Patent Description:
The present disclosure relates generally to the field of amusement parks. More specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to systems utilized to manage loose items for guests during amusement park experiences.

Various amusement park rides have been created to provide riders with unique motion and visual experiences. For example, theme rides can be implemented with single-rider or multi-rider vehicles that travel along a path or utilize a motion base. Excitement is often created by the speed or change in direction of the vehicles as they move along a ride path or follow a motion routine. However, the associated motion may also cause a loose item (e.g., a cell phone, cameras, keys, wallet, etc.) in the possession of a rider to become extricated from control of the rider. Once a loose item is out of the rider's control during a ride, the loose item may be lost, it may be damaged, or it may cause damage to equipment and so forth.

Traditionally, loose items are kept in lockers to avoid issues associated with taking them on rides at an amusement park. However, the cost of building lockers is typically high, and the lockers permanently occupy valuable space within the amusement park. Additionally, riders are often reluctant to put their loose items (e.g., cell phones, wallets, keys, and cameras) in lockers. Moreover, riders may use their cell phones to display ride passes (e.g., passes with priority rights) that are scanned at an entrance of the ride. Therefore, the rider's cell phone may need to be readily accessible prior to loading the ride. Riders often prefer to keep their loose items on their person so that they can use them while waiting in line and other reasons. Accordingly, it is now recognized that there is a need for an improved loose item storage system that allows guests to have control of their loose items during operation of the amusement park ride.

Document <CIT> discloses a portable safe being configured to be temporarily secured to an object without requiring an individual who uses the portable safe to constantly monitor the portable safe or any valuable items secured therein. Thus, the individual may attend to other activities located nearby or remote from the object to which the portable safe is secured. Document <CIT> discloses a roller coaster ride seat incorporating sensor and camera technologies.

Certain embodiments commensurate in scope with the present disclosure are summarized below. Indeed, the present disclosure may encompass a variety of forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth The scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims.

In accordance with an unclaimed embodiment, a system includes a portable locker including a container that may receive and store items and a first lock coupled to the container and that may lock the container to block access to the stored items. The first lock includes a detector that may receive a wireless signal, and receiving the wireless signal causes the first lock to lock or unlock. The system also includes a restraint coupled to the container and includes a second lock. The second lock may secure the portable locker to a rider of an amusement park ride.

In accordance with the invention according to claim <NUM>, a system includes a portable locker including a container that may receive and store items. The container includes a first lock that may lock the container to restrict access to the stored items, and the first lock incudes a detector that may receive a wireless signal that may lock or unlock the first lock. The system also includes a ride vehicle having a retaining bar that may reversibly couple to the portable locker. The retaining bar includes a locking mechanism that may switch between a secured and unsecured configuration based on a locking signal received from a controller.

In accordance with a third unclaimed embodiment, a system includes a portable locker including a first pouch and a second pouch configured to move relative to the first pouch. Each pouch may receive and store items. The system also includes a first lock coupled to the first pouch and that may lock the pouch to block access to the stored items. The first lock includes a detector that may receive a wireless signal that may lock or unlock the first lock. The system also includes a reel disposed on the first pouch and having a retractable lanyard coupled to the second pouch. The retractable lanyard may release and retract the second pouch to allow movement of the second pouch relative to the first pouch. The system also includes a restraint coupled to the first pouch and including a second lock. The second lock may secure the portable locker to a rider of an amusement park ride.

<FIG> illustrates an unclaimed embodiment of an amusement park ride <NUM> that uses a portable locker to store a rider's loose items during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the amusement park ride <NUM> includes a distribution point <NUM> along a queue for the amusement park ride <NUM> for providing a rider <NUM> with a portable locker <NUM> that secures loose items <NUM> belonging to the rider <NUM>. The distribution point <NUM> may be located at an entrance <NUM>, at a loading station, or any other location between the entrance <NUM> and the loading station of the amusement park ride <NUM>. In addition to the distribution point <NUM>, the amusement park ride <NUM> includes a control point <NUM> for monitoring storage of the loose items <NUM> within the portable locker <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, one or more crew members <NUM> may be stationed at the distribution point <NUM> to monitor for the loose items <NUM> and/or to provide the rider <NUM> with the portable locker <NUM> for storage of the loose items <NUM>. The distribution point <NUM> may be positioned prior to the control point <NUM> (e.g., a metal detector) of the amusement park ride <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, the distribution point <NUM> and the control point <NUM> may be positioned within the same location or may be overlapping. As used herein, the control point <NUM> is intended to denote the location where verification that loose items are properly stored and secured within the portable locker <NUM> takes place.

In some embodiments, the one or more crew members <NUM> may distribute the portable locker <NUM> to the rider <NUM> immediately prior to riding/participating in the entertainment experience. For example, the distribution point <NUM> may be immediately prior or essentially overlapping with the loading station for the amusement park ride <NUM>. The "loading station" as used herein is intended to denote an area where the rider <NUM> boards a ride vehicle of the amusement park ride. In one embodiment, the one or more crew members <NUM> may distribute the portable locker <NUM> about <NUM> or <NUM> feet (about <NUM>-<NUM> meters) before the control point <NUM> or lock point. However, the portable locker <NUM> may be distributed to the rider <NUM> at any other location within the amusement park (e.g., at the entrance <NUM> or at an entrance to the amusement park). The "lock point" as used herein is intended to denote the point at which the portable locker is locked and unable to be opened to access the stored loose items. A "lock point" may refer to a location (e.g., all items are locked beyond a certain physical location), a time point (e.g., all items are locked after a particular time), or an event point (e.g., all items are locked before a particular event, such as a vehicle movement start). In other embodiments, the riders <NUM> may purchase portable lockers <NUM> that are themed and, therefore, are already in possession of the rider <NUM> for use in accordance with present embodiments.

As discussed previously, the rider <NUM> may be provided with the portable locker <NUM> at the distribution point <NUM> prior to passing through the control point <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the distribution point <NUM> may include a scanner <NUM> (e.g., a metal detector or other suitable scanner) that detects the presence of the loose items <NUM>. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the scanner <NUM> is a hand held scanner that may be used by the one or more crew members <NUM> to scan for and detect the loose items <NUM> on the rider <NUM>. In other embodiments, the scanner <NUM> may be a stationary or fixed scanner that the rider <NUM> may walk through. The scanner <NUM> alerts the one or more crew members <NUM> that the rider <NUM> has loose items <NUM> on their person. Accordingly, the one or more crew members <NUM> provides the rider <NUM> with the portable locker <NUM> and instructs the rider <NUM> to place their loose items <NUM> into the portable locker <NUM>. The rider <NUM> may undergo additional scanning with the scanner <NUM> to detect other loose items <NUM>. Once the rider's loose items <NUM> are disposed within the portable locker <NUM>, and no other items are determined to be present on the rider <NUM>, the portable locker <NUM> may be locked by activating a locking mechanism. As discussed in detail below, the locking mechanism may not be unlocked without receiving a lock deactivation signal transmitted after completion of the amusement park ride <NUM> and when the rider <NUM> has possession of the portable locker <NUM> storing their loose items <NUM>.

Following placement and locking of the loose items <NUM> in the portable locker <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may proceed to the control point <NUM>, where the one or more crew members <NUM> may verify that the loose items <NUM> are locked and secured within the portable locker <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the rider <NUM> may proceed to place their portable locker <NUM> within a storage system <NUM> that retains the portable locker <NUM> while the rider <NUM> enjoys the amusement park ride <NUM>. The storage system <NUM> may be positioned at any point along the queue of the amusement park ride <NUM>. In particular, it may be desirable to position the storage system <NUM> at or near a loading/ section of the amusement park ride <NUM> to facilitate access to the storage system <NUM> for storage and retrieval of the portable locker <NUM>. In other embodiments, the portable locker <NUM> may be wearable or configured to attach to a ride seat of the amusement park ride <NUM> such that the rider <NUM> may have the portable locker <NUM> in their possession during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>. As such, the storage system <NUM> may be located within the ride vehicle itself or omitted, thereby saving costs associated with manufacturing the storage system <NUM>.

