Patent Publication Number: US-10764544-B2

Title: Robotically controlled entertainment elements

Description:
RELATED APPLICATION DATA 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/725,512, filed Oct. 5, 2017, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/502,495, filed Sep. 30, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,794,533, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/745,945, filed Jan. 21, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,896,242, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/653,058, filed Dec. 7, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,356,704, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/455,638, filed Jun. 3, 2009, now abandoned, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/700,535, filed Jan. 30, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,545,108, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/763,669 filed Jan. 31, 2006. The contents of these prior applications are incorporated by reference as if set forth fully herein. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to the movement of entertainment elements. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     A wide variety of devices are used for entertainment purposes. For example, electronic displays are now extremely common and are utilized in a variety of environments. Such displays were initially used primarily in television sets and to with computers. Initially, these displays were primarily CRT type displays which were large and bulky. 
     In recent years, other display technologies have been developed. Plasma, LCD, LED and other types of displays are now commercially producible in large display sizes. At the same time, however, these displays are generally thin, thus taking up much less space than CRT type displays offering the same display area. 
     As such, these displays are now utilized for a variety of purposes. For example, large displays are used at stadiums to present replays of sporting events. These types of displays are also sometimes mounted to walls in stores to present advertising information. 
     In order to attract attention to advertising, graphic information may be presented on the displays. This information may comprise exciting patterns, such as in bright colors, flashing effects and the like, to draw attention to the display. Still, these displays may be overlooked and advertisers and other users of these displays continue to seek new ways to use these displays and increase their viewership. 
     Other types of entertainment devices may be used in other settings. For example, in a theatrical production, large props may be located on a stage. The props may be moved into various positions to create different scenes and various actions. The props are often moved manually, such as with ropes and pulleys, limiting the situations where they may be used or their effectiveness. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The invention comprises moveable entertainment elements and methods of moving one or more entertainment elements. 
     One embodiment of the invention is a robotic mount. The robotic mount is configured to support one or more entertainment elements and move the one or more entertainment elements in at least three degrees of freedom, and preferably six, and/or at least two dimensions/two-dimensional space, and preferably in three-dimensions/three-dimensional space. In one embodiment, the robotic mount comprises a base and a moveable support. The base supports the display support, such as by resting upon a support surface or by connection to a support, such as a wall or other element. 
     The moveable support is preferably moveable in three-dimensional space, whereby one more entertainment elements connected thereto are so moveable. In one embodiment, the moveable support comprises a plurality of members which are movably connected to one another in one more directions/dimensions. The moveable support may comprise, for example, a robotic arm having a base, a main support which is rotatable relative to the base, a lower arm which is rotatable relative to the main support, an upper arm which is rotatable relative to the lower arm, and a head to which the one or more entertainment elements are connected, the head moveable relative to the upper arm. 
     In one embodiment, means are provided for moving the moveable support. Preferably, the means permits the moveable mount to be automated in the sense that it can be moved without direct physical contact by a human therewith. This means may comprise one or more electric motors or the like. 
     One aspect of the invention is a robotically controlled electronic display. The robotically controlled electronic display preferably comprises a robotic mount which supports and moves one or more electronic displays. The electronic displays may comprise, for example, flat panel electronic video displays. 
     In another embodiment of the invention, a unitary display may comprise two or more individual displays. One or more robotic mounts may be utilized to move one or more or all of the displays of the unitary display. For example, each display of a unitary display comprising a plurality of displays may be associated with its own robotic mount, thus permitting all of the displays of the unitary display to be moved independently and/or synchronously. 
     Another aspect of the invention comprises a robotically controlled video projector. The robotically controlled video projector comprises a robotic mount which support and moves one or more video projectors. The video projectors may comprise, for example, CRT or DLP type electronic video projectors. The robotic mount may move the one or more projectors to cause then display information, images, moving images or the like upon various display surfaces such as screens, walls, floors or, as described herein, one or more robotic screens. 
     Yet another aspect of the invention comprises a robotically controlled staircase. The robotically controlled staircase comprises a robotic mount which supports and moves a staircase. The staircase preferably defines one or more steps from a bottom end to a top end. The robot mount is preferably configured to move the staircase in three-dimensional space, such as from ground level to one or more raised platforms. 
     In yet another aspect of the invention, the robotic mount supports and moves a screen used for receiving and displaying video or graphic images projected to the screen. The robotic mount is preferably configured to move the screen in three-dimensional space to receive images from the one or more projectors. Multiple robotic screens may receive images from one or more projectors, including robotic projectors. The robotic screens may be made to move in synchronized unison with the movements and projection angles of the one or more robotic projectors. 
     One embodiment of the invention is a system including a robotic mount and a controller. The controller may be configured to accept input from a user and/or run control programs for generating instructions or output signals which may be used to control the robotic mount and its associated entertainment element (such as its associated video display(s), video projector(s), staircase, or screen). In one embodiment, such a controller may also be configured to control information displayed by the one or more video displays or video projectors, including synchronizing the movement thereof with the images displayed thereby. 
     Further objects, features, and advantages of the present invention over the prior art will become apparent from the detailed description of the drawings which follows, when considered with the attached figures. 
    
    
     
       DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a side view of a robotically controlled electronic display in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a robotically controlled unitary display comprising a plurality of individual displays in accordance with another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates the unitary display of  FIG. 2  with various of the individual displays moved into different positions; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates the unitary display of  FIG. 2  with the individual displays moved into different positions; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a robotically controlled video projector in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and 
         FIGS. 6 and 7  illustrate a robotically controlled staircase in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a robotically controlled screen in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 9 a    illustrates a unitary screen in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 9 b    illustrates the elastic nature of a unitary screen in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 10  illustrates a unitary elastic screen in use with a projector in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS. 11 a , 11 b  and 11 c    illustrate a plurality of robotically controlled screens projectors in operation, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough description of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention. 
