. The mechanical body includes a plurality of actuators and motors that simulate the bucking, rotating, lunging, pitching, and tilting movement of an actual rodeo bull. The simulated movements are performed at the same time as the ride moving along the track.

Abstract: Systems, devices, apparatus and methods of using a simulator cabin module with an interior space which replicates a space ship, where the simulator module is mounted in a real aircraft, as a real airborne simulator. The aircraft lifts off to provide airborne maneuvers such as parabolic flight paths to cause G force and zero gravity effects to passengers in the cabin module. The cabin module includes rows of seats where passengers experience realistic sounds, lights, different temperatures, and physical effects (vibrations) of space ship liftoffs and space travel by having realistic simulation effects distributed over the seated passengers. Passengers can be seated in special reclinable seats with 5 point harnesses and pilot helmets with operable wireless communications and uniforms to add to the realistic simulation effects. Simulator modules can also be mounted in other moving vehicles, such as but not limited to submersibles, ships, and the like.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a simulator comprising at least one projector arranged to project an image, and a non-spherical, generally continuous, dome-like projection surface on which the image is displayed.

Abstract: An infant care apparatus includes a base; a drive mechanism disposed on the base; a controller electronically coupled to the drive mechanism; and a support device coupled to the drive mechanism. The support device is configured to be moved in both a horizontal and vertical direction relative to the base by the drive mechanism. The drive mechanism is controlled by the controller to move the support device in a plurality of motion profiles relative to the base.

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 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 method of providing a simulated bull ride includes guiding a rider to sit on an artificial bull in a bull chute, translating the artificial bull out of the chute along a slidably-coupled track and pivoting the artificial bull about a plurality of pivot points on an internal frame to simulate a bucking bull.

Abstract: A motion-based system includes one or more passenger units, gimbaled about three axes, movably attached to arms or slots in a planar system extending radially from a central hub. The passenger units may be positioned along the arms any distance from the central hub thereby providing means for varying forces to be exerted thereon while maintaining a constant rotational speed. The mobile passenger units further provide means for loading and unloading subjects during operation of the system. The means includes passenger units being moved to the central hub location where they are disengaged from the rotating system and safely loaded and unloaded. Computers control the rotational speed of the system and the movements of the passenger units about at least three axes based on inputted or real-time data. The data can simulate real events, be arbitrarily developed or be based on real time events. The motion-based system has both training and amusement purposes.