In embodiments in which the storage system <NUM> is used, upon completion of the amusement park ride <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may exit the amusement park ride <NUM> and collect the portable locker <NUM> from the storage system <NUM>. The locking mechanism of the portable locker <NUM> may be deactivated, thereby unlocking the portable locker <NUM> and allowing the rider <NUM> to retrieve the loose items <NUM> stored in the portable locker <NUM>. As discussed previously, the locking mechanism may be unlocked after receiving a signal when the ride <NUM> is complete and the rider <NUM> has possession of the portable locker <NUM> storing their loose items <NUM>. For example, <FIG> illustrates an unclaimed embodiment of the amusement park ride <NUM> having an RFID gate <NUM> that is communicatively coupled to the portable locker <NUM> and that transmits a signal that unlocks the portable locker <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the RFID gate <NUM> is located at an exit <NUM> of the amusement park ride <NUM>. However, the RFID gate <NUM> may be located at any other location between the unloading section and the exit <NUM>. The RFID gate <NUM> transmits a deactivation signal <NUM> that unlocks the locking mechanism on the portable locker <NUM>, thereby allowing the rider <NUM> to access the loose items <NUM> stored in the portable locker <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the amusement park ride <NUM> may not include the RFID gate <NUM>. Rather, the one or more crew members <NUM> may deactivate the locking mechanism of the portable locker <NUM> using a key card or other electronic key. By only deactivating the locking mechanism of the portable locker <NUM> after the rider <NUM> enjoys the amusement park ride <NUM>, the rider <NUM> is prevented from accessing the loose items <NUM> that may otherwise be inadvertently separated from the rider <NUM> during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>. Further, by implementing loose items storage as a portable locker <NUM>, loading and unloading is more efficient. The rider <NUM> simply holds the portable locker <NUM>, which may be opened and accessed at their leisure, or while walking towards the exit, rather than having to stop at a fixed location within the amusement park ride <NUM>.

<FIG> is a process flow diagram <NUM> of an unclaimed embodiment of the amusement park ride <NUM> that uses the portable locker <NUM> to store the rider's loose items <NUM>. As discussed previously, the rider <NUM> may be provided with the portable locker <NUM> at the distribution point <NUM> and instructed to store their loose items <NUM> within the portable locker <NUM>. The rider <NUM> is scanned using the scanner <NUM> for additional loose items <NUM> before the portable locker <NUM> is locked via, for example, a lock actuator <NUM>. Once locked, the rider <NUM> proceeds to store the locked portable locker <NUM> in the storage system <NUM>, as illustrated by arrow <NUM>. Following storage of the locked portable locker <NUM>, the rider proceeds to a loading station <NUM> of the amusement park ride <NUM>. After completion of the amusement park ride <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may retrieve the locked portable locker <NUM> from the storage system <NUM>, as shown by arrow <NUM>, and proceed to a second lock actuator <NUM> (e.g., the RFID gate <NUM>) to unlock the portable locker <NUM> prior to exiting the amusement park ride <NUM> at the exit <NUM>.

As discussed previously, the rider <NUM> may use the portable locker <NUM> to store and secure the loose items <NUM> prior to enjoying the amusement park ride <NUM>. The portable locker <NUM> may include features that block the rider <NUM> from retrieving the loose items <NUM> from the portable locker <NUM> after the portable locker <NUM> is locked. In this way, the loose items <NUM> may be contained within the portable locker <NUM> during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>. As discussed in further detail below with reference to <FIG>, the portable locker <NUM> may be a wearable locker that the rider <NUM> may take onto the amusement park ride <NUM>. As such, the rider <NUM> may have possession of their loose items <NUM> at all times. <FIG> is a schematic view of an embodiment of the portable locker <NUM> according to the invention that may be used by the rider <NUM> to store and secure the loose items <NUM>. The portable locker <NUM> is representative of various types of portable lockers in accordance with present embodiments. As shown in the illustrated embodiment of <FIG>, the portable locker <NUM> may include, or be implemented as, a lockable container, illustrated as a pouch <NUM> (e.g., pouch, container, box, bag, or the like) for storing the loose items <NUM> (e.g., cell phone, camera, keys, hat, wallet, or any other suitable loose item). It should be understood that the loose items <NUM> are items that are capable of being separated from the riders <NUM> and, as provided herein, may be nonetheless referred to as loose items <NUM> while contained and enclosed in the pouch <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the pouch <NUM> stores the loose items <NUM> in a fully enclosed manner when sealed or locked such that the rider <NUM> cannot directly touch or access the loose items <NUM>. The pouch <NUM> includes a sealed end <NUM> and a closable end <NUM> having a locking mechanism <NUM> configured to open (<FIG>) and close (<FIG>) the closable end <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking mechanism <NUM> includes a lock <NUM> (e.g., actuatable lock), a zipper <NUM>, and zipper teeth <NUM> around a perimeter <NUM> of the closable end <NUM>.

The pouch <NUM> may include or be implemented as a bag, a container, or any other suitable enclosure that may be used to retain and secure the loose items <NUM>. The pouch <NUM> may be manufactured from materials such as fabrics, plastics, or both. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the pouch <NUM> may be clear such that the rider <NUM> may view and/or use the loose items <NUM> stored in the portable locker <NUM>. For example, the pouch <NUM> may enable the rider <NUM> to, through the intervening material of the pouch <NUM>, interact with a touch screen or buttons of electronic devices (e.g., cell phone, camera, etc.) stored within the portable locker <NUM>. During queue and/or operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may access a camera (e.g., on a cell phone) to take a picture or video through the portable locker <NUM> while the portable locker <NUM> is locked. In some embodiments, the portable locker <NUM> may be capable of transitioning between modes to prevent or allow access of the loose items <NUM> (e.g., camera, cell phone, or the like) secured within the pouch <NUM>. For example, in areas where pictures are not allowed, a transmission to electronics of the pouch <NUM> may cause the pouch <NUM> to turn an area from clear to opaque (e.g., with liquid crystals). As such, the rider <NUM> is unable to access the loose items <NUM>, specifically electronic devices that may be used to take pictures or video.

As discussed previously, the portable locker <NUM> includes the locking mechanism <NUM> for securing and locking the loose items <NUM> within the pouch <NUM> to prevent removal of the loose items <NUM> from the portable locker <NUM> when the rider <NUM> is enjoying the amusement park ride <NUM>. For example, the locking mechanism <NUM> may be used to close the closable end <NUM> after the rider <NUM> places the loose items <NUM> into the pouch <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The locking mechanism <NUM> may be configured such that it cannot be opened by the rider <NUM> until the portable locker <NUM> is taken to a specific location (e.g., the RFID gate <NUM>) away from the amusement park ride <NUM> or a ride vehicle of the amusement park ride <NUM> reaches the unloading section. As shown in the embodiment of <FIG> showing a portable locker according to the invention, the zipper <NUM> includes at least one protrusion <NUM> that engages with a complementary recess <NUM> of the lock <NUM> to close the closable end <NUM> and secure the loose items <NUM> within the pouch <NUM>. For example, after the rider <NUM> deposits the loose items <NUM> into the pouch <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may apply a pulling force to the zipper <NUM>, thereby moving the zipper <NUM> in a direction <NUM> toward the lock <NUM>. The zipper <NUM> may include one or more features to facilitate moving the zipper <NUM> in the direction <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the zipper <NUM> includes a zipper pull <NUM> that the rider <NUM> or other person (e.g., the one or more crew members <NUM>) may grip and apply the pulling force to move the zipper <NUM> in the direction <NUM>. Pulling the zipper <NUM> in the direction <NUM> enables joining of the zipper teeth <NUM>, thereby sealing (i.e., closing) the closable end <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

Once the zipper <NUM> reaches the lock <NUM>, the at least one protrusion <NUM> is inserted into the recess <NUM>. The at least one protrusion <NUM> includes a notch <NUM> that engages with a locking pin <NUM> (e.g., a spring-loaded locking pin) of the lock <NUM>. For example, <FIG> illustrates an embodiment of the locking mechanism <NUM> in a locked configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one protrusion <NUM> is engaged with the lock <NUM> via the notch <NUM> and the locking pin <NUM>. A portion <NUM> of the locking pin <NUM> is disposed within the notch <NUM>, thereby securing the zipper <NUM> to the lock <NUM>. As discussed previously, the locking pin <NUM> may be a spring-loaded locking pin. Accordingly, as the at least one protrusion <NUM> is inserted into the recess <NUM>, an end face <NUM> of the one or more protrusions <NUM> may push the locking pin <NUM> in a direction <NUM> to allow the at least one protrusion <NUM> to continue moving in the direction <NUM> until the notch <NUM> is aligned with the locking pin <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the at least one or more protrusions <NUM> may be tapered to facilitate pushing the locking pin <NUM> in the direction <NUM>. Movement of the locking pin <NUM> in the direction <NUM> compresses a spring <NUM> of the locking pin <NUM>. Once the notch <NUM> and the locking pin <NUM> are aligned, the spring <NUM> biases the portion <NUM> of the locking pin <NUM> to snap, or otherwise be inserted, into the notch <NUM> to removably couple the zipper <NUM> and the lock <NUM>. In the locked configuration, the at least one protrusion <NUM> is nested within the recess <NUM> and a side surface <NUM> of the zipper <NUM> abuts an abutment surface <NUM> of the lock <NUM>. As should be noted, in certain embodiments, the lock <NUM> may include the at least one protrusion <NUM>, and the zipper <NUM> may include the recess <NUM> and the locking pin <NUM>. While the illustrated embodiment shows the zipper <NUM>, it should be understood that other locks and implementations are contemplated in any of the disclosed embodiments, such as mechanical locks, magnetic locks, etc..

