CA2075122A1 - Multiple participant moving vehicle shooting gallery - Google Patents
Multiple participant moving vehicle shooting galleryInfo
- Publication number
- CA2075122A1 CA2075122A1 CA002075122A CA2075122A CA2075122A1 CA 2075122 A1 CA2075122 A1 CA 2075122A1 CA 002075122 A CA002075122 A CA 002075122A CA 2075122 A CA2075122 A CA 2075122A CA 2075122 A1 CA2075122 A1 CA 2075122A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- vehicle
- targets
- simulated
- track
- participant
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- A63F9/00—Games not otherwise provided for
- A63F9/02—Shooting or hurling games
- A63F9/0291—Shooting or hurling games with a simulated projectile, e.g. an image on a screen
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F41—WEAPONS
- F41G—WEAPON SIGHTS; AIMING
- F41G3/00—Aiming or laying means
- F41G3/26—Teaching or practice apparatus for gun-aiming or gun-laying
- F41G3/2616—Teaching or practice apparatus for gun-aiming or gun-laying using a light emitting device
- F41G3/2622—Teaching or practice apparatus for gun-aiming or gun-laying using a light emitting device for simulating the firing of a gun or the trajectory of a projectile
- F41G3/2661—Teaching or practice apparatus for gun-aiming or gun-laying using a light emitting device for simulating the firing of a gun or the trajectory of a projectile in which the light beam is sent from the target to the weapon
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
- G09B—EDUCATIONAL OR DEMONSTRATION APPLIANCES; APPLIANCES FOR TEACHING, OR COMMUNICATING WITH, THE BLIND, DEAF OR MUTE; MODELS; PLANETARIA; GLOBES; MAPS; DIAGRAMS
- G09B9/00—Simulators for teaching or training purposes
- G09B9/02—Simulators for teaching or training purposes for teaching control of vehicles or other craft
- G09B9/04—Simulators for teaching or training purposes for teaching control of vehicles or other craft for teaching control of land vehicles
- G09B9/05—Simulators for teaching or training purposes for teaching control of vehicles or other craft for teaching control of land vehicles the view from a vehicle being simulated
Abstract
MULTIPLE PARTICIPANT MOVING
VEHICLE SHOOTING GALLERY
ABSTRACT
An interactive system that employs moving vehicles in which participants ride and from which they engage computer-generated pop-up and prepositioned simulatedtargets using simulated weapons. The vehicle carries the participants a predetermined distance using a track or trough-guidance mechanism through a covered and darkened path as they engage the simulated targets. Each participant operates independently of the others and engages targets that are displayed during travel along the track. The participants occupy seats having safety restraints, and operate a fixed, swivel-based simulated weapon and sight it to fixed targets having predetermined locations and to the targets generated by a computer in accordance with a preselected scenario. Each vehicle has a transponder that provides continual broadcasts of location and game data.
This coordinated data specifically locates a moving eyepoint so that the portrayed scenes can be made geometrically correct. This also gives the illusion of 3-D depth through perspective and parallax effects.
VEHICLE SHOOTING GALLERY
ABSTRACT
An interactive system that employs moving vehicles in which participants ride and from which they engage computer-generated pop-up and prepositioned simulatedtargets using simulated weapons. The vehicle carries the participants a predetermined distance using a track or trough-guidance mechanism through a covered and darkened path as they engage the simulated targets. Each participant operates independently of the others and engages targets that are displayed during travel along the track. The participants occupy seats having safety restraints, and operate a fixed, swivel-based simulated weapon and sight it to fixed targets having predetermined locations and to the targets generated by a computer in accordance with a preselected scenario. Each vehicle has a transponder that provides continual broadcasts of location and game data.
This coordinated data specifically locates a moving eyepoint so that the portrayed scenes can be made geometrically correct. This also gives the illusion of 3-D depth through perspective and parallax effects.
Description
- 2~122 MULTIPLE PARTICIPANT MOVING
VEHICLE SHOOTING GALLERY
BACKGROUND
The present invention relates generally to theme park rides, and more particu-larly, to a multiple participant moving vehicle shooting gallery system employing simu-lated computer-generated interactive video.
Shooting gallery type activities are not new to the entertainment business, and 5 certainly not to the amusement park industry. In recent years, shopping malls have be-come a location of arnusement park type attractions with both iron rides, such as roller coasters, and the like, and dark rides, such as roller coasters located witllill buildings, wherein the passengers ride in the dark. The advent of these attractions, first installed in the Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Shopping Mall, launched a new concept called a 10 familyentertainmentcenter.
However, heretofore, no conventional amusement park type ride has employed a system wherein participants move through a simulated environment au~d conduct interactive engagements with simulated weapons. Furthermore, no conventional amusement park type ride has provided a varying range of experiences by the nature of 15 changing visual environments, and pseudo teamwork based upon hitting targets.It is therefore an objective of the present invention to provide an interactive,moving, shooting arcade-like game, using various game scenarios whereby participants score virtual hits on targets as they travel the length of the course, by using simulated laser weapons. Another objective of the invention is to provide a ride suitable for use 20 in a theme park, amusement park, or a family entertainment center.
20~2~
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance wi~h these and other objectives and features of tlle inven~ion, ~lere is provided an in~erac~ive, mul~iple participant, networked sys~em that comprises a set of moving (real-time) vehicles iUI whicll participants ride and fiom which they 5 engage computer-generated pop-up and prepositioned f1xed targets using simulated laser weapons.
More particularly, the present invention is a multiple participant moving vehicle sllooting gallery system that comprises an enclosed track adapted to move a vehicle through a path illuminated by a story line projection. At least one vehicle is disposed 10 on the track that includes a seat for accommodating a participant7 a fixed, swivel-based simulated weapon that is actuatable by the participant, and a first communica~ion device for communicating data and control information to and fiom the vehicle.
The system includes a projection system comprising a plurality of rear-screen projectors and a plurality of speakers disposed adjacent the track. A plurality of pro-15 jection screens are disposed adjacent the track between the projectors and the vehicle.Tlle projectors are adapted to project images onto the screens that comprise simula~ed targets, and the plurality of speakers are adapted to project sound in conjunc~ion with the projected images.
The system further includes a control station comprising a computer, a real-time20 graphics computer, a sound system including a sound processor coupled to ~le plural-ity of speakers, and a second communication device for communicating data and con-trol information to the first communication device. The computer, real-time graphics computer, and sound system control the projection of images and sound representative of the simulated targets to which the participants respond. The computer controls the 25 movement of the vehicle along the track, and processes hits and rnisses scored by the participants in response to operation of the weapon.
The system may also include a plurality of fixed targets disposed adjacent the track and plurality of projections screens that are controllable by the control station.
The vehicle may further comprise a plurality of vehicle actuators that are adapted to 30 control movement of the vehicle in response to control signals provided by the control station that correspond to the engagement of the targets by the participant. The simulat-ed weapon may further comprise a laser diode adapted to detect predetermined light levels located iUI the projected images that are indicative of a hit on the target in the vicinity of the predetermined light levels when a trigger is depressed, and which is 35 adapted to generate a signal indicative of hits and misses that is commullicable to the central station by the first communication device.
207~22 Thc present hnvention comprises a system that requires travel hn a vehicle, suchas a train, boat, simulated plane, bus, or truck, etc. As such, the vehicle c~uTies the par~icipants a predetermined dis~lce as they engage simulated targets. Tlle travel is ~hrough covered and darkened paths. Each participant opera.tes hldependen~ly of lhe others and engages targets of opportunity that are displayed during the ride. The partic-ipants occupy seats having safety restraints and operate the simulated weapon by sight-ing it at the targets generated by a computer in accordance with a preselected scenario.
Vehicles are dispatched in accordance with a system operation plan tllat allows multiple vehicles operating at the same time as througllput requirements dictale. Each vehicle has a transponder that provides continual broadcasts of location and game data.
