Could This NEW Disney Patent Be the Future of Theme Park Rides?

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©Disney

With innovative technology, not only can you be riding on the back of a banshee on a different planet, but you can also blast off to other galaxies, learn about the life cycle of a plant, and so much more. It looks like more Disney innovation is on its way because a new ride technology patent has been filed!

While we already know that a whole lot of exciting changes are in store for Disney World over the next few years, it seems like the House of Mouse is wasting no time on coming up with new ride technology. According to the Orlando Business Journal, Disney has filed a patent for a “rider-controlled amusement park ride” that utilizes a “force sensor” within the vehicle.

Magic Kingdom

Essentially, riders would activate the sensor by leaning forward or putting pressure on it, and a “motion control system would adjust the vehicle’s position in real-time based on the input.” Based on the way a passenger moves, the sensor and ride would react accordingly.

Animal Kingdom

If you lean to the side, the ride vehicle may also head in that direction. Apply more pressure to the sensor and you might speed up or change motion. Real-time control like this isn’t something we’ve typically seen on amusement rides, but it could make them more engaging and personalized — causing riders to want to come back.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Here’s a look at what the system would potentially look like, according to Disney’s permit. As you can see, there’s a passenger area with a sensor attached to a large arm and track module. There’s no indication what this ride vehicle may actually be for at this point, but we’ll be keeping an eye on any future updates.

©Disney

Disney isn’t the only theme park giant filing new patents these days. Universal has filed a patent for a “round ride system” with a central wheel and multiple spokes with ride vehicles attached to them. With this ride vehicle, there are two drive systems: one that rotates the center wheel and another that moves the spokes independently.

Universal Studios

Universal is also developing tech for “real-time proximity operation and object handoff,” which is a system designed for movement of bigger show elements during live shows and attractions. This would allow a prop or video screen to transfer between platforms or robotic arms.

©Universal

While Disney and Universal haven’t made any sort of announcements about these patents and they may never actually come to fruition, we’ll be sure to keep an eye out for any potential updates.

In the meantime, don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest news and more!

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What do you think of these new patents? Tell us in the comments.