The locking mechanism <NUM> also includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) feature <NUM> that may function as an electronic key to lock and unlock the locking mechanism <NUM>. For example, the RFID feature <NUM> may be a receiver that receives an activation signal prior to the rider <NUM> enjoying the amusement park ride <NUM>. For example, the control point <NUM> may have a radio frequency (RF) chip that detects the RFID feature <NUM> and transmits the activation signal to the locking mechanism <NUM>. Upon receiving the activation signal, the locking mechanism <NUM> may actuate the locking pin <NUM> and block movement of the locking pin <NUM> in the direction <NUM>. By blocking movement of the locking pin <NUM>, the zipper <NUM> is unable to be separated from the lock <NUM>. In this way, the rider <NUM> may be unable to remove the loose items <NUM> from the portable locker <NUM> after passing the control point <NUM>. While in the illustrated embodiment the RFID feature <NUM> is shown as being part of the lock <NUM>, in other embodiments the RFID feature <NUM> is part of the zipper <NUM>. Further, the control point <NUM> RF chip may, at the lock point, emit a blanket locking signal to all in-range portable lockers <NUM>. In other embodiments, the control point <NUM> RF chip may emit the locking signal after a handshake communication (e.g., detection) of each portable locker <NUM>.

The portable locker <NUM> may be unlocked at any point after completion of the amusement park ride <NUM>. For example, once the ride <NUM> is complete and the rider <NUM> retrieves the portable locker <NUM> from the storage system <NUM>, the RFID feature <NUM> may receive a deactivation signal emitted by the RFID gate <NUM> of the amusement park ride <NUM>. For example, the RFID gate <NUM> may include an RFID chip that detects the RFID feature <NUM> and transmits the deactivation signal to the RFID feature <NUM>. In response to the detected deactivation signal <NUM>, the locking mechanism <NUM> may unlock the locking pin <NUM>. Consequently, the portion <NUM> of the locking pin <NUM> may be released from the notch <NUM> by biasing the locking pin <NUM> in the direction <NUM>, thereby releasing the zipper <NUM> from the lock <NUM>. Once the locking pin <NUM> is moved from the closed position (e.g., position where the portion <NUM> is within the notch <NUM>) to the open position (e.g., position where the portion <NUM> is not within the notch <NUM>), the rider <NUM> or other person may pull the zipper <NUM> in a direction <NUM> that is substantially opposite the direction <NUM>, thereby separating the zipper <NUM> from the lock <NUM> and decoupling the zipper teeth <NUM>. Accordingly, the closable end <NUM> is opened and the rider <NUM> may retrieve their loose items <NUM> from the pouch <NUM>.

In certain embodiments, the locking mechanism <NUM> may be powered by one or more batteries <NUM>. Accordingly, the lock <NUM> may include a cavity <NUM> sized to fit the one or more batteries <NUM>. By way of non-limiting example, the one or more batteries <NUM> may include lead-acid batteries, lithium ion batteries, nickel-cadmium, nickel-zinc, or any other suitable battery that may be used to power the locking mechanism <NUM>.

<FIG> provides another example of the portable locker <NUM> according to the invention that may be used by a rider <NUM> to stow the loose items <NUM> during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the portable locker <NUM> includes a locking loop <NUM>, a loop lock <NUM>, and a pouch lock <NUM> coupled to the pouch <NUM>. The locking loop <NUM> extends from a first side <NUM> to a second side <NUM> of the portable locker <NUM>. The locking loop <NUM> may be used to secure the portable locker <NUM> to the unclaimed storage system <NUM> after the rider <NUM> secures the loose items <NUM> within the portable locker <NUM>.

It should be noted that the locking loop <NUM> is an example of one of the various locking features in accordance with present embodiments. Accordingly, while specific embodiments illustrate and describe a locking loop, the locking loop <NUM> may be replaced with other locking features in accordance with present embodiments. Similarly, in certain embodiments, the portable locker <NUM> may be replaced by a different container (e.g., a box) that employs a corresponding locking feature (e.g., a box lock). The pouch <NUM> may be sized to accommodate specific devices (e.g., specific smart phone types) or a variety of items (e.g., keys and wallet). Different types of portable lockers <NUM> may be available, such as different sizes, colors, shapes, and materials.

As discussed previously, the portable locker <NUM> may be given to the rider <NUM> at any point prior to ride vehicle motion or start of the amusement park ride <NUM>. The portable locker <NUM> may be distributed in the queue or, in certain embodiments, once riders <NUM> are loaded into the vehicles. Once the rider <NUM> deposits their loose items <NUM> into the portable locker <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may lock the portable locker <NUM> by activating the pouch lock <NUM> and secure the loose items <NUM> within the portable locker <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the portable locker <NUM> may be part of a kit that includes a locking/unlocking device <NUM> that activates and deactivates the pouch lock <NUM>. The locking/unlocking device <NUM> may be in control of the rider <NUM> such that access to the portable locker <NUM> is restricted only to the rider <NUM> or a person designated by the rider <NUM>. By way of non-limiting example, the locking/unlocking device <NUM> may be a wrist band, necklace, clip, ring, glove, or the like that is specific to the portable locker <NUM> given to the rider <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the locking/unlocking device <NUM> may be coupled to the rider's park admissions ticket and/or ride boarding pass. Therefore, the rider <NUM> may have possession of the locking/unlocking device <NUM> at all times during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>. The rider <NUM> may place the locking/unlocking device <NUM> in close proximity to the pouch lock <NUM> (e.g., abutting, inserted into, adjacent to) to lock or unlock the pouch lock <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the locking/unlocking device <NUM> may include a low electromagnetic frequency emitter. For example, in certain embodiments, the locking/unlocking device <NUM> may include a radio frequency (RF) chip <NUM> that is communicatively coupled to a corresponding RFID tag <NUM> associated with the pouch lock <NUM>. The RF chip <NUM> may send one or more signals to the RFID tag <NUM> to enable locking and unlocking the pouch lock <NUM>.

The locking loop <NUM> allows the rider <NUM> to secure the portable locker <NUM> to the storage system <NUM> (e.g., racks, storage compartments) via the locking loop <NUM>. For example, a cord <NUM> corresponding to the locking loop <NUM> couples to the loop lock <NUM> to secure the portable locking pouch <NUM> to the storage system <NUM>. As discussed in further detail below with reference to <FIG>, the storage system <NUM> may include a pouch attachment feature that facilities securing the portable locker <NUM> to the storage system <NUM>. While illustrated as separate locking mechanisms (e.g., the loop lock <NUM> and pouch lock <NUM>) in <FIG>, in some embodiments, a single locking mechanism is shared for both the pouch access point (e.g., the pouch lock <NUM>) and the locking loop <NUM>. For example, the cord <NUM> of the locking loop <NUM> may pass through a receptacle and then engage with the pouch lock <NUM>, which can then be locked to not only secure the locking loop <NUM> in place, but also to lock the pouch <NUM> closed.

In certain embodiments, the portable locker <NUM> may include a finger pad that is used to lock and unlock the loop lock <NUM>, the pouch lock <NUM>, or both. The finger pad registers a fingerprint of the rider <NUM> assigned to the portable locker <NUM>. In this way, no one other than the rider <NUM> assigned to the portable locker <NUM> may retrieve the stored loose items <NUM> in the pouch <NUM> and/or the portable locker <NUM> from the storage system <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates an embodiment of the portable locker <NUM> having a finger pad <NUM> on the pouch <NUM> that may be used to lock and unlock the portable locker <NUM>. For example, the rider <NUM> may activate and deactivate the pouch lock <NUM> by pressing their finger against the finger pad <NUM>. The finger pad <NUM> may include a memory <NUM> that stores the fingerprint of the rider <NUM>. When the finger pad <NUM> recognizes the rider's fingerprint, the pouch lock <NUM> is activated to lock the pouch lock <NUM> and secure the loose items <NUM> in the portable locker <NUM> or deactivated to unlock the pouch lock <NUM> and allow the rider <NUM> to retrieve the items from the portable locker <NUM>.

Returning to <FIG>, once the rider <NUM> secures the loose items <NUM> in the portable locker <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may store the portable locker <NUM> in the storage system <NUM> corresponding to the amusement park ride <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the storage system <NUM> may include a rack having a locking mechanism that secures the portable locker <NUM> to the storage system <NUM>. The locking mechanism may be controlled by the rider <NUM> such that the portable locker <NUM> assigned to the rider <NUM> may not be removed from the storage system <NUM> by another rider or park guest. Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, the storage system <NUM> may include a storage rack <NUM> having a plurality of compartments <NUM> that may be used to store and secure the portable locker <NUM> while the rider <NUM> enjoys the amusement park ride <NUM>. By way of non-limiting example, the plurality of compartments <NUM> may include cubbies, hooks, shelves, or the like. The plurality of compartments <NUM> may be arranged in a series of rows and columns, where each row and/or column may be assigned to a ride vehicle of the amusement park ride <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the portable locker <NUM> may be assigned to a specific compartment of the plurality of compartments <NUM>. The plurality of compartments <NUM> may each be labeled (e.g., serialized) such that each portable locker <NUM> and locking/unlocking device <NUM> are assigned to a respective compartment of the plurality of compartments <NUM>. Each compartment of the plurality of compartments <NUM> may include a storage lock <NUM> that may be activated and deactivated by the locking/unlocking device <NUM> in a manner similar to the pouch lock <NUM> to release the portable locker <NUM> from the compartment. In this way, the portable locker <NUM> may not be removed from the respective compartment <NUM> by another rider or park guest.