This coordinated data specifically locates a movhlg eyepohnt so that the por~rayed scenes can be made geometrically correct. In this way, images are synchroni~ed to the movement of the vehicles, and whereby the images appear stationary relative to the movhng vehicles. This also gives the illusion of 3-D depth through perspective and parallax effects.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The various features and advantages of the present invention may be more read-ily understood with reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like struc-tural elements, and in which:
Fig. 1 shows a pictorial diagram of a multiple participant, moving vehicle shooting gallery in accordance with the principles of the present invention;
Fig. 2 provides an overview of the power and data network employed in the multiple participant, moving vehicle shooting gallery of Fig. 1;
Fig. 3 is a system block diagram of the multiple participant, moving vehicle shooting gallery of Fig. 1;
Fig. 4a-4c show several views of a simulated laser cannon employed in the rnultiple participant, moving vehicle shooting gallery of Fig. 1;
Fig. 5 shows a typical operating embodiment of the multiple participant, moving vehicle shooting gallery of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring to the drawing figures, Fig. 1 shows a multiple participant moving vehicle shooting gallery system 10 in accordance with the present invention. Thesystem 10 comprises a travel path 11 or track 11, a plurality of vehicles 12, a plurality of projectors 13, a plurality of translucent projection screens 14, a plurality of story line images 15 projected onto the screens illustrated by various sllading in the drawing, a plurality of f xed targets 16, and a control station 17. Each of the individual story Ihlc images 15 are represented by a different cross hatching or sl ading in Fig. 1. The fixed targets 16 are typically incorporated in the back-projected screens 14.
S The control station 17 comprises a computer, a real time graphics computer, and a sound processor, and a data link 18 that communicate with each of the vehicles 12 by way of a transponder located in each of the vehicles 12. The control station 17 also includes power and control cabling 19 that comprises a power and data network 19, that is coupled to the plurality of projectors 13, the fixed targets 16 and to the track 11 in order to control movement and operation of the plurality of vehicles 12. Each of the vehicles 12 is shown llaving a plurality of simulated cannon weapons 21.
The plurality of projectors 13 are adapted to project images lS onto the screens14 in a controlled manner under control of the control station 17. The image projection is achieved so that the particular story line flows along with a corresponding one of tlle vellicles 12 as it moves along the track 11. The story line images 15 change at selected time or distance intervals as will be detailed below.
Fig. 2 provides an overview of the power and data network 19 employed in tlle multiple participant, moving vehicle shooting gallery of Fig. 1. Fig. 2 provides an overview of the power and data network 19 highligllting the cabling l9a, l9b and data link transponders 22 in each vellicle 12. The transponders 22 in tlle vehicles 12 and the data link 18 in the control s~ation 17 may be conventional RF, UHF, or fiber optic type transponders, for example.
Fig. 3 is a system block diagram of the multiple participant, moving vehicle shooting gallery system 10 of Fig. 1. The system 10 illustrates the central control station 17 which compAses a portion of a sound system that includes a sound processor 24b and a plurality of speakers 26, and a video processor. Both processors 24a, 24b are controlled by a computer 23. The control station also includes an end-of-ride display 27 whose output is controlled by the computer 23.
Fig. 3 shows the electrical and mechanical components of the vehicle 12, its actuators 25, and simulated cannon weapons 21. The relationship between the vehicle 12, the projection screens 14, the projectors 13, and the fixed targets 16 is illustrated.
The fixed targets 16 may be masked by off-axis covers 28, compAsing louvered plas-tic, such as Lexan, for example, much like the lenses on traffic lights. The relationship between the fixed targets 16, the projection screens 14 and the projectors 13 is illustrat-ed. Data comrnunicated by way of the data data link 18 to and from the transponder 22 in the vehicle is shown. The data that is typically communicated between the vehicles 12 asld the central station 17 include: weapon number, target number (hit or miss), 2~7~122 sound cues, vehicle number vehicle actuator movement data and vehicle location data.
This data is processed in a conventional manner to control the movement of tlle vehicle 12 and the actuators 25, and process and display target engagement informaLioll for each of the vehicles 12.
S More specifically, the vehicle 12 comprises the plurality of simulated cannon weapons 21, typically arranged back-to-back, with a total of eight cannon weapons per vehicle 12, for example. The plurality of actuators 25 are disposed relative to seats in wllich the participants sit and are adapted to move the vehicle and/or seats in response to occurrences iUl the story line and hits and missis as a result of firing the simulated cannon weapon 21.
The control station 17 comprises a computer 23, that is coupled to a video processor 24a and a sound processor 24b, and the data link 18. The control station 17 communicates by means of a transponder 29 with each of the vehicles 12 by way of the trau~sponder æ located in each of the vehicles 12. The control station 17 also includes the end-of-ride display 27 that is adapted to provide scoring inforn~ation auld rcwards or prizes to the passengers at the end of the ride.
Fig. 4a-4c show top, side and rear views of the simulated laser cannon weapon 21 employed in the multiple participant, moving vehicle shooting 10 gallery of Fig. 1.
The simulated cannon weapon 21 comprises a pedestal 39 through which a cable l9cpasses that is part of the power and data network 19 is passed to provide power and scoring information. The simulated cannon weapon 21 includes a scoring mechanism36 or shot counter, a photo diode 31 or a light pens, for example, that is used to simu-late a laser beam, and a trigger 37. Front and rear sights 40a, 40b are provided for the purpose of aiming the simulated cannon weapon 21. Shot count is displayed on thescoring mechanism 36 on the face of the simulated cannon weapon 21 for the partici-pant to see. The cannon may be reloaded at the discretion of the theme park as an option through the use of appropriate software control. Power for the cannon weapon 21 is provided by way of the cabling l9c. The simulated cannon weapon 21 has a range of motion controlled by safety apparatus (stops, for example) and has the ability to turn toward the target. The range of motion may typically be 30 degrees in elevation and 60 degrees in azimuth, for example.
Fig. 5 shows a typical operating embodiment of the multiple participant, mov-ing vehicle shooting gallery system 10 of the present invention. The system 10 is shown moving along the traclc 11 within a darkened pathway. Two projectors 13 are shown located behind the projection screens 14. Two fixed targets 16 are shown dis-posed in front of the projection screens 14. The transponder 22 located in tlle vehicle 12 is also shown.
l2~ 2 More specifically, the present invention comprises a system 10 that is a moving amusement park ride that requires the travel in the vehicle 12, wllicll rmay comyrise a train, boat, simulated plane, bus, or truck, etc. As such, the vehicle 12 carries the participants a predetermined distance as they engage simulated targets 16, 1 6a. The S participaults travel through a covered auld illuminated travel path 11. Configura~ion of the system 10 to provide for specified throughput levels is left to the selection of the owner, based on the capacity required. For descriptive purposes of this disclosure, throughput has been optimized at 1000 persons per llour with maximum use of cent~al computer processing and control for both scene generation and safety.
The vehicle 12 travels along a predetennined guided lengtll of track 11, for example. However, other vehicle propagation techniques may be employed, such as by water movement systems, and the like. The vehicles 12 are dispatched in accor-dance with a system operation plan that allows for multiple vehicles 12 operating at the same time as throughput requirements dictate. For example, with a track length of 3000 feet, operating 8 persons per vehicle 12, and a safety factor of 20 sec between cars, at a fixed rate of 4.8 mph, and 85% efficiency, a throughput of 850 participants per hour is achieved using twenty vehicles 12 on the track 11 at any given time.Each vehicle 12 has an annunciator 22a that is part of its transponder 22 that provides continual broadcasts of location and game data This coordinated data specifi-20 cally locates a moving eyepoint 38 so that portrayed scenes of the story line images 15are made geometrically correct from the pardcipants viewpoint. This also gives the illusion of 3-D depth through perspecdve and parallax effects.
