Universal City Studios LLC patents focused on four different types of using augmented reality. Augmented reality is when a digital image is used in regular old reality. The reason why augmented reality is going to be so pivotal for Universal Orlando is because rides with augmented reality can be updated and changed quicker.
We all know Universal constantly loves to update their attractions. So moving it to augmented reality based attraction would further show how times are changing, and how nothing is permanent at the park. Digital additions are also less expensive than physical props and screens.
Here are the looks at the four patents. All of Universal’s AR methods include goggles.
Mixed Reality Viewer System and Method
This looks like a small addition to the parks. Something that could enhance the exterior of buildings at Universal. For example, seeing Minions running around. This patent may be used for Super Nintendo World. It would show all the great Nintendo characters roaming this world. Could we also possibly see Nintendo Mii’s roaming this land via augmented reality?
Augmented Ride System and Method
This patent highlight how a AR attraction would work. Riders would still wear AR goggles as the augmented reality would be layered onto physical sets. The system is highly customizable and can control sensors to give the guest the best experience. “Passenger’s gaze direction, viewing perspective, field of view, viewing interest, interaction with the game, and so forth.”
The patent will obviously be able to add some gaming elements to the system. So just think Toy Story Mania but with augmented reality and more physical sets. Speaking of gameplay…
Gameplay Ride Vehicle Systems and Methods
This ride system actually overlaps with the recent Mario Kart patent. It would be a multi-rider gaming experience system. Guests will be able to split control of the vehicle, operating different aspects or cooperating to steer and accelerate (Haha take that Millennium Falcon ride we might of found something more challenging). Augmented reality could be used to simulate projectiles, objects, hazards, and atmosphere. The interactive elements will enhance the overall experience. This patent would basically allow the Mario Kart ride to have the ability to throw shells and bananas. Which is a crazy though within itself.
System and Method for Layered Virtual Features in an Amusement Park Environment
The patent states, “The wearable visualization device may be used alone or in combination with other features to create a surreal environment, which may include an AR experience, a VR experience, a mixed reality experience, a computer-mediated reality experience, a combination thereof, or other similar surreal environment for the user. Specifically, the wearable visualization device may be worn by the user throughout the duration of a ride (e.g., a passenger ride vehicle) or another predetermined point such as during a game, at the entry of a particular area of an amusement park, during a ride to a hotel associated with the amusement park, at the hotel, and so forth.”
It is important to point out that these patents may not even be used or let alone approved. Although these concepts would benefit Universal tremendously. It is not a guaranteed we will be seeing AR versions of Nintendo and Harry Potter characters anytime soon.
Zach Perilstein is the Editor-in-Chief of the Boardwalk Times