Following attachment of the portable locker <NUM> to the respective compartment of the plurality of compartments <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may activate the pouch and storage lock <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively, to secure the portable locker <NUM> to the storage rack <NUM>. Other storage racks may include different engagement features (see <FIG> and <FIG>). Once the rider <NUM> has locked and stored the portable locker <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may board the corresponding ride vehicle of the amusement park ride <NUM>. The rider <NUM> retains the locking/unlocking device <NUM> during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>, which may provide a sense of comfort to the rider because the rider may feel less concerned that their loose items <NUM> may be removed from the amusement park ride <NUM> without their knowledge. After completion of the ride experience, the rider <NUM> may proceed to unlock the pouch and storage lock <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively, to retrieve the loose items <NUM> from the portable locker <NUM>. Once the rider retrieves their items from the portable locker <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may place the portable locker <NUM> in a collection bin that may collect the portable lockers <NUM> and allow reuse by other riders of the amusement park ride <NUM>.

The storage system <NUM> may be stationary or mobile. That is, the storage system <NUM> may permanently fixed to a location or may move from one location to another location (e.g., from a loading station to an unloading station) within the amusement park ride <NUM>. For example, the storage system <NUM> may be located at a central location near the loading and unloading stations of the amusement park ride <NUM>. The rider <NUM> may approach the storage system <NUM> prior to boarding the ride vehicle to store and secure the portable locker <NUM>. Similarly, the rider <NUM> may approach the storage station <NUM> after unloading from the ride vehicle to retrieve the stored items. In one embodiment, the plurality of compartments <NUM> associated with the storage station <NUM> may include a storage side facing the loading station and a pick-up side facing the unloading station. For example, each compartment of the plurality of compartments <NUM> may include a first door on the storage side and a second door on the pick-up side, each door having a lock. In this way, the rider <NUM> may access the storage side prior to boarding the ride vehicle (e.g., from a load queue upstream of the loading point) via the first door and may access the pick-up side from the unloading station (e.g., from an exit queue) via the second door to mitigate congestion at the storage system <NUM>. This double-sided locker may be mechanically actuated such that doors open for guests to place items in the loading side during ride loading and then closes during operation of the ride <NUM>. Similarly, when riders are exiting, the doors may be actuated to open from the unloading side during unloading.

In certain embodiments, the plurality of compartments <NUM> includes a pouch attachment feature (e.g., pegs, hooks, or the like) that may be used to hang and secure the portable locker <NUM> onto the storage system <NUM>. For example, the rider <NUM> may attach the locking loop <NUM> (or some other locking mechanism) to the pouch attachment feature associated with the respective compartment of the plurality of compartments <NUM>. <FIG> is an unclaimed exemplary embodiment of the storage system <NUM> in which the storage rack <NUM> is a peg board <NUM>, or other similar board, that may facilitate mounting and securing the portable locker <NUM> to the storage system <NUM>. The peg board <NUM> may include a plurality of pegs <NUM> (e.g., protrusions) or any other suitable support (e.g., hook, latch, or the like) that may engage with the locking loop <NUM> of the pouch to retain and secure the portable locker <NUM> to the storage rack <NUM>. Each peg <NUM> extending from a surface <NUM> of the storage rack <NUM> may be assigned a number or other identifier that corresponds to a particular portable locker <NUM>. The rider <NUM> may secure the portable locker <NUM> to the respective peg <NUM> as discussed previously with reference to <FIG>.

In some embodiments, the plurality of compartments <NUM> or some other storage system <NUM> may rotate such that there is only a single door or access point for a particular rider. For example, the storage rack <NUM> may include the peg board <NUM> (or other storage features) on both sides and rotate about a motor driven spindle such that the same items placed on the storage rack <NUM> at an entry point of the ride <NUM> are accessible at an exit point of the ride <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the storage system <NUM> includes a spindle <NUM> configured to rotate about an axis <NUM> to facilitate storage and retrieval of the portable locker <NUM> by the rider <NUM>. The storage system <NUM> may be positioned between the loading and unloading stations of the amusement park ride <NUM> in a manner that a first side <NUM> of the storage rack <NUM> faces the loading station and a second side <NUM> of the storage rack <NUM> faces the unloading station. In this way, a first group of riders located at the loading station may lock and secure their respective portable locker <NUM> to the retaining member <NUM> on the first side <NUM>, and a second group of riders at the unloading station may unlock and retrieve their respective portable locker <NUM> from the second side <NUM>. Once the second group of riders have unlocked and retrieved their respective portable locker <NUM>, the spindle <NUM> of the storage rack <NUM> may be rotated about the axis <NUM>, as shown by arrow <NUM>, to allow a group of riders at the loading station to lock and secure their respective portable locker <NUM> to the retaining members <NUM> located on the second side <NUM> of the storage rack <NUM>, and allow the first group of riders to unlock and retrieve their respective portable locker <NUM> after enjoying the amusement park ride <NUM>. The rotation of the spindle <NUM> may be achieved manually or mechanically. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the spindle <NUM> is coupled to a motor <NUM> that rotates the spindle <NUM> about the axis <NUM>. However, in certain embodiments, the one or more crew members <NUM> may manually rotate the storage rack <NUM>. In some embodiments, each individual or a subset of storage areas (e.g., lockers or peg section) may rotate about a respective axis to achieve a similar result.

<FIG> illustrates an alternative unclaimed embodiment of the storage system <NUM> having a coupling feature configured to couple to a complementary feature on the portable locker <NUM>. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the storage system <NUM> includes a wall <NUM> with receptacles <NUM> of a particular shape (e.g., elongate) that are configured to receive a complementary rotational locking feature associated with the portable locker <NUM>. In another example, <FIG> is a schematic view of an unclaimed embodiment of the storage system <NUM> that may be used to secure the portable locker <NUM> via a rotational locking feature <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the rotational locking feature <NUM> includes a first bar <NUM> radially extending away from a surface <NUM> of the pouch <NUM> of the portable locker <NUM>, and a second bar <NUM> positioned orthogonal to the first bar <NUM>. The second bar <NUM> is configured to rotate about an axis <NUM> of the first bar <NUM> to move the rotational locking feature <NUM> between an unlocked configuration and a locked configuration (<FIG>). As illustrated in <FIG>, the receptacles <NUM> on a front face <NUM> of the wall <NUM> may be arranged to receive the rotational locking feature <NUM> in an aligned configuration (e.g., the bars <NUM>, <NUM> of the rotational locking feature <NUM> are aligned in parallel when unlocked). Once the bars <NUM>, <NUM> are disposed through the receptacle <NUM>, the rotational locking feature <NUM> may be actuated (e.g., manually or electronically) such that the second bar <NUM> rotates with respect to the first bar <NUM> to move the rotational locking feature <NUM> to the locked configuration and prevent extraction of the portable locker <NUM> from the wall <NUM> until unlocked. For example, <FIG> illustrates a back face <NUM> of the storage system <NUM> where the second bar <NUM> has been rotated about the axis <NUM>, as shown by arrow <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the second bar <NUM> is orthogonal to a widest dimension <NUM> of the receptacle <NUM>. In this way, the portable locker <NUM> may be retained on the storage system <NUM>. In other embodiments, different shapes (e.g., stars, triangles, squares, or character profiles) may be used.

In certain embodiments, the storage system <NUM> may include a locker that secures a plurality of portable lockers <NUM>. For example, once the rider actuates the locking mechanism (e.g., the locking mechanism <NUM>, pouch lock <NUM>) for their respective portable locker <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may place the locked portable locker <NUM> into the locker of the storage system <NUM>. Each locker of the storage system <NUM> may be associated with a ride vehicle of the amusement park ride <NUM>. Therefore, once the locked portable lockers <NUM> for each rider <NUM> assigned to the same ride vehicle are placed in the locker, the one or more crew members <NUM>, or an operator of the amusement park ride, may lock the locker to secure the riders' portable lockers <NUM> during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the locker may be automatically locked. For example, a control system may transmit a signal to the locker that actuates the lock once all the riders <NUM> are secured in the ride vehicle associated with the locker. In some embodiments, this may include detecting the presence of the portable lockers <NUM> in the larger locker of the storage system <NUM> (e.g., via a weight measurement or wireless communications). The control system may also unlock the locker after the amusement park ride <NUM> experience is complete. For example, when the ride vehicle enters the unloading station, passes through an unlock gate, or the like.

In some embodiments, the lockers may be located in a floor area or overhead area on an approach to the ride vehicle or in the ride vehicle itself (e.g., ride vehicle <NUM>, see <FIG>). The lockers may pop up from the floor or down from the ceiling and allow riders <NUM> to place their belongings into the lockers. After the riders <NUM> are properly seated and restrained, the lockers may recede into the floor or ceiling and then open again when the ride returns and riders <NUM> are exiting, which allows the riders to reclaim their belongings.

