Patent Description:
Most amusement park-style rides include a ride vehicle that carries passengers along a ride path, for example a track. Over the course of the ride, the ride path may include a number of features, including tunnels, turns, ups, downs, loops, and so forth. Even though a typical amusement park ride that includes a combination of these and other features may only last a few minutes, the amount of space required to build such a ride, and the cost associated with doing so, is significant. Accordingly, it is now recognized that it is desirable to reduce the footprint of a ride system without sacrificing the quality of the experience for a passenger.

Document <CIT> discloses a four-step method and associated apparatus for creating a "teleportation" illusion on motion rides.

The present invention is directed to a amusement ride system according to claim <NUM>, and a method for coordinating motion of amusement park components according to claim <NUM>. Additional features and embodiments of the invention are defined in the dependent claims.

In a first embodiment, a ride system includes a tunnel, a vehicle ride path in the tunnel, an entrance disposed at a first end of the tunnel, a second end of the tunnel, one or more walls of the tunnel, and a projection system to project images onto the one or more walls of the tunnel. The tunnel is curved such that the second end of the tunnel is not visible at an intermediate position between the first end of the tunnel and the second end of the tunnel.

In a second embodiment, an amusement park ride includes a set piece conveyance mechanism, a tunnel, and a ride path disposed within the tunnel. The tunnel has an entrance at a first end of the tunnel, a second end of the tunnel, and at least one wall. The ride path is within the tunnel and is bounded by the at least one wall of the tunnel and the set piece conveyance mechanism. The set piece conveyance mechanism moves set pieces along a length of the ride path. The tunnel is curved in shape such that the second end of the tunnel is not visible at an intermediate position along the ride path between the entrance and the second end.

In a third embodiment, a method includes receiving a ride vehicle through an entrance at a first end of a tunnel and projecting images on or moving set pieces along one or more walls of the tunnel to create an illusion of speed as the ride vehicle decelerates from the entrance to the intermediate position and while the ride vehicle is stationary at the intermediate position. The tunnel has a curved shape such that a second end of the tunnel is not visible from an intermediate position between the entrance and the second end along a ride path in the tunnel.

Typical amusement park ride systems (e.g., roller coasters or dark rides) include a ride vehicle that follows a ride path (e.g., a track) through a series of features. Such features may include tunnels, turns, ups, downs, loops, and the like. Even though amusement park ride systems may provide rides that only last a few minutes because the ride vehicles often travel at high speeds, the foot print of the ride path may be quite large. Accordingly, the costs associated with building an amusement park ride system and the space required to do so may be significant. Naturally, this is a more acute issue for an amusement park housing many ride systems within limited space.

By using the systems and techniques described herein to create the illusion of speed and/or directional transition for passengers in a slowly moving or stationary ride vehicle, the length of ride path covered by the ride vehicle, the footprint of the ride, and the cost to build the ride may be reduced. By reducing the footprint of one or more rides, an amusement park may be capable of having a larger number of ride systems, which may be generally referred to as rides, and the distance between rides that amusement park guest have to walk may be reduced, or the size of an amusement park having a set number of rides may be reduced.

<FIG> shows one embodiment of a ride system <NUM>. The ride system <NUM> may include a ride vehicle <NUM> that holds one or more passengers <NUM>. In some embodiments, multiple ride vehicles <NUM> may be coupled together (e.g., by a linkage). The ride vehicle <NUM> travels along a ride path <NUM>. The ride path <NUM> may be any surface on which the ride vehicle <NUM> travels. In some embodiments, the ride path <NUM> may be a track. The ride path <NUM> may or may not dictate the path traveled by the ride vehicle <NUM>. That is, in some embodiments, the ride path <NUM> may control the movement (e.g., direction, speed, and/or orientation) of the ride vehicle <NUM> as it progresses, similar to a train on train tracks. In other embodiments, there may be a system for controlling the path taken by the ride vehicle <NUM>. For example, the ride path <NUM> may be an open surface that allows the passengers <NUM> to control certain aspects of the movement of the ride vehicle <NUM> via a control system resident on the ride vehicle <NUM>.

The ride system <NUM> may also include one or more tunnels <NUM>, through which the ride vehicle <NUM> passes. The tunnels <NUM> may have one or more walls <NUM>. The walls <NUM> may be rigid or flexible. For example, in some embodiments, the walls may be structural members, while in other embodiments, the walls may be decorative (e.g., a sheet of fabric held in place by a support structure. The walls <NUM> may be transparent, translucent, or opaque. The tunnels <NUM> may be features in and of themselves, or the tunnels <NUM> may be combined with other features. That is, one or more of the tunnels <NUM> may be combined with a turn, an up, a down, a loop, or some combination thereof. At least one of the tunnels <NUM> may be curved such that from an intermediate position within the tunnel <NUM>, the end of the tunnel <NUM> may not be visible.

