Universal Destinations & Experiences has filed a patent for a wearable technology that aims to provide an enhanced level of interaction for theme park guests.
The patent, titled "Interactive Device of an Attraction System," described a wearable head display that also includes an interactive component with a projector to show images, plus a microphone and a display. The technology is designed to enhance the immersion a theme park rider would experience.
"Throughout amusement parks and other entertainment venues, special effects can be used to help immerse guests in the experience of a ride or attraction. Immersive environments may include three-dimensional (3D) props and set pieces, robotic or mechanical elements, and/or display surfaces that present media," said the patent.
"For example, the immersive environment may be provided via components that are operated based on actions performed by the guests. As such, the attraction may provide an interactive experience for the guests. However, identification or detection of the actions performed by the guests, and therefore determination of an appropriate operation of a corresponding component, may be complex or difficult. Thus, improvements for attractions are desired to provide a more suitable or desirable interactive experience."
Renderings with the patent show the wearable device with a long curved display and a microphone near the top of the wearable, closer to the wearer's mouth and behind the display to minimize outside noise.
Representatives with Universal could not be reached for comment.
Patents can offer insights into what theme park designers and creators see as possible improvements that can have positive results on the overall guest experience.
Here's a look at Universal's other recently filed patent applications:
- Choreographed Ride Systems and Methods: A free-moving carousel ride system that has more mobility vertically and horizontally — adding a twist to the traditional carousel-style attractions.
- Dark Ride Tower Systems Having Stationary and Adaptable Rooms: A tower-like ride system with two levels. The first level is a stationary room and the second can change configurations.
- System and Method for Tracking a Passive Wand and Actuating an Effect Based on a Detected Wand Path: This 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: A system that allows an animated head on a character to 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 Orlando visitors to its Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida theme parks, as well as its Volcano Bay water park.
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.
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