In certain embodiments, the storage system may be mobile. That is, the storage system may include features that move the portable locker <NUM> from one location to another location within the amusement park ride <NUM>. For example, after the portable locker <NUM> is locked and secured to the storage system, the storage system may transport the portable locker <NUM> from the loading station to the unloading station. A mobile storage system may allow the riders to secure their assigned portable locker <NUM> to the storage system <NUM> at the loading station of the amusement park ride <NUM>, which may be at a location different from the unloading station. For example, <FIG> illustrates an unclaimed embodiment of the amusement park ride <NUM> having a mobile storage system <NUM> that transports the portable locker <NUM> from a loading station <NUM> to an unloading station <NUM>. The mobile storage system <NUM> includes a transport system <NUM> that extends from the loading station <NUM> to the unloading station <NUM> of the amusement park ride <NUM>. The transport system <NUM> may receive a storage rack <NUM> retaining one or more portable lockers <NUM> or may receive individual portable lockers <NUM>. The transport system <NUM> moves the rack <NUM> and/or the individual portable lockers <NUM> from the loading station <NUM> to the unloading station <NUM> while the rider <NUM> enjoys the amusement park ride <NUM>.

For example, prior to the rider <NUM> boarding a ride vehicle <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may activate the locking mechanism (e.g., the locking mechanism <NUM> or pouch lock <NUM>) to lock the loose items <NUM> within the portable locker <NUM>, as discussed previously. Once locked, the rider <NUM> or the one or more crew members <NUM> may secure the locked portable locker <NUM> to the rack <NUM> at the loading station <NUM>. Following attachment of the portable locker <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may proceed to board the ride vehicle <NUM> and enjoy the amusement park ride <NUM>. The transport system <NUM> may transport the portable lockers <NUM> by moving the rack <NUM> in a direction <NUM> towards the unloading station <NUM>. The transport system <NUM> may include a conveyor belt, a railing system, or any other suitable transport system that moves the portable locker <NUM> from the loading station <NUM> to the unloading station <NUM>. The transport system <NUM> may include retaining features such as hooks, fasteners, connectors, or the like that support and secure the storage rack <NUM> and/or the portable locker <NUM> onto the transport system <NUM>.

In certain embodiments, a portion of the transport system <NUM> may be positioned below the ride vehicle <NUM>. This may be useful in embodiments where the loading station <NUM> of the amusement park ride <NUM> is located on one side of the ride vehicle <NUM>, and the unloading station <NUM> is positioned on an opposite side of the ride vehicle <NUM>. That is, a pouch storage section of the transport system <NUM> (e.g., section where the rider <NUM> secures the portable locker <NUM> to the storage system <NUM>) may be located on a loading side of the ride vehicle <NUM> that is substantially opposite an unloading side of the ride vehicle <NUM>, and a pouch pick-up section (e.g., section where the rider <NUM> retrieves the portable locker <NUM> after unloading from the ride vehicle <NUM>). The transport system <NUM> may extend from the loading station <NUM> to the unloading station <NUM> below ride tracks <NUM> of the amusement park ride <NUM> such that the transport system <NUM> does not interfere with operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Accordingly, the portable lockers <NUM> follow a path that is underneath the ride tracks <NUM> when transported from the loading station <NUM> to the unloading station <NUM>. In this way, the transport system <NUM> does not interfere with a trajectory of the ride vehicle <NUM> during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>.

In other embodiments, at least a portion of the transport system <NUM> may be positioned above the tracks <NUM> and the ride vehicle <NUM>. However, the transport system <NUM> may be positioned at any other location that transports the portable lockers <NUM> from the loading station <NUM> to the unloading station <NUM> and does not interfere with movement of the ride vehicle <NUM> along the tracks <NUM> during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>. Therefore, once the rider <NUM> unloads the ride vehicle <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may retrieve the portable locker <NUM> assigned to them at the unloading station <NUM>, and collect their loose items <NUM> from the portable locker <NUM> at or near the unloading station <NUM> before exiting the ride <NUM>. For example, a ride manager/crew member (employee of the amusement park) may take the rack <NUM> and/or the portable locker <NUM> from the transport system <NUM> and position it in a designated location for pickup at the exit of the ride <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the rack <NUM> and/or the portable locker <NUM> may be moved from the transport system <NUM> to the designated location for pickup by a mechanical system (e.g., a robotic arm or the like).

In other embodiments, the loading station <NUM> and the unloading station <NUM> of the amusement park ride <NUM> may be located on the same side of the ride vehicle <NUM>. In this particular configuration, the riders enter and exit the ride vehicle <NUM> from the same side, as opposed to different sides as illustrated in <FIG>. For example, <FIG> illustrates an unclaimed embodiment of the amusement park ride <NUM> having the loading station <NUM> and the unloading station <NUM> positioned on the same side of the ride vehicle <NUM> and the ride tracks <NUM>. In this particular embodiment, the transport system <NUM> transports the portable lockers <NUM> along a path that is parallel to at least a portion of the tracks <NUM>. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the transport system <NUM> includes a conveyor belt <NUM> that transports the portable lockers <NUM> in a direction <NUM> from a pouch drop-off site <NUM> at the loading station <NUM> to a pouch pick-up site <NUM> at the unloading station <NUM>. The rider <NUM> may place their locked portable locker <NUM> on a surface of the conveyor belt <NUM> prior to boarding the ride vehicle <NUM> at the loading station <NUM>. The conveyor belt <NUM> may move at a pace that delivers the locked portable locker <NUM> to the pouch pick-up site <NUM> at approximately the same time that the ride vehicle <NUM> used by the respective rider <NUM> arrives at the unloading station <NUM>. In other embodiments, the conveyor belt <NUM> may feed the locked portable lockers <NUM> to a container located at the pouch pick-up site <NUM>.

The riders may retrieve their respective portable locker <NUM> from the container at the pouch pick-up site <NUM>. For example, each ride vehicle <NUM> may be assigned a container. Accordingly, the rider <NUM> may approach the container assigned to the ride vehicle <NUM> they exited from to retrieve their respective portable locker <NUM>. Following retrieval of the portable locker <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may unlock the locking mechanism <NUM> or pouch lock <NUM> electromagnetically (e.g., via the RFID gate <NUM>, locking/unlocking device <NUM>, or the like) or mechanically (e.g., a key or similar device), as discussed previously.

In one embodiment, the portable lockers <NUM> may be implemented as or in conjunction with autonomous vehicles on wheels that follow a path from the loading station <NUM> to the unloading station <NUM> or other location where the rider <NUM> may retrieve the stored loose items <NUM>. The autonomous vehicles may include features (e.g., sensors) that block the autonomous vehicles from colliding with park guests and/or objects (e.g., walls, park structures, and the like). In certain embodiments, the portable locker <NUM> may not be autonomous. Rather, the portable locker <NUM> may include wheels that follow a predetermined path (e.g., a track or a programmed path specifically based on space) from the loading station <NUM> to a loose item pickup location associated with the amusement park ride <NUM>. The portable lockers <NUM> may each have an actuator to raise the portable locker <NUM> up to the height of a ride vehicle seat or position the portable locker <NUM> in front of the ride vehicle seat, etc. to allow the riders to place the loose items <NUM> within the portable locker <NUM> after the rider has boarded the ride vehicle <NUM>.

As discussed previously, the portable locker <NUM> may be used to store and secure the loose items <NUM> to keep the loose items <NUM> from being separated from the rider <NUM> during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>. It is now recognized that park guests (e.g., the rider <NUM>) may not want to be separated from their loose items while on the amusement park ride <NUM>. Additionally, it may be desirable for the rider <NUM> to capture the ride experience by taking a video or picture of themselves while enjoying the amusement park ride <NUM>. Accordingly, the portable locker <NUM> may be configured to allow the rider <NUM> to secure the portable locker <NUM> to themselves or to the ride vehicle <NUM> such that the loose items <NUM> are in the possession of the rider <NUM>.

As discussed previously, a rider of the amusement park ride may want to have their stored items with them at all times. That is, certain riders may not be comfortable storing their items in a remote area that is separate from the ride vehicle <NUM>. Accordingly, it may be desirable for the rider <NUM> to secure the portable locker <NUM> to the ride vehicle <NUM> (e.g., a ride seat) of the amusement park ride <NUM>. In addition, by allowing the rider <NUM> to board the ride <NUM> with the portable locker <NUM> and secure the portable locker <NUM> to the ride vehicle <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may continue to have access to the loose items <NUM> stored in the portable locker <NUM> and the items <NUM> may be in the line of sight of the rider <NUM>. Moreover, by allowing the rider <NUM> to stow the portable locker <NUM> on the ride vehicle <NUM>, wait times and congestion of riders at the pouch storage/drop-off and pick-up stations <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively, may be mitigated.