The ride system <NUM> includes a projection system <NUM>, which may project images on surfaces throughout the ride (along the ride path <NUM>). The projection system <NUM> may include one or more projectors <NUM>, one or more self-illuminating panels <NUM>, or other systems and/or devices for projecting images on surfaces visible from the ride vehicle <NUM>. For example, the projection system <NUM> may be used to project images onto the walls <NUM> of a tunnel <NUM>. This may be done by projecting images onto the walls <NUM> from within the tunnel <NUM>, projecting images from outside the tunnel <NUM> onto transparent or translucent walls, as shown in <FIG>, such that the images can be seen by a passenger <NUM> in the ride vehicle <NUM>. In other embodiments, images may be displayed on the walls <NUM> of the tunnel using self-illuminating panels <NUM> (e.g., an LCD display, a plasma display, and the like). It should be understood, however, that these are merely examples and that the projection system <NUM> envisaged may include other ways to display images on surfaces visible from the ride vehicle <NUM>. As will be described in more detail later, the projection system <NUM> may be used to project images on the walls <NUM> of a tunnel <NUM>, or other surfaces visible from the ride vehicle <NUM>, in order to create the illusion that the ride vehicle <NUM> is moving faster than it actually is, that the ride vehicle <NUM> is moving when it is actually stationary, or to create an illusion of, or hide, directional transition.

<FIG> is a schematic of the control system <NUM> for the ride system <NUM>. The control system <NUM> may include control circuitry <NUM> which may control and/or receive inputs from various components throughout the ride system <NUM>. The control circuitry may include a processor <NUM> and a memory component <NUM>. The processor <NUM> may be used to run programs, execute instructions, interpret input, generate control signals, and/or other similar functions. The memory component <NUM> may be used to store data, programs, instructions, and so forth.

The control circuitry <NUM> may be in communication with the ride vehicle <NUM>, which may be equipped with one or more actuators <NUM> and/or one or more sensors <NUM>. The actuators <NUM> on the ride vehicle <NUM> may control motion (move forward, move backward, turn, brake) of the ride vehicle <NUM>, or other actuators (e.g., actuators for passenger <NUM> safety harnesses) on the ride vehicle <NUM>. The actuators <NUM> may be controlled by a control signal output by the control circuitry <NUM>. The sensors <NUM> may sense one or more parameters indicative of the position, tilt, velocity, acceleration, etc. of the ride vehicle <NUM>.

The control circuitry <NUM> may also be in communication with the projection system <NUM>. For example, based on the inputs from the sensors <NUM> on the ride vehicle <NUM>, the control circuitry <NUM> may output images for each of the projectors <NUM> or self-illuminating panels <NUM> to project, or may instruct the projectors <NUM> or self-illuminating panels <NUM> which images to project. In some embodiments, the images may be stored in the memory component <NUM> of the control circuitry <NUM>. In other embodiments, the projection system <NUM> or each projector <NUM> or self-illuminated panel <NUM> may store the images to be projected.

The control circuitry <NUM> may also be in communication with various actuators <NUM> and sensors <NUM> for the tunnel <NUM>, the ride path <NUM>, one or more set pieces, or other components within the ride system <NUM>. The actuators <NUM> may be distributed throughout the tunnel <NUM>, the ride path <NUM>, one or more set pieces, or other components (e.g., a motion base, a turntable) within the ride system, giving the control circuitry <NUM> control over the movement of those objects. The sensors may be distributed throughout the same tunnel <NUM>, the ride path <NUM>, one or more set pieces, or other components within the ride system and configured to send signals to the control circuitry <NUM>. The signals may be indicative of position, velocity, acceleration, operating conditions (e.g., temperature, pressure), and the like. The various actuators <NUM>, <NUM>, sensors <NUM>, <NUM>, and projection devices <NUM>, <NUM> allow the control circuitry <NUM> to coordinate the various components of the ride system <NUM> in order to facilitate the illusion of speed to a passenger <NUM> in the ride vehicle <NUM>.

The control circuitry <NUM> may also be in communication with a sound system <NUM>, which may include one or more sound projection devices <NUM> (e.g., speakers, subwoofers, etc.) The sound system <NUM> may be used in conjunction with the projection system <NUM> to create the illusion of speed by projecting sounds that may or may not correspond to the images projected by the projection system <NUM>. Similarly, the control circuitry <NUM> may be in communication with a wind generation system <NUM>, which may include one or more wind generating devices <NUM> (e.g., fans, blowers, etc.). The wind generation system <NUM> may be used to create airflow to simulate wind (steady wind, gusts of wind, etc.) to further enhance the illusion of speed.

In some embodiments, the ride system <NUM> may include a motion base and/or turntable <NUM>, which may include a number of actuators <NUM> and sensors <NUM>. The motion base may be used to tilt, vibrate, rotate, or move the ride vehicle <NUM> in some other way. As will be discussed in more detail later, these movements may be used to enhance the illusion of speed.

<FIG> is an overhead schematic representation of one embodiment of the ride system <NUM> with a pass-through tunnel <NUM> configuration. The ride vehicle <NUM> enters the tunnel <NUM> at a first end <NUM> and decelerates as the ride vehicle <NUM> approaches an intermediate position <NUM> within the tunnel <NUM>. In some embodiments there may be multiple intermediate positions <NUM>. As the ride vehicle <NUM> proceeds through the tunnel <NUM>, a number of projectors <NUM> project images on the walls <NUM> such that the passenger <NUM> is encouraged to perceive that the ride vehicle <NUM> is not decelerating. For example, in one embodiment, the images projected on the walls <NUM> may accelerate (e.g., provide moving images that appear to correspond to acceleration of the ride vehicle <NUM> with respect to the images) at the same rate that the ride vehicle <NUM> decelerates in order to create the illusion of constant velocity. In another embodiment, the images projected on the walls <NUM> may accelerate at a rate greater than the rate at which the ride vehicle <NUM> decelerates, creating the illusion of acceleration. In yet another embodiment, the images projected onto the walls <NUM> may not create the illusion of acceleration or constant velocity, but rather may disorient the passenger <NUM> such that the passenger is unaware of the ride vehicle's deceleration. The projection system <NUM> in the embodiment shown in <FIG> includes a number a projectors <NUM> disposed outside of the tunnel <NUM>. In such an embodiment, the walls <NUM> would be translucent or transparent such that a passenger <NUM> in the ride vehicle <NUM> would be able to see the images on the walls <NUM> from the inside of the tunnel <NUM>. It should understood, however, that a similar illusion may be created using a projection system <NUM> having a number of projectors <NUM>, self-illuminating panels <NUM>, or other projection devices located inside the tunnel <NUM>, outside the tunnel <NUM>, or both. Additionally, in some embodiments, a sound system <NUM> having a number of speakers <NUM>, may project sound and/or a wind generation system <NUM>, having a number of fans <NUM> may generate airflow to similar wind, in some cases working in conjunction with the projection system <NUM> to create the illusion of speed.