     In general, the invention comprises one or more robotically-controlled objects and objects which are moved by one or more robots, such as electronic displays, projectors, projector screens, cameras, musical instruments, a staircase, or other elements. One embodiment of the invention is a robotically controlled electronic display and methods of using robotically controlled electronic displays, such as methods of moving one or more electronic displays of a group of displays. Another embodiment is a robotically controlled video projector and methods of using robotically controlled projectors to display images. Yet another embodiment of the invention is a robotically controlled staircase and methods of moving a staircase using one or more robots. Other embodiments of the invention comprise robotically controlled projection screens, speakers, cameras or musical instruments. Other aspects of the invention comprise methods and systems for controlling such robotically controlled devices, such as to synchronize movement of a video display or camera to information being captured or displayed; or the projection of images from a projector to a projector screen. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a robotically controlled electronic display  20  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. As illustrated, the robotically controlled electronic display  20  comprises at least one electronic display  22  and a robotic or moveable display mount  24 . In a preferred embodiment, the electronic display  22  is a thin-panel type display, such as an LCD, LED, plasma or similar display (whether now known or later developed). In one embodiment, the electronic display  22  has a front or viewing side  25  and an opposing rear side  26 . The electronic display  22  has a peripheral edge  28 . 
     In one embodiment, the electronic display  22  is generally rectangular in shape, but the display  22  may have a variety of shapes. The electronic display  22  may have a display area at the front side  25 , which display area is enclosed by a bezel, frame or the like. The display area comprises the portion of the electronic display  22  which is capable of displaying information. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the electronic display  22  is relatively large, such as for viewing by person situation remotely there from. The electronic display  22  may be 20 inches in diagonal size (of display area), more preferably at least 36 inches in diagonal size, and even more preferably a least 50-60 inches or more in diagonal size. The electronic display  22  might comprise a single electronic video display or more than one display (such as two or more displays which are closely located or joined together). The electronic display  22  may be of various types such as CRT, LED, LCD, plasma, etc. and may include touch-screen features, such an overlying touch-sensitive screen. 
     The electronic display  22  is supported by the robotic mount  24 . In a preferred embodiment, the robotic display mount  24  is moveable, thus permitting the position of the electronic display  22  to be changed. As detailed below, in a preferred embodiment, the position of the electronic display  22  can be changed freely anywhere in three-dimensional space (not merely one or two dimensions, but in full three dimensional space). 
     In a preferred embodiment, the robotic mount  24  is referred to as “robotic” because it is a device which can change positions without direct manual input. In particular, the robotic mount is preferably capable of multiple movements without manual intervention (i.e. move between various positions based upon a sequence of instructions without each movement being prompted by individual user input). Preferably, the robotic mount comprises a robot or robotic arm which is moveable in at least three (3), and preferably six (6) degrees of freedom, whereby the arm can thus change the position of the display in at least two (2), and preferably three (3), dimensions. 
       FIG. 1  illustrated one embodiment of a robotic mount  24 . In one embodiment, the robotic mount  24  comprises a base and a display support. The base is configured to connect or support the display mount and associated display to a support, and the display support is preferably moveable relative to the base, thus permitting an associated display to be moveable relative to the base and the associated support. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , the base  30  may have a variety of configurations, including various shapes and sizes. In general, the base  30  is configured to be mounted to or supported by (by connection or merely resting or setting upon) a support surface, such as a wall, floor or other support, such as a portion of another object. The base  30  may have a generally planar bottom or lower surface for engaging a generally planar support surface, or may have other configurations for engaging support surfaces of other shapes. In one embodiment, the base  30  may include one or more apertures for accepting fasteners which are placed into engagement with the support surface, for securing the base  30  in a fixed position by temporarily or permanently connecting the base  30  to that surface. 
     In a preferred embodiment, a moveable support is positioned between the base  30  and the electronic display  22 . This support is preferably moveable in at least three (3), and preferably six (6) degrees of freedom, and is thus moveable in two (2), and more preferably three (3), dimensions or dimensional space. By two or three-dimensions it is preferably meant the standard Cartesian two or three-dimensional space, such that the support is capable of moving the display about, or relative to, at least two of an “x”, a “y” and a “z” axis. In a preferred embodiment, movement is permitted in all three dimensions. As disclosed below, the robotic mount  24  may permits redundant movement in one or more directions. For example, the robotic mount  24  may include two or more elements which permit it to be moved in the x, y and/or z direction, and to rotate about the x, y and/or z axis. 
     As illustrated, in one embodiment, the robotic arm includes a main support  32 . In one embodiment, the main support  32  is mounted for rotation relative to the base  30 , i.e. about the y-axis as illustrated in  FIG. 1 . The main support  32  may be mounted, for example, on a bearing supported shaft which is connected to the base  30 , or by other means. 
     In one embodiment, a lower arm  34  is rotatably mounted to the main support  32 . As illustrated, the main support  32  has a first portion mounted to the base  30  and a second portion to which the lower arm  34  is mounted. In a preferred embodiment, the lower arm  34  is rotatably mounted to the main support  32  about a shaft or other mount. In the configuration illustrated, the lower arm  34  is mounted for rotation about a z-axis (i.e. an axis which is generally perpendicular to the axis about which the base  30  rotates). 
     As further illustrated, an upper arm  36  is rotatably mounted to the lower arm  34 . In one embodiment, a first or distal portion of the lower arm  34  is mounted to the main support  32 , and the upper arm  36  is mounted to a top or proximal portion of the lower arm  34 . In one embodiment, the upper arm  36  is also mounted for rotation about the z axis. 