<FIG> shows a ride vehicle <NUM> according to the invention having an integrated storage system <NUM> that is used to secure the portable locker <NUM> to the ride vehicle <NUM>. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the integrated storage system <NUM> may be coupled to a ride seat <NUM> (e.g., a back support of the ride seat). The integrated storage system <NUM> includes a retaining bar <NUM> having one or more retaining features that engage with a complementary feature on the portable locker <NUM> to secure the portable locker <NUM> to the ride vehicle <NUM> in a manner similar to the storage rack <NUM> discussed previously. For example, the retaining bar <NUM> may include hooks, clips, pegs, bins, pockets, connectors, or the like that receive and retain the portable locker <NUM> within the ride vehicle <NUM> during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining bar <NUM> is positioned on a back portion <NUM> of the rider seat <NUM> such that the portable locker <NUM> is in front of a rider <NUM> occupying a ride seat that is behind the ride seat <NUM> having the retaining bar <NUM>. However, the retaining bar <NUM> may be positioned on any portion of the ride vehicle <NUM> (e.g., a side wall, under the ride seat, seat or row divider, etc.).

In one embodiment, the portable locker <NUM> may be clear such that the rider <NUM> may access a touch screen or buttons of electronic devices stored within the portable locker <NUM>. For example, the rider <NUM> may access a camera (e.g., on a cell phone) to take a picture or video through the portable locker <NUM> while the portable locker <NUM> is secured to the ride vehicle <NUM>. In such an embodiment, the attachment point to the ride vehicle <NUM> (e.g., the integrated storage system <NUM>) may be arranged such that the camera is pointed at a point of interest (e.g., the rider or the upcoming ride path) during the ride <NUM>. The portable locker <NUM> and the integrated storage system <NUM> may include indicators to facilitate proper alignment for capturing video data (e.g., photos or video) during the ride <NUM>.

According to the invention, a storage lock of the integrated storage system <NUM> is activated by a control system of the amusement park ride <NUM>. For example, <FIG> illustrates an embodiment according to the invention of the amusement park ride <NUM> in which the ride seat <NUM> of the ride vehicle <NUM> includes one or more sensors <NUM> that are communicatively coupled to the retaining bar <NUM> and a control system <NUM> of the amusement park ride <NUM>. The one or more sensors <NUM> may transmit a signal <NUM> to the retaining bar <NUM> and/or the control system <NUM> indicating that the ride seat <NUM> is occupied and that a portable locker <NUM> may need to be secured to the integrated storage system <NUM>. For example, near-field communications may be utilized to determine that a rider <NUM> has a portable locker <NUM> or smartphone and is in the seating area. In response to such a determination, the rider <NUM> may be prompted to mount the portable locker <NUM> to the integrated storage system <NUM>. Once the portable locker <NUM> is mounted onto the integrated storage system <NUM>, the retaining bar <NUM> transmits another signal <NUM> to the control system <NUM> indicating that the portable locker <NUM> is attached. Following attachment of the portable locker <NUM> to the retaining bar <NUM>, the control system <NUM> activates a locking mechanism of the integrated storage system <NUM> to retain and secure the portable locker <NUM> to the retaining bar <NUM> of the ride vehicle <NUM>. Once the control system <NUM> detects that all portable lockers <NUM> within the ride vehicle <NUM> are secured to the integrated storage system <NUM>, the control system <NUM> releases the ride vehicle <NUM> from the loading station <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the control system <NUM> may allow the operator of the ride <NUM> to bypass attaching a portable locker <NUM> to the retaining bar <NUM>, for example, in situations where the rider <NUM> does not have any loose items <NUM> that need to be stored in the portable locker <NUM>.

In one embodiment, as illustrated in <FIG>, the retaining bar <NUM> of the integrated storage system <NUM> may include a pair of brackets <NUM> sized and shaped to receive a complementary feature disposed on the portable locker <NUM>. The complementary feature may engage the brackets <NUM> to retain the portable locker <NUM> to the ride vehicle <NUM>. For example, the complementary feature may include an I-beam <NUM> or other similar feature disposed on at least a portion of an exterior surface <NUM> and extending along a longitudinal axis <NUM> of the portable locker <NUM>. The I-beam <NUM> may slide into a channel <NUM> defined by the pair of brackets <NUM> to retain the portable locker <NUM> to the ride vehicle <NUM>.

The one or more sensors <NUM> (e.g., an electromagnetic sensor) may receive a signal <NUM> from a transmitter <NUM> located on the portable locker <NUM> via a wireless communication link. The signal <NUM> transmitted by the transmitter <NUM> on the portable locker <NUM> may indicate that the portable locker <NUM> is within the ride vehicle <NUM>. Once the one or more sensors <NUM> detect that the portable locker <NUM> is retained within the integrated storage system <NUM>, the one or more sensors <NUM> may output the locking signal <NUM> to a locking mechanism <NUM> (e.g., a mechanical lock such as a latch) that activates the locking mechanism <NUM> and secures the portable locker <NUM> to the integrated storage system <NUM>. In this manner, the retaining bar <NUM> and/or its associated locking components may be switched from an unsecured configuration to a secured configuration based on receiving the securing signal <NUM> or an unsecuring signal. Once the portable locker <NUM> is secured to the integrated storage system <NUM>, the integrated storage system <NUM> may transmit the signal <NUM> to the control system <NUM> of the amusement park ride <NUM> indicating that the portable locker <NUM> is secured in the ride vehicle <NUM>. The control system <NUM> may activate a light <NUM> on the ride vehicle <NUM> to indicate that the portable locker <NUM> is secured and the ride vehicle <NUM> is released from the loading station <NUM>. If the one or more sensors <NUM> detect that the portable locker <NUM> is within the ride vehicle <NUM> but does not detect that the portable locker <NUM> is retained within the integrated storage system <NUM>, the one or more sensors <NUM> do not output the signal <NUM> to the control system <NUM> and the ride vehicle <NUM> is not released from the loading station <NUM>. In this particular embodiment, the light <NUM> may not be activated or may display a color indicating that the ride vehicle <NUM> may not be released. For example, in certain embodiments, the light <NUM> may be red to alert the operator of the amusement park ride <NUM> that the portable locker <NUM> is not secured within the ride vehicle <NUM> (e.g., the that ride vehicle <NUM> has one or more unsecured portable lockers <NUM> on board). The ride vehicle <NUM> may also send a signal to the central controller either permitting movement when all detected portable lockers <NUM> are secured or preventing movement based on detection of one or more unsecured portable lockers <NUM>.

In certain embodiments, the integrated storage system <NUM> may be under a seat pan <NUM> of the ride seat <NUM>. The seat pan <NUM> may include a storage space between a seat base and a seat pan cover. The storage space may be accessible (e.g., open) when the seat cover is in a first position, and is closed (e.g., locked) when the seat pan cover is in a second position. For example, when the seat pan cover is in the first position, the seat pan cover may be positioned parallel to a back rest <NUM> of the ride seat <NUM> when the ride seat <NUM> is not occupied. As such, the storage space may be readily accessible for the rider <NUM> to stow the items. Once the rider <NUM> has stowed the items in the storage space, the rider <NUM> may lower the seat pan cover to the second position. For example, in the second position, the seat pan cover may be orthogonal to the back rest <NUM> such that the seat pan cover covers the storage space and allows the rider <NUM> to occupy (e.g., sit) the ride seat <NUM>. Therefore, the items <NUM> may be secured within the storage space of the seat pan 302during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>. The rider <NUM> may retrieve the stowed items <NUM> when the rider <NUM> stands up after completion of the amusement park ride <NUM> experience. In this way, the rider <NUM> may be in possession of their items during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>. In addition, because the rider <NUM> is seated and restrained in the ride seat <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may be unable to remove the stowed items <NUM> from the storage space within the ride seat <NUM> during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the seat pan <NUM> may include a locking mechanism (e.g., a mechanical lock, latch, hook, or the like) to secure the seat pan cover to the base after the rider <NUM> stows the items <NUM> in the storage space. Regardless of the configuration of the integrated storage system <NUM>, the portable locker <NUM> may be released from the integrated storage system <NUM> upon conclusion of the ride <NUM>, e.g., the controller may send a release signal to the integrated storage system <NUM> upon entry of the vehicle <NUM> into an unloading area. The release signal may trigger a switch of the retaining bar <NUM> to the unsecured configuration and, in certain embodiments, a visible indicator that the rider <NUM> may remove the portable locker <NUM>. Further, control of the release of the portable locker <NUM> from the integrated storage system <NUM> may be in parallel or in series with permitting riders <NUM> to unlock the pouch <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the riders <NUM> may be encouraged to depart more quickly by separating signals triggering the release of the portable locker <NUM> from the integrated storage system <NUM> from unlocking of the pouch <NUM>. That is, the unlocking (e.g., via a transmitted unlocking signal) may only be possible at a location separated from the ride vehicle <NUM> to prevent dawdling during the unloading process. Accordingly, the riders <NUM> may take their portable lockers <NUM> from the ride vehicle <NUM> to the unlocking location.