In one embodiment, the ride vehicle <NUM> comes to a stop at an intermediate position <NUM>. As previously mentioned, there may be more than one intermediate position <NUM> within the tunnel <NUM>. The intermediate position <NUM> may be any location or area within the tunnel at which a passenger <NUM> in the ride vehicle <NUM> is unable to see the first end <NUM> and/or second end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> (e.g., the ends <NUM> and <NUM> are beyond the visual horizon from the perspective of the passenger <NUM>). As the ride vehicle <NUM> comes to a stop and remains stationary at the intermediate position <NUM>, the projection system <NUM> projects images on the walls <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> that create an illusion of motion for the passenger <NUM>, even though the ride vehicle is not moving, such that the passenger <NUM> does not perceive that the ride vehicle <NUM> has stopped. The images projected on the walls <NUM> may create the illusion of constant velocity, increasing velocity, decreasing velocity, or a combination thereof. For example, though the walls <NUM> may be a smooth surface, the projection system may project a moving brick, stone, or other textured surface on the walls <NUM> in order to create the illusion of speed. The images may also include stationary features in a hypothetical tunnel, such as support beams, and the like to further make the illusion of speed more realistic. In some embodiments, the ride path <NUM> and corresponding hardware may be covered or otherwise obstructed from the passenger's <NUM> view, and in some cases projected upon by the projection system <NUM> to make the illusion more realistic.

In some embodiments, the intermediate position <NUM> may be atop a motion base <NUM> or other moving platform, which may be capable of tilting and or vibrating the ride vehicle <NUM> to enhance the illusion of speed. The wind generation system <NUM> may blow air at passengers <NUM> in the ride vehicle <NUM> as the ride vehicle <NUM> progresses through the tunnel <NUM> or sits stationary at the intermediate position <NUM>. The air blown at passengers <NUM> by the wind generation system <NUM> may further enhance the illusion of speed by simulating the feel of moving through air at high speeds.

As discussed with regard to <FIG>, the ride vehicle <NUM>, the projection system <NUM>, the motion base <NUM>, the wind generation system <NUM>, the sound system <NUM>, and any other components may be under the control of the control system <NUM>. For example, based upon input (e.g., the position of the ride vehicle <NUM>, the velocity of the ride vehicle <NUM>) from sensors <NUM> on the ride vehicle <NUM> and sensors <NUM> disposed elsewhere throughout the system <NUM>, the control system <NUM> may control actuators <NUM> on the ride vehicle <NUM>, the images projected by the projection system <NUM>, actuators <NUM> on the motion base, actuators <NUM> within the wind generation system <NUM>, and so forth. In other embodiments, the ride system <NUM> may lack a control system <NUM>, such that the ride system <NUM> is a "push-play" system which performs the same sequence of repeatable steps, with no feedback loop, each time an operator starts the system <NUM>.

After a period of time during which the ride vehicle <NUM> is stationary or moving slowly along the ride path <NUM> (e.g., not including movement of any motion base <NUM>) at or within the intermediate position, the ride vehicle <NUM> begins to accelerate away from the intermediate position <NUM>. During this time, the projection system <NUM> may project images onto the walls <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> such that the passenger <NUM> is discouraged from perceiving that the ride vehicle <NUM> is accelerating from a stop. For example, the images projected by the projection system <NUM> may decelerate (e.g., provide moving images that correspond to deceleration of the ride vehicle <NUM> from the perspective of the passenger <NUM>) at the same rate at which the ride vehicle <NUM> accelerates to create the illusion to the passenger <NUM> of constant speed. In some embodiments of the ride system <NUM>, the projection system <NUM> may accelerate and decelerate the projected images opposite the accelerations and decelerations of the ride vehicle <NUM> such that the passenger <NUM> perceives that the ride vehicle <NUM> is moving at a constant speed while it is in the tunnel <NUM>. In other embodiments, the images projected by the projection system <NUM> may accelerate and decelerate at different rates than the ride vehicle <NUM> in order to disorient the passenger. Furthermore, the projection system <NUM> may use flashes of light, darkness, loud sounds, and other projected images to disorient the passenger <NUM>.

As the ride vehicle <NUM> accelerates away from the intermediate position <NUM>, the ride vehicle proceeds toward the second end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM>, where the ride vehicle <NUM> exits the tunnel <NUM>. Upon exiting the tunnel <NUM>, the ride vehicle <NUM> may proceed to the remainder of the ride, which may include another similar tunnel <NUM>, or any other combination of features.

