HOLOGRAPHIC CHARACTER CREATION

Number: 20250355212
Published: 2025-11-20
Filed: 2024-05-16
Assignee: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
Inventors: Joseph; Daniel Mark et al.
CPC: G02B7/003; G02B30/56; G02B5/0808; G02B7/021; G03H1/0272
Verdict: Medium Hardware
Source: Google Patents · FreePatentsOnline

The keeper's note

Holographic character-creation optical show-effect hardware (Joseph).

Abstract

A system may include an image plane, a scrim layer, and a lens stack positioned between the image plane and the scrim layer. The lens stack may be positioned at a first distance from the image plane to create a perceived image at a second distance away from the lens stack. The first and second distances may be equal. The image source may be spaced away from the lens stack and on a first side of the lens stack. The scrim layer may be positioned on a second side of the lens stack. The lens stack may include a pair of lenses (e.g., identical Fresnel lenses) stacked facing each other. A bounce mirror positioned between the image plane and the lens stack may fold an optical path from the image plane to the lens stack. Additional systems and associated methods are also disclosed.

Background

FIELD

The present application relates to systems and methods for creating two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) holography, such as 2D or 3D holographic characters or holograms. BACKGROUND

Rides or attractions often attempt to bring characters from the screen (e.g., animation, movies, television, video game, etc.) into the real world. Some solutions use animatronics or other physical models placed physically in the environment, such as near a ride vehicle or track. However, the animatronic or physical model must be moved or positioned such that contact with the physical animatronic or model is prevented. For example, careful controls must exist to prevent undesired contact of a person or ride vehicle with the physical animatronic or model. Such systems may require a lot of space, a large facility input, and a high expense. An animated figure may also require large and/or complicated infrastructure and safety systems to prevent undesired contact.

Therefore a need exists for systems and methods of creating a holographic character (e.g., hologram), such as to optically place a 2D or 3D character in the real world environment, that addresses the concerns above or at least offers an alternative to existing solutions. BRIEF SUMMARY

In one example, a system include an image plane having a generated image, a scrim layer, and a lens stack positioned between the image plane and the scrim layer. The lens stack may be positioned at a first distance fr

Claims

1. A system comprising: an image plane having a generated image; a scrim layer; and a lens stack positioned between the image plane and the scrim layer, the lens stack positioned at a first distance from the image plane and configured to create, at a second distance away from the lens stack, a perceived image of the generated image. || 8. A system comprising: a lens stack comprising a first side and a second side opposite the first side; an image source spaced away from the lens stack and on the first side of the lens stack and configured to generate an image; and a scrim layer positioned on the second side of the lens stack, wherein the lens stack and scrim layer create a perceived image based on the image and on the second side of the lens stack. || 15. A system comprising: a lens stack comprising a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the lens stack comprising a pair of identical lenses stacked facing each other; an image plane positioned at a distance from the lens stack on the first side of the lens stack; and a scrim layer positioned on the second side of the lens stack, wherein the lens stack and scrim layer create a perceived image at the distance away from the lens stack on the second side of the lens stack.