In certain embodiments, it may be desirable for the rider <NUM> to have access to his/her loose items <NUM>, in particular cell phones, while the rider <NUM> is waiting to load and unload the amusement park ride <NUM>. Accordingly, in certain embodiments, the portable locker <NUM> may be wearable (e.g., a wearable locker) such that the rider <NUM> may have possession of their loose items <NUM> at all times during the ride. The portable locker <NUM> may include features that allow the rider <NUM> or the one or more crew members <NUM> (e.g., an amusement park employee tasked with managing a queue or access point) to secure the portable locker <NUM> to the rider <NUM>. In this manner, present embodiments allow the rider <NUM> to carry their loose items <NUM> with them onto the ride <NUM>, which may be comforting for the rider <NUM> compared to leaving their personal items at the loading station for the ride <NUM> or any other location that is away from the rider <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates an unclaimed embodiment of a wearable pouch <NUM> that may be worn by the rider <NUM> of the amusement park ride <NUM> before, during, and after operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>. That is, the rider <NUM> may have possession of the items stored in the wearable pouch <NUM> at all times during the ride experience. The wearable pouch <NUM> may come in various sizes and shapes to accommodate various items and rider preferences. To mitigate access of the stored items <NUM> during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>, the wearable pouch <NUM> may include features that block unlocking the wearable pouch <NUM>.

In addition, the wearable pouch <NUM> may include features that may block or allow the use of cell phones or other electronic devices by the rider <NUM> after the items <NUM> are stored in the wearable pouch <NUM>. For example, in certain embodiments, the wearable pouch <NUM> may be made from an opaque material that blocks the rider <NUM> from viewing and/or accessing the touch screen on the electronic devices stored within the wearable pouch <NUM>. In other embodiments, the pouch material may have a thickness that is unsuitable for accessing buttons or a touch screen of the electronic device stored within the wearable pouch <NUM>. In addition, the wearable pouch <NUM> may act as a Faraday cage such that the electronic devices stored within the wearable pouch <NUM> are unable to transmit signals. In embodiments that allow the rider <NUM> to use electronic devices (e.g., cell phones, digital cameras, etc.) after the items <NUM> are stored and locked within the wearable pouch <NUM>, the wearable pouch <NUM> may be manufactured from a clear material. In some embodiments, the wearable pouch <NUM> may be capable of transitioning between modes to prevent or allow photos or operation of the device within. For example, in areas where pictures are not allowed, a transmission to electronics of the bag may change in transparency, e.g., cause it to turn an area from clear to opaque (for example, with liquid crystals).

In the illustrated embodiment, the wearable pouch <NUM> includes a restraint <NUM> having a locking mechanism <NUM> that allows the rider <NUM> to secure the wearable pouch <NUM> to their person. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the wearable pouch <NUM> is restrained at the waist <NUM> of the rider <NUM>. Similar to the portable locker <NUM> discussed previously, the wearable pouch <NUM> includes a pouch <NUM> that may be used to store the rider's items during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM> and a pouch lock <NUM> that secures the items within the pouch <NUM>. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the restraint <NUM> may include a strap or belt <NUM> having a first portion <NUM> of the locking mechanism <NUM> on a first terminal end <NUM> and a second portion <NUM> of the locking mechanism <NUM> on a second terminal end <NUM> that is spaced apart and substantially opposite the first terminating end <NUM>. The first portion <NUM> of the locking mechanism may engage the second portion <NUM> of the locking mechanism <NUM> to couple the terminating ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the belt <NUM>, and thereby secure the wearable pouch <NUM> to the rider <NUM>. By way of non-limiting example, the locking mechanism <NUM> includes a clip, buckle, snap-fit connectors, or any other suitable locking mechanism that may secure the wearable pouch <NUM> to the rider <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the restraint <NUM> may be adjustable to accommodate various shapes and sizes of the riders.

In certain embodiments, the locking mechanism <NUM> may be communicatively coupled to the pouch lock <NUM> (e.g., wireless or wired connection). For example, <FIG> illustrates an unclaimed embodiment of the wearable pouch <NUM> in which the locking mechanism <NUM> includes a restraint lock <NUM> that, once activated, may block the pouch lock <NUM> from becoming unlocked. That is, once the locking mechanism <NUM> locks to activate the restraint lock <NUM> and secure the wearable pouch <NUM> to the rider <NUM>, the locking mechanism <NUM> may block the rider <NUM> from unlocking the pouch lock <NUM> and opening the pouch <NUM> to access the items <NUM> stored within the pouch <NUM> during operation of the ride <NUM>. For example, the locking mechanism <NUM> may include a transmitter <NUM> that transmits a lock signal <NUM> to the pouch lock <NUM> when the rider <NUM> passes through a control point (e.g., the control point <NUM>) of the amusement park ride <NUM>. Similarly, the locking mechanism <NUM> may transmit an unlock signal <NUM> to the pouch lock <NUM> after the ride <NUM> is complete and the ride vehicle <NUM> is at the unloading station <NUM>. In some embodiments, the restraint lock <NUM> and the pouch lock <NUM> are the same mechanism.

In certain embodiments, the operator (e.g., the one or more crew members <NUM>) may lock both the restraint lock <NUM> and the pouch lock <NUM> of the pouch <NUM> at the loading station <NUM> prior to the rider <NUM> boarding the ride vehicle <NUM>. For example, the restraint lock <NUM> and the pouch lock <NUM> may include a mechanical lock (e.g., a fastener, connector, lock, or the like) that is locked and unlocked using a key accessible to only the operator of the ride <NUM>. As the rider <NUM> boards the ride vehicle <NUM>, the operator may lock the pouch and restraint locks <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively, with the key. In other embodiments, the pouch and restraint locks <NUM>, <NUM> include an electromagnetic lock. Accordingly, prior to boarding the ride vehicle <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may walk through a first electromagnetic station positioned at the loading station <NUM> (e.g., at the control point <NUM>). The electromagnetic station transmits a wireless signal to the pouch and restraint locks <NUM>, <NUM>, thereby locking the pouch and restraint locks <NUM>, <NUM>. Once the amusement park ride <NUM> is terminated, the rider <NUM> may walk through a second electromagnetic station at the unloading station <NUM> (e.g., the RFID gate <NUM>). Similar to the first electromagnetic station, the second electromagnetic station transmits a second signal to the pouch and restraint locks <NUM>, <NUM>, thereby unlocking the pouch <NUM> and the restraint <NUM>, respectively, and allowing the rider <NUM> to retrieve the stored items. The rider <NUM> may deposit the wearable pouch <NUM> in a storage bin before exiting the amusement park ride <NUM>.

In certain embodiments, the restraint <NUM> may be positioned on the rider <NUM> in a manner that does not allow the rider <NUM> to access the restraint lock <NUM> during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>. In this way the rider <NUM> may be unable to remove the wearable pouch <NUM> while on the amusement park ride <NUM>. For example, in the unclaimed embodiments illustrated in <FIG>, the restraint <NUM> of the wearable pouch <NUM> wraps around the rider's waist <NUM>, similar to a belt, such that the pouch <NUM> is positioned on a front side of the rider <NUM>, and the restraint lock <NUM> is positioned on a lateral side or back side of the rider <NUM>. By positioning the restraint lock <NUM> on the lateral or back side of the rider <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may have limited or no access to the restraint lock <NUM> during operation of the ride <NUM>. Therefore, the rider <NUM> may be unable to unlock the restraint lock <NUM> while enjoying the ride <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate various other unclaimed embodiments of the restraint <NUM> associated with the wearable pouch <NUM>. For example, <FIG> illustrates an embodiment of the wearable pouch <NUM> having a backpack-like configuration. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the restraint <NUM> of the wearable pouch <NUM> includes a set of straps <NUM> that are each coupled to the pouch <NUM> and to one another via the locking mechanism <NUM>. The straps <NUM> may be adjustable to accommodate riders of different shapes and sizes. In use, the rider <NUM> may slide each arm through a respective loop <NUM> defined by each strap in the set of straps <NUM> such that the pouch <NUM> is positioned on the front side of the rider <NUM>. The operator of the amusement park ride <NUM> or the rider <NUM> may secure the restraint lock <NUM> on the back side of the rider <NUM> (e.g., between the rider's waist and shoulders) to couple each strap of the set of straps <NUM> and secure the wearable pouch <NUM> to the rider <NUM>. In this way, the rider <NUM> may not have access to the restraint lock <NUM> during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>. Accordingly, the rider <NUM> may be unable to remove the wearable pouch <NUM> during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>, which may prevent loss of the wearable pouch <NUM> and the items (e.g., the loose items <NUM>) stored within the pouch <NUM>.