<FIG>, <FIG> include perspective views of an embodiment of the system <NUM> in which the second end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> is configured to be maneuvered into different orientations, which may include disconnection from the ride path <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the ride vehicle <NUM> enters the tunnel <NUM> through the first end <NUM>. The ride vehicle <NUM> decelerates as it approaches an intermediate position <NUM>. As with the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the projection system <NUM> may project images onto the walls <NUM> of the tunnel as the ride vehicle <NUM> approaches the intermediate position <NUM> in order to create the illusion of speed. At some point, either before or after the ride vehicle <NUM> comes to rest at the intermediate position <NUM>, the second end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> may disconnect from the ride path <NUM> (<FIG>) such that a second end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> may not be visible to the passenger <NUM>. In some embodiments, the tunnel may be disposed upon a tunnel platform <NUM>. One or more actuators <NUM> may be used to control movement of the tunnel. Additionally, one or more sensors <NUM> may be disposed throughout the tunnel <NUM> or tunnel platform <NUM> to monitor its operation.

As with the embodiment shown in <FIG>, when the ride vehicle stops or slows at the intermediate position <NUM>, the projection system <NUM> may project images on the walls <NUM> of the tunnel to create the illusion of speed. The system <NUM> may include a motion base <NUM>, a tilting platform, a wind generation system <NUM>, a sound system <NUM>, and the like in order to enhance the illusion of speed. However, in the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the ride system <NUM> has the capability to simulate turns in either direction, as well as ups, down, and combinations thereof. For example, <FIG> shows an embodiment of the system <NUM> wherein the second end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> is tilted up to simulate an upward slope. Similar methods could be used to simulate a downward slope. Similarly <FIG> shows that the system <NUM> may be capable of simulating turns to both the right and left. By having the capability to simulate speed through right turns, left turns, upward slopes, downward slopes, and combinations thereof, the ride system <NUM> may be capable creating the illusion of speed for passengers <NUM> in the ride vehicle <NUM> for longer periods of time than a similar system <NUM> that simulates a single turn. The moving platform (e.g., motion base) <NUM> may facilitate simulation of actual speed and directional changes by moving in coordination with changes to the tunnel configuration. For example, in the orientation illustrated in <FIG>, movement of the motion base <NUM> may simulate the forces associated with moving up a steep slope. Similarly, movement of the motion base <NUM> may simulate forces associated with different types of turns and direction changes in coordination with corresponding orientation changes of the tunnel <NUM>.

After a period of time during which the ride vehicle <NUM> is stationary or moving slowly along the ride path <NUM> at the intermediate position <NUM>, the ride vehicle <NUM> may operate to accelerate away from the intermediate position <NUM>. At some point before the ride vehicle <NUM> exits the tunnel <NUM>, the second end <NUM> of the tunnel may orient into a position that facilitates passage of the vehicle <NUM> (e.g., by reconnecting with an aspect of the ride path <NUM>). During this time, the projection system <NUM> may project images onto the walls <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> such that the passenger <NUM> is encouraged to not perceive that the ride vehicle <NUM> is accelerating from a stopped or slowed state. For example, the projection system <NUM> may accelerate and decelerate the projected images opposite the accelerations and decelerations of the ride vehicle <NUM> such that the passenger <NUM> perceives that the ride vehicle <NUM> is moving at a constant speed while it is in the tunnel <NUM>. In other embodiments, the images projected by the projection system <NUM> may accelerate and decelerate at different rates than the ride vehicle <NUM> in order to disorient the passenger. As shown in <FIG>, the projection system <NUM> may project onto the ride path <NUM> (e.g., projected lane lines) to further enhance the illusion of speed. Furthermore, the projection system <NUM> may use flashes of light, darkness, and other projected images to disorient the passenger <NUM>.

As the ride vehicle <NUM> accelerates away from the intermediate position <NUM>, the ride vehicle proceeds toward the second end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM>, where the ride vehicle <NUM> exits the tunnel <NUM>. Upon exiting the tunnel <NUM>, the ride vehicle <NUM> may proceed on the ride path <NUM> through the remainder of the ride, which may include another similar tunnel <NUM>, or any other combination of features.

<FIG>, and <FIG> show another embodiment of the ride system <NUM> in which the second end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> disconnects from the ride path <NUM>. As with the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the ride vehicle <NUM> enters the tunnel <NUM> through a first end <NUM> and decelerates as the ride vehicle <NUM> approaches an intermediate position <NUM>. The projection system <NUM> projects images on the walls <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> to create the illusion of speed as the ride vehicle approaches the intermediate positon <NUM>. At some point before or after the ride vehicle <NUM> comes to rest or slows at the intermediate position <NUM>, the second end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> disconnects from the ride path <NUM>. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the tunnel <NUM> may be disposed upon a motion base <NUM>. The motion base may include actuators <NUM> and/or sensors <NUM> to facilitate movement of the tunnel <NUM>. Whereas the bottom of the tunnel <NUM> shown in <FIG> may be flexible, the bottom of the tunnel <NUM> in <FIG> may be rigid. Accordingly, the rigid sections <NUM>, <NUM> of the tunnel may be connected by a hinge <NUM> and a flexible joint <NUM> that accounts for a gap between sections <NUM>. For example, the flexible joint may be one or more flexible pieces of fabric that cover a gap between tunnel sections <NUM>, <NUM>. In another embodiment, the flexible joint <NUM> may include one or more sets of telescoping panels that move relative to one another as tunnel section <NUM> tilts up and down. In yet another embodiment, the flexible joint <NUM> may include bellows, or some other flexible structure to account changes in spacing between the tunnel sections <NUM>, <NUM>. In some embodiments, the tilting tunnel section <NUM> may be actuated by the motion base <NUM>. In other embodiments, the tunnel may be actuated by an actuator <NUM> (e.g., a linear actuator). While the ride vehicle <NUM> is stationary, the tunnel may tilt upward (<FIG>) and downward (<FIG>) in order to simulate the illusion of speed over ups and downs in the ride path <NUM>. In some embodiments, the illusion of upward and/or downward speed shown in <FIG>, and <FIG> may be used to make the passenger perceive that the ride spends more time going down than it does going up, even though the ride may have a net-zero elevation gain.