     In one embodiment, a head  38  is located at a distal portion of the upper arm  36 . Preferably, the display  25  is mounted to the mount  24  via the head  38 . In one embodiment, the head  38  is mounted for rotation relative to the upper arm  36  (and thus the remainder of the mount  24 ). In one configuration, a first portion  40  of the head  38  is mounted for rotation about an x axis relative to the upper arm  36  (i.e., about an axis which is perpendicular to both the y and z axes, and thus about an axis which is generally perpendicular to the axis about which the main support  32  and upper and lower arms  36 ,  34  rotate). 
     Further, in the embodiment illustrated, a second portion  42  of the head  38  is mounted for rotation relative to the first portion  40  and the upper arm  36 , about the z-axis. As illustrated, the display  22  is mounted to the second portion  42  of the head  38 . 
     The various portions of the mount  24  may be connected to one another in a variety of fashions. For example, the various portions may be connected to one another via a shaft and bearing mount, where the shaft is connected to one component and engages one or more bearings supported by the other component, such that the shaft may move relative to the bearing(s), thus permitting the components to move relative to one another. The portions of the mount  24  might be mounted to one another in other fashions, however, such as by hinged mounting or the like. 
     Preferably, the mount  24  includes means for moving the one or more portions thereof, and thus the display  22  connected thereto. As illustrated, the mount  24  may include one or more motors M for moving the components thereof. The motors M may be electrical motors. In other embodiments, hydraulics or other means may be utilized to move one or more of the components of the mount  24 . For example, a hydraulic arm might be utilized to move the upper arm  36  relative to the lower arm  34  in an up and down direction. 
     In one embodiment, the display  22  may be detachably connected to the mount  24 , such as to permit the display  22  to be changed or serviced. The display  22  might be connected to a supporting frame, for example. That frame might then be connected to the mount  24 , such as by connecting the frame to the head  38  with one or more fasteners. 
     As indicated, in a preferred embodiment, the mount  24  is configured to move the display  22  in three-dimensions, or combinations thereof. The particular configuration of the mount  24  may vary for accomplishing this task. For example, while the mount  24  described above is redundant in its capacity to move in certain directions (i.e. the upper and lower arms  36 ,  34  are both configured to move about the z axis), the mount  24  could be configured in other fashions (such as by having only a single portion configured to move in each direction). It will also be appreciated that the number of members or elements which the display mount comprises may vary. For example, the display mount might comprise a base and a head which is mounted to the based, such as via a swivel, permitting the head to be moved in at least two dimensions. Various configurations of members may also be utilized to effect movement in various directions. For example, aside from swivels or the rotating connections of the display mount illustrated in  FIG. 1 , members may be configured to telescope, slide or otherwise move linearly (i.e. move along an axis rather than about an axis), or be configured to move along paths other than curved paths. For example, the mount  24  may be configured to move about the “x” axis, such as to permit the display to be tilted up and down, to move about the “y” axis, such as to permit the display to be swiveled from side to side, and to simply move along the “z” axis, such as to permit the display to be moved in and out (such as towards or away from a wall/viewer). 
     In the embodiment illustrated, a single display  22  is connected to a single mount  24 . In another embodiment of the invention, referring to  FIG. 2 , a unitary display  122  may comprise a plurality of individual or independent displays  22  located in proximity to one another. In one embodiment, one or more of those individual displays  22  may be mounted to a mount  24 , and thus be configured for movement. 
     Two or more robotic mounts  24  may be used with one another.  FIG. 2  illustrates one embodiment of a unitary display  122  comprising nine (9) displays  22 . All nine displays  22  are preferably mounted to an associated mount (not shown). In this manner, each of the nine displays  22  may be moved by their associated mount. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates the displays  22  in an orientation where they are located adjacent to one another in a matrix, and in a common plane. In the configuration illustrated, there is a central display surrounded by top, bottom, side and corner displays. 
     The displays  22  may be moved, however, to other locations and thus other orientations or positions relative to one another. For example,  FIG. 3  illustrates the displays  22  in a flower configuration where the top, bottom and side displays are tilted forward relative to the plane which contains the central display. The corner displays are rotated and then similarly tilted inwardly. In this configuration, the displays are positioned like the slightly closed pedals of a rose or other flower. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates the displays  22  again arranged in a matrix and in a single plane. However, in this configuration, the displays  22  have all been rotated 90 degrees, so that the unitary display  122  is taller than wider. 
     In one embodiment, each display  22  of the unitary display  122  has an associated robotic mount. In this manner, each display  22  may be moved independently of the other. In another embodiment, multiple displays may be coupled to or otherwise associated with a single mount (such that groups of displays are moveable together). In yet another embodiment, one or more of the displays  22  may be fixed and others may be connected to a mount  24  for movement. 
     In one embodiment, means may be provided for controlling a single mount (such as illustrated in  FIG. 1 ) or one or more or all of a plurality of mounts associated with a unitary display (such as illustrated in  FIG. 2 ). In one embodiment, one or more mounts may be controlled by a controller. The controller might comprise, for example, an electronically or mechanically operated controller. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the controller may comprise or include a computing device. Various instructions may be provided from the controller to the one or more robots/robotic mounts, causing the robots/robotic mounts to move. For example, a user might provide an input to the controller, which input is a request to move a particular display from a first to a second position. The controller may generate one more signals or instructions which are transmitted to the required mount for causing the mount to so move the display. The signal might comprise opening of a switch which allows electricity to flow to one or more motors for a predetermined period time which is necessary for the motor to effect the desired movement. In another embodiment, the signal might comprise an instruction which is received by sub-controller of the mount, which sub-controller then causes the mount to move as desired. 
     In one embodiment, the controller may be configured to cause a single mount or multiple mounts to move in various patterns or other desired directions. For example, the controller might be programmed to cause the displays to move in a particular pattern. Referring to  FIGS. 2-4 , for example, the controller may be configured to move the displays from the position illustrated in  FIG. 2  to that illustrated in  FIG. 3 or 4 , or vice versa. The controller may be custom-programmed or might be configured to execute pre-set sequences of movement. For example, the displays may be configured to move at certain times, into certain positions or in certain patterns, to move with music or the like (such music might be presented via speakers associated with the display or via a separate sound system or the like). 
