Ride vehicle tracking and control system using passive tracking elements

摘要

A dynamic signal to noise ratio tracking system enables detection and tracking of ride vehicles within the field of view of the tracking system. The tracking system may include an emitter configured to emit electromagnetic radiation within an area, a detector configured to detect electromagnetic radiation reflected back from within the area, and a control unit configured to evaluate signals from the detector and control the ride vehicles or other equipment as a result of this evaluation.

主权项

1. An amusement park ride system, comprising:
a ride vehicle positioned on a ride path and configured to move along the ride path; a plurality of retro-reflective markers positioned on the ride vehicle, along the ride path, or both; an emission subsystem configured to emit electromagnetic radiation toward the plurality of retro-reflective markers; a detection subsystem configured to detect a pattern of retro-reflection of the electromagnetic radiation from the plurality of retro-reflective markers while filtering electromagnetic radiation that is not retro-reflected; and a control system communicatively coupled to the detection subsystem and comprising processing circuitry configured to:
monitor the pattern of retro-reflection of the electromagnetic radiation from the plurality of retro-reflective markers for changes; andtrack movement of the ride vehicle in space and time based on changes in the pattern of retro-reflected electromagnetic radiation detected by the detection subsystem.