Each participant has a specified field-of-play, defined by the participant's field of view, whereby a participant using the sirnulated cannon weapon 22 engages tlle 25 simulated targets 16a that are provided by computer generated images 15 displayed on the back-projected projection screens 14. The fixed targets 16 are images that are gen-erated in front of the projection screens 14. For the purpose of this description there are two types of targets: fixed 16 and pop-up 16a. All fixed targets 16 may be masked by the off-axis covers or lenses 28, much like the lenses on traffic lights. The covers 30 create a parallax phenomena and are engaged only in very narrow fields of play. There-fore, scoring is higller, giving the participants the feeling that they llad achieved a diffi-cult objective. Pop-up or moving targets 16a are featured as part of the back-projected video story and may be engaged by several of the participants simultaneously.
The targets 16, 16a are successfully engaged when the photo diode 31 (simulat-35 ed laser beam) detects specifically predetermined pixels of the action sequence (locatedat the targets 16a) on the screen 14, or from the lighted areas of the fixed targets 16.
The cannon weapon 21 activates a scoring mechanism 36 or shot counter when an aim 2~73~22 point 35 of the photo diode 31 (simulated laser beam) fits within a specified field of detection and a trigger 37 is engaged. Participants are assigned color-coded c~l~lons at the beginning of the ride. In tl is way, successful engagement of tlle hxed or pop-up targets 16, 16a is shown by a puff of colored smoke corresponding to the color assign-5 ed to their weapon 21. Shot count is regulated whereby the participant may run out ofshootillg capacity before the end of the ride. Shot count is provided on scoring mech-anism 36 or shot counter on the face of the simulated cannon weapon 21 for the partici-pant to see. Power for tl e vehicle 12 is provided from the track 11 by way of cabling l9c in a manner substantially similar to conventional bumper cars.
To ensure that in general, participants do not memorize the system 10, and to give a large variety to the gamesmanship, there are, for example, seven (7) scenarios.
Each is projected at the same time to seven different screens/walls, or the like. As the participants move through the system 10 they encounter all seven stories. At preselect-ed times, for example, daily, the scenarios rotate to another screen and their sequence 5 changes, as outlined in Table 1 below. The story lines remain the same.
Table 1- Story Scramble STORY A B C D E F G
Tlle vehicle 12 travels at 4.8 mph (akin to a slow trot) by its own electric motor 32. The system 10 is subject to motion cueing changes in pitch and roll induced by the 25 story line through air actuators 25 installed at the corners of each vehicle 12. There are numerous curves along the track 11 to maximize usage of limited real estate. Safety sensors 33 ensure crash avoidance and easy slowing for turns, and for stopping at the end of the ride.
Data from the system 10 is gatllered in real-time from the cannon weapons 21, 30 passed through the cabling 19 or a fiber-optic network to the transmitter portion of the transponder 22 installed on tl e vehicle 12. Data, which includes vehicle 12, cannon 21, and target identification, assigned color, vehicle location, hit/miss, shot count, and sound cue is then transmitted to a receiver portion of the transponder 29 at the central data and control processing center 17 whereby real-time effects are induced into the 35 computer generated story. Additionally, vehicle scores are calculated and summariæd for display at the end of the ride. Individual scores are summariæd at the end of the ride at the cannon weapon 21 and, by use of a cash register type system, printed onto a 2~7~2 card that is dispensed before the participant releases his or her safety belt. The summa-ry score for the vehicle 12, displayed at the end of the ride, is identified to that vehicle 12 by the broadcast.
The present invention provides vehicle seating for a selected number of passen-S gers, each of wllich operate the simulated laser cannon weapon 21 and interactively engage the targets 16, 16a during a 410 sec (approximately 7 min) ride through varying simulated environments. The participants score points for each successful engagement of varying fixed and scenario driven pop-up targets 16, 16a. At the end of the ride they are awarded a paper card souvenir of their score. Additionally before disembarking, the total score of the ride, and/or individual scores are displayed for all participants to see. Relative merit is also displayed, relating to standard values, such as: 1000 or more points equals a gold medal or free trip to another ride, 999-850 allows the crew passage on a selected ride, etc.
An exarnple of the end-of-ride summary is shown below:
Total Points Prize Arriving Vehicle: Rough-Seas 751 Tar 'n Feathers today's high score Cruiser-1 1140 Trip to Stapler Galaxy Provisions to display the participants name at an "End-of-Ride Display" may be easily adapted and is optional.
Since the entire ride is in a darkened surrounding, dark adaptation for the partic-ipants is a feature of a queuing effort. Participants en route to their vehicles 12 pass through several rooms or pathways (not shown) having continually reduced lighting.
During their trip the participants are exposed to the nature and objective of the game through video displays and audio broadcasts. Story lines for pregame activities are the responsibility of the park or fun center, since there also is the opportunity for commer-cial advertising. By the time the participants reach the game area they will have passed from dayligllt (approximately 5-20 foot Lamberts) to dark adaptation (approximately 1 foot Lamberts). Thus, the ambient brightness of the display is decreased from the brightness level at tlle beginning of the ride to an eff1cient level somewhat into the ride.
The projection system, comprising the projectors 13 and projection screens 14, is an adaptation of an invention disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No., filed August 10, 1990, entitled "Rear Projection Faceted Dome", assigned to the assignee of the present invention. In the present invention, the stories are displayed by use of a system providing computer generated video images to strategically placed projectors 13 throughout the ride. The images are displayed on a rear projection faceted dome which uses a translucent rear-projection screen l4. Each screen 14 is overlapping in which distortion effects are easily corrected and edge 2 ~ 7 ~
matcl~ g is easily implemented. The method for projection of the computer genera~ed video in a manner to provide low cost maximum coverage in a low light condi~ion, is contained iul the above-cited patent application, whicll is incorpora~ed hereill by refer-encc. Sound cues are fed, via Lhe da~a link, to stra~egically located speakers 26 adap~ed with an sound system known as SRS, developed by the assignee of the present inven-tion, thus providing 3-D directional sound effects. Provisions are made that locate the speakers witllin each vehicle 12 at the request of the customer (theme park operator).
Sample scenario. The following is what a participant experiences in the first part of the ride. For 56 seconds the participant is exposed to a back projection compu~-ed generated story of attacking jungle or generic animals and various environmental threats, such as falling trees, flying volcanic rocks, etc. The participant senses motio of the vehicle 12 and the passing of reference points in the projected story. Fixed tar-gets 16 which are hidden by off-axis lens 28 are exposed for a short time as the vehicle 12 travelled pass the lens 28 allowing the participants to engage them. For each pull of the trigger, a shot count is recorded and the participant is alerted to the shots-left during the course of the game.
As the participant successfully engages the targets 16, 16a, puffs of colored smoke corresponding to the colored cannon weapon 21 are imaged on the screen 14 in the proximity of the target 16, 16a. With fixed targets 16, the colored puffs of smoke are imaged on the screens 14 in the general location of the fixed target 16. When Lhe targets 16,16a are engaged, sound effects are directed at the participant to give a realis-tic effect and, where necessary, Lhe vehicle actuators 25 are engaged imparting a motion change as the scenario warrants. For example, the participant engages a flying volcanic rock. As the rock explodes a corresponding shaking of the surrounding atmosphere, and thus a vehicle jerk or jolt occurs. Because the sound system 10 is directive the fragments of the rock appear to pass over the head of the participant and travel to the rear. After the first 56 seconds the participants experience a 3 sec gray-out as thcy pass from one scenario to the next. This technique continues for each of seven scenarios un-til the ride ends, approximately 7 minutes after the vehicle leaves the loading platform.
Thus there has been described a new and improved a multiple participant mov-ing vehicle shooLing gallery system employing simulated computer-generated interactive video. It is to be understood that the above-described embodiment is merely illustrative of some of the many specific embodiments which represent applicaLions of the princi-ples of the present invenLion. Clearly, numerous and other arrangements can be readily devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention.
VEHICLE SHOOTING GALLERY
BACKGROUND
The present invention relates generally to theme park rides, and more particu-larly, to a multiple participant moving vehicle shooting gallery system employing simu-lated computer-generated interactive video.