     In one embodiment, the controller may include a processing unit capable of executing machine readable code or software. As indicated, that software may comprise a set of instructions which, when executed, cause the controller to move one or more displays in a predetermined motion or pattern, randomly or otherwise. The software might also or instead simply comprise a set of instructions which permits a user to provide manual input to cause a display or displays to move, either in direct response thereto or to generate a programmed movement (which may be implemented immediately or be stored for implementation at a later time). 
     The controller might communicate with the robotic mount via wired or wireless communications. For example, the controller might comprise a desk-top computer running a control program. The desk-top computer might transmit signals via a RS-232 communication link including a wired pathway to the motor or controller of the robotic mount. Alternatively, the desk-top computer and display mount controller might both include wireless transceivers. In this manner, the controller and robotic mount(s) may be located remotely from one another. The same computer might output images or a video feed to the one or more displays. 
     In one embodiment, video information may be transmitted to the display or displays either independently of control instructions or dependently therewith. For example, the controller may be configured to both generate display information and/or transmit display information to the displays, and control the mounts. The controller might be configured to move the mounts/displays based upon the information which is displayed by the one or more displays. In one embodiment, the one or more displays may be moved synchronously with information displayed by the displays. For example, the displays might be moved synchronously with images displayed by the displays or with music or other accompanying information. 
     The invention has numerous advantages. One aspect of the invention is a moveable display. The display may preferably be moved in three-dimensions (i.e. about three axes which are all perpendicular to one another). In one embodiment, the display is mounted to a display mount having a display support which is moveable in three dimensions. Preferably, means are provided for automatically or remotely moving the display. As indicated, this may comprise changing the position of one or more portions of the robotic mount. 
     One aspect of the invention is a method of remotely or automatically changing the position of a display. For example, a display may be mounted to a wall or ceiling in a public area and the position of that display may be changed at various times in an automatic fashion (as opposed to manual manner, where the position is changed by a person physically moving the display or its associated mount). This has the advantage that the position of a display may be moved for various purposes, such as for entertainment, for optimizing viewing angle, for directing information to viewers in certain locations or areas, or for other reasons. The display might also be mounted to a wall of a home and be controlled by a user to change the viewing position of the display. 
     Another embodiment of the invention is a robotically controlled projector  120 .  FIG. 5  illustrates one embodiment of a robotically controlled projector  120 . Preferably, the robotically controlled projector  120  comprises at least one projector  122  and at least one robotic mount  124 . The projector  122  may be of a variety of types now known or later developed. Preferably, the projector  120  is configured to project one or more images or a sequence of images (video) onto one or more surfaces. For example, the projector  120  might comprise a digital light processing (“DLP”) projector, a CRT, LCD, or other type of projector. In one embodiment, the robotically controlled projector  120  includes a single projector. However, as illustrated, it might include a number of projectors  122   a ,  122   b , etc. 
     The robotic mount  124  preferably comprises a robot or robotic arm similar to that described above and will thus not be described herein again in detail. In particular, the robotic mount  124  is configured to move the at least one projector  122  in three (3), and preferably six (6) degrees of freedom, and thus in at least two (2), and preferably three (3) dimensions/dimensional space. As also indicated above, the robotically controlled projector  120  may also include a controller. The controller may be configured to cause the projector  122  to display images or video at certain times, and may be configured to cause the robotic mount  124  to move the projector  122 , such as in certain paths. 
     The projector  122  is preferably mounted to the robotic mount  124 . The mount  124  may be used to move the projector  122 , thus causing the projector  122  to display images or video at various locations. For example, a robotically controlled projector  120  might be located in a lobby and be used to display various information or images upon a screen or another projection surface such as a wall, a floor or the like. The robotically controlled projector  120  might be used in a theater to project background images or the like. 
     It will be appreciated that, like the robotically controlled display described above, more than one robotically controlled projector  120  might be used in tandem. For example, two robotically controlled projectors  120  might each have a single projector  122 . The two robotically controlled projectors  120  may be configured to move in various patterns together or independent of one another, such as to show joint images, synchronous images or the like. 
     Of course, various other of the features of the robotically controlled display  20  described above may be applied to the robotically controlled projector  120 . 
     In one embodiment, the content of video or other information which is projected by the robotically controlled projector  120  may be registered to multiple surfaces upon which the information is projected. For example, information may be projected by the robotically controlled projector  120  onto one wall of a theatre, then the ceiling and then an opposing wall, such as when an image of a character is projected so that it appears the character is moving up one wall, across the ceiling and down the other wall of the theatre. 
     In another embodiment, one or more surfaces upon which the video or other information is registered are robotically controlled projection screens.  FIG. 8  displays an embodiment of a robotically controlled projector screen. Such robotically controlled projector screens can cause the projector screen to be moved by a similar type robotic mount. This embodiment will be discussed in detail, below. 
     Of course, these principles may be applied to various settings. For example, the projection surface(s) could vary. While the surfaces might be associated with the exterior of the building, they could be the exterior of a building or other structure, the ground, or other architectural elements, whether natural or man-made. 
     Yet another embodiment of the invention comprises a robotically controlled staircase  220 .  FIGS. 6 and 7  illustrate a robotically controlled staircase  220 . The robotically controlled staircase  220  comprises a staircase  222  and a robot or robotic mount  224  which is configured to move the staircase  222 . 
     The staircase  222  may have various configurations. In one embodiment, the staircase  222  comprises a supporting body or structure  226 . The staircase  222  preferably includes a plurality of steps  228 . Each step  228  may comprise a riser  230  and a landing  232 . Each riser  230  preferably extends generally vertically upward. The number of steps  228 , and thus the number of risers  230 , may vary. Preferably, there is at least one step  228 . More preferably, however, there are a plurality of steps  228 . The depth of each landing  232  and the height of each riser  230  may be configured to conform to local building or other codes. 
