Universal Destinations & Experiences is seeking a patent that may offer a tease at one of the rumored attractions at its Epic Universe theme park under construction in Orlando.
The "Choreographed Ride Systems and Methods" patent appears to describe a more free-moving carousel ride system that has more mobility vertically and horizontally — adding a twist to the traditional carousel-style attractions. "During operation, the movement of the ride vehicles is typically restricted to the fixed paths along the ride surface. It is now recognized that such movement of the ride vehicles may detract from the users' experiences while riding the ride vehicles," said the patent.
Why it matters: Patents can demonstrate how theme parks are trying to improve theme park guests' experience and/or the companies' efficiency. The popularity of interactivity helps ensure guest satisfaction and repeat visitation, which can boost the region's dominant $75 billion tourism industry.
Universal Orlando executives couldn't be reached for comment. However, patent applications often provide some insight into what may be in the works for theme parks.
The documents do not share how or where the technology may go, but some early concept art of Universal's Epic Universe project seems to show a carousel-type attraction. The $1 billion theme park project is underway on hundreds of acres of land off of Universal Boulevard.
Here's a look at Universal's other recently filed patents:
- Dark Ride Tower Systems Having Stationary and Adaptable Rooms: Describes a tower-like ride system with two levels: The first level is a stationary room and the second can change in configurations.
- System and Method for Tracking a Passive Wand and Actuating an Effect Based on a Detected Wand Path: The technology allows for a user with a handheld object such as a wand to use specific gestures to activate certain effects in their environment.
- Interactive Animated Character Head Systems and Methods: Identifies a system where an animated head on a character can respond to pre-determined signals from an interaction between the character head and the guest.
Universal Orlando Resort — owned and operated by Philadelphia-based Comcast Corp. (Nasdaq: CMCSA) — is among Central Florida's top attractions, per Orlando Business Journal research. Universal Orlando typically draws a combined 20 million-plus annual visitors to its Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida theme parks as well as its Volcano Bay water park in Orlando.
Universal also owns the CityWalk dining/shopping/entertainment complex, several area hotels and more than 700 acres for development off of Universal Boulevard, where it is building its Epic Universe theme park. That new $1 billion park is expected to create up to 14,000 new theme park jobs along with thousands of local construction and vendor opportunities.
Sign up here for The Beat, Orlando Inno’s free newsletter. And be sure to follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.
