Disney Patents Tech for Projecting onto Moving Surfaces

Disney has filed a new patent application that could revolutionize how fireworks shows and other effects work at its theme parks. The 'Opportunistic Projection Onto Dynamic Light Reflective Material' system projects images and animations onto moving surfaces such as smoke, fog, and fireworks residue.

The system uses a camera to detect the shape and size of the material, which is then used to create content that adapts in real-time. This means that the image can change as the material drifts or changes shape, creating a seamless experience for park-goers.

The patent application describes several potential applications for this technology, including using it for fireworks shows, reacting to guest actions, and even adjusting the image based on a viewer's angle. While there is no guarantee that Disney will implement this technology in its parks, the filing is an exciting development for fans of theme park innovation.

Lanny Smoot, one of Walt Disney Imagineering's most prolific inventors, is listed as the lead inventor on the patent application. Smoot has over 100 patents to his name and was recently inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame.