DISNEY PATENTS NEW ‘VIRTUAL-WORLD SIMULATOR’ TECHNOLOGY
Disney has filed a patent to describe a “virtual world simulator,” which would allow users to experience a virtual digital world without wearing glasses. The patent was granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office on 28 December.
The Walt Disney Company is not unfamiliar with cutting-edge digital technologies. Although they avoided the virtual reality rush that many other parks experienced, video projection mapping (and simulated holographic imagery) were used in their gardens.
Many such examples are featured in the recently opened Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Park, including a holographic rendering of Star Wars” Rey. The company supports augmented reality. For example, the Rise of the Resistance attraction at Galaxy’s Edge offers augmented reality training.
Disneyland Park’s newest addition is the Star Wars-themed Galaxy’s Edge.
They have now filed a patent application to develop their idea further. This document describes a technology known as a virtual-world simulator, which Disney believes is a step above augmented and virtual reality. It combines high-speed HD projectors with SLAM technology (Simultaneous Location and Mapping).
These two systems work together to continuously track the position of visitors and show them the correct view from their unique perspective. This would result in a ride that allows multiple visitors to experience a 3D virtual reality from different vantage points without the need for wearable peripherals.
Super Nintendo World recently employed a similar concept, although it was less technologically advanced. Mario Kart: Kooper’s Challenge lets visitors drive their Kart with a steering wheel. A wearable headset shows other characters along the route.
Disney will make the park more immersive by removing the need for wearable peripherals. The patent also suggests that the technology could be used in other venues and even at home in the future.
Disney may install virtual world rides at Walt Disney World and Disneyland, although unlikely.