Shooting gallery type activities are not new to the entertainment business, and 5 certainly not to the amusement park industry. In recent years, shopping malls have be-come a location of arnusement park type attractions with both iron rides, such as roller coasters, and the like, and dark rides, such as roller coasters located witllill buildings, wherein the passengers ride in the dark. The advent of these attractions, first installed in the Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Shopping Mall, launched a new concept called a 10 familyentertainmentcenter.
However, heretofore, no conventional amusement park type ride has employed a system wherein participants move through a simulated environment au~d conduct interactive engagements with simulated weapons. Furthermore, no conventional amusement park type ride has provided a varying range of experiences by the nature of 15 changing visual environments, and pseudo teamwork based upon hitting targets.It is therefore an objective of the present invention to provide an interactive,moving, shooting arcade-like game, using various game scenarios whereby participants score virtual hits on targets as they travel the length of the course, by using simulated laser weapons. Another objective of the invention is to provide a ride suitable for use 20 in a theme park, amusement park, or a family entertainment center.
20~2~
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance wi~h these and other objectives and features of tlle inven~ion, ~lere is provided an in~erac~ive, mul~iple participant, networked sys~em that comprises a set of moving (real-time) vehicles iUI whicll participants ride and fiom which they 5 engage computer-generated pop-up and prepositioned f1xed targets using simulated laser weapons.
More particularly, the present invention is a multiple participant moving vehicle sllooting gallery system that comprises an enclosed track adapted to move a vehicle through a path illuminated by a story line projection. At least one vehicle is disposed 10 on the track that includes a seat for accommodating a participant7 a fixed, swivel-based simulated weapon that is actuatable by the participant, and a first communica~ion device for communicating data and control information to and fiom the vehicle.
The system includes a projection system comprising a plurality of rear-screen projectors and a plurality of speakers disposed adjacent the track. A plurality of pro-15 jection screens are disposed adjacent the track between the projectors and the vehicle.Tlle projectors are adapted to project images onto the screens that comprise simula~ed targets, and the plurality of speakers are adapted to project sound in conjunc~ion with the projected images.
The system further includes a control station comprising a computer, a real-time20 graphics computer, a sound system including a sound processor coupled to ~le plural-ity of speakers, and a second communication device for communicating data and con-trol information to the first communication device. The computer, real-time graphics computer, and sound system control the projection of images and sound representative of the simulated targets to which the participants respond. The computer controls the 25 movement of the vehicle along the track, and processes hits and rnisses scored by the participants in response to operation of the weapon.
The system may also include a plurality of fixed targets disposed adjacent the track and plurality of projections screens that are controllable by the control station.
The vehicle may further comprise a plurality of vehicle actuators that are adapted to 30 control movement of the vehicle in response to control signals provided by the control station that correspond to the engagement of the targets by the participant. The simulat-ed weapon may further comprise a laser diode adapted to detect predetermined light levels located iUI the projected images that are indicative of a hit on the target in the vicinity of the predetermined light levels when a trigger is depressed, and which is 35 adapted to generate a signal indicative of hits and misses that is commullicable to the central station by the first communication device.
207~22 Thc present hnvention comprises a system that requires travel hn a vehicle, suchas a train, boat, simulated plane, bus, or truck, etc. As such, the vehicle c~uTies the par~icipants a predetermined dis~lce as they engage simulated targets. Tlle travel is ~hrough covered and darkened paths. Each participant opera.tes hldependen~ly of lhe others and engages targets of opportunity that are displayed during the ride. The partic-ipants occupy seats having safety restraints and operate the simulated weapon by sight-ing it at the targets generated by a computer in accordance with a preselected scenario.
Vehicles are dispatched in accordance with a system operation plan tllat allows multiple vehicles operating at the same time as througllput requirements dictale. Each vehicle has a transponder that provides continual broadcasts of location and game data.
This coordinated data specifically locates a movhlg eyepohnt so that the por~rayed scenes can be made geometrically correct. In this way, images are synchroni~ed to the movement of the vehicles, and whereby the images appear stationary relative to the movhng vehicles. This also gives the illusion of 3-D depth through perspective and parallax effects.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The various features and advantages of the present invention may be more read-ily understood with reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like struc-tural elements, and in which:
Fig. 1 shows a pictorial diagram of a multiple participant, moving vehicle shooting gallery in accordance with the principles of the present invention;
Fig. 2 provides an overview of the power and data network employed in the multiple participant, moving vehicle shooting gallery of Fig. 1;
Fig. 3 is a system block diagram of the multiple participant, moving vehicle shooting gallery of Fig. 1;
Fig. 4a-4c show several views of a simulated laser cannon employed in the rnultiple participant, moving vehicle shooting gallery of Fig. 1;
Fig. 5 shows a typical operating embodiment of the multiple participant, moving vehicle shooting gallery of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring to the drawing figures, Fig. 1 shows a multiple participant moving vehicle shooting gallery system 10 in accordance with the present invention. Thesystem 10 comprises a travel path 11 or track 11, a plurality of vehicles 12, a plurality of projectors 13, a plurality of translucent projection screens 14, a plurality of story line images 15 projected onto the screens illustrated by various sllading in the drawing, a plurality of f xed targets 16, and a control station 17. Each of the individual story Ihlc images 15 are represented by a different cross hatching or sl ading in Fig. 1. The fixed targets 16 are typically incorporated in the back-projected screens 14.
S The control station 17 comprises a computer, a real time graphics computer, and a sound processor, and a data link 18 that communicate with each of the vehicles 12 by way of a transponder located in each of the vehicles 12. The control station 17 also includes power and control cabling 19 that comprises a power and data network 19, that is coupled to the plurality of projectors 13, the fixed targets 16 and to the track 11 in order to control movement and operation of the plurality of vehicles 12. Each of the vehicles 12 is shown llaving a plurality of simulated cannon weapons 21.
The plurality of projectors 13 are adapted to project images lS onto the screens14 in a controlled manner under control of the control station 17. The image projection is achieved so that the particular story line flows along with a corresponding one of tlle vellicles 12 as it moves along the track 11. The story line images 15 change at selected time or distance intervals as will be detailed below.
Fig. 2 provides an overview of the power and data network 19 employed in tlle multiple participant, moving vehicle shooting gallery of Fig. 1. Fig. 2 provides an overview of the power and data network 19 highligllting the cabling l9a, l9b and data link transponders 22 in each vellicle 12. The transponders 22 in tlle vehicles 12 and the data link 18 in the control s~ation 17 may be conventional RF, UHF, or fiber optic type transponders, for example.
Fig. 3 is a system block diagram of the multiple participant, moving vehicle shooting gallery system 10 of Fig. 1. The system 10 illustrates the central control station 17 which compAses a portion of a sound system that includes a sound processor 24b and a plurality of speakers 26, and a video processor. Both processors 24a, 24b are controlled by a computer 23. The control station also includes an end-of-ride display 27 whose output is controlled by the computer 23.
Fig. 3 shows the electrical and mechanical components of the vehicle 12, its actuators 25, and simulated cannon weapons 21. The relationship between the vehicle 12, the projection screens 14, the projectors 13, and the fixed targets 16 is illustrated.
The fixed targets 16 may be masked by off-axis covers 28, compAsing louvered plas-tic, such as Lexan, for example, much like the lenses on traffic lights. The relationship between the fixed targets 16, the projection screens 14 and the projectors 13 is illustrat-ed. Data comrnunicated by way of the data data link 18 to and from the transponder 22 in the vehicle is shown. The data that is typically communicated between the vehicles 12 asld the central station 17 include: weapon number, target number (hit or miss), 2~7~122 sound cues, vehicle number vehicle actuator movement data and vehicle location data.
This data is processed in a conventional manner to control the movement of tlle vehicle 12 and the actuators 25, and process and display target engagement informaLioll for each of the vehicles 12.
S More specifically, the vehicle 12 comprises the plurality of simulated cannon weapons 21, typically arranged back-to-back, with a total of eight cannon weapons per vehicle 12, for example. The plurality of actuators 25 are disposed relative to seats in wllich the participants sit and are adapted to move the vehicle and/or seats in response to occurrences iUl the story line and hits and missis as a result of firing the simulated cannon weapon 21.