     Preferably, the staircase  222  has a first or bottom end  234  and a second or top end  236 . The top end  236  is preferably higher than the bottom end  234 . The total change in elevation is dependent upon the number of steps  228  and the height of the risers  230 . The staircase  222  may be straight or it might be spiral, have one or more bends or the like. 
     In one embodiment, the staircase  222  may be configured to mate with one or more other elements or structures. For example, the staircase  222  may be configured to dock or mate to a supporting platform (not shown). To this end, the top end  236  and bottom end  234  of the staircase  222  may end or terminate in a landing  232 . This allows the top and bottom ends  236 , 234  to rest upon a supporting surface or platform at generally the same elevation thereof. In one embodiment, the landing at the top end  236  and/or bottom end  234  of the staircase  222  may be larger than the step landings  232 . For example, each of the top and bottom end landings may be sufficiently large to permit one more persons to easily stand thereon (whereas the step landings are primarily configured to permit a user to simply step thereon as they climb the staircase). 
     In one embodiment, the staircase  222  may include other features. For example, the staircase  222  may include one or more handrails (not shown). The staircase  222  has a width between opposing sides. This width may vary, such as being 36 or 48 inches, for example. A handrail may be located at each side of the staircase to prevent a user from falling off of the staircase and to provide support to users. Likewise, the landing  232  at the top end  236  and bottom end  234  of the staircase  222  may include an enclosure. Such an enclosure may be selectively opened and closed to permit ingress to and egress from the staircase, but prevent such during movement of the staircase. Such an enclosure might comprise a rail, a chain, or the like. For example, a swinging gate may be located at both the top and bottom ends  236 , 234  of the staircase  222  to control ingress to and egress from the staircase  222 . 
     In one embodiment, the body  226  of the staircase  222  might comprise a superstructure which supports the steps  228 . For example, the body  226  might comprise a metal framework. The steps  228  might be constructed from wood and be supported by that framework. In another embodiment, the body  226  might define the steps  228 . For example, the staircase  222  might be constructed from metal, such as step elements which are welded to one another to form a unitary structure. 
     The mount  224  preferably comprises a robot or robotic arm similar to that described above and will thus not be described herein again in detail (for example, such may comprise a base and a moveable support, as detailed above). In particular, the mount  224  is configured to move the staircase  222  in at least two (2), and preferably three (3) dimensions. As also indicated above, the robotically controlled staircase  220  may also include a controller to move the staircase  222  in certain paths. 
     As best illustrated in  FIG. 7 , the staircase  222  is preferably mounted to the mount  224 . As illustrated, an adaptor  240  may be used to connect the staircase  222  and the robotic mount  224 . The adaptor  240  may have various configurations.  FIG. 7  illustrates one configuration in which the adaptor  240  engages a bottom portion of one or more of the steps  228 . However, the adaptor  240  could have other configurations, such as depending upon the configuration of the staircase  222 , including the body  226  or supporting structure thereof. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 6 , the robotic mount  224  is configured to move the staircase  222  between various positions. For example, the robotic mount  224  may move the staircase  222  into a position in which its bottom end  234  is positioned on the ground. A user may then step onto the staircase  222  from the ground, such as by stepping onto a lower landing  232  thereof. 
     The robotic mount  224  may then be used to move the staircase  222 , and the user standing thereon, to another location. In the preferred embodiment where the robotic mount  224  can move in three dimensions, the staircase  222  may be moved to various positions in three-dimensional space which vary from an initial or starting position.  FIG. 6  illustrates one simplistic embodiment where the staircase  222  is moved in two dimensions: upwardly and forwardly. In this example, the staircase  222  may be moved upwardly and forwardly, such as to dock with a raised platform  262 . A user might then disembark from the staircase  222  onto the platform  262 . 
     It will be appreciated that a user may climb up and down the steps  228  of the staircase  222  both while the staircase  222  is stationary and/or while it is moving. For example, a user might board the staircase  222  at the bottom end  234  while it is stationary. As the staircase begins to move to a destination, the user might climb the steps  228  to the top end  236  of the staircase  222  to disembark the staircase  222  at the destination. 
     The robotically controlled staircase  220  might be used in various manners. For example, it might be used in a theater. In such an environment a singer might be transported from stage level to a platform well above stage, or from one location to another over a barrier such as a moat. The robotically controlled staircase  220  might also be used as an amusement ride. In such an embodiment, patrons might board the staircase  220  as a ride and be transported from one location to another. In one preferred embodiment, a haunted house ride might include one or more platforms in various locations. The platforms might lead to doors or other points of entry. Patrons might board the staircase and be transported to one or more of those platforms where they disembark to travel into other portions of the haunted house. In one embodiment, the staircase might move between various locations before stopping, thus providing substantial anticipation to the riders as to their final destination. It is also possible for there to be more than one robotically controlled staircase  220 . The various staircases  220  might move independently between various locations. They might also move so that they join together at certain times (forming longer staircases to connect to various locations, for example) or independently at other times). As yet another example, a first robotically controlled staircase  220  might be used to move patrons from ground level to one or more platforms at a first level (above ground) and then a second robotically controlled staircase  220  might be used to move patrons from the first level to an even higher second level (or higher). 
     As indicated, one or more controllers may be used to control the robotically controlled staircase  220 , such as to cause it to move between various locations. The patterns of movement may change over time. For example, in a haunted house ride, the robotically controlled staircase  220  might be configured to move a first set of riders from ground level to a first platform. However, the robotically controlled staircase  220  might be configured to move a second set of riders from that same ground level to a second, different platform. 