<FIG> also illustrates an embodiment of the wearable pouch <NUM> having the set of straps <NUM> arranged in a sash-like configuration (e.g., having one strap of the set of straps <NUM> extending from across the rider <NUM> at a diagonal from the right side of the rider's waist to the left side of the rider's shoulder, or vice versa). For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a first strap <NUM> of the set of straps <NUM> may be positioned around the waist <NUM> of the rider <NUM> (e.g., similar to a belt), and a second strap <NUM> of the set of straps <NUM> may be positioned across a torso of the rider <NUM> (e.g., from the right side to the left side of the rider <NUM> or vice versa) such that the second strap <NUM> wraps over a shoulder of the rider <NUM> and connects to the first strap <NUM> on the back side of the rider <NUM> at a location that is opposite a side where the second strap <NUM> wraps around the shoulder of the rider <NUM>. The locking mechanism <NUM> of this configuration may be positioned such that it is difficult for the rider <NUM> to reach. Accordingly, a ride operator or other park guest may assist with engaging and disengaging the locking mechanism <NUM>. Further, the locking mechanism <NUM> of each of these wearable pouch embodiments may be configured such that the locking mechanism can only be actuated by a ride operator using an electronic key or the like.

In certain embodiments, the wearable pouch <NUM> may include features that may allow the rider <NUM> to activate features on the electronic device (e.g., cell phone, camera, etc.) stored within the wearable pouch <NUM>. For example, the wearable pouch <NUM> may include a trigger that may allow video and/or photo taking. The wearable pouch <NUM> may have a remote that the rider <NUM> uses to actuate the trigger and allow video and/or photo taking. In one embodiment, the wearable pouch <NUM> may include a transmitter that blocks the rider <NUM> from taking video and/or pictures with cell phones during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM> or at certain locations throughout the amusement park. This may be done by disabling the trigger. In one embodiment, the transmitter may send a signal to the electronic device stored in the wearable pouch <NUM> to alert the electronic device that the area is restricted and video and picture taking are not allowed. For example, the electronic device may receive instructions to block the camera. This may be achieved via the transmitter on the wearable pouch <NUM> or directly from an area transmitter. In another embodiment, the wearable pouch <NUM> itself may be capable of actuation to block access when signals are received from transmitters in certain areas by, for example, blocking a clear access window. Once the rider/guest leaves the restricted area, the transmitter may provide an output that indicates the rider/guest is not in a restricted area and video and/or picture taking is allowed.

Embodiments of the present disclosure also include a wearable pouch having a phone case that may be separated from the pouch <NUM> to allow the rider <NUM> to access their cell phone after the pouch <NUM> and/or restraint <NUM> is locked (e.g., prior to boarding the amusement park ride <NUM>). For example, <FIG> illustrate an embodiment of the wearable pouch <NUM> having a phone case <NUM> (e.g., pouch) coupled to a retractable lanyard <NUM>. The retractable lanyard <NUM> may be coupled to a reel <NUM> that forms part of the pouch <NUM>. Prior to boarding the amusement park ride <NUM>, the rider <NUM> may pull the phone case <NUM> away from the pouch <NUM> to access and engage with their cell phone <NUM>. For example, when the rider <NUM> applies a pull force <NUM> on the phone case <NUM>, the reel <NUM> rotates about an axis <NUM> in a direction <NUM> (e.g., counter clockwise) and unwinds the retractable lanyard <NUM> (see <FIG>). The reel <NUM> may continue to rotate to release the retractable lanyard <NUM>, thereby increasing a distance <NUM> between the pouch <NUM> and the phone case <NUM>. The reel <NUM> may lock automatically or manually to maintain the retractable lanyard <NUM> at the desired distance <NUM> away from the phone case <NUM> without the rider <NUM> having to continuously exert the pull force <NUM> on the retractable lanyard <NUM>.

Once the rider <NUM> is no longer engaging with the cell phone <NUM> in the phone case <NUM>, the reel <NUM> may be unlocked to allow the retractable lanyard <NUM> to retract, thereby decreasing the distance <NUM> between the pouch <NUM> and the phone case <NUM>. For example, the reel may rotate about the axis <NUM> in a direction that is substantially opposite the direction <NUM> (e.g., clockwise) to reel the retractable lanyard <NUM> and decrease the distance <NUM> between the phone case <NUM> and the pouch <NUM>. In this way, the phone case <NUM> may be secured to the restraint <NUM> of the wearable pouch <NUM>. The phone case <NUM> may have a clip or fastener <NUM> (e.g., snap-fit connectors, magnets, or any other suitable fastener) that enable the rider <NUM> to secure the phone case <NUM> to the strap <NUM> of the restraint <NUM> when the cell phone <NUM> is not in use and during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>. In one embodiment, the reel <NUM> may have an internal lock (e.g., a pin and lock mechanism) that disables the reel <NUM> from unwinding. In one embodiment, the reel <NUM> is not disabled but the device (e.g., phone) is clipped/locked in a certain position such that even if the reel <NUM> winds/unwinds, the device cannot substantially move.

The reel <NUM> may include a sensor <NUM> that may activate a locking mechanism within the reel when the rider boards the amusement park ride. For example, the sensor may receive a signal from the ride vehicle that activates a retracting mode of the locking mechanism. While in the reeling mode, the locking mechanism may automatically retract (e.g., reel) the retractable lanyard to decrease the distance between the pouch and the phone case to allow the rider to secure the phone case to the restraint of the wearable pouch. The locking mechanism may block the retractable lanyard from being released (e.g., unreel) when the rider exerts a pull force on the phone case. In this way, the rider <NUM> may not have access to the cell phone <NUM> during operation of the amusement park ride <NUM>. Once the amusement park ride <NUM> is terminated, the sensor <NUM> may receive a deactivation signal from the ride vehicle <NUM> or an unlocking station (e.g., the RFID gate <NUM>) within the unloading station <NUM> that may deactivate the locking mechanism and allow the rider <NUM> to unreel the retractable lanyard <NUM> to access and engage the cell phone <NUM> in the phone case <NUM>.

In addition to facilitating loose item management for amusement park rides, the portable locker <NUM> may be part of an entertainment system that includes a plurality of portable lockers <NUM> nested within a portable locker of the portable lockers <NUM>. The locking mechanism <NUM> of each portable locker of the plurality of portable lockers <NUM> may be activated and/or deactivated at different times using a different key (e.g., mechanical or electromagnetic). For example, <FIG> illustrates an embodiment of an entertainment system <NUM> having a pouch <NUM> that includes a plurality of sub-pouches <NUM> where each pouch of the plurality of sub-pouches <NUM> is nested within another pouch of the plurality of sub-pouches <NUM>. An innermost pouch <NUM> may include a prize <NUM> (e.g., reward, trinket, or the like) that may be retrieved by a user after unlocking each pouch <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> from the outermost pouch <NUM> to the innermost pouch <NUM>.

For example, according to an unclaimed embodiment as shown in <FIG>, the entertainment system <NUM> may be a scavenger hunt pouch kit having a set of pouches <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> nested within another pouch. In the illustrated embodiment, the scavenger hunt pouch kit includes three pouches. However, any other suitable number of pouches may be used. The innermost pouch <NUM> is shaped and sized to be nested within a second pouch <NUM> that is shaped and sized to be nested within the outermost pouch <NUM>. Each pouch <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> includes a pouch lock <NUM> that the user may unlock by following a set of clues that lead the user to an unlocking station, where the desired pouch <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be unlocked to expose the pouch nested within the previous pouch and provide a subsequent clue that leads the user to a second unlocking station. The user may continue to access clues and unlock the plurality of pouches <NUM> until the innermost pouch <NUM> is accessible and the prize <NUM> stored within the innermost pouch <NUM> (e.g., via a series of RFID locks <NUM>) may be retrieved by the user.

In certain embodiments, the scavenger hunt pouch kit may not include multiple pouches. Rather, the scavenger hunt pouch kit may include a single pouch with multiple pouch locks that may each be unlocked at different unlocking stations throughout the amusement park. The user may retrieve the prize within the pouch after all the pouch locks have been unlocked.

Traditional systems and methods for controlling loose items on amusement park rides prevent guests from having "loose items" onboard by preventing them from ever entering the associated queue building with these items. However, it is now recognized that guests prefer to maintain more control and access to their loose items during wait times. Present embodiments allow the guests to bring their items with them into the queue building while also preventing them from smuggling the items onto the ride itself by putting it in their pockets.

Claim 1:
A system, comprising:
a portable locker (<NUM>) comprising:
a container (<NUM>) configured to receive and store items, wherein the container (<NUM>) comprises a first lock (<NUM>) configured to lock the container (<NUM>) to restrict access to the stored items, wherein the first lock (<NUM>) comprises a detector configured to receive a wireless signal configured to lock or unlock the first lock (<NUM>); and
a ride vehicle (<NUM>) of an amusement park ride comprising a retaining bar (<NUM>) configured to reversibly couple to the portable locker (<NUM>); the retaining bar comprising one or more retaining features that engage with a complementary feature on the portable locker (<NUM>) to secure the portable locker (<NUM>) to the ride vehicle (<NUM>), the retaining bar (<NUM>) comprising a locking mechanism configured to switch between a secured and unsecured configuration based on a locking signal received from a controller.