The control station 17 comprises a computer 23, that is coupled to a video processor 24a and a sound processor 24b, and the data link 18. The control station 17 communicates by means of a transponder 29 with each of the vehicles 12 by way of the trau~sponder æ located in each of the vehicles 12. The control station 17 also includes the end-of-ride display 27 that is adapted to provide scoring inforn~ation auld rcwards or prizes to the passengers at the end of the ride.
Fig. 4a-4c show top, side and rear views of the simulated laser cannon weapon 21 employed in the multiple participant, moving vehicle shooting 10 gallery of Fig. 1.
The simulated cannon weapon 21 comprises a pedestal 39 through which a cable l9cpasses that is part of the power and data network 19 is passed to provide power and scoring information. The simulated cannon weapon 21 includes a scoring mechanism36 or shot counter, a photo diode 31 or a light pens, for example, that is used to simu-late a laser beam, and a trigger 37. Front and rear sights 40a, 40b are provided for the purpose of aiming the simulated cannon weapon 21. Shot count is displayed on thescoring mechanism 36 on the face of the simulated cannon weapon 21 for the partici-pant to see. The cannon may be reloaded at the discretion of the theme park as an option through the use of appropriate software control. Power for the cannon weapon 21 is provided by way of the cabling l9c. The simulated cannon weapon 21 has a range of motion controlled by safety apparatus (stops, for example) and has the ability to turn toward the target. The range of motion may typically be 30 degrees in elevation and 60 degrees in azimuth, for example.
Fig. 5 shows a typical operating embodiment of the multiple participant, mov-ing vehicle shooting gallery system 10 of the present invention. The system 10 is shown moving along the traclc 11 within a darkened pathway. Two projectors 13 are shown located behind the projection screens 14. Two fixed targets 16 are shown dis-posed in front of the projection screens 14. The transponder 22 located in tlle vehicle 12 is also shown.
l2~ 2 More specifically, the present invention comprises a system 10 that is a moving amusement park ride that requires the travel in the vehicle 12, wllicll rmay comyrise a train, boat, simulated plane, bus, or truck, etc. As such, the vehicle 12 carries the participants a predetermined distance as they engage simulated targets 16, 1 6a. The S participaults travel through a covered auld illuminated travel path 11. Configura~ion of the system 10 to provide for specified throughput levels is left to the selection of the owner, based on the capacity required. For descriptive purposes of this disclosure, throughput has been optimized at 1000 persons per llour with maximum use of cent~al computer processing and control for both scene generation and safety.
The vehicle 12 travels along a predetennined guided lengtll of track 11, for example. However, other vehicle propagation techniques may be employed, such as by water movement systems, and the like. The vehicles 12 are dispatched in accor-dance with a system operation plan that allows for multiple vehicles 12 operating at the same time as throughput requirements dictate. For example, with a track length of 3000 feet, operating 8 persons per vehicle 12, and a safety factor of 20 sec between cars, at a fixed rate of 4.8 mph, and 85% efficiency, a throughput of 850 participants per hour is achieved using twenty vehicles 12 on the track 11 at any given time.Each vehicle 12 has an annunciator 22a that is part of its transponder 22 that provides continual broadcasts of location and game data This coordinated data specifi-20 cally locates a moving eyepoint 38 so that portrayed scenes of the story line images 15are made geometrically correct from the pardcipants viewpoint. This also gives the illusion of 3-D depth through perspecdve and parallax effects.
Each participant has a specified field-of-play, defined by the participant's field of view, whereby a participant using the sirnulated cannon weapon 22 engages tlle 25 simulated targets 16a that are provided by computer generated images 15 displayed on the back-projected projection screens 14. The fixed targets 16 are images that are gen-erated in front of the projection screens 14. For the purpose of this description there are two types of targets: fixed 16 and pop-up 16a. All fixed targets 16 may be masked by the off-axis covers or lenses 28, much like the lenses on traffic lights. The covers 30 create a parallax phenomena and are engaged only in very narrow fields of play. There-fore, scoring is higller, giving the participants the feeling that they llad achieved a diffi-cult objective. Pop-up or moving targets 16a are featured as part of the back-projected video story and may be engaged by several of the participants simultaneously.
The targets 16, 16a are successfully engaged when the photo diode 31 (simulat-35 ed laser beam) detects specifically predetermined pixels of the action sequence (locatedat the targets 16a) on the screen 14, or from the lighted areas of the fixed targets 16.
The cannon weapon 21 activates a scoring mechanism 36 or shot counter when an aim 2~73~22 point 35 of the photo diode 31 (simulated laser beam) fits within a specified field of detection and a trigger 37 is engaged. Participants are assigned color-coded c~l~lons at the beginning of the ride. In tl is way, successful engagement of tlle hxed or pop-up targets 16, 16a is shown by a puff of colored smoke corresponding to the color assign-5 ed to their weapon 21. Shot count is regulated whereby the participant may run out ofshootillg capacity before the end of the ride. Shot count is provided on scoring mech-anism 36 or shot counter on the face of the simulated cannon weapon 21 for the partici-pant to see. Power for tl e vehicle 12 is provided from the track 11 by way of cabling l9c in a manner substantially similar to conventional bumper cars.
To ensure that in general, participants do not memorize the system 10, and to give a large variety to the gamesmanship, there are, for example, seven (7) scenarios.
Each is projected at the same time to seven different screens/walls, or the like. As the participants move through the system 10 they encounter all seven stories. At preselect-ed times, for example, daily, the scenarios rotate to another screen and their sequence 5 changes, as outlined in Table 1 below. The story lines remain the same.
Table 1- Story Scramble STORY A B C D E F G
Tlle vehicle 12 travels at 4.8 mph (akin to a slow trot) by its own electric motor 32. The system 10 is subject to motion cueing changes in pitch and roll induced by the 25 story line through air actuators 25 installed at the corners of each vehicle 12. There are numerous curves along the track 11 to maximize usage of limited real estate. Safety sensors 33 ensure crash avoidance and easy slowing for turns, and for stopping at the end of the ride.
Data from the system 10 is gatllered in real-time from the cannon weapons 21, 30 passed through the cabling 19 or a fiber-optic network to the transmitter portion of the transponder 22 installed on tl e vehicle 12. Data, which includes vehicle 12, cannon 21, and target identification, assigned color, vehicle location, hit/miss, shot count, and sound cue is then transmitted to a receiver portion of the transponder 29 at the central data and control processing center 17 whereby real-time effects are induced into the 35 computer generated story. Additionally, vehicle scores are calculated and summariæd for display at the end of the ride. Individual scores are summariæd at the end of the ride at the cannon weapon 21 and, by use of a cash register type system, printed onto a 2~7~2 card that is dispensed before the participant releases his or her safety belt. The summa-ry score for the vehicle 12, displayed at the end of the ride, is identified to that vehicle 12 by the broadcast.
The present invention provides vehicle seating for a selected number of passen-S gers, each of wllich operate the simulated laser cannon weapon 21 and interactively engage the targets 16, 16a during a 410 sec (approximately 7 min) ride through varying simulated environments. The participants score points for each successful engagement of varying fixed and scenario driven pop-up targets 16, 16a. At the end of the ride they are awarded a paper card souvenir of their score. Additionally before disembarking, the total score of the ride, and/or individual scores are displayed for all participants to see. Relative merit is also displayed, relating to standard values, such as: 1000 or more points equals a gold medal or free trip to another ride, 999-850 allows the crew passage on a selected ride, etc.
An exarnple of the end-of-ride summary is shown below:
Total Points Prize Arriving Vehicle: Rough-Seas 751 Tar 'n Feathers today's high score Cruiser-1 1140 Trip to Stapler Galaxy Provisions to display the participants name at an "End-of-Ride Display" may be easily adapted and is optional.