     Of course, the robotically controlled staircase  220  might be configured to move between various locations other than ground level and various platforms. The robotically controlled staircase  220  may include several of the other features detailed herein. For example, the robotically controlled staircase  220  may be controlled by one or more controllers, such as to move in certain patterns or paths, including synchronously with other elements. For example, the robotically controlled staircase  220  may be moved synchronously with music which is being played or with images that are being displayed. 
     As indicated above, another embodiment associated with moveable entertainment elements is that of a robotically controlled projector screen. Referring once again to  FIG. 8 , an embodiment of a robotically controlled projector screen  320  is shown. The robotically controlled projector screen  320  comprises a projector screen  322  and a robotic mount  324  which is configured to move the projector screen  322 . The projector screen  322  is attached to the robotic mount  324  through a robotic arm  326  similar to that described above and will thus not be described herein again in detail (for example, such may comprise a base and a moveable support, as detailed above). In particular, the robotic mount  324  is configured to move the projector screen  322  in at least two and preferably three dimensions. As also indicated above in relation to the electronic display and robotically controlled projector, the robotically controlled projector screen  320  may also include a controller (not shown) to move the projector screen  322  in certain paths or positions in accordance with a pre-defined software program. 
     As best illustrated in  FIG. 8 , the projector screen  322  is preferably mounted to the robotic mount  324 . An adaptor  340  may be used between the robotic arm  326  and the projector screen  322  to connect the projector screen to the robotic mount  324 . The adaptor  340  may comprise various configurations and may depend on the support structure  342  used with the projector screen  322 . 
     The support structure  342  can be fashioned in any manner sufficient to support the screen surface  344  of the projector screen  322  so that the screen surface is enabled to provide a surface area sufficient to register the video, graphic or other information emanating from a projector. Such support structures might comprise a bracketed wooden framework, a metal frame, or it could be formed using a network of PVC pipes or the like. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 8 , the adaptor  340  is firmly attached to a central support bar  346 . The attachment point is preferably engaged at the center of the central support bar  346  to provide optimum stability to the projector screen  322 , and is attached through any attachment means known in the art. 
     The screen surface  344  is arranged to entirely cover the front portion  348  of the projector screen  322  and set taut to prevent folds in the material and to best provide a smooth, consistent surface for viewing without any imperfections transferred to the image through such folds. Material used for the screen surface would possess properties best suited for reflecting light with minimal alteration. Such materials might comprise white blackout cloth, any material painted over with a reflective, white paint, white vinyl and white spandex. The latter material—spandex—possesses the property of elasticity, and is used in a preferred embodiment, which will be further discussed, below. 
     Depending on the material, the screen surface  344  may be attached to the front portion  348  of the support structure  342  through any attachment means known in the art, such as adhesives, nails, staples, Velcro, tacks or the like. Screen surfaces that have sufficient elasticity might be stretched to the back portion  350  of the support structure to tightly envelop and wrap around the support structure, and thereby help to provide a taut, consistent, and uniform surface. 
       FIG. 9  provides a closer look at the projector screen  322 . In a preferred embodiment, the projector screen  322  uses a screen surface  344  made of an elastic material, such as spandex. In its static or expanded (i.e. stretched) form, the screen surface is flat, as is typical of most projector screens. This is shown in  FIG. 9( a ) . Through the use of spandex or other elastic material, the screen surface can be manipulated into various shapes and forms. An example of this is depicted in  FIG. 9( b ) . In  FIG. 9( b ) , a round object such as the ball  420  is pushed into the screen surface  344  from the back portion  350  of the projector screen  322 , thereby pushing the elastic screen surface out in a manner consistent with the shape of the ball. As will be described, such forming or manipulation of the screen surface  344  can provide a unique and dynamic viewing experience that can be easily changed from one form to another in a relatively quick manner. 
     It should be understood that although a ball  420  is shown in  FIG. 9( b )  to depict modification to the flat screen surface  344  of  FIG. 9( a ) , any objects and multiple objects could be used to form any type of “landscape” to the screen surface. For instance, a section of a cylinder could be used to provide a convex shape across the entire screen surface  344 . Further, a number of triangular and/or cone-shaped objects could be positioned on the back portion  350  of the screen surface  344  to depict a landscape of hills, mountains or waves. Any number or types of shapes and forms that could be used to vary the surface of the screen surface  344 . The projected image would preferably be consistent with the given “landscape” to enhance the imagery viewed by the persons viewing the projector screen  322 . 
     In one embodiment, the robotically controlled projector screen&#39;s motion is controlled by the controller of the robotic mount  324  in a manner similar to that of the electronic display  22 , and the projector  122 . The robotically controlled projector screen  320  may therefore be moved from a first position to a second position through the controller in response to a signal stemming from the coded instructions stored in a memory storage unit and read by the processor. The movement to and from various positions can serve the purpose of placing the screen surface  322  in optimum position for viewing by the intended viewers to, for instance, reduce glare or to receive viewers at a location where they are best enabled to view the screen surface. The movements may also be controlled for the purpose of providing an entertaining element to the pattern of motion. For instance, the screen surface  322  may be programmed to move towards an audience when the projection displays an object, such as a baseball just hit by a batter, moving towards the audience. If the screen surface  322  is also moving towards the audience, an enhanced effect is achieved in showing the ball moving in their direction. 
     To further provide enhanced effects, as previously described, an elastic material, such as spandex, can be used as the material for the screen surface  344 . Referring to  FIG. 10 , the ball  520  is shown being positioned into place. The ball  520  is then pressed into the back of the screen surface  344  at the same moment that a baseball, projected from a projector  522 , is projected onto the protrusion  524  of the screen surface to accentuate the image of the projected baseball. The processing of movement can be established through the synchronization of timing between the images projected and the motion of a separate robotic mount used for pressing the ball  520  into the screen surface  344  at its intended position. Of course, alternatively, the ball could be manually pressed into the back of the elastic screen by an individual having an awareness of the timing and location for doing so. However, the use of a robotic mount for coordinating these activities automates the process, leaves little room for mistakes and creates a more entertaining arrangement of automated, mechanically moving machines to create the overall visual impression. 