As with the other embodiments discussed, after a period of time at which the ride vehicle <NUM> is stationary or in a slowed state at the intermediate position within the tunnel <NUM>, the ride vehicle <NUM> begins to accelerate away from the intermediate position and proceed through the tunnel. At some point before the ride vehicle <NUM> exits the tunnel <NUM>, the second end <NUM> of the tunnel reconnects with the ride path <NUM>. As the ride vehicle <NUM> proceeds, the projection system <NUM> projects images onto the walls <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> that maintain the illusion of speed. The images projected by the projection system <NUM> may decelerate at the same rate at which the ride vehicle <NUM> accelerates to create the illusion of constant velocity or the projected images may appear to accelerate and decelerate at rates different from the accelerations and decelerations of the ride vehicle <NUM> to disorient the passenger. The projection system <NUM> may also use flashes of light, darkness, and other projected images to further create the illusion of speed or disorient the passenger <NUM>.

<FIG>, <FIG> show an embodiment of the ride system <NUM> in which the ride vehicle <NUM> enters and exits through the same end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM>, rather than traveling through the tunnel <NUM>. In some embodiment, the tunnel <NUM> may not be a tunnel in the classical sense (i.e., having an entrance and an exit, through which the ride vehicle <NUM> passes), but instead be a faux-tunnel <NUM> having an entrance, but no exit. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the cross-sectional area of the tunnel <NUM> decreases from the first end <NUM> to the second end <NUM> in a conical or cornucopia shaped fashion. In some embodiments, the tunnel <NUM> may come to a point at the second end <NUM>. In other embodiments, the second end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> may be open, but smaller than the opening at the first end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM>. Such an embodiment may create an illusion that the tunnel <NUM> is longer than it really is. In yet other embodiments, the second end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> may have the same cross-sectional areas as the first end <NUM>. As is shown in <FIG>, the direction the tunnel <NUM> curves may be used to simulate ups, downs, and curves. As with previously discussed embodiments, the tunnel <NUM> may be flexible (e.g., fabric over a skeleton support structure), allowing it to bend in various directions, or the tunnel <NUM> may be rigid, and then rotate about the first end <NUM> to simulate changes in direction.

The ride vehicle <NUM> enters the tunnel <NUM> through a first end <NUM> and proceeds to an intermediate position <NUM>. As the ride vehicle <NUM> proceeds toward the intermediate position <NUM>, the projection system <NUM> projects images on the walls <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> that create the illusion of speed. For example, the images projected on the walls <NUM> may create the illusion of constant velocity, increasing velocity, decreasing velocity, or a combination thereof.

As the ride vehicle <NUM> decelerates in its approach to the intermediate position <NUM>, the projection system <NUM> may project images into the walls <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> to create the illusion of movement, even though the ride vehicle <NUM> may be stationary, slowed, or coming to a stop at the intermediate position <NUM>. As previously discussed, the intermediate position may be atop a motion base <NUM>. The intermediate position <NUM> may also be atop a turntable <NUM>. While the ride vehicle <NUM> remains stationary or slowed at or within the intermediate position <NUM>, the one or more tunnel actuators <NUM> may move the second end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM>, varying the curvature and/or direction of the tunnel <NUM> to simulate ups, downs, turns, or some combination thereof. In such an embodiment, the tunnel <NUM> may be made of a flexible material (e.g., flexible cloth draped over a support structure) to accommodate a stationary first end <NUM> and a mobile second end <NUM>. In other embodiments, the tunnel <NUM> may be rigid and be configured to rotate about a bearing <NUM> (e.g. a ball bearing or some other rotational interface) at the opening at the first end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM>, such that in a first position (<FIG>), the tunnel simulates a right turn, in a second position (<FIG>), the tunnel simulates an upward trajectory, in a third position (<FIG>), the tunnel simulates a downward trajectory, and in a fourth position (not shown), the tunnel simulates a left turn. As previously discussed, the images projected by the projection system <NUM> may create the illusion of a constant velocity, or may create the illusion of rates of acceleration that vary wildly to disorient the passenger <NUM>. Additionally, the ride system <NUM> may use a motion base <NUM>, a wind generation system <NUM>, a sound system <NUM>, or other systems to further enhance the illusion of speed.

