Universal Orlando Resort's latest patent application aims to enhance an illusion guests will see when on theme park rides or attractions.
The patent, dubbed "Size Changing Room Illusion System and Method," would be used in interactive environments that can facilitate a shrinking-room effect. This technology stems from the increased sophistication and complexity of theme park rides where there is an expectation from users for more immersion, the patent application says.
The technology uses a series of optical panels and lighting to simulate the transitioning of a smaller room into larger sizes. "The method includes using a controller to control the first lighting and the second lighting to transition between illuminating the first group of perforated optics panels and illuminating the second group of perforated optics panels such that a visual illusion of transitioning between the first interior space and the second interior space is provided," the application says.
Drawings provided with the application show how the optical panels — laid behind each other like nesting dolls — can change to make a room appear to grow in size.
The patent doesn't detail how or where the technology may be used, but many attractions could utilize the technology to help transition show scenes from far away to closer or be used to simulate movement if the ride itself is static in nature.
Representatives with Universal could not be reached for comment.
Universal has been very active in the patent scene as of late — likely due to its ongoing growth.
Recent patents include:
- Universal theme park tech aims to create realistic electricity special effects: A show effect that uses a plasma tube that generate electric arcs and a light strip to create realistic electricity special effects.
- Interactive Device of an Attraction System: A wearable head display that includes an interactive component with a projector to show images, plus a microphone and a display.
- Choreographed Ride Systems and Methods: A free-moving carousel ride system that has more mobility vertically and horizontally — adding a twist to traditional carousel-style attractions.
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 21 million-plus annual 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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