The metaverse(元宇宙) may be headed to a Disney theme park near you. Disney got a a "virtual-world simulator" patent shortly before the new year. The new technology could be used to project(投射) 3D images on real-world objects to create interactive guest experiences throughout its parks without the need for a wearable headset or mobile device.
Disney already uses AR technology for large entertainment at its theme parks such as using projection mapping to bring its characters to life on storefronts, waterfalls, and other real-world structures. But this new technology would be significantly different: it would track each park visitor to personalize the projections they see on nearby objects and walls. For example, a family walking by a storefront could see Mickey Mouse greet them as they pass.
"We are excited about the possibilities related to this type of technology," said a Disney spokesperson, adding that "there are no current plans to introduce this technology, into an upcoming experience." The spokesperson also said that Disney "files hundreds of patents each year as we explore developing technologies."
However, combining the metaverse into its theme parks would certainly be on track with Disney's goal to tell stories to guests through a "3D canvas(画布)." CEO Bob Chapek said, "Our efforts to date are only a prologue(序幕) to a time when we'll be able to connect the physical and digital worlds even more closely, allowing for storytelling without boundaries in our own Disney metaverse."
It's worth noting that Disney has a history of securing patents just to keep competitors from getting them first, which may very well be the case here. "It's possible that they may never use it, but my sense is this is very much something they are going to commercialize," said Ed Khalili, a patent attorney with Founders Legal.