After a period of time, the ride vehicle <NUM> turns around, accelerates away from the intermediate position <NUM>, and exits the tunnel <NUM> through the first end <NUM>. The ride vehicle <NUM> may be turned around by a turn-table, the ride vehicle <NUM> itself may have a mechanism for turning the passengers around, or the ride path <NUM> may include a <NUM> degree turn disposed within the tunnel <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). The ride system <NUM> may use darkness or bright flashes of light from the projection system in order to disorient the passenger <NUM> as the ride vehicle <NUM> turns around and exits the tunnel <NUM>, such that the passenger <NUM> is unaware that the ride vehicle <NUM> has turned around or otherwise changed directions. Upon exiting the tunnel <NUM>, the ride vehicle may proceed to the remainder of the ride, which may include another similar tunnel <NUM>, or any other combination of features.

<FIG> show an embodiment of the ride system <NUM> having set pieces mounted to a carousel on the inside of a turn. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the tunnel <NUM> may be disposed about a turn in the ride path <NUM>. Unlike previously depicted embodiments, the tunnel <NUM> only has a wall on the outside of the turn. However, in some embodiments, the tunnel <NUM> may have walls <NUM> on both the inside and the outside of the turn at the entrance (e.g. the first end <NUM>) and/or at the exit (e.g., the second end <NUM>) of the tunnel <NUM>. The carousel <NUM>, which may include one or more actuators <NUM> and/or sensors <NUM> under the control of the control system <NUM>, may enhance the illusion of speed by providing surfaces or objects (e.g., set pieces <NUM>) that move relative to the ride vehicle <NUM>. In some embodiments, a number of set pieces <NUM> or other objects may be attached to the carousel <NUM>. For example, the set pieces <NUM> may include beams, arches, or other objects that travel by, over, or around the ride vehicle <NUM> as the carousel <NUM> spins.

As with previously discussed embodiments, the ride vehicle <NUM> enters the tunnel <NUM> through a first end <NUM> and proceeds to an intermediate position <NUM>. The ride vehicle <NUM> decelerates as it approaches the intermediate position <NUM>. As the ride vehicle <NUM> approaches the intermediate position <NUM>, the ride system <NUM> creates the illusion of speed. For example, the images projected by the projection system <NUM> and the carousel <NUM> may accelerate as the ride vehicle <NUM> decelerates. The acceleration of the images and carousel <NUM> may be equal and opposite the deceleration of the ride vehicle <NUM> to create the illusion of constant velocity. In other embodiments, the images and the carousel <NUM> may accelerate faster than the ride vehicle accelerates in order to create the illusion of acceleration. Various other combinations may be possible. As the ride vehicle <NUM> approaches the intermediate position <NUM>, the various other systems under the control of the control system <NUM> (e.g., wind generation system <NUM>, sound system <NUM>, motion base <NUM>, ride vehicle actuators <NUM> and sensors <NUM>, tunnel actuators <NUM> and sensors <NUM>) may assist in creating the illusion of speed.

The ride vehicle <NUM> may then come to rest or slow at an intermediate position <NUM>, at which the passenger's view of the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> are obstructed. The ride vehicle <NUM> may remain stationary or slowed at the intermediate position <NUM> for a period of time. During this time, the ride system <NUM>, under the control of the control system <NUM>, creates the illusion of speed. For example, the projection system <NUM> may project moving images on the walls <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> that create the illusion of speed. The carousel <NUM> may spin, either at a constant speed or at varying speeds, such that one or more surfaces, objects, or set pieces <NUM> pass over, by, or around the ride vehicle <NUM>. As with other embodiments, the intermediate position <NUM> may be atop a motion based that tilts or vibrates the ride vehicle <NUM>. A wind generation system <NUM> (e.g., one or more fans <NUM>) may enhance the illusion of speed by blowing air on the passenger <NUM>. Additionally, the sound system <NUM> may play noises that make it sound as though the ride vehicle <NUM> is moving.

After a period of time at which the ride vehicle <NUM> is stationary or in a slowed state, the ride vehicle <NUM> may accelerate away from the intermediate position <NUM> and proceed through the tunnel <NUM> to the second end <NUM> of the tunnel. As the ride vehicle <NUM> proceeds to the second end of the tunnel, the ride system <NUM> continues to create the illusion of speed. The illusion may be created by the projection system <NUM>, the sound system <NUM>, the wind generation system <NUM>, a motion base, or any number of actuators disposed throughout the ride system <NUM>. In some embodiments, the various systems may be under the control of the control system <NUM>, which controls the various systems based on input from sensors on the ride vehicle <NUM>, sensors in the tunnel <NUM>, or sensors disposed elsewhere throughout the system <NUM>. In other embodiments, the system <NUM> may be a "push-play" system, wherein the ride operator pushes a start button and the ride system goes through the same series of steps in the same fashion over and over again. In some embodiments, for example, the images projected by the projection system <NUM> and the carousel <NUM> may decelerate as the ride vehicle <NUM> accelerates away from the intermediate position <NUM> so as to create the illusion of constant speed while the ride vehicle <NUM> is in the tunnel <NUM>. In some embodiments, the carousel <NUM> and the images projected by the projection system <NUM> may stop moving by the time the ride vehicle <NUM> reaches the second end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM>. In other embodiments, the projected images and/or the carousel <NUM> may accelerate and decelerate in order to create the illusion of varying speeds while the ride vehicle is in the tunnel. Upon exiting the tunnel <NUM>, the ride vehicle <NUM> may proceed along the ride path <NUM> to any number of other features of the ride system <NUM>, which may or may not include additional tunnels <NUM>.