     To accomplish synchronization, a time code is generated. The time code is typically established in the projector as an audio signal on an audio recording device, but may comprise any type of signal. The code can be broken down into a specific number based on hour, minute and second for each frame. For example, for a given frame, a certain display, such as the baseball being hit by the batter, might initiate at hour 2, minute 33, and second 42 associated of the 531 th  frame of the projected sequence. This may be defined as 023342000531, or some other readable string that accurately codes this specific information. If the projector renders thirty frames per second, the granularity in coordination with other activities can be very precise. The separate robotic mount controlling the ball  520  is provided the same time code and both that of the projector and separate robotic mount controlling the ball are initiated at the same moment. Therefore, when the ball is projected as being hit by the batter, the ball  520  is moved into position by the separate robotic mount so that the projection and screen surface  344  coordinate in synchronicity. The coded instructions in the separate robotic mount instruct the controller to move the ball  520  into the respective position when the applicable time code is read. The coded instructions might also provide the controller instructions as to the precise location of placement, rate of placement and when to remove the ball  520  from the screen surface  344 . 
     The above described example is but one of many. Nearly any object can be pressed into the back of the screen surface  344  to impress on the screen surface a myriad of different volumetric shapes for accentuating images projected on to the screen surface by a projector. Additionally, though the above embodiment was described in terms of a separate robotic mount moving the ball  520  into position behind the screen surface  344 , it is conceivable that this could be performed by an individual, by the robotic mount absent timed computer code instructions to coordinate with the projector, or by any other means. 
     Using a time code synchronized and initiated concurrently between various devices, a number of other entertaining features can be deployed by the robotically controlled projector screen  320  or by multiple robotically controlled projector screens.  FIG. 11  shows a sequence of synchronized movements coordinated as between each of two robotically controlled projector screens  620 ( a ) and  620 ( b ) and two robotically controlled projectors  624 ( a ) and  624 ( b ). The movements are coordinated using computer coded instructions sent to the controller of the respective devices. The timing of specific motions of each of the devices is initiated in accordance with pre-defined time codes. Each of the computer coded instructions for each of the respective devices is initiated simultaneously or in a pre-defined sequence. The initial time code in this example for each of the devices, if their respective instructions were simultaneously initiated, would be 0101010000001, indicating in this example the first second of the first minute of the first hour with respect the first frame of the video for each of the devices, if their respective programs were simultaneously initiated. All of the devices are therefore pegged to the display presented on at least one robotically controlled projector screen. It should be noted that the hour/minute/second sequencing is not literal in this example, but is merely one of many means for apportioning segments of time in relation to a given frame of a video sequence. Upon the occurrence of various time codes, instructions are sent to the controller of a respective device to perform a particular motion or set of motions. The initiation of the time code at each of the devices can be manually established by mechanically opening a switch or, preferably, through remote wireless or wired electronic means. 
       FIG. 11( a )  illustrates an embodiment of the invention. Each of two robotically controlled projectors  624 ( a ) and  624 ( b ) separately display a video image on each of two robotically controlled projector screens  620 ( a ) and  620 ( b ). The image is of a school of fish on screen surface  644 ( a ) of projector screen  620 ( a ) and is of a calm ocean environment showing a relatively small area of space above the surface on the screen surface  644 ( b ) of projector screen  620 ( b ). Each of the devices operates at that moment in accordance with instructions respectively assigned to each device based on a specific time code  628 . Such “operation” may be an instruction to remain static or may be no instruction, thereby establishing a lack of motion in the respective device; or it may be an instruction sent to the robotic arm to position the respective device, be it all or any of the projector screens  620 ( a ) and  620 ( b ) or the robotic projector  624 ( a ) and  624 ( b ). 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 11( b ) , the video display shows the fish starting to swim faster with one breaching the water. The robotically controlled projector  624 ( a ) is sequenced at this moment to move the robotic arm in an upward motion at the same time that the video projection shows more area of space above the surface of the water with the breaching fish above the surface. In this manner, it appears that the projector screen  620 ( a ) is actually a viewer moving upwards to show the fish breach the surface of the water; following the fish&#39;s path and trajectory. The ocean setting remains the same but a different perspective is provided. Thus, the ocean water surface level between the two projected images is shown to be approximately the same as between projector screen  620 ( a ) and  620 ( b ), but one is now able to see the breaching fish in its proper perspective in relation to the ocean setting. Robotically controlled projector  624 ( b ) moves the robotic arm horizontally away from robotically controlled projector  620 ( a ) to put distance between them so that when the fish re-enters the ocean water, it appears as if the fish has jumped quite a distance. In timed sequence, the robotic arms of robotically controlled projectors  624 ( a ) and  624 ( b ) move the projectors  626 ( a ) and  626 ( b ) in proper position and angle to display the video imagery on the respective projection screens  620 ( a ) and  620 ( b ). The synchronized movements initiate at another time code (not shown) and are further controlled via subsequent time codes. The position during the synchronized movements of the robotic projectors  624 ( a ) and  624 ( b ) and projector screens  622 ( a ) and  622 ( b ) as shown at the given moment indicated in  FIG. 11( b )  are defined by the instructions associated with time code  630 . At yet another time code  632 ,  FIG. 11( c )  shows the breaching fish splash and submerge into the waters depicted on projector screen  622 ( b ), with the other fish shown swimming quickly away from projector screen  620 ( a ) on the same screen. Robotically controlled projector  624 ( a ) moves back down and horizontally towards projector screen  620 ( b ), this time displaying an image of a shark moving towards the school of fish. The position of the synchronized events shown in  FIG. 11( c )  corresponding to the described image and movements occur at time code  632 . 