Since the entire ride is in a darkened surrounding, dark adaptation for the partic-ipants is a feature of a queuing effort. Participants en route to their vehicles 12 pass through several rooms or pathways (not shown) having continually reduced lighting.
During their trip the participants are exposed to the nature and objective of the game through video displays and audio broadcasts. Story lines for pregame activities are the responsibility of the park or fun center, since there also is the opportunity for commer-cial advertising. By the time the participants reach the game area they will have passed from dayligllt (approximately 5-20 foot Lamberts) to dark adaptation (approximately 1 foot Lamberts). Thus, the ambient brightness of the display is decreased from the brightness level at tlle beginning of the ride to an eff1cient level somewhat into the ride.
The projection system, comprising the projectors 13 and projection screens 14, is an adaptation of an invention disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No., filed August 10, 1990, entitled "Rear Projection Faceted Dome", assigned to the assignee of the present invention. In the present invention, the stories are displayed by use of a system providing computer generated video images to strategically placed projectors 13 throughout the ride. The images are displayed on a rear projection faceted dome which uses a translucent rear-projection screen l4. Each screen 14 is overlapping in which distortion effects are easily corrected and edge 2 ~ 7 ~
matcl~ g is easily implemented. The method for projection of the computer genera~ed video in a manner to provide low cost maximum coverage in a low light condi~ion, is contained iul the above-cited patent application, whicll is incorpora~ed hereill by refer-encc. Sound cues are fed, via Lhe da~a link, to stra~egically located speakers 26 adap~ed with an sound system known as SRS, developed by the assignee of the present inven-tion, thus providing 3-D directional sound effects. Provisions are made that locate the speakers witllin each vehicle 12 at the request of the customer (theme park operator).
Sample scenario. The following is what a participant experiences in the first part of the ride. For 56 seconds the participant is exposed to a back projection compu~-ed generated story of attacking jungle or generic animals and various environmental threats, such as falling trees, flying volcanic rocks, etc. The participant senses motio of the vehicle 12 and the passing of reference points in the projected story. Fixed tar-gets 16 which are hidden by off-axis lens 28 are exposed for a short time as the vehicle 12 travelled pass the lens 28 allowing the participants to engage them. For each pull of the trigger, a shot count is recorded and the participant is alerted to the shots-left during the course of the game.
As the participant successfully engages the targets 16, 16a, puffs of colored smoke corresponding to the colored cannon weapon 21 are imaged on the screen 14 in the proximity of the target 16, 16a. With fixed targets 16, the colored puffs of smoke are imaged on the screens 14 in the general location of the fixed target 16. When Lhe targets 16,16a are engaged, sound effects are directed at the participant to give a realis-tic effect and, where necessary, Lhe vehicle actuators 25 are engaged imparting a motion change as the scenario warrants. For example, the participant engages a flying volcanic rock. As the rock explodes a corresponding shaking of the surrounding atmosphere, and thus a vehicle jerk or jolt occurs. Because the sound system 10 is directive the fragments of the rock appear to pass over the head of the participant and travel to the rear. After the first 56 seconds the participants experience a 3 sec gray-out as thcy pass from one scenario to the next. This technique continues for each of seven scenarios un-til the ride ends, approximately 7 minutes after the vehicle leaves the loading platform.
Thus there has been described a new and improved a multiple participant mov-ing vehicle shooLing gallery system employing simulated computer-generated interactive video. It is to be understood that the above-described embodiment is merely illustrative of some of the many specific embodiments which represent applicaLions of the princi-ples of the present invenLion. Clearly, numerous and other arrangements can be readily devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention.
Claims (6)
1. A multiple participant moving vehicle shooting gallery system comprising:
an enclosed track adapted to move a vehicle through a darkened path;
a vehicle disposed on the track that comprises means for seating a participant, a simulated weapon that is actuatable by the participant, and first communication means for communicating data and control information to and from the vehicle;
a projection system comprising a plurality of rear-screen projectors and a plurality of speakers disposed adjacent the track, and a plurality of projections screens disposed adjacent the track between the projectors and the vehicle, and wherein the projectors are adapted to project images onto the screens that comprise simulated targets, and wherein the plurality of speakers are adapted to project sound in conjunction with the projected images;
a control station comprising a computer, a video processor, a sound system including a sound processor and the plurality of speakers, and second communication means for communicating data and control information to the first communication means in the vehicle, and for controlling the projection of images and sound representative of the simulated targets to which the participants respond, for controlling the movement of the vehicle along the track, and for processing hits and misses scored by the participants in response to operation of the weapon.
an enclosed track adapted to move a vehicle through a darkened path;
a vehicle disposed on the track that comprises means for seating a participant, a simulated weapon that is actuatable by the participant, and first communication means for communicating data and control information to and from the vehicle;
a projection system comprising a plurality of rear-screen projectors and a plurality of speakers disposed adjacent the track, and a plurality of projections screens disposed adjacent the track between the projectors and the vehicle, and wherein the projectors are adapted to project images onto the screens that comprise simulated targets, and wherein the plurality of speakers are adapted to project sound in conjunction with the projected images;
a control station comprising a computer, a video processor, a sound system including a sound processor and the plurality of speakers, and second communication means for communicating data and control information to the first communication means in the vehicle, and for controlling the projection of images and sound representative of the simulated targets to which the participants respond, for controlling the movement of the vehicle along the track, and for processing hits and misses scored by the participants in response to operation of the weapon.
2. The system of Claim 1 which further comprises:
a plurality of fixed targets disposed adjacent the track and plurality of projection screens that are controllable by the central station.
a plurality of fixed targets disposed adjacent the track and plurality of projection screens that are controllable by the central station.
3. The system of Claim 1 wherein the vehicle further comprises:
a plurality of vehicle actuators that are adapted to control movement of the vehicle in response to control signals provided by the control station that correspond to the engagement of the targets by the participant.
a plurality of vehicle actuators that are adapted to control movement of the vehicle in response to control signals provided by the control station that correspond to the engagement of the targets by the participant.
4. The system of Claim 1 wherein the simulated weapon further comprises:
a laser diode adapted to detect predetermined light levels located in the projected images that are indicative of a hit on the target.
a laser diode adapted to detect predetermined light levels located in the projected images that are indicative of a hit on the target.
5. The system of Claim 1 wherein the simulated weapon further comprises:
a trigger adapted to fire the simulated weapon;
a laser diode adapted to detect predetermined light levels located in the projected images that are indicative of a hit on a target in the vicinity of the predetermined light levels when the trigger is depressed and which is adapted to generate a signal indicative of hits and misses that is communicable to the central station by the first communication means.
a trigger adapted to fire the simulated weapon;
a laser diode adapted to detect predetermined light levels located in the projected images that are indicative of a hit on a target in the vicinity of the predetermined light levels when the trigger is depressed and which is adapted to generate a signal indicative of hits and misses that is communicable to the central station by the first communication means.