<FIG>, <FIG> show an embodiment of the ride system <NUM> in which one or more set pieces <NUM> are moved in a substantially lateral direction <NUM>, as opposed to the set pieces <NUM> mounted to the rotating carousel <NUM> shown in <FIG>. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, once the ride vehicle <NUM> enters the tunnel <NUM>, the ride vehicle <NUM> may either remain stationary at an intermediate position <NUM>, or move slowly through the tunnel <NUM> as a plurality of set pieces <NUM> move in a substantially lateral direction <NUM> to create the illusion that the ride vehicle <NUM> is moving faster than it actually is. Though the set pieces shown in <FIG> are rectangular in shape, it should be understood that this is merely to illustrate the movement of the set pieces <NUM>, and that the set pieces may be of any shape or size. The set pieces <NUM> may be moved using one or more tracks, which may be at the tops, bottoms, or sides of the set pieces <NUM>. However, other systems for moving the set pieces <NUM> may be possible. As shown in <FIG>, once the ride vehicle <NUM> as passed through one or more of the set pieces <NUM>, the set pieces move backward, opposite the lateral direction, to reset for the next ride vehicle <NUM> to enter the tunnel <NUM>. It should be understood that <FIG> show one possible feature of the ride system <NUM> and that the laterally moving set piece <NUM> feature may be combined with other features described herein (e.g., vanishing point tunnel, flexible tunnel, tunnel with entry and exit through single end, tunnel with carousel).

<FIG> shows an embodiment of the ride system <NUM> in which set pieces <NUM> are guided through the tunnel by a treadmill-type system <NUM>. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, a plurality of set pieces <NUM> are linked to one another by a belt, chain, or other flexible series of linkages. Though <FIG> shows attachment at the top of each set piece <NUM>, attachment could also be from the bottom, a side of the set piece <NUM>, or somewhere else.

As with other embodiments, the ride vehicle enters the tunnel through a first end <NUM>. The ride vehicle may decelerate toward, and come to rest at, an intermediate position, or the ride vehicle <NUM> may proceed slowly through the tunnel <NUM>. The set piece system <NUM> may then begin to move the set pieces <NUM> to create the illusion that the ride vehicle <NUM> is moving faster than it actually is. The set pieces <NUM> may be cycled above the ride path <NUM>, under the ride path <NUM>, or around the side (e.g., obscured by a wall <NUM>), and back around in front of the ride vehicle <NUM>. The same set pieces <NUM> may be guided by, over, or around the ride vehicle <NUM> an unlimited number of times, thus allowing the illusion of speed created by the set pieces <NUM> passing by, over, or around the ride vehicle <NUM> to continue indefinitely. It should be understood, however, that <FIG> is simplified to communicate the movement of the set pieces <NUM>, and that the set piece system <NUM> may operate under the control of the control system <NUM>, and/or in conjunction with the projection system <NUM>, the sound system <NUM>, the wind generation system <NUM>, a motion base, actuators disposed throughout the ride system <NUM>, or any other number of systems to enhance the illusion of speed.

After a period of time, the ride vehicle <NUM> accelerates toward the second end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM>. The rate of speed at which the set piece system <NUM> moves the set pieces <NUM> may change corresponding to the acceleration and deceleration of the ride vehicle. For example, the set piece system <NUM> may be configured to maintain a constant relative velocity between the ride vehicle <NUM> and the set pieces <NUM> in order to create the illusion of constant velocity. In some systems, this may be achieved by the control system <NUM> reacting to inputs from sensors <NUM> on the ride vehicle, sensors <NUM> in the tunnel <NUM>, or sensors disposed elsewhere throughout the system <NUM>, and adjusting the speed of the set pieces <NUM>, or the speed of the ride vehicle accordingly. In other embodiments, this effect may be achieved without a control system <NUM>. Additionally, the set piece system <NUM> may work in conjunction with other previously described systems (projection system <NUM>, sound system <NUM>, wind system <NUM>) to create or enhance the illusion of speed.

<FIG> shows a process <NUM> for creating the illusion of speed using the ride system <NUM>. In block <NUM> the ride system <NUM> or the tunnel <NUM> receives the ride vehicle <NUM>. In some embodiments, the ride vehicle <NUM> may enter the tunnel <NUM> from an open end at either side of the tunnel <NUM>.

In block <NUM>, images are projected and/or set pieces <NUM> are moved as the ride vehicle decelerates. The ride vehicle <NUM> decelerates between the first end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM>, where the ride vehicle <NUM> entered the tunnel <NUM>, and an intermediate position <NUM> within the tunnel <NUM>, from which the second end of the tunnel is not visible. As the ride vehicle decelerates, the projection system <NUM> projects images on the walls <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM>, and/or the set piece system <NUM> moves set pieces <NUM> in order to create the illusion of speed. The projection system <NUM> may include a number of projectors <NUM>, self-illuminating panels <NUM>, or some other way to display images on a surface. In some embodiments, the projected images or set pieces <NUM> may accelerate, or appear to accelerate, at a rate opposite the deceleration of the ride vehicle <NUM> in order to create the illusion of constant velocity. For example, the ride vehicle <NUM> may enter the tunnel, decelerate, perhaps even stop, accelerate, and then exit the tunnel. During this time, the projection system may project images on the walls of the tunnel <NUM> such that the passenger <NUM> perceives that the ride vehicle <NUM> is moving through the tunnel <NUM> at a constant velocity. In other embodiments, the acceleration of the ride vehicle <NUM> and the projected images and/or set pieces may be mismatched to create the illusion of acceleration or deceleration. For example, the projected images may create the illusion for the passenger that the ride vehicle <NUM> has covered a much greater distance while it was in the tunnel <NUM> than it actually has.