     In the above described embodiment, separately controlled robotic mounts can be used to press objects into the back of the projector screens  622 ( a ) and  622 ( b ) to, for instance, emphasize wave motion of the water and, when the breaching first breaches the water and re-submerges, to emphasize the splash and resulting shock wave. These robotic mounts would similarly operate in synchronicity with the robotically controlled projectors  624 ( a ) and  624 ( b ) and robotically controlled projector screens  620 ( a ) and  620 ( b ) in accordance with the time code sequence and the coded instructions programmed for implementation upon and the occurrence of various time codes. 
     Since the robotically controlled projector screens  620 ( a ) and  620 ( b ) are moving in relation to the robotically controlled projectors  624 ( a ) and  624 ( b ), the aperture of the projector must necessarily be adjusted to maintain focus of the projected image on the projector screens. This, too, can be controlled through programming in association with the time code sequence used to coordinate the movements of the various devices or entertainment elements. Thus, in  FIG. 11( b ) , as the projector screen  620 ( b ) moves further away from the robotic projector  624 ( b ), either the distance between the robotic projector and projector screen can be maintained to eliminate the need to adjust the aperture, else the continuous time code sequences can deliver continuing instructions to the projector indicating the adjustments needed to the aperture (and therefore the focus) to account for an increase or decrease in the relative distance between the projector screen  620 ( b ) and robotic projector  624 ( b ). Knowing the relative motions of the projector screen and robotic screen, distances can be determined and adjustments to the aperture can be made, accordingly. They can also be determined through “dry runs” whereby the entertainment elements are made to perform all of the respective movements while the proper aperture setting is determined in accordance with the changes in relative distance between the devices. This may be performed manually at the various positions, and later entered as program instructions that control these devices and, in this instance, namely the robotic projector&#39;s aperture setting. Any other means known in the art for maintaining focus may be used to maintain focus between robotic projectors and robotic screens during synchronous motion where the relative distance varies between the associated devices. 
     Other robotically-controlled entertainment elements are contemplated by the invention. For example, one or more speakers (electro-static, horn or other type) might be associated with a robotic mount, thereby allowing the position of the one or more speakers to be changed or controlled in the manner described herein. As other examples, one or more light generating or emitting elements (such as one or more lasers, spot lights, light racks or the like), microphones, musical instruments (guitars) or associated equipment (amplifiers), etc., might be associated with a robotic mount. Of course, combinations of such elements might be associated with one or more robotic mounts. For example, an electronic video display and one or more speakers might be associated with the same robotic mount and thus be moved together in three-dimensional space. Any of the above elements can be included in the embodiment shown in  FIG. 11  to further enhance the entertainment experience. For instance, speakers and lights could be repositioned in synchronicity with the movements of the robotically controlled projector screen or in some other pre-programmed manner to provide an audio and external lighting experience to coincide with the display. Each of these robotically controlled entertainment elements can be coded to correspond in synchronicity with the other elements through implementation of the same time code sequences. For instance, when the fish splashes into the water in  FIG. 11( c ) , audio elements associated with the aforementioned entertainment elements, including the robotic projectors  624 ( a ) and  624 ( b ) and projector screens  620 ( a ) and  620 ( b ), could be made to receive instructions at the proper time code to play an audio file that provides a splashing sound through robotically controlled speakers that may also move in synchronicity with the other entertainment elements. 
     Another embodiment of the invention comprises at least one robotically controlled image/video capture device, such as a camera (such as still or moving picture camera; may be film, digital or other types as is well known). Preferably, at least one camera is associated with a robotically controlled mount, such as described in detail above. 
     As one aspect of the invention, the position of the camera is controlled by the robotic mount. In this manner, the camera captures images, such as moving picture images, from different positions at different times (rather than where a camera is fixed in position and captures images of an object that is moving). Of course, the position of the camera may be changed using the robotic mount, such as to create various effects which are apparent upon playback of the image(s) or video. In one embodiment, a robotic video display may be used to display the images or video, where the position of the video display is changed based upon the position of movement of the camera. For example, the video display may be moved to match the movement of the camera (i.e. the position of the video display during playback is synchronized to the position of the camera during image capture). 
     The robotically controlled camera can stream or otherwise send images or video content to either of the robotically controlled display or robotically controlled projector for projection to the robotically controlled projector screen. The robotically controlled camera can operate in synchronicity with the robotically controlled display and/or the robotically controlled projector and robotically controlled projector screen. A multitude of coordinated movements can be established between all of the respective robots, in conjunction with video/image projection, video/image display and streamed video or still images from a camera or other image/video capture device to produce a myriad of entertaining displays. 
     It will be appreciated that the configuration, including size, of a robotic mount may vary, such as depending upon the application. For example, a robotic mount which is configured to move a 60 inch LCD display may be much larger than a robotic mount which is configured to move a spot light. 
     The invention has other aspects and features. As one aspect of the invention, the robotic mount may be controlled via data which includes one or more time codes. 
     In one embodiment, as described above, movement of the robotic mount may be based upon or tied to what is displayed on a video display (i.e. synchronized). In one embodiment, a data stream may be generated which includes both robotic mount control instructions and video data which is utilized by the one or more video displays to cause video to be displayed by the one or more displays. 
     In accordance with the invention, a robotic mount is advantageously configured to move one or more entertainment elements, preferably in three-dimensions. The entertainment elements may thus be “animated”, providing a much higher level of entertainment value. For example, the movement of one or more video displays adds entertainment value to the information or images displayed by the one or more video displays. Likewise, the movement of one or more video projectors allows the location of projected images to change, thus adding excitement to the images themselves. Similarly, the movement of a staircase may be used to entertain observers or riders of the staircase. 
     It will be understood that the above described arrangements of apparatus and the method there from are merely illustrative of applications of the principles of this invention and many other embodiments and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.