6. The system of Claim 1 wherein the vehicle further comprises:
a plurality of speakers disposed adjacent the means for seating the participant.
a plurality of speakers disposed adjacent the means for seating the participant.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US76384791A | 1991-09-23 | 1991-09-23 | |
| US763,847 | 1991-09-23 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2075122A1 true CA2075122A1 (en) | 1993-03-24 |
Family
ID=25068978
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002075122A Abandoned CA2075122A1 (en) | 1991-09-23 | 1992-07-31 | Multiple participant moving vehicle shooting gallery |
Country Status (5)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US5382026A (en) |
| EP (1) | EP0534712B1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JPH0793983B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2075122A1 (en) |
| DE (1) | DE69207134T2 (en) |
Families Citing this family (84)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5320358A (en) * | 1993-04-27 | 1994-06-14 | Rpb, Inc. | Shooting game having programmable targets and course for use therewith |
| GB9406621D0 (en) * | 1994-04-05 | 1994-05-25 | Hasbro Int Inc | Electronic toy or game playing apparatus |
| JPH07275511A (en) * | 1994-04-06 | 1995-10-24 | Sega Enterp Ltd | Attraction development method for shooting game system |
| US5577733A (en) * | 1994-04-08 | 1996-11-26 | Downing; Dennis L. | Targeting system |
| JP3428151B2 (en) * | 1994-07-08 | 2003-07-22 | 株式会社セガ | Game device using image display device |
| US7077581B2 (en) | 1994-08-02 | 2006-07-18 | Media Technologies Licensing Llc | Imaging system and method |
| US7139843B1 (en) | 1995-05-30 | 2006-11-21 | Roy-G-Biv Corporation | System and methods for generating and communicating motion data through a distributed network |
| US7137107B1 (en) | 2003-04-29 | 2006-11-14 | Roy-G-Biv Corporation | Motion control systems and methods |
| US20060206219A1 (en) * | 1995-05-30 | 2006-09-14 | Brown David W | Motion control systems and methods |
| US5691897A (en) * | 1995-05-30 | 1997-11-25 | Roy-G-Biv Corporation | Motion control systems |
| US20100131081A1 (en) * | 1995-05-30 | 2010-05-27 | Brown David W | Systems and methods for motion control |
| US7301558B2 (en) | 1996-02-27 | 2007-11-27 | Media Technologies Licensing, Llc | Imaging system and method |
| US5785592A (en) * | 1996-08-12 | 1998-07-28 | Sarcos, Inc. | Interactive target game system |
| GB2316472A (en) * | 1996-08-19 | 1998-02-25 | Suzanne Dudley | Tirac Pursue |
| TW357101B (en) | 1996-12-17 | 1999-05-01 | Konami Co Ltd | Shooting video game machine and shooting result presentation method |
| JP3297904B2 (en) * | 1997-01-09 | 2002-07-02 | 株式会社 オーヴァ | Individual recognition device for traveling toys using transponder |
| AU6021398A (en) * | 1997-01-16 | 1998-08-07 | Orlo J. Fiske | Amusement vehicle |
| US5984788A (en) * | 1997-06-09 | 1999-11-16 | Toymax Inc. | Interactive toy shooting game having a target with a feelable output |
| US6302796B1 (en) | 1997-02-05 | 2001-10-16 | Toymax Inc. | Player programmable, interactive toy for a shooting game |
| IL121178A (en) | 1997-06-27 | 2003-11-23 | Nds Ltd | Interactive game system |
| US20010032278A1 (en) | 1997-10-07 | 2001-10-18 | Brown Stephen J. | Remote generation and distribution of command programs for programmable devices |
| JPH11272156A (en) * | 1998-03-25 | 1999-10-08 | Sega Enterp Ltd | Virtual three-dimensional sound image generating device and method and medium thereof |
| US6220965B1 (en) | 1998-07-08 | 2001-04-24 | Universal City Studios Inc. | Amusement system |
| JP3990051B2 (en) * | 1998-10-02 | 2007-10-10 | 株式会社バンダイナムコゲームス | GAME DEVICE AND INFORMATION STORAGE MEDIUM |
| WO2000035200A1 (en) | 1998-12-07 | 2000-06-15 | Universal City Studios, Inc. | Image correction method to compensate for point of view image distortion |
| US6264555B1 (en) * | 1999-02-05 | 2001-07-24 | Midway Games, Inc. | Amusement game including video displays not related to the game |
| US20060287030A1 (en) * | 1999-02-26 | 2006-12-21 | Briggs Rick A | Systems and methods for interactive game play |
| US7749089B1 (en) * | 1999-02-26 | 2010-07-06 | Creative Kingdoms, Llc | Multi-media interactive play system |
| US8176520B1 (en) | 2000-01-28 | 2012-05-08 | Rockwell Collins, Inc. | Communication system and method for a mobile platform |
| JP4319302B2 (en) * | 1999-10-20 | 2009-08-26 | 株式会社バンダイナムコゲームス | GAME DEVICE AND CHARACTER OPERATION SETTING METHOD |
| US20100131078A1 (en) * | 1999-10-27 | 2010-05-27 | Brown David W | Event driven motion systems |
| US8032605B2 (en) * | 1999-10-27 | 2011-10-04 | Roy-G-Biv Corporation | Generation and distribution of motion commands over a distributed network |
| US6604064B1 (en) * | 1999-11-29 | 2003-08-05 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Navy | Moving weapons platform simulation system and training method |
| US7599691B1 (en) | 2000-01-28 | 2009-10-06 | Rockwell Collins, Inc. | System and method for internet access on a mobile platform |
| US6741841B1 (en) | 2000-01-28 | 2004-05-25 | Rockwell Collins | Dual receiver for a on-board entertainment system |
| US7500917B2 (en) * | 2000-02-22 | 2009-03-10 | Creative Kingdoms, Llc | Magical wand and interactive play experience |
| US7445550B2 (en) | 2000-02-22 | 2008-11-04 | Creative Kingdoms, Llc | Magical wand and interactive play experience |
| US6761637B2 (en) | 2000-02-22 | 2004-07-13 | Creative Kingdoms, Llc | Method of game play using RFID tracking device |
| US7878905B2 (en) | 2000-02-22 | 2011-02-01 | Creative Kingdoms, Llc | Multi-layered interactive play experience |
| US7066781B2 (en) * | 2000-10-20 | 2006-06-27 | Denise Chapman Weston | Children's toy with wireless tag/transponder |
| WO2002054184A2 (en) * | 2001-01-04 | 2002-07-11 | Roy-G-Biv Corporation | Systems and methods for transmitting motion control data |
| US7904194B2 (en) | 2001-02-09 | 2011-03-08 | Roy-G-Biv Corporation | Event management systems and methods for motion control systems |
| US6796908B2 (en) | 2001-06-14 | 2004-09-28 | Creative Kingdoms, Llc | Interactive dark ride |
| KR20030035670A (en) * | 2001-11-02 | 2003-05-09 | 이애리 | Amusement apparatus applicating the structure of human body |
| US7614958B2 (en) * | 2001-11-16 | 2009-11-10 | Creative Kingdoms, Llc | Interactive quest game |
| DE10209900B4 (en) * | 2002-03-07 | 2004-02-26 | Bke Media Gmbh & Co.Kg | Shooting training system |
| US20040033833A1 (en) * | 2002-03-25 | 2004-02-19 | Briggs Rick A. | Interactive redemption game |
| US20070066396A1 (en) | 2002-04-05 | 2007-03-22 | Denise Chapman Weston | Retail methods for providing an interactive product to a consumer |
| US6967566B2 (en) * | 2002-04-05 | 2005-11-22 | Creative Kingdoms, Llc | Live-action interactive adventure game |
| JP2003334382A (en) * | 2002-05-21 | 2003-11-25 | Sega Corp | Game apparatus, and apparatus and method for image processing |
| US6786830B2 (en) | 2002-06-28 | 2004-09-07 | Koala Corporation | Modular water play structure |
| US7029400B2 (en) * | 2002-08-01 | 2006-04-18 | Creative Kingdoms, Llc | Interactive water attraction and quest game |
| US7674184B2 (en) * | 2002-08-01 | 2010-03-09 | Creative Kingdoms, Llc | Interactive water attraction and quest game |
| US9446319B2 (en) | 2003-03-25 | 2016-09-20 | Mq Gaming, Llc | Interactive gaming toy |
| JP2004302753A (en) * | 2003-03-31 | 2004-10-28 | Public Works Research Institute | River environment image display system |