The images projected onto the walls may simulate traveling through a tunnel in a car or a train. For example, the projected images may simulate a moving texture (e.g., brick, stone, rock, and so forth) onto the surface of a smooth wall. The projected images may include tunnel features, such as doors, windows, support structures, and so forth. ) In yet other embodiments, the images projected onto the walls <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> may not simulate a tunnel at all. For example, the projected images may include the sky, clouds, trees, buildings, bodies of water, wild life, aircraft, trains, other vehicles, and the like.

In some embodiments, the ride system <NUM> may also utilize other systems (e.g., a sound system <NUM>, a wind generation system <NUM>, lighting, a motion base <NUM>, and a carousel <NUM>) to further enhance the illusion of speed. The ride vehicle <NUM> may come to a stop at an intermediate position <NUM> within the tunnel <NUM>. For example, accelerating projected images may be vibration of a motion base <NUM>, increasing airflow through the tunnel cause by the wind generation system <NUM>, and sounds produced by the sound system <NUM> (e.g., an engine revving, gear changes, simulation of the Doppler effect that corresponds to the projected images, and so forth). In some embodiments, the control circuitry <NUM> may receive inputs from one or more sensors <NUM> aboard the ride vehicle <NUM>, and correspondingly control the projection system <NUM>, the sound system <NUM>, the wind generation system <NUM>, the ride path <NUM>, tunnel <NUM>, set pieces <NUM>, or other components according to a control program or algorithm to create an illusion of speed. In other embodiments, actuators throughout the ride system <NUM> may be actuated to create a repeatable ride experience that does not vary from cycle to cycle based on input from sensors.

In block <NUM>, images are projected and/or set pieces are moved to create the illusion of speed. As previously discussed, the projection system <NUM> may project images on the walls <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> and/or set pieces <NUM> may be moved through the tunnel <NUM> in order to create the illusion of speed for a passenger <NUM> in the ride vehicle <NUM>. Other systems, such as a sound system <NUM>, a wind generation system <NUM>, lighting, a motion base <NUM>, a carousel <NUM>, and so forth, may be used to further enhance the illusion of speed. In some embodiments, the tunnel <NUM> may be disconnected from the ride path <NUM> and moved. After a period of time at which the ride vehicle <NUM> is stationary or in a slowed state at the intermediate position <NUM>, the ride vehicle <NUM> begins to accelerate away from the intermediate position <NUM>. In some embodiments, the ride vehicle <NUM> may accelerate toward the second end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM> and proceed through the tunnel <NUM>. In other embodiments, the ride vehicle <NUM> may accelerate back toward the first end <NUM> of the tunnel <NUM>, exiting the tunnel <NUM> from the same end that it entered. In some embodiments, however, the ride vehicle <NUM> may not accelerate out of the tunnel <NUM>. Instead, the ride vehicle <NUM> may proceed at a constant speed from the intermediate position <NUM> to the second end <NUM> of the tunnel.

In block <NUM>, images are projected and/or set pieces are moved as the ride vehicle <NUM> accelerates away from the intermediate position <NUM>. In some embodiments, the projected images or set pieces <NUM> may decelerate as the ride vehicle <NUM> accelerates, creating the illusion of constant speed. In other embodiments, the acceleration of the ride vehicle <NUM> and the acceleration or deceleration of the projected images or set pieces <NUM> may be mismatched in or to create the illusion of acceleration, deceleration, or to disorient the passenger <NUM>. In some embodiments, the ride system <NUM> may use bright lights or darkness to disorient the passenger <NUM> while the ride vehicle <NUM> turns around. Other systems, such as a sound system <NUM>, a wind generation system <NUM>, lighting, a motion base <NUM>, a carousel <NUM>, etc., may be used to further enhance the illusion of speed.

Technical effects of the disclosure include creating the illusion of speed and/or directional transition for a passenger <NUM> without the ride vehicle <NUM> covering as much ground as the passenger <NUM> perceives. The systems and methods disclosed herein may be used to shrink the footprint of amusement park ride systems, reducing the amount of real estate necessary for the ride systems. The disclosed techniques may be used to increase the number of ride systems in an amusement park of a set size, to reduce the amount of real estate necessary for an amusement park having a desired number of ride systems, or to reduce the cost of building and operating an amusement park.

Claim 1:
An amusement ride system (<NUM>), comprising:
a ride vehicle (<NUM>) configured to travel along a vehicle ride path (<NUM>);
a treadmill system (<NUM>) comprising a plurality of set pieces (<NUM>),
wherein the treadmill system (<NUM>) is configured to transition the plurality of set pieces (<NUM>) along a treadmill path,
wherein a portion of the treadmill path is aligned with and offset by a vertical distance from a portion of the vehicle ride path; and
a tunnel (<NUM>) comprising a first end (<NUM>) configured to receive the ride vehicle (<NUM>) via the vehicle ride path (<NUM>) and a second end (<NUM>) defining an exit out of the tunnel (<NUM>) via the vehicle ride path (<NUM>), wherein the tunnel (<NUM>) is disposed about the portion of the vehicle ride path and the portion of the treadmill path,
wherein the treadmill system is configured to transition the plurality of set pieces (<NUM>) along the treadmill path at a rate which depends on the rate at which the ride vehicle (<NUM>) travels through the tunnel (<NUM>).