Universal has filed a new patent titled ‘interactive Pepper’s Ghost effect system’ for use in its theme parks that includes a sensor configured to detect a handheld device and its direction.
“While well-established effects, such as a traditional Pepper’s Ghost effect, are effective illusions, it is now recognized that these traditional effects lack meaningful audience interaction,” the patent says.
For example, the audience “generally have no control over various aspects of a show built around such effects”, Universal adds. It explains that the audience “in such traditional systems is passive”.
“In today’s environment, in which guests are accustomed to more interaction (e.g., via video games), such passive interaction can cause a loss of interest,” the patent says.
Spooky effect used in Disney’s Haunted Mansion
Pepper’s Ghost is an established special effects technique used in theatre, TV and theme parks to create holograms or transparent ghostly visuals. It can be seen in Disney’s Haunted Mansion dark ride.
Universal is seemingly developing a Pepper’s Ghost effect that visitors can interact with using a handheld device, perhaps a wand within a Harry Potter-themed attraction.
According to the patent, an interactive Pepper’s Ghost system “includes a handheld device configured to be held by an operator, a sensor configured to monitor an orientation of the handheld device, a microphone configured to detect voice audio from the operator, a transparent or translucent screen, and a controller”.
Earlier this year, Universal published a patent for an ‘interactive token system’ that would let guests collect interactive coins or tokens that communicate with a wearable device to “unlock games or retail experiences”.
Disney previously filed a patent for a robot locker. Prior to that, the company was granted a patent for a ‘virtual-world simulator’ that would allow multiple visitors to experience a 3D virtual world without VR headsets or AR-enabled devices.
Images: US Patent and Trademark Office