| US8282498B2 (en) | 2003-08-26 | 2012-10-09 | Publicover Mark W | Play swing systems and methods of play |
| US8027349B2 (en) * | 2003-09-25 | 2011-09-27 | Roy-G-Biv Corporation | Database event driven motion systems |
| US20070022194A1 (en) * | 2003-09-25 | 2007-01-25 | Brown David W | Database event driven motion systems |
| US20060064503A1 (en) * | 2003-09-25 | 2006-03-23 | Brown David W | Data routing systems and methods |
| US20100131077A1 (en) * | 2004-02-25 | 2010-05-27 | Brown David W | Data Collection Systems and Methods for Motion Control |
| US7955168B2 (en) * | 2005-06-24 | 2011-06-07 | Disney Enterprises, Inc. | Amusement ride and video game |
| WO2007047986A1 (en) * | 2005-10-21 | 2007-04-26 | Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation | Method and system for delivering nucleic acid into a target cell |
| CN103223246B (en) | 2006-03-03 | 2015-12-23 | 哈姆游乐设施股份有限公司 | The recreation facility that linear electric motors drive and method |
| CN101443088B (en) * | 2006-04-14 | 2012-04-18 | 美国创意王国公司 | Interactive waterplay apparatus and methods |
| US8669845B1 (en) | 2007-03-30 | 2014-03-11 | Vail Resorts, Inc. | RFID skier monitoring systems and methods |
| US8303406B2 (en) * | 2008-11-24 | 2012-11-06 | Disney Enterprises, Inc. | System and method for providing an augmented reality experience |
| US20100131947A1 (en) * | 2008-11-24 | 2010-05-27 | Disney Enterprises, Inc. | System and method for enabling a local user of a real-life simulation environment to interact with a remote user of a corresponding virtual environment |
| CN103025397A (en) * | 2010-03-30 | 2013-04-03 | 后院休闲控股股份有限公司 | Play system accessory with motion-activated sound module |
| CN102151407A (en) * | 2011-01-27 | 2011-08-17 | 深圳市远望落星山科技有限公司 | Interactive railcar |
| WO2013000090A1 (en) | 2011-06-30 | 2013-01-03 | Hm Attractions Inc. | Motion control system and method for an amusement ride |
| US8578857B2 (en) | 2011-12-08 | 2013-11-12 | Disney Enterprises, Inc. | Amusement park ride with passenger loading separated from vehicle insertion into simulators |
| CN103089037A (en) * | 2013-01-28 | 2013-05-08 | 大连摩尔登科技股份有限公司 | Cinema system capable of movably showing films |
| EP2792394B1 (en) * | 2013-04-16 | 2016-07-27 | Jörg Beutler | Interactive speed control |
| US11960637B2 (en) | 2013-11-11 | 2024-04-16 | Whitewater West Ltd. | Interactive amusement attraction system |
| US11487349B2 (en) * | 2013-11-11 | 2022-11-01 | Whitewater West Industries, Ltd. | Interactive amusement attraction system and method |
| US9873058B2 (en) * | 2014-03-18 | 2018-01-23 | Amusement Products Llc | Ride vehicle and amusement attraction |
| CN104225922B (en) * | 2014-10-16 | 2016-03-30 | 芜湖华强文化科技产业有限公司 | A kind of tunnel type amusement device for experiencing |
| CA3133305A1 (en) | 2014-11-17 | 2016-05-17 | Whitewater West Industries Ltd. | Interactive play center with interactive elements and consequence elements |
| WO2016077913A1 (en) * | 2014-11-17 | 2016-05-26 | Triotech Amusement Inc. | Gaming method and system for projecting volumetric images onto a physical scene |
| CN105031927B (en) * | 2015-06-09 | 2017-08-25 | 万达文化旅游规划研究院有限公司 | The dark riding and carrying device of hanging type chute interaction class |
| US10099149B2 (en) | 2015-10-02 | 2018-10-16 | Universal City Studios Llc | Amusement park ride tunnel |
| US10048043B2 (en) * | 2016-07-12 | 2018-08-14 | Paul Rahmanian | Target carrier with virtual targets |
| US10576388B2 (en) | 2016-11-14 | 2020-03-03 | Whitewater West Industries Ltd. | Play center using structural monoliths for water delivery capabilities |
| CN109876474A (en) * | 2019-02-20 | 2019-06-14 | 北京当红齐天国际文化发展集团有限公司 | A kind of rail mounted viewing system and its control method |
Family Cites Families (12)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3960380A (en) * | 1974-09-16 | 1976-06-01 | Nintendo Co., Ltd. | Light ray gun and target changing projectors |
| GB2029554A (en) * | 1978-09-08 | 1980-03-19 | Brooksby B | Motion picture target apparatus |
| US4349337A (en) * | 1981-07-16 | 1982-09-14 | Pardes Herman I | Marksmanship training system |
| US4680012A (en) * | 1984-07-07 | 1987-07-14 | Ferranti, Plc | Projected imaged weapon training apparatus |
| WO1986005114A1 (en) * | 1985-03-05 | 1986-09-12 | Concorde St. George Productions Pty. Ltd. | Entertainment or amusement structure |
| US4830381A (en) * | 1986-08-15 | 1989-05-16 | Sellner Productions, Inc. | Simulated laser weapon and amusement application therefore |
| NL8802310A (en) * | 1988-09-19 | 1990-04-17 | Vekoma International B V | AMUSEMENT EQUIPMENT. |
| US4976438A (en) * | 1989-03-14 | 1990-12-11 | Namco Ltd. | Multi-player type video game playing system |
| JPH0632700B2 (en) * | 1989-09-29 | 1994-05-02 | 株式会社ナムコ | Amusement device |
| WO1991009268A1 (en) * | 1989-12-11 | 1991-06-27 | Dan Moran | Toy |
| DE3941624A1 (en) * | 1989-12-16 | 1991-06-20 | Nsm Ag | SHOOTING DEVICE |
| JP2564206B2 (en) * | 1990-11-28 | 1996-12-18 | 株式会社セガ・エンタープライゼス | Mobile shooting device |
-
1992
- 1992-07-31 CA CA002075122A patent/CA2075122A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1992-09-22 DE DE69207134T patent/DE69207134T2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1992-09-22 EP EP92308613A patent/EP0534712B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1992-09-24 JP JP4277786A patent/JPH0793983B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
1994
- 1994-03-17 US US08/210,094 patent/US5382026A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| DE69207134T2 (en) | 1996-08-22 |
| US5382026A (en) | 1995-01-17 |
| EP0534712B1 (en) | 1995-12-27 |
| JPH0793983B2 (en) | 1995-10-11 |
| JPH06218136A (en) | 1994-08-09 |
| EP0534712A1 (en) | 1993-03-31 |
| DE69207134D1 (en) | 1996-02-08 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US5382026A (en) | Multiple participant moving vehicle shooting gallery | |
| US5785592A (en) | Interactive target game system | |
| US6752720B1 (en) | Mobile remote control video gaming system | |
| US5239464A (en) | Interactive video system providing repeated switching of multiple tracks of actions sequences | |
| US4680012A (en) | Projected imaged weapon training apparatus | |
| US20030232649A1 (en) | Gaming system and method | |
| US20060223637A1 (en) | Video game system combining gaming simulation with remote robot control and remote robot feedback | |
| WO1993016776A1 (en) | Virtual image entertainment | |
| CN202028192U (en) | Interactive entertaining device with visual and acoustic feedback | |
| EP0479422A2 (en) | Theme park attraction for multiple participants using real time simulation | |
| RU2224566C2 (en) | Sportive-recreational complex for military game and method of effectuating the same (versions) | |
| CN107080943A (en) | Walking virtual reality dark rider system | |
| JP2004511748A5 (en) | ||
| JP2000503575A (en) | Computer controlled game system | |
| US20080125230A1 (en) | Device and Method of Laser Gun Games on Vehicles | |
| Lendino | Attract mode: The rise and fall of coin-op arcade games | |
| EP3672705B1 (en) | Play apparatus | |
| GB2161251A (en) | Weapon training apparatus | |
| JP3238174B2 (en) | Play equipment | |
| JP3878076B2 (en) | game machine | |
| EP2049212B1 (en) | System for sport and entertainment | |
| JP3052253B2 (en) | Amusement device and carrier used for the device | |
| RU28631U1 (en) | Complex for a war game and an aircraft (options) | |
| RU28632U1 (en) | Complex for a war game | |
| BE1009366A6 (en) | Game complex |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| FZDE